Assessment Board approves property values despite homeowner objections in local meeting

The Pennington County Board of Equalization held hearings on April 21, 2025, to discuss property assessments, focusing on adjustments for residential properties. A significant discussion centered around the assessment of a property owned by Mr. Dunker, who has lived in his home for 25 years without making substantial improvements since an addition built shortly after he moved in.

During the meeting, Mr. Dunker presented his case for a reduced property value, arguing that the current assessment did not reflect the market conditions or the condition of his home. The board considered various factors, including comparable sales in the area, which indicated that homes were selling for higher prices per square foot than Mr. Dunker's assessment suggested. The initial recommendation from the county was to assess the land at $22,000 and the structure at $134,200, totaling $156,200. However, Mr. Dunker argued for a lower figure, citing a lack of improvements and the age of the property, built in 1907.

After deliberation, the board moved to support a motion to adjust the property value, with a vote resulting in a majority in favor, despite one dissenting opinion. The board emphasized the importance of allowing assessors access to properties to ensure fair evaluations, as demonstrated by another case where a homeowner's cooperation led to a reduced assessment.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of property valuation in Pennington County, particularly the need for accurate assessments that reflect both market trends and the physical condition of homes. The board's decisions will impact property taxes for homeowners in the area, underscoring the significance of these hearings in the local community.