Boston Municipal Research Bureau

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The Boston Municipal Research Bureau uses expert research and independent analysis to ensure that the basics of city government—its tax policies, service delivery and schools—promote a strong business and residential climate. Please use this site to learn about key city issues and their impact on you.

News and Events

April 3, 2013 ~ Boston’s Tax Values Reach Highest Level in Four Years - After a time of fluctuation in property values, Boston has seen two years of stable growth. Property value lost during the recession has been restored and surpassed the previous high value mark of $90.4 billion set in fiscal 2009. Boston’s fiscal 2013 taxable values rose to $92.2 billion, a $3.7 billion or 4.2% increase over fiscal 2012. Residential value continues to drive growth with a 4.6% increase over fiscal 2012. Business value, increased by 3.5%. This report analyzes assessed values in Boston. Read more>

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February 28, 2013 ~ Research Bureau Opposes Creation of a Hybrid Boston School Committee - The Research Bureau is calling on the Boston City Council to reject a proposed special act to create a hybrid school committee in Boston of four mayoral appointees and three members elected at-large. Read more>

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January 8, 2013 ~ Boston's taxable value increases as the real estate market stabilizes - A slowly improving economy and a full parcel-specific revaluation combined to produce an increase in Boston's FY13 taxable value by 4.2%, more than twice the growth that occurred in the prior year. The average single family tax bill is $3,480, a $175 or 5.3% increase over FY12. Read more>

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January 4, 2013 ~ The Research Bureau released a Special Report, Boston's New PILOT Program Completes First Year. The report analyzes the City of Boston's new policy to provide a more systemic and consistent approach to the PILOT program based on property values and community services for the largest private exempt institutions in Boston. With updated property values, the City seeks a significant increase in PILOTs phased-in over five years. Read more>

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BMRB in the News:

A bad idea bonanza
Boston Herald Editorial | March 7, 2013

Politics out of schools
Boston Herald Editorial | January 18, 2013

Mayor’s money grab
Boston Herald Editorial | January 9, 2013

Hub’s taxable value increases as the real estate market stabilizes
By Thomas Grillo, Real Estate Editor | Boston Business Journal | January 7, 2013

Boston's average household tax bill jumps
By Joe Dwinell | Boston Herald | January 8, 2013

Rev. Gregory Groover decides to leave key post
Pastor had led School Committee
By James Vaznis | The Boston Globe | January 7, 2013

Hub’s PILOT push nets extra $4.4M
By Dave Wedge | Boston Herald | January 5, 2013