In a recent meeting of the Sandoval County Ethics Board, a complaint against an assessor's actions was discussed, highlighting significant concerns from community members regarding property tax assessments. The complainants, represented by Mr. and Mrs. Stopp, expressed that the assessor's conduct has caused \"lasting damage\" to the community and requested the board to take their grievances seriously, emphasizing the need for timely resolution as mandated by law.
The board members engaged in a detailed discussion about the nature of the complaint, which included allegations of violations related to court procedures and ethics ordinances. Questions arose regarding whether the board needed to interpret state law or procedural rules before determining any ethical violations. Ken Dehoff, a board member, clarified that establishing a violation would require evidence based on court procedures.
The conversation revealed complexities surrounding the complaint, particularly its ties to previous court proceedings and the Sandoval County protest board's findings. Board members expressed concerns about the implications of repeated issues raised in the complaint over multiple years, questioning the assessor's adherence to directives.
Ultimately, the board concluded that it lacked jurisdiction over the specific matters raised in the complaint. A motion was made and seconded to dismiss the complaint, which passed unanimously. The board's decision underscores the challenges faced by community members in navigating the ethics and legal frameworks surrounding property tax assessments, leaving unresolved questions about accountability and oversight in the assessor's office.