HOLDERNESS — The N.H. Department of Revenue Administration has set a 2009 tax rate of $12.96 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, down from last year's rate of $13.18.

As a result of new property values, the town's net assessed valuation increased by $5,870,000 from 2008. The total amount that Tax Collector Ellen King will be collecting for the year is $8,889,442 on a net assessed valuation of $680,542,900.

According to the Holderness Board of Selectmen, all tax rates, with the exception of the State Education Tax, decreased significantly, dropping by $.22 per $1,000.

Tax bills went out to all taxpayers on Nov. 6 and payments are due no later than Wednesday, Dec. 9. Taxpayers may call King or Town Administrator Walter Johnson at 603-968-.2145 if they have questions concerning their assessments or tax bills.