Assessment appeals work group proposes stricter continuance rules and scheduling coordination

A work group convened by the State Board of Equalization recommended procedural changes intended to shorten delays in the assessment appeals process, presenting the findings to the BOE and county assessors on Oct. 22.

Santa Clara County Assessor Greg Monteverde summarized the group’s proposals, which target two primary drivers of delay: poor coordination between assessor offices and clerks of the board on scheduling, and frequent postponements or continuances. Monteverde said the work group drafted revisions to guidance suggesting that recommended hearing dates from assessor offices be adopted by clerks "whenever feasible" and that postponements be "generally be disfavored." He added that parties requesting continuances should provide written declarations explaining the reason.

John Tudor and other assessors suggested using the Prop 19/exemptions portal model as the basis for a statewide assessment appeals application, and discussed seeking legislative funding to create a portal that could streamline scheduling and case management. Tudor said the timing is opportune if the JPA contracting proceeds and the Prop 19 technology becomes a demonstrable model that legislators can see.

The proposals are intended to create clearer scheduling practices, reduce continuances, and provide guidance to local AABs; the work group seeks BOE support and continued collaboration with clerks of the board and the assessors' association. No formal rule changes or legislation were approved at the meeting; the group recommended further work and potential legislative outreach.