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Assessor outlines cuts, limits and new‑construction revenue potential
Summary
Assessor John Colseff presented his budget work session, describing targeted reductions in software, travel and supplies and noting new‑construction assessments added roughly $358,000 to the tax rolls; he urged caution on cutting training and said some reductions could affect required functions.
Assessor John Colseff briefed the council on Oct. 20 about the assessment office’s proposed status‑quo budget and the cost‑cutting steps he had already taken. Colseff said his draft included reductions of roughly $24,500 and another $15,900 across software, travel, office supplies and other discretionary items.
He warned that cutting travel and training would have a higher operational impact, noting the office’s accredited appraisers must meet continuing‑education requirements and that virtual trainings often fail to substitute for in‑person collaboration. Colseff said he plans to personally fund critical training for two years to preserve legislative and professional engagement.
On revenue, Colseff explained how new‑construction revenue is calculated and reported that for the 2025 tax year the county saw about $358,000 added to the rolls from newly discovered construction; overall property taxes for 2025 produced approximately $86,600,000 across taxing districts, including roughly $8,000,000 for current expense and $5,300,000 for roads. He also described the county’s inspection cadence (statutorily required minimum cadence) and the operational constraints imposed by the county’s six‑year field inspection cycle.
Councilmembers asked for percent calculations, explored options for coordination with other departments (for example, notifications when permits reach final) and discussed staffing and technology investments that could increase new‑construction discovery. Colseff said some efficiency gains are possible through better access to state permit records and new data tools but acknowledged the assessment industry lacks mature software solutions.
Next steps: Colseff requested council approval of a status‑quo budget, subject to further council budget deliberations, and will supply follow‑up figures on the percentage impact of the cuts on total budget.
