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Lake Benton Board of Review approves 2026 assessment report amid homeowner concerns
Summary
Trustees approved the City of Lake Benton’s preliminary 2026 property assessment report April 14, 2026, after County Assessor Shirley Abear presented valuation data and scheduled follow-up inspections for two homeowners who disputed increases.
The Lake Benton Board of Review approved the city’s preliminary 2026 property assessment report Tuesday, with trustees voting to carry the measure while scheduling follow-up inspections for two homeowners who questioned sharp valuation increases.
County Assessor Shirley Abear presented the board with the city’s preliminary 2026 estimated market value of $55,355,400, reporting 11 arm’s-length sales and a preliminary sales ratio of 74.7%. To meet statewide compliance (an acceptable median ratio range of 90 to 105 percent), Abear said the city’s median was increased 25 percent to 92.2 percent. She also reported $56,000 in new construction for 2026.
"The value of the property is not a tax increase," Shirley Abear said, explaining that individual tax bills depend on the City levy and any school referendums rather than the assessed market value alone. She reminded residents that the Local Board can only make changes sustained by facts and statutory guidelines and that those unsatisfied with the Local Board’s decision may appeal to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization on June 16, 2026 (appointments required).
Homeowner Todd Dykstra asked, "Why did you have to raise it 22%? It changes every year. Where does the money go?" Abear replied with the distinction between assessed value and tax rates and pointed Dykstra to refund eligibility information on the back of tax forms.
Tony Dunn raised concern that his homestead valuation rose despite no improvements beyond removal of a few trees. Cody Moen reviewed Dunn’s valuation with trustees and said tillable ground was adjusted; Abear and Moen will contact Dunn to schedule remapping/inspection at the Assessor’s Office. Megan DeWitt said her property value "has gone up 48% in the past two years," and Abear and Moen agreed to set up an inspection to review her home and valuation with her.
Trustee Scott Christensen moved to approve the assessment report with no changes, and Trustee Rosie DeZeeuw seconded; the motion carried. The minutes do not record a roll-call tally for the vote. The board noted that Local Board of Appeal and Equalization members must complete their work within a 20-day window from this meeting and that appeals to the county board are available for anyone dissatisfied with the Local Board’s decisions.
There being no further business, the board adjourned.
