LIVERMORE – Selectpersons learned Monday night that they will have a part in the current revaluation of the town that is due to go into effect in 2004-05.

The equalization, as the process is now referred to, is on target on its work plan, said John O’Donnell of the assessing firm that bears his name.

The field work is nearly done and data entry is over 75 percent completed. His firm is starting the sales analysis and schedule development that will continue through June.

The board will be involved in the schedule development, which they have to approve before they go to the taxpayers, he said. Since that step has to be taken before July 1, the board agreed to meet with him twice, once each in May and June.

O’Donnell said the meetings are vital so the board can become familiar enough with the process to make an educated judgment. He will provide them with background information prior to meetings.

His goal in the equalization is consistency, O’Donnell said. “The premise is that the system is to treat everyone fairly under the law.”

This is the first equalization of the town since 1988.

Some people may be uncomfortable basing their taxes on the actual value of their property, he said, but noted that often tax rates go down after a revaluation.

“We collect data on all properties consistently,” he said, and an effort has been made to view the interior of each home.

After schedules are approved on July 1 there will be a final review before notices of new valuations are sent out Aug. 1. Those wishing to discuss the new figures with the assessor must make an appointment at the town office. Hearings will be scheduled for Aug. 13-20.