Anderson, Republicans Call for Change on Farmland Tax Assessments

House and Senate Republicans held a press conference this morning at the Legislative Office Building to draw attention to what they describe as unfair farmland valuations across the State of Connecticut. Prior legislation, they say, has resulted in runaway assessments, making it increasingly difficult for many generational farms to stay in operation.

State Rep. Mark Anderson (R-Granby), who grew up in a farming environment, said the issue must be addressed immediately.

Towns must finalize grand lists by January 31, leaving a very narrow window for executive action. Anderson and his fellow Republicans are calling on the Governor to place a moratorium on the proposed tax increases and allow the legislature to fully examine the issue during the upcoming legislative session, which begins February 4.

Anderson warned that the new valuations would have a significant impact on farms throughout his district. Shannon Chatfield of Stead Farm joined him at the press conference to advocate for a more transparent and equitable assessment process that includes greater input from farmers and landowners. Stead Farm spans more than 64 acres in Barkhamsted and raises livestock including pigs, chickens, and sheep. The new higher assessment will drive up farmers’ costs and make it difficult for them to continue operating.

Public Act 490 was created to protect and prevent the loss of farmland. With the new 2025 assessment values, the law is failing at its core purpose.

In addition to the moratorium, Anderson is urging the Department of Agriculture to revisit and revise the assessment figures. He said the legislature can then adopt clarifying language to prevent inflated valuations in the future, an issue expected to be taken up by the Environment Committee, on which Anderson serves.

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