The Berks County Board of Assessment Appeals has voted to return to the standard practice of holding hearings in person.
Beginning in April, the board will end the practice of conducting assessment appeal hearings by telephone that was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jonathan Heintzman, county public relations officer, said that when the pandemic began these hearings were moved to telephone and virtual formats to ensure public safety and maintain the continuity of services.
But, with those concerns now in the rearview mirror, the board has unanimously decided to return to the traditional format of holding those proceedings in person.
The board serves as the administrative body that reviews property assessment appeals filed by Berks property owners. Members said conducting hearings in person aligns with the procedures used by the Berks County Courts and helps ensure an effective process.
The members cited several reasons for returning to the original format — improved access to its new office at the Berks County South Campus in Mohnton and the ability to more effectively manage hearings that involve multiple parties. It will also mean they will no longer have to navigate technology challenges that can arise during proceedings held over the telephone.
What property owners should know
Property owners who wish to file an appeal should continue to follow the established process:
• Appeal forms and instructions are available at berkspa.gov/departments/assessment/forms.
• After filing an appeal, appellants will receive a postcard-sized mailing from the assessment office with the date, time and location of their scheduled hearing.
• On the scheduled date, appellants should report to the Berks County Assessment Office at 400 E. Wyomissing Ave. in Mohnton and follow the posted signage to the hearing location.
• Parking is available in the lot at the canopy entrance.
Residents with questions about the change or the appeal process may contact the assessment office at 610-478-6262 or by email at assessment@berkspa.gov.