During the recent Griggs County Commission meeting, significant discussions centered around the reassessment of commercial elevators and the implications of new state requirements for property valuation. The state board of equalization has approved an extension for reassessments until February 2027, providing the county with additional time to address these crucial evaluations.

A key proposal discussed was the hiring of an outside appraiser to reassess all commercial elevators in Griggs County. The need for this comprehensive evaluation stems from concerns that the current assessments are outdated, with the last significant appraisal occurring in 2018. The estimated cost for this reassessment is between $4,000 and $5,000, which officials believe is necessary to ensure fair and accurate property valuations moving forward.

The conversation also highlighted the complexities involved in valuing both commercial and privately-owned elevators, as ownership structures can affect tax assessments. The commissioners acknowledged the challenges of conducting blanket increases in property values, suggesting that individual assessments would provide a more equitable approach.

In addition to elevator assessments, the county is facing new state mandates requiring the valuation of exempt properties, including churches, schools, and other community buildings. This requirement aims to provide a clearer picture of property values across the county, but it raises concerns about the potential impact on local farmers and residents, particularly regarding the farm exemption status.

Commissioners expressed caution about how these valuations are handled, especially given the ongoing legislative discussions around farm exemptions. There is apprehension that future changes could lead to increased taxation on exempt properties, which could significantly affect local farmers.

As the county prepares to send out exemption forms for farmers, officials are aware of the administrative burden this will entail. However, they emphasized the importance of compliance with state statutes and the need for accurate data to support future assessments.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing property valuation challenges while balancing the needs of the community. As Griggs County navigates these changes, residents can expect ongoing updates and efforts to ensure fair assessments that reflect the realities of the local economy.