County Assessor explains 2025 property assessments amid tax confusion

During the Des Moines County Board Meeting on April 1, 2025, County Assessor Matt addressed the complexities surrounding property tax assessments, particularly the confusion taxpayers face during this time of year. With the recent deadline for 2023 valuations just passed, residents are now receiving their 2025 assessment notices, which has led to understandable bewilderment.

Matt explained that the 2025 assessments, which are being mailed out this week, will influence taxes payable in the fall of 2026 and spring of 2027. He emphasized that the timing of these assessments coincides with discussions about the 2024 budget based on current valuations, creating a perfect storm of information for taxpayers. This overlap can lead to misconceptions about the relationship between property values and local government budget needs.

A key point made by Matt was the autonomy of the assessor's office. He clarified that the office operates independently from the county, city, and schools, and does not adjust property values based on budgetary requirements. Instead, the assessor's role is to determine fair market value, reflecting what properties would sell for in an open market. This distinction is crucial for residents to understand, as it counters the common belief that property values are manipulated to meet financial needs of local governments.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the importance of clear communication regarding property assessments and the need for residents to grasp the independent nature of the assessor's office. As the county moves forward, ongoing education about these processes will be vital to alleviate confusion and ensure taxpayers are informed about how their property values are determined.