Cochise County evaluates strategies to manage rising property taxes from special districts

The Cochise County Work Session on the Assessor's Budget, held on April 17, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding property tax evaluations and the implications of rising property values on local special districts. The meeting highlighted concerns about the automatic increases in property tax rates and the lack of accountability among governing boards of special districts, particularly in relation to Cochise College.

During the session, officials expressed frustration over the automatic 2% tax increase that special districts receive, which is mandated by state propositions. This automatic increase raises concerns about transparency and the lack of public awareness regarding the governance of these boards, which often operate without significant public oversight. Participants noted that many residents are unaware of the existence of these boards and their decision-making processes, leading to a perception of inequity in tax burdens.

The discussion also touched on the broader economic implications of rising property values, with one official emphasizing the need for anti-inflationary monetary policies to maintain a strong currency. This sentiment underscored the belief that the increase in property values may not reflect genuine economic growth but rather a devaluation of currency.

In terms of the Assessor's Office operations, officials outlined ongoing efforts to improve property evaluations, particularly for new construction and mobile homes. The need for accurate assessments was stressed, as it directly impacts tax revenues and fairness among property owners. The current methodology for assessing mobile homes was identified as inadequate, prompting plans to shift to a square-foot valuation approach to better reflect market conditions.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussions on potential caps for tax increases and a commitment to enhance transparency regarding the operations of special districts. The officials recognized the importance of addressing these issues to ensure fair taxation and effective governance in Cochise County.