Fulton County holds proposed property-assessment task force after commissioners press for outreach and clarity

Fulton County commissioners voted to hold a resolution that would have formed a task force to review property valuations and assessments, citing concerns about staffing, public education and the role of the Board of Assessors.

Commissioner Arrington, who led a portion of the discussion, said the issue reflects public confusion about valuation versus assessment and described the difference: "the valuation is virtually the appraisal of the property, the value of the property, whereas the assessment is the amount that is taxed." He urged clearer public education before committing to a time-consuming citizen panel.

Chief Appraiser Roderick Conley of the Board of Assessors told the board staff had received taxpayer feedback and "we remain open to consideration of some of their feedbacks and the thoughts that they share with us." Conley said audits and standards are in place and that increased outreach could help bridge public misunderstandings.

Several commissioners said town halls and existing outreach have not fully addressed constituent concerns and proposed alternatives to a standing task force. Commissioner Chris Barrett suggested producing a clear infographic or breakdown explaining appraisal methods, appeals, and the roles of the Board of Equalization, the Board of Assessors and the county commissioners. Vice Chair Ellis and others favored regular joint updates or a dedicated liaison from the assessment office rather than a new, formal commission that might struggle to maintain quorum or staff support.

Commissioner Abdul Rahman said he did not support creating a task force because he favored staying "in our lane" and using existing staff channels and communications, while Commissioner Trista Ivory said she would continue the work for her constituents regardless of whether a resolution passed.

The motion to hold the resolution was made by Commissioner Eric and seconded by Commissioner Trista Ivory; the board voted to hold the item pending follow-up, including additional information from Chief Appraiser Conley and consideration of alternate working-group approaches. No formal committee or task-force membership was created at the meeting.

The discussion made clear the board's priorities are improved transparency and better public education about how commercial and residential properties are appraised and how assessments translate into taxable amounts. Commissioners asked staff to return with additional detail and suggested at least one joint meeting or quarterly update with the Board of Assessors.