Archives: FAQs

What if I have a water or sewer emergency?

If you have a water or sewer emergency during our regular business hours, which is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, please call City Hall at 517-655-2774. If you have a water or sewer emergency after hours, please call 517-992-5022 and the Department of Public Works will be paged. Thank you.

My water bill seems high, could I have a leak?

LITTLE LEAKS WASTE BIG AMOUNTS OF WATER Did you know that a dripping faucet can waste 207 gallons a day? Leaks waste water and waste your money. Take a few minutes to check for leaks. In the long run it will save you money. Stop the leaks! The City of Williamston currently averages 67lbs. of … Continued

What is “uncapping”?

When ownership is transferred on a property, the valuation is “uncapped”. The SEV is the new starting point for a buyer and the capping process starts all over again on the property until another transfer of ownership occurs.  Beginning December 31, 2013 (PA 497 of 2012), the transfer of residential real property (homestead or non-homestead) … Continued

What is “capped value”?

Capped value is the lesser of +5% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI) applied to prior year’s taxable value.  The formula to compute is: (Prior year’s taxable value – losses) x (5% or CPI, whichever is lowest) + additions = capped value.  The process continues until there is change in ownership (transfer) which would cause … Continued

What is “taxable value”?

Taxable value was created by the passage of Proposal A in 1994. Property taxes are based on taxable value, not the SEV. Taxable value = Lesser of assessed value or capped value.

What is Proposal A?

In 1994 Proposal A brought significant changes to the State’s Property Tax System.  However, Proposal A did not change standard assessment practices; all real and personal property must still be assessed at 50% of its true cash value.  Proposal A created a different value (taxable value) for property taxes to be calculated on.  Taxes are … Continued

What is “Assessed Value”?

Assessed Value is 50% of estimated fair market value which is determined by the City Assessor.  Assessed values change with the market year to year.  The assessor does not create value, but simply has the legal responsibility to determine it and value the property accordingly.

What types of property are assessed?

All property may be divided into two major categories: Real Property and Personal Property. Real Property is generally defined as land and all things attached to the land. Interest, benefits, and rights inherent in the ownership of physical real estate. Personal Property which consists of movable items not permanently affixed to, or part of, the … Continued

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