Washington County completes residential property reassessment amid 70% value increases

The Washington County Board of Supervisors held a significant meeting on February 25, 2025, where the recent property reassessment process was a focal point of discussion. The reassessment, which has seen residential property values rise by an average of 70%, has raised concerns among residents regarding the impact on their property taxes.

During the meeting, officials reported that they completed the reassessment hearings and data entry, with notices expected to be sent out soon. The reassessment process involved over 3,400 appointments and covered approximately 5,600 parcels of land. Property owners dissatisfied with their new assessments will have the opportunity to appeal to the Board of Equalization.

The sharp increase in property values has been attributed to a statewide trend, with the reassessment reflecting current market conditions. Officials acknowledged that while the increases are challenging for both the county staff and property owners, they are necessary to comply with state requirements to maintain property values close to market rates. The reassessment process, mandated every four years for counties with over 50,000 parcels, aims to ensure fairness and accuracy in property taxation.

Concerns were also raised about the economic impact of recent flooding in Damascus, which has affected property values and local businesses. Officials noted that adjustments have been made for properties severely impacted by the flood, with plans to review additional properties to ensure fair assessments.

The meeting highlighted the complexities of property valuation in a fluctuating market, with discussions on how external factors, such as out-of-state buyers and local sales volume, influence property prices. The reassessment process aims to reflect these dynamics while addressing community concerns about affordability and equity in property taxation.

As Washington County moves forward, officials emphasized the importance of ongoing communication with residents and the need for future reassessments to be more frequent if significant market changes occur. The Board of Supervisors will continue to monitor the situation and work towards solutions that support the community's needs.