Forsyth County names Amanda Markle as next tax assessor-collector; starts July 7

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution appointing Amanda Markle as the county's next tax assessor and collector. Markle currently serves as deputy tax assessor in Durham County and has more than 20 years of experience in property tax administration. The board said Markle will begin her Forsyth County service on July 7.

At the meeting, commissioners who participated in the interview process praised Markle's listening skills and administrative experience; the board formally adopted a resolution to appoint her and also adopted a related resolution to appoint her as tax collector. The board thanked interim tax assessor-collector Mike Pollock for his service in the interim role and said Pollock and Markle would work together during the transition.

What residents asked: Commissioners asked the incoming assessor about exemptions for seniors and veterans. Markle described three programs administered under a common application: an elderly/disabled exclusion (age 65 or total/permanent disability with prior-year income limits) that excludes 50% of appraised value or $25,000 (whichever is greater) for the house and up to 1 acre; and a disabled veteran exclusion that excludes $45,000 from the value for qualifying veterans or surviving spouses. Markle confirmed that applicants must own the property as of January 1 and that rental residents are not eligible for these owner-based exclusions.

Next steps: Markle will assume the position on July 7; the county will finalize transition details and publish guidance on exemption applications and eligibility.