Thurston County: property values go down, taxes go up
Posted by Scott Roberts - January 29, 2010As reported to day in The Olympian, the total assessed property value for Thurston County has decreased by more than $1 billion last year. So, let me see: If the value of my property went down, then I would have to pay less property tax, right?
WRONG! Not in Thurston County anyway. While the citizens of Thurston County are suffering through the new depression, and watching their property values plummet as if Rome were burning, the County government is actually growing.
Thurston County Treasurer, Robin Hunt gives her thoughts, “People have forgotten why when values go down, their tax bill still increases. My staff will have to do a quick re-education process as customers call and stop by.”
Staff writer, Christian Hill offers up his explanation, “If the value of your property is decreasing slower than the neighboring parcels, your property taxes will go up, and vice versa.” – what?? I’m sorry, but I just don’t quite understand that. Can somebody please explain?
Look closely, because on a tax bill coming soon, you may see a special assessment. Thurston County is going to collect an additional $5.5 million for government organizations that manage lakes, stormwater, and noxious weeds that have nothing to do with property values.
I don’t know a viable business in America today that couldn’t trim 3-5%. Most have, many have cut more. Government, however, just can’t seem to get their head around the idea -- please try.
Thoughts? Add Comment -
Charles Green said on Jan 29 2010 at 8:53am
Please don't think this limited to Thurston County - they may have noted how well it worked for King county last year, and decided to copy the methods.