Why is the former owner(s) name on my real estate tax bill?

The tax bill is assessed to the owner of record as of January 1st which is the assessment date for the fiscal year.  It is very important that during the closing of the property the Town is notified of ownership and mailing address changes.  Copies of deeds must be made available to the Town for proper changes of ownership.  Taxes are prorated at the closing between the buyer and seller.  Property may be transferred several times within a fiscal year.