Deanne Vail joined the town of Scarborough as the new town assessor on March 9. She brings more than 10 years of municipal assessing experience after working for Bar Harbor revenue services in the property tax division, and most recently as the assessor for the city of Biddeford. She also has a background in real estate and 10 years in the banking industry.

“Altogether, these roles provided me with a strong foundation in valuation, taxation, and the practical realities of maintaining accurate and equitable municipal systems,” Vail said.

Vail values the opportunity to help residents understand what can sometimes be a complex process while contributing to the broader framework of municipal government — a large reason why she got into the field of assessing. Public service has always been important to her.

“My father served in the Legislature for many years and also held roles as a county commissioner and selectperson, all of which gave me an early appreciation for how local government shapes communities,” Vail said.

The town assessor is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all real and personal property to ensure an equitable distribution of the tax burden. The role also includes maintaining accurate ownership records and property boundaries, as well as administering exemptions and current use programs. It is a combination of analysis, fieldwork, and public interaction, with a steady emphasis on accuracy and consistency. Most importantly, it involves supporting the taxpayers and community members that the work ultimately serves.

Scarborough’s combination of coastal properties, growing commercial areas, and preserved natural spaces make for a uniquely dynamic assessing environment. Vail leads a department of three who also support the town’s assessing needs.

“Between ongoing development and the appeal of Maine’s coastline, I expect there will be plenty to keep our work engaging,” said Vail. “It is also clear that Scarborough is a well-run community, and I look forward to contributing while learning the nuances that come with a town that is both growing and thoughtfully managed.”

Vail and her husband have six children, so most of her time outside of work is spent at sporting events and school activities ranging from track and football to high school theater. “We also report to three dogs and two naughty cats,” she said.

She is actively involved in her church, participating in mission trips and serving in the disability ministry. Having grown up in Palmyra on an agricultural farm, time spent outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding snowmobiles and four-wheelers has instilled in her a lasting appreciation for the state of Maine.

Allison Carrier is marketing and communication manager for Scarborough. She can be reached at [email protected].