The Peru Gazette

By John T Ryan 

Peru, NY – On September 30, 2025, Jeremiah Cross’s six-year term as Peru’s tax assessor ended, and on October 1, Sean Masten succeeded Cross. Peru contracts with the Clinton  County Real Property office for assessment services, so both men are county, not town, employees. When Masten isn’t in Peru, he’s either in the Town of Ausable, where he is also the town assessor, or at the Clinton County Real Property Office. 

Masten brings a local perspective to his work. A graduate of Seton Catholic and Clinton Community College, he is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Finance. Before joining the county in 2018, he had two years of title research experience. Reflecting on his current assignment, he said, “Even though I grew up here, there were many roads I’d never been on. I’ve had to drive every road. Jeremiah did a wonderful job, so I stepped into a cushy position. He basically did a total reassessment each year and kept assessments up to date.” 

Looking ahead, Masten will begin the Peru 2026 assessment process in a few days. In late April or sooner, his assessments will be mailed to property owners. He emphasized, “If people have any questions or any concerns about their assessment, or if they’re unsure if they’re getting the exemptions, or if they have any questions, please call or come in. I can’t help people if they don’t ask.” Masten’s office number is 518-643-2475, Extension 104. His Peru office hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Commonly overlooked exemptions include being a Vietnam veteran or having an income below $34,399. 

If questions remain after discussing with Masten, taxpayers have further options. They must file a grievance Form RP524, which Sean can provide. The form is also available at the Clinton County Property Office in Plattsburgh or at the state website: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/contest/grievproced.htm. May 26 is the last day to file a grievance, which is also Grievance Day. Peru’s Board of Assessment Review considers grievances from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. People can make their case in person or simply rely on the RP524 Form. Supporting evidence is essential for any successful grievance.