Whitman County Assessor Flodine discusses property tax evaluations with Pullman council members

During the recent Pullman City Council meeting, Whitman County Assessor Raylene Flodine addressed significant concerns regarding property taxation and assessments in Pullman. Flodine, who was appointed in 2021 and elected for a four-year term in 2023, provided an overview of the current state of property assessments and the challenges faced by her office.

Flodine explained that the county is required by law to conduct annual property evaluations and maintain a six-year inspection plan. However, she revealed that the statistical updates necessary for accurate assessments had not been performed consistently, leading to discrepancies in property values. This issue became particularly evident when comparing the assessed values of properties in Pullman, which had not kept pace with the rapidly increasing market values.

In 2025, a new six-year plan will be implemented, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of all properties in Pullman within a single year, rather than splitting the city into sections. Flodine noted that the county had observed a significant overall increase in property values, with a 15% rise noted across the board. To address this, her office decided to adjust the assessments for the previously neglected half of Pullman to align with current market conditions.

One example Flodine provided illustrated the dramatic increase in property values: a home that sold for $430,000 in 2014 was assessed at that same value until 2023, when it was raised to $630,000, reflecting the current market value of $759,000. This highlights the challenges faced by property owners as assessments catch up with the market.

Flodine also discussed the cumulative nature of property taxes in Pullman, which include contributions to various districts such as the city, library, parks, and schools. Despite the rising assessed values, she noted that the overall levy rate has decreased due to the growth in assessed value, which helps to balance the tax burden among residents.

Council members expressed appreciation for Flodine's transparency and the clarity she provided regarding the complexities of property taxation. The discussions underscored the importance of accurate property assessments in ensuring fair taxation and addressing community concerns about rising property values.

As the city prepares for the implementation of the new assessment plan, residents can expect continued dialogue about property taxes and their implications for the community. The council's engagement with the assessor's office reflects a commitment to addressing these pressing issues and ensuring that all property owners are treated equitably.