Hanover Officials Start Early Discussion on Split Tax Rate

HANOVER – The Hanover Select Board opened early discussions on the town’s split property tax rate during its Oct. 6 meeting, aiming to better prepare before formal deliberations later this fall.

Chair Rhonda Nyman said the intent was to give the town more time to examine the issue and avoid the last-minute rush that typically accompanies the annual classification hearing in December. Town Manager Joe Colangelo noted that the goal is to make the process less compressed and more transparent for residents.

The board met jointly with the Board of Assessors, including Chair Les Molyneaux, Member Melsi Xhengo, and Visiting Assessor Elaine Boidi. Molyneaux emphasized that the assessors have not yet received certified data from the state, meaning no official tax rate figures were available.

Melsi Xhengo outlined that residential property values continue to rise faster than commercial assessments, which can shift the tax balance even before rate changes are made.

Elaine Boidi added that she had seen reports showing about 25% of commercial spaces remain vacant, and noted that the town should continue monitoring local economic activity.

Select Board members said they want more detailed data about how the split tax rate affects local businesses and homeowners before making any recommendations.

The official tax classification hearing will be held once the state certifies Hanover’s property values, expected later in November or December.

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