Dear Washington County Residents,
Let me begin by saying that Washington County and the people who reside here are some of the most amazing people I have known. I am so blessed to call this county my home. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve.
I have said this before and I will say it again – I believe that the people of our county are why new residents are drawn to our community. The generations of families who have built our county and those who have moved here, who have sacrificed and worked tirelessly serving on boards, beautifying our downtowns, loving and helping their neighbors, building businesses, farming and ranching are the ones we owe our thanks to. To all of you, who have given to our community, thank you!
I would like to address a few items regarding the office of the assessor.
- It is true that I requested a higher resolution fixed wing flyover of the county. This would have been a big benefit to many departments, not just my department. When I went to the commissioners to explore this option, I had the verbal support of many other departments in the county plus the city police department. We currently use aerial photography daily and many other departments do as well. Daily, we have requests from residents who want to see property lines. It would have provided emergency services, law enforcement and fire with clarity as they race to situations where it would be helpful if dispatch could look at the aerial photography to warn them of what might be a hazardous situation.
- I have stated this before, I never requested a drone nor does the county own a drone.
- It is true that our office recently mailed out postcards to let people know we will be visiting their neighborhood this year. According to Idaho Statute 63-314, the assessor is to assess all real and personal property in the county and is required to do a field inspection every 5 years. Many people are quite proud of their homes and do invite us in to share what they have done.
- Idaho is ranked #3 as one of the best property tax systems in the United States.
- We use a CAMA – computer aided mass appraisal system. Washington County has over 10,000 parcels. Each parcel’s assessment is based on land size plus improvements or structures that are on the land. Dwellings and mobile homes are assessed on Replacement Cost New Minus Depreciation. Many factors determine value: square footage, HVAC, plumbing fixtures, year built, roofing, siding, windows, built in features, finishes, flooring, condition and the type or grade of construction. Outbuildings are also assessed on square footage and interior features. Commercial buildings are assessed the same as above plus they are defined by use (grocery store, gas station, office, manufacturing etc.).
- Our office conducts ratio studies every year to determine if our values are compliant with state statute. These are reviewed by the Idaho State Tax Commission.
- The field work that this office does lays the foundation for all the taxing districts to receive funds for operation. I am sure that many in our county enjoy knowing they have a fire department, ambulance, law enforcement, city parks, libraries, maintained cemeteries, schools, hospital, roads and bridges, rodent control, weed management and many other services provided and maintained for all the people of the county.
My staff and I strive to help every resident who enters our office. We consistently reach out to make sure every
resident receives the benefits they deserve. If you ever have a question, please call me or stop by the office to visit.
I am happy to show anyone interested how our office operates.
Kindest Regards,
Debbie Moxley-Potter, Washington County Assessor
