Assessor

Duties & Responsibilities

In accordance with CT General Statutes, the Assessor is responsible for discovering, listing and valuing all real and personal property within the Town. Real property includes land and improvements permanently attached to land. Personal property is all property not classified as real. For example, business equipment, unregistered motor vehicles, snow mobiles, etc. The Grand List must contain a listing of all taxable and tax-exempt property as of October 1st annually.

An Assessor must be certified in order to sign the Grand List. Certification can only be obtained after passing a comprehensive exam. A person is eligible to take the exam after successful completion of 5 courses and a minimum of 4 years experience in the assessment field.

The Assessor's office is responsible for the administration of certain tax relief programs for the elderly, totally disabled, and veterans of the military. We also accept applications to classify land as farm, forest, or open space.

The last reassessment for the Town of Essex was completed for the October 1, 2023 Grand List.  The next reassessment will be completed for the October 1, 2028 Grand List.  Per Connecticut General Statutes revaluations must be completed at least once every five (5) years.

Staff Contacts

Name Title Phone
Jessica Sypher Assessor 860-767-4340 x124
Karen Abercrombie Assistant to the Assessor 860-767-4340 x123