Property Owner Challenges Land Valuation Discrepancies in Recent Hearing

In a recent meeting of the Union County Board of Equalization and Review, significant discussions centered around property valuation disputes, particularly concerning land affected by flooding. The meeting, held on July 31, 2025, highlighted the complexities of assessing land value in the context of environmental challenges and market comparisons.

One property owner, Mr. Simpson, presented a compelling case regarding his land, which includes fields that have been repeatedly flooded. He argued that while he does not expect a full 45% tax discount, some adjustment is warranted due to the adverse conditions impacting his crop yields. Simpson emphasized that the bottom field of his property, which suffers from flooding, should not be valued the same as higher-quality land nearby. He pointed out discrepancies in property assessments, noting that neighboring properties with better conditions are valued significantly higher, creating an inequitable situation.

The discussion revealed that the property in question was once part of a larger 166-acre parcel that had been subdivided. Simpson highlighted that the valuation process did not adequately consider the differences in land quality, particularly between the upper and lower fields. He noted a $20,000 valuation gap between comparable properties, arguing that his land's unique challenges, including cliffs and flooding, should be factored into its assessment.

Board members engaged with Simpson's concerns, seeking to understand the valuation methodology and the rationale behind the current assessments. The deliberation phase of the meeting was initiated, with the board indicating that they would review the information presented before making a final decision.

This meeting underscores the ongoing challenges faced by property owners in Union County as they navigate the complexities of land valuation, particularly in areas prone to environmental issues. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, highlighting the need for equitable assessment practices that consider both market value and environmental conditions. The board's decision will be communicated to the property owner, marking a crucial step in addressing these valuation concerns.