You may notice assessment staff visiting properties around Ellsworth this fall. Here’s why they’re there, what they’re doing, and what it means for you.
The City of Ellsworth, in partnership with Municipal Consulting Group of Maine (MCG), is conducting field inspections of properties with open building permits throughout the city.
This routine work helps ensure that property records remain accurate and up to date, supporting fair and equitable property assessments for Ellsworth residents.
And there’s some exciting progress happening behind the scenes! Ellsworth and MCG are already getting a head start on next year’s assessment work, using new technology to make the inspection process more efficient and accurate.
We know residents may have questions about these visits, so we’ve put together some helpful answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a field inspection?
A field inspection is a visual review of a property to verify that assessment records are accurate and up to date.
For the current round of inspections, staff are focusing on properties with open building permits. They will review construction progress, verify measurements and take updated photographs to document the percentage of work completed.
Where and when will inspections take place?
Inspections are taking place throughout Ellsworth during the fall, weather permitting, with a focus on properties that have open building permits. In the future, the City and MCG will also use this technology for property re-inspections and other assessment fieldwork.
Will someone be coming onto my property?
Yes, field staff may visit properties to conduct exterior visual inspections. To help residents recognize them, inspection staff will wear company-branded clothing and high-visibility orange safety vests or apparel. Their vehicles will also be clearly marked. Pictured here is Lucas Disher of Municipal Consulting Group of Maine, wearing the high-visibility clothing residents may see during field inspections.
Do I need to be home for an inspection?
No. You do not need to be home or make any special preparations. Staff will make an effort to knock on the door, but they may complete an exterior inspection even if no one is available. Inspectors will not enter your home unless arrangements have been made with the property owner.
Does this mean my property taxes will increase?
Not necessarily. Field inspections help maintain accurate property assessment records. While an inspection may result in an updated property assessment, it does not automatically mean your assessed value or property taxes will increase.
The goal is to ensure that property information is accurate and that assessments are applied fairly and consistently.
Does this inspection mean my building permit is closed?
No. These visits document construction progress for property assessment purposes only. They do not replace required municipal building inspections or officially close an open building permit. Additional inspections may still be required by the appropriate City departments.
What is the Mobile Assessor app?
Here’s where technology is helping make a difference! MCG and the City of Ellsworth are introducing a Mobile Assessor app, a digital tool developed specifically for their assessment work.
Traditionally, field inspections have relied heavily on pen, paper and follow-up data entry. The new app allows assessment staff to access property records and record updates directly while working in the field. This means a more streamlined inspection process, improved accuracy and more efficient recordkeeping.
How does this benefit Ellsworth residents?
Accurate property records are an important part of maintaining a fair and consistent assessment process. By combining routine field inspections with new technology, the City and MCG are working to improve efficiency, maintain reliable information and provide better service to property owners.
Getting an early start on next year’s work is another step toward staying ahead of the process and continuing to improve how assessment services are delivered.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Residents with questions about field inspections may contact Municipal Consulting Group of Maine (MCG) directly:
Phone: 207-605-0200
Email: ellsworth@mcgmaine.com
We appreciate the community’s cooperation as this important work continues. Keeping our property records accurate is one more way we’re working to serve Ellsworth residents efficiently and fairly.
