How Does Woodbridge Actually Work? Let’s Talk About The Boards That Keep It Fair.
A Voter Education Series from the Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee
Part 3: Board of Assessment Appeals & Zoning Board of Appeals
In our first two installments, we explored the town’s executive leadership and the school boards shaping education. But town government is much more than just our chief executive, legislative body, and school boards. Some of the most direct, personal impacts on residents come from elected boards you might not think about often—unless you’ve needed them yourself.
This week, we’re looking at the Board of Assessment Appeals and the Zoning Board of Appeals - two bodies that deal with fairness, property, and how we grow as a community.
Board of Assessment Appeals: Making Sure Your Tax Value is Fair
Every property owner in Woodbridge receives a yearly assessment that determines their property tax. But what happens if you think your home or business has been overvalued? That’s where the Board of Assessment Appeals steps in.
This elected board hears appeals from taxpayers who believe their property has been assessed too high. And if the board agrees that the assessment is out of line with fair market value, it has the authority to lower it—potentially reducing your tax bill.
The board meets:
In March, to hear appeals related to real estate and personal property
In September, to review appeals related to motor vehicle assessments
It may not make headlines, but this board plays a vital role in keeping the town’s tax system fair, responsive, and accessible to everyone.
Zoning Board of Appeals: Supporting Thoughtful, Fair Growth
Every town needs zoning laws—rules that shape how land is used and what can be built. But sometimes, those rules don’t account for unique circumstances or opportunities. When that happens, property owners can request a variance—an exception—from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is responsible for reviewing those requests and ensuring that zoning rules are applied fairly and consistently. The board also hears appeals when residents believe a zoning decision was made in error.
In Woodbridge, the ZBA is made up of:
Five regular members
Three alternate members
All are elected, and all serve four-year terms.
This board helps ensure that land use in Woodbridge continues to reflect the goals of our community—balancing thoughtful growth, preservation, and neighborhood stability.
What About Alternate Members?
The Zoning Board of Appeals includes alternate members who step in when regular members are unavailable or must recuse themselves. They ensure the board remains fully functional and impartial, even during complex or closely decided cases. Alternates are elected by the public and have the same responsibility to apply the law fairly when called upon.
Why These Roles Matter
These boards may not grab the spotlight, but they affect real people every day. Whether it’s a homeowner questioning an assessment or a resident trying to make an improvement to their property, these boards ensure that everyone has a fair process and a path to be heard.
Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee Endorsements for 2025
The Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee is proud to endorse candidates who believe in accessible, fair, and responsive government. These are the people we trust to listen to residents, weigh decisions carefully, and act in the best interest of our entire community.
For the 2025 municipal election, the WDTC endorses:
For Board of Assessment Appeals
For Zoning Board of Appeals
For Zoning Board of Appeals
These candidates bring professional expertise, integrity, and a commitment to fairness in public service. They understand the importance of balance—between property rights and community standards, between preservation and smart development.
“Our endorsed candidates for these boards reflect what good local government looks like: fair, transparent, and deeply committed to serving the public. Whether it’s Shelley Kier working with a resident concerned about their property valuation, or our Zoning Board of Appeals candidates weighing how land use can support thoughtful growth, each of them brings the experience and values that make Woodbridge stronger.”
Ellen Scalettar, Chair, Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee
