In the bustling atmosphere of the Davis County Budget Committee meeting, discussions unfolded around the 2026 budget presentation, highlighting significant strides in property assessment and training initiatives. The room buzzed with anticipation as officials shared updates on the progress of their office, particularly in the realm of property valuation.

Dakota Brigg's lisonbee, Austin Presay, and Laura Gonzalez were recognized for their achievements, with Gonzalez meeting the requirements for Advila certification. Currently, the office has one trainee focused on personal property, while real property training is also underway. This commitment to training is crucial as the team aims to enhance their efficiency in processing property assessments.

As of the meeting date, over 600 bills had been processed, with expectations to exceed the deadline for the Board of Equalization. The team has also successfully modeled apartments for the first time this year, a move that has been met with positive feedback. This innovative approach aims to streamline the assessment process and alleviate concerns from property owners regarding sudden increases in property values.

A key topic of discussion was the expansion of commercial models as part of the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP). Officials acknowledged the challenges faced by income-producing property owners, who often find themselves grappling with unexpected valuation increases. By stabilizing commercial values, the committee hopes to create a more predictable environment for taxpayers.

Looking ahead, the transition to using Puma for property assessments presents both challenges and opportunities. The team plans to collaborate closely with Salika and Kyle to ensure a smooth integration into CoreTax, which is essential for accurate rate calculations. Insights from a former chief deputy from a neighboring county, who has firsthand experience with similar transitions, are expected to guide the team through potential pitfalls.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of determination was palpable. The Davis County Budget Committee is poised to tackle the complexities of property assessment with renewed vigor, ensuring that the needs of taxpayers remain at the forefront of their efforts. With a focus on training, innovation, and collaboration, the committee is setting the stage for a more efficient and equitable property valuation process in the coming year.