"It is important that homeowners are aware of their right under the law to file a formal legal grievance challenging the amount of their new property assessment," said Abrahams. "Residents can examine the tentative assessment roll that was filed on January 2, 2005 in the Nassau County Department of Assessment, 240 Old Country Road in Mineola or go to www.mynassauproperty.com where they can even download the protest application."

If residents visited the offices of Cole-Layer-Trumble last year to review their property's full market value, this did not represent a legal challenge to their assessment.

The period during which property owners may file a grievance began on January 3, 2005 and ends March 1, 2005. Grievance applications, as well as a publication containing procedures for contesting your assessment, are available at the Nassau County Department of Assessment or on-line at either www.mynassauproperty.com or nassaucountyny.gov and follow the links to the assessor's office. The phone number is 516-571-1500.

It is not necessary to obtain an attorney to file the paperwork but if property owners would like an attorney to file on their behalf, they may call the Nassau County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Information Service at 516-747-4832, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for assistance in locating attorneys who specialize in assessment challenges. Most of these companies do not charge a fee unless they are successful in obtaining a reduction in your assessment.

For more information about the grievance process please call Legislator Abrahams at 571-6201.