Property values up dramatically

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Property values within the county continue to increase at a dramatic rate.

Some residents were alarmed by the increase after receiving their 2026 property reappraisals through the mail.

Countywide, the average increase was 38 percent, said Assessor of Property Terry Collins, noting overall the value of land increased at a greater rate than houses.

This year’s property reappraisal was the first since 2022, according to the assessor of property.

Property values are  set by regional/state employees and are based on property sales common to each particular area of the county.

Because of the large number of parcels within the county, 14,482 as of Wednesday (May 6) and limitation of the local assessor of property staff, the figures are compiled by regional/state employees.  

If a property owner has a question concerning their property tax reappraisal they can contact the assessor of property’s office between May 4 and May 29, according to the reappraisal notice.

Residents can also appeal their property reappraisal. The appeals process is explained in the letter mailed to property owners listing their new reappraisal.  

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