Tax Board rejects Pivotal Tax's appeal for Barton School Apartments ownership records

During the recent Board of Review meeting held on October 11, 2023, in West Bend City, significant discussions centered around property assessments and the necessary documentation for appeals. A key issue arose regarding the Barton School Apartments, where questions about proper authorization for representation were raised. The property was incorrectly listed under Lyndale Village LLC, leading to concerns about the legitimacy of the appeal process.

The board emphasized that without proper authorization from the actual property owner, they lack the authority to act on any objection forms. This highlights the importance of accurate documentation in property assessments, particularly for income-producing properties. The board noted that the property owner had been notified in January 2023 to provide essential income and expense information by February 24, 2023, to maintain their right to appeal. Failure to submit this information could jeopardize their appeal rights.

Additionally, the assessor's office had requested audited financial statements and rent rolls for the past three years to ensure accurate property evaluations. This request is particularly crucial for properties under specific tax credit programs, as audited statements provide reliable data free from interpretation issues.

The discussions underscored the board's commitment to maintaining transparency and accuracy in property assessments, which directly impacts local taxpayers. As the city prepares for a revaluation year, the importance of timely and accurate information from property owners becomes even more critical for fair assessments. The board's actions and decisions will play a vital role in shaping the community's approach to property taxation and appeals in the coming months.