Landowner Battles Tax Assessment Amid Water Access Challenges

In a recent meeting of the Okanagan County Board of Equalization, discussions centered around the valuation of land and the complexities surrounding water access for property development. A key participant expressed concerns about being unfairly taxed at a higher rate due to the challenges of drilling a well on their property, which is located in a closed basin area. The individual highlighted the financial burden of hiring professionals, such as hydrologists, to navigate the necessary procedures for well drilling.

The board members acknowledged the difficulties faced by property owners in closed basins, where water access is restricted. They emphasized the importance of providing concrete evidence, such as signed bids for drilling work, to support any claims for reduced land valuation. The board reiterated that without clear and convincing evidence, they could not adjust the assessed value of the land, which was set at $250,000.

The discussion also touched on the procedural steps required by the Department of Ecology (DOE) for drilling wells. Board members encouraged the property owner to pursue these steps and return with any documentation from the DOE that could substantiate their claims. They noted that if the property owner were to drill a well and receive a denial from the DOE, it would strengthen their case for a reassessment.

Ultimately, the board voted to sustain the assessor's valuation, citing comparable sales and the lack of sufficient evidence from the petitioner. The decision was met with an understanding of the challenges posed by the current regulations, and the board expressed appreciation for the property owner's engagement in the process. The meeting concluded with the assurance that the property owner could appeal the decision to the state Board of Tax Appeals if they disagreed with the outcome.