Commission sets 2023 assessed value for multifamily property at $2.9 million after abatement hearing

The Stark County Commission convened a public abatement hearing Thursday and voted to set the assessed value for tax year 2023 on a 47‑unit multifamily property at $2.9 million.

Nathan Stidelberg, attorney representing the property owner, presented an appraisal dated July 2022 showing a market value of $2.25 million and argued the county’s earlier 2023 assessment of approximately $4.21 million exceeded market value. City property staff reported that a city reassessment in 2024 set the property’s taxable value at $2.84 million.

Commissioners questioned appraiser comparables and whether the 2021 sale to the current owner was an arm’s‑length transaction. City staff described the city’s mass‑appraisal process and said the property’s assessed value for 2024 was reduced to $2.84 million during a voluntary reassessment process; staff also noted concerns about management and rental income that affect valuation. The property owner’s attorney said the 2022 appraisal should control the 2023 assessment.

After deliberation, Commissioner Claris moved — and commissioners unanimously approved — establishing the 2023 assessed value at $2.9 million. The motion passed by roll call vote and the chair said the board would record the adjustment and proceed with the county’s administrative processes to issue a refund or adjustment consistent with state law.

The commission’s action covered tax year 2023 only. City staff and the property owner will continue to work through values for later years under the formal appeals and assessment process.