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Scott County assessor outlines 2026 valuation changes, urges residents to check notices and appeals options
Summary
Scott County's assessor presented a market-driven 2026 assessment that raised the countywide residential average ~3.1% (countywide median $488,000), explained sector and neighborhood differences, and walked taxpayers through online tools, open‑book appeals and refund options.
Scott County’s appraisal staff told commissioners that the 2026 assessment cycle will produce a countywide residential average change of about 3.1%, bringing the county median estimated market value to roughly $488,000, and encouraged residents who receive value notices next week to contact appraisers or use online tools if they disagree.
The assessor’s presentation placed the assessment in market context — citing mortgage-rate trends, MLS sales, months of inventory and sector-specific changes — and explained how the county uses a 12‑month sales study by city and township to keep median sale‑to‑assessment ratios within the Department of Revenue’s 90–105% target. Staff emphasized adjustments were applied by neighborhood and price band to reduce variation and avoid state‑ordered blanket changes.
Presenter Michael outlined several notable points: lower new-construction volumes for apartments and industrial properties after several large projects recently completed; growth in higher-end home sales; and an overall 4.4% increase in total estimated market value when exempt and new construction are included. He noted the county tries to avoid state intervention by keeping jurisdictions’ median ratios clustered rather than forcing large across‑the‑board shifts.
On taxpayer actions, the assessor walked through online tools (GIS recent-sales overlay and parcel correction forms), the ‘open book’ process and local board options, and urged property owners to call the appraiser listed on the valuation notice. “I can't stress enough, call the number on the notice,” Michael told the board, adding that many issues are resolved informally and that the notice includes the appraiser’s direct contact. Staff also highlighted the special property tax refund for taxpayers whose tax statements meet statutory thresholds.
The board and staff discussed outreach and timing; staff said valuation notices are scheduled to mail next week, open‑book sessions will follow, and formal appeals ultimately can proceed to the county board of appeal or tax court. Commissioners thanked staff for outreach and for providing online tools and guidance to help residents understand values and appeal options.
Next procedural steps: notices will be mailed next week; residents who want clarification are advised to call the appraiser number on the notice, use the county’s GIS sales tools, or attend open‑book sessions before pursuing formal appeals.
