Informal Property Value Hearings

Jefferson- It is not everyday government offices go out of their way to hear from people who think their office is wrong. That’s just what County Auditor David Thomas and his staff did Wednesday as they set up shop in the Jefferson Henderson Memorial Library meeting room for informal property value complaint meetings.

“I appreciate our staff being will to work evening hours and be flexible with the public as we try to reach as many people as possible in giving them a chance to share property information,” said Auditor David Thomas.

The fall season is the time when property owners are able to informally discuss or challenge their property value with the Auditor’s Office before tax rates are set and bills sent in January.

“Working with our office an Informal Hearing is much easier for the property owner than doing a formal Board of Revision complaint after getting your tax bill,” explained Auditor Thomas.

The Auditor’s Office has been accepting informal complaint meetings since early September and will have conversations through the first two weeks of October for any interested property owners.

The property value could be different for a number of reasons according to Auditor Thomas. A sale in 2021 or 2022 below the Auditor value, changes in condition, or information important to value that the Auditor’s Office may not have.

“Frankly we’re having record low value complaints this year due to the still strong real estate market and what properties are selling for,” stated Auditor Thomas. “Most of the complaints though are centered around property condition or damage and updating our records.”

Thomas and staff organized the evening hours in Jefferson and virtual options in an attempt to lower the barrier to appeal and share information.

Residents wanting to request an informal hearing can do so in a variety of ways. Property owners can call 440-576-1484 or email TRFrable@Ashtabulacounty.us to schedule a meeting either in person, virtually, or on the phone.

Auditor Thomas encourages property owners who are requesting an informal hearing to have photos and evidence of condition issues at the property if challenging based on condition or a list of errors if the Auditor’s property description is incorrect.

(Pictured is Assistant Real Estate Manager Tara Frable and Chief Appraiser Mike Houser preparing for the Auditor’s Office evening hours at the Jefferson Henderson Memorial Library.)