County Board approves assessments and tax exemptions for veterans and elderly homeowners

The Clay County Commission meeting held on April 15, 2025, focused on several key issues, including property assessments, tax exemptions, and adjustments to veteran and elderly tax relief programs.

One of the primary discussions revolved around property evaluations. The commission reviewed a unique property with two houses, one of which is used for a hired worker. The assessed value of the property was set at $140,020.24, reflecting a significant increase since the owner purchased it five years ago. The commission ultimately voted to accept the current assessment after a brief discussion, emphasizing the importance of accurate evaluations based on comparable neighborhood properties.

The meeting also addressed the elderly tax freeze program. The commission reported a total value of $7,000,063.04, with exemptions for qualifying applicants amounting to $3,989,004.49. A motion to approve these changes was passed unanimously, ensuring continued support for elderly residents.

Additionally, the commission noted an increase in the veterans' exemption from $150,000 to $200,000 off the full assessed value. This adjustment was communicated as an informational update, with no formal motion required.

The commission reviewed applications for owner-occupied status, which included properties that had submitted requests after the initial notice deadline. A motion to approve these changes was also passed, allowing for the inclusion of additional properties that met the criteria.

Lastly, the commission considered four new applications for tax-exempt status, including organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and Goodwill Great Plains. After thorough discussion, the commission voted to grant full exemptions to these entities, recognizing their contributions to the community.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commission's commitment to fair property assessments and support for vulnerable populations through tax relief programs. The next steps include implementing the approved changes and continuing to monitor property evaluations in the county.