Key Campaign Issues
Transparency
As a member of the three-person Board of Assessors, Tom Callahan will work to ensure that every resident—especially our aging adults—knows where to turn to request a tax abatement or apply for a tax deferral.
Fairness
Fairness means everyone pays their fair share. As several large multifamily buildings come onto the tax rolls in Milton, it is imperative that these properties are assessed accurately so that large building owners contribute equitably to the town’s tax base. Ensuring fair and consistent assessments protects taxpayers and helps maintain confidence in the integrity of the system.
Modernization
Tom will support current efforts to modernize our technology and ensure that communication between town departments, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Milton taxpayers is a top priority.
Good Neighbors
Milton is fortunate to be home to outstanding nonprofit institutions such as Milton Academy, Curry College, and Beth Israel Deaconess Milton Hospital. Strong leadership from the Board of Assessors is essential to ensuring these respected organizations remain good neighbors—serving students and patients while also contributing meaningfully to the community that hosts them.
Payments-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) are not a cure-all for the town’s revenue challenges, but building collaborative, mutually beneficial relationships with our nonprofit partners is vital to maintaining a healthy and sustainable Milton for residents and taxpayers alike.
About Tom
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Tom grew up in North Adams, MA and graduated from Fairfield University. Tom and and his wife, Eileen moved to Milton in 1995. He was involved in the Tucker PTO and coached his daughters in Milton Girls Softball. Tom first ran and was elected to town meeting in 2000. He is a founding member of Affordable Inclusive Milton (AIM).
Tom was one of the leaders of the 2020 campaign to pass the Community Preservation Act in Milton. Professionally, he chairs the Advisory Board of the Community Preservation Coalition and was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association by Governor Romney in 2004.
* Grew Up in North Adams, MA
* Fairfield University Graduate
* Milton Town Meeting Member 26 Years
* Chair, Milton's Community Preservation Committee
* Member, Milton's Affordable Housing Trust
* Executive Director, Partnership for Financial Equity
* Former Director, MA Affordable Homeownership Alliance
* Former Trustee, The Appraisal Foundation
* Member, Council to Advance Residential Equity (CARE)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Board of Assessors?
The primary responsibility of property assessors is to value the real estate and personal property that is subject to taxation each year. The assessor must swear they will truly and impartially assess and apportion taxes assessed, using his or her best skills and judgment, and that he or she will not overvalue or undervalue any property.
What is the term for a seat on the Board of Assessors?
Members of Milton's Board of Assessors are elected to three-year terms.
Can the Board of Assessors raise my taxes?
The assessors do not raise or lower taxes. The actual amount charged is determined by the amount of tax levy that is required to cover the cost of local services. This levy is determined by the town's spending. The assessors determine each person's share of the levy, but they do not control an individual tax bill.
How can residents engage with the Assessor's office?
Transparency is a top priority. By improving the town's website and conducting targeted outreach to our residents, Tom will ensure taxpayers know where to turn when they have a question.