St. Mary's County official urges homeowners to appeal steep assessment increases

Unidentified Speaker, identified in the transcript only as the meeting speaker, urged homeowners to appeal recent property assessment notices at a St. Mary's County meeting, saying some residents reported large increases and explaining how the appeals process works.

"It doubled in 3 years," the Unidentified Speaker said, describing reports from residents who saw substantial increases in the assessed value of their homes. The speaker added that the new assessment is phased in over three years and therefore will not take full effect immediately.

The speaker advised homeowners to use the appeal options on the state portal, including requesting a sales analysis, asking to see the worksheet used to determine value, and choosing the format of the appeal—telephone, Zoom, or in person. "If you have the time, do 1 in person," the Unidentified Speaker said, adding from personal experience that appearing in person can increase the chance of a reduction.

The speaker emphasized homeowners should challenge inaccuracies noted on the assessment, such as whether the property is listed as a primary residence and whether the homestead tax credit has been applied. "Make these people do their job," the Unidentified Speaker said, urging residents to demand that assessors defend their valuations.

The meeting record does not show any formal motion or vote on assessment policy. The speaker framed these remarks as guidance to residents rather than a proposal for county action. Homeowners seeking to act should consult the State Department of Assessment and Taxation materials and the appeal options shown on their individual assessment notice.