Ada County officials urge replacement of outdated property tax system due to security risks

The Ada County Commissioners held a public hearing on June 11, 2025, focusing on the urgent need to replace the county's outdated property tax system. The current system, developed in the 1990s, poses significant security risks and is maintained by only two employees, both nearing retirement. This situation raises concerns about potential system failures that could disrupt essential county services.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that the existing property tax system is critical for funding various county services, as assessments and property taxes form the financial backbone of operations. The increasing legislative pressure for property tax relief has further strained the system, making it imperative to adapt quickly to new laws. Recent changes have already required extensive overtime from the Treasurer's office and other departments.

The county's reliance on a nearly 30-year-old system is deemed unsustainable, especially as the state is exploring a new system that will not be ready for another five to six years. Ada County officials expressed the need for immediate action to mitigate risks associated with the current technology and ensure continued service delivery.

The discussion underscored the importance of modernizing the property tax system to enhance security and efficiency, with IT perspectives expected to provide further insights into the challenges posed by the existing framework. The urgency of this issue reflects broader concerns about maintaining effective governance and service provision in Ada County.