TOWN OF BURNS

TOWN ASSESSOR

Fair & Equitable Property Assessment for Burns

The Town Assessor plays a vital role in the Town of Burns by determining the assessed value of all real property within town limits. These assessments help allocate property tax burdens fairly across all parcels, ensuring each property owner pays their share based on market value and the uniform rate of assessment.

Under New York State law, the Assessor must maintain assessments at a consistent percentage of market value across all properties each year. This ensures equity, transparency, and accountability in our local taxation system.

In addition to valuation, the Assessor administers exemptions, updates property records, and supports grievance and appeal procedures, giving residents the ability to address concerns if they believe their assessment is incorrect.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Estimating the market value of real properties using methods such as comparable sales (market approach), cost approach, or income approach for income-producing properties

  • Maintaining an accurate property inventory (descriptions, improvements, ownership, etc.) and performing inspections as needed

  • Administering property tax exemptions such as STAR, senior/disabled, veterans, agricultural, business, and other locally authorized exemptions

  • Reviewing property transfers (sale data) and updating records to reflect accurate sales information

  • Presenting and defending assessments at public hearings, including hearings before the Board of Assessment Review (BAR) and Small Claims Assessment Review proceedings

  • Producing and certifying the tentative assessment roll, receiving grievances, then finalizing the roll after adjustments and BAR actions

  • Ensuring compliance with training, ethics, and continuing education requirements mandated by New York State for assessors

Department Contact

For assessment inquiries, exemption applications, or grievance procedures, residents are encouraged to reach out directly to the Assessor’s Office during business hours.

ASSESSOR

Russell Heslin
(585) 437-2206 Ext. 201

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Assessment & Exemptions: What You Should Know

  • Every property in Burns is assessed annually at a uniform percentage of market value, as required by law, ensuring fairness across the board. 

  • Exemption programs (such as STAR, veterans, senior, disabled, agricultural, or business exemptions) can reduce the taxable assessed value of your property. The Assessor’s Office determines eligibility and processes applications.

  • The tentative assessment roll is made available to the public for inspection. If you believe your assessment is incorrect, you may file a grievance with the Board of Assessment Review during the designated period.

  • For properties with income potential (commercial, rental, etc.), the Assessor may use income-based valuation methods.

  • If improvements are made to your property (additions, renovations, etc.), those may be subject to reinspection and reassessment.

  • Changes in assessment do not always mean higher taxes — factors like the town budget, school rates, and other taxes also affect your final tax bill.

How to Request Review / Appeal

If you think your assessed value is incorrect:

    1. Contact the Assessor’s Office to discuss your concerns. Informal review may resolve discrepancies before filing formal grievances.

    2. File a grievance during the timeframe set by law (typically in the spring) with the Board of Assessment Review (BAR).

    3. If not satisfied with the BAR’s decision, you may appeal further through Small Claims Assessment Review or certiorari proceedings, depending on your jurisdiction and case specifics.