Resident Jim Harris advocates for 7 year property tax revaluation cycle in Pender County

Residents of Pender County are advocating for a return to a seven-year property tax revaluation cycle, as discussed during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on March 10, 2025. Jim Harris, a local resident, presented his case for reversing the recently implemented four-year cycle, arguing that the change could alleviate financial pressure on homeowners.

Harris highlighted that Pender County boasts an impressive $8 billion real estate tax base with a 98% collection rate. He questioned the necessity of physical inspections for property evaluations, suggesting that a non-physical assessment could be a more cost-effective method. He noted that the current physical reevaluation process costs approximately $2 million per cycle, which he believes could be reduced.

Additionally, Harris raised concerns about the regressive nature of property taxes, stating that uniform percentage increases disproportionately affect lower-income residents. He emphasized the need for a more equitable approach to property taxation that considers the financial burden on all community members.

The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about property tax policies in Pender County and their impact on residents. As the board considers these proposals, the community awaits further developments that could reshape the local tax landscape.