Why I am Running for the Spokane County Assessor

The Assessors Office has taken a downward turn. The good ole boy system is alive and well. That needs to stop. The office needs a leader. I plan to streamline procedures into a more productive, cost effective manner. The taxpayers need to be informed about laws and policies that affect their taxes. When you call in or visit you deserve to have an answer to your concerns. The whole system has broken down under the current administration. When a machine is broken you fix it. When an administrator cannot do the job then you get one who can.

I have the experience and dedication to do the job. The Assessors office needs a leader that knows how to do an appraisal. That currently is not the case. I have fifteen years experience as an appraiser, two of which were as Chief Deputy Assessor.

Communication has broken down between other offices in the County. It is essential that the Treasures, Auditors and Assessors offices work together. They are all intertwined. The processes have to flow from each department in the most efficient way possible. This will save taxpayer dollars. To save additional dollars I will be working a schedule alongside my staff. The Assessor must be able to understand what the market is in each area of the County as well as know how the values were achieved so that information can be passed on to you.

We have a conscientious and knowledgeable staff who works very hard under intimidating and retaliatory circumstances for you, Spokane County.

I believe that the eye in the sky is a waste of taxpayer money. Washington requires us to visit each property every six years. This is the time when all changes to the parcel should be done. I do understand some of the arguments for the use of an eye in the sky for conducting an appraisal, however I dont believe it is an appropriate or cost effective method to do the job. It cannot see inside the home or the condition of the home. This only can be done by a physical inspection and speaking to the owner.