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Commissioners raise concerns about assessor rulings and a state equalization appeal
Summary
Commissioners discussed a recent property assessment outcome and the county's experience before the State Equalization Board, questioned why parcels (including Rice Lake) were treated as commercial, and discussed whether local ordinances and enforcement of permit expirations should be strengthened.
Commissioners spent a substantial portion of the meeting discussing an assessment appeal and their experience with the State Equalization Board. A commissioner said the board had "bumped us" on values and noted that Rice Lake had been treated as commercial property because there was no home on some parcels, which increased commercial valuations.
Speakers criticized past handling of appeals and raised questions about the assessor. One commissioner referenced former assessor Sarah Ohlhauser by name, saying she "was right about the time she left" and that some people complained about her performance. Committee members described attending the State Equalization Board and said the board members largely followed rules and did not change the county's valuation despite local appeals. They discussed next steps — including pursuing county-level changes, additional appeals or legislative fixes — but noted that unless a legal violation or procedural error is found, the state board is unlikely to change its determination. A commissioner said they would follow up with staff (Christine/Marcy) and an outside appellant (Trent) who intends to pursue the matter at the state level.
