Taxpayer seeks appeal rights restoration after address notification issues in Glynn County

During the Glynn County Board of Assessors meeting on December 19, 2024, a significant discussion centered around a taxpayer's ongoing issues with property assessment notifications. The taxpayer, who had moved from Atlanta to Clayton, Georgia, expressed frustration over the county's failure to update their address in the assessment system, resulting in missed notifications and the inability to appeal assessments in a timely manner.

The taxpayer detailed a history of proactive communication with county offices, including multiple attempts to correct the address. Despite these efforts, the assessment notices for 2023 and 2024 were sent to the old address, leading to confusion and concern about the integrity of the county's notification process. The taxpayer emphasized that they had complied with all payment deadlines and had previously appealed assessments for other properties without issue.

Board members acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that the error may not have originated within their office but rather at the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) level, which manages address data. The board expressed sympathy for the taxpayer's plight but also highlighted the legal constraints they faced regarding the appeals process. They indicated that any decision to restore the taxpayer's appeal rights would require consultation with the county attorney to ensure compliance with state law.

The board agreed to investigate the matter further and promised to bring it back for discussion at their next meeting, tentatively scheduled for January 16, 2025. They recognized the importance of addressing the taxpayer's concerns while adhering to legal protocols, indicating a commitment to transparency and accountability in the assessment process.

This meeting underscores the challenges faced by local governments in managing property assessments and the critical need for effective communication between taxpayers and county offices. As the board prepares to seek legal guidance, the outcome of this case may set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in the future, potentially impacting the rights of taxpayers in Glynn County.