May 30 2008
Maryland State Department of Assessments
An email was sent this afternoon to the Maryland State Department of Assessment.
I placed a formal request for the criterion for assessing a property.
I was told by the Montgomery County Property Assessment Appeal Board, a “non partial” entity that the only criterion they were aware of is that the comparables have to be of properties sold within that tax year. There was no verification that the styles, condition, age or size was a factor. I am not quite sure how the board can hear a case if they don’t know what the factors are for making the assessment. This information came directly from the clerk of that particular Montgomery County board.
I asked who made up the board and hearing members. The clerk stated that they were individuals from different parts of the county. Okay, this is nice that they are trying to keep things balanced, so my next question was what background did the hearing panel have to make a decision on reviewing my case. Were they appraisers.
No, the clerk stated that these people were not appraisers, but they were impartial individuals. I think that I would feel better if the panel had some knowledge of property assessment, appraisals, fair market value.
As a Montgomery County Commissioner, I am releived however to know that there are a lot of very intelligent, level headed impartial members on these boards.
I was a bit anti governement as I felt that the government would do as it pleased. I am pleasantly surprised to see very dedicated indiviuals volunteering their time and working for Montgomery County Governement. It is especially tough for some government workers to have to work with demanding volunteers.
I am not confident that my case will have a favorable outcome. My position on a committee will have zero influence on those who will hear my case. The only advantage I will have is that the surroundings will be familiar and I have a vague idea of how the process works.
On my commission, The Commission on Common Ownership Communities there is terrific balance of individuals and professionals. I am fortunate to be surrounded with such intelligence, expeience and dedication, as well as impartiality. No one gets a break. No one expects one and no one asks. It is simply fair and honest with everyone doing their best to serve the associations and individual condominium owners.
My next email will be to the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection. If nothing else, I am learning the workings of my local government inside and out.