Real estate tax abatements (3) and automobile abatements (2) approved in November in executive session following November meeting.

Chapter 61 of the Massachusetts General Laws allow tax reductions for land preserved as forestland, agricultural land, and recreational land. Some approved lands must remain “nonproductive” while others may be productive in activities allowed by law. The tax exemptions are renewed every ten years through application. This year there was one request for renewal. Since there was no change in the acreage or other conditions in the one application for renewal, Blay assumed it would be renewed.

2024 tax bills were due on December 8, 2023.

Selectman Patrick White noted that on the tax bill it seemed easier to select a contribution to the educational fund than to the fund for seniors. He suggested they be equally easy to select.

Moved to close meeting and open executive session to consider real estate tax exemptions.

Editor’s note: Stockbridge Updates requested from the Assessor the complete list of lands in Stockbridge approved under Chapter 61. Click under SU FYI to review.