Tax on Farm Animals? Voters to Decide

There’s a definite agricultural flair to this year’s election season.

Town Meeting voters were asked about backyard chickens and animals on the Common.

And today’s ballot vote includes a question about taxing farm animals.

When voters go to the polls tomorrow, they will be asked a ballot question about ending the excise tax placed on certain farm animals and machinery.

The total value of farm animals as listed by the Animal Inspector in the 2010 Town Report is $108,056, Town Assessor Jennifer O’Neil said. That would result in a total tax bill of $540.

The cost of mailing the bills, processing the accounts and preparing assessments would likely exceed this figure, O’Neil said.

Farm machinery not registered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles for an exemption would still be subject to taxes.

The town does not assess a farm excise now and a yes vote on this question would allow the town to legally continue that practice, O’Neil said.

Polls are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at, 105 Millbury St.