Appraisal district presents rising workload as new housing boosts values

Mark Beneke, chief appraiser for the Grimes Central Appraisal District, told the court the county's share of the appraisal district budget is just under $756,112 and explained how levy calculations and protest activity affect the final county payment. He said appraisal and collection costs are rising due to higher postage, healthcare and other vendor costs.

Shannon Sanders, assistant chief appraiser, noted that new construction remains strong: “Last year, we picked up 458 houses. In 2025, we picked up 404 houses,” she said, citing increased subdivision activity and aerial imagery that triggers field inspections. Commissioners pressed on collection assumptions (97% cited by staff) and asked about impacts from large commercial projects — including solar farms — where litigation or negotiation can change the county’s reimbursement obligations. Appraisal staff said negotiations are ongoing for at least one significant solar project and that settlements or litigation outcomes could affect future budgeted reimbursements.