Property Appraisal Reform Bills Filed In Austin

Rep. Creighton files appraisal reform bills

AUSTIN, TX, Feb. 23, 2009 -- Confused at how the county arrived at your property's appraised value? Several bills filed recently by Representative Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe), aim to end that, as well as give voters more control on who sits on property appraisal boards.

Creighton filed HB 1547, which would require appraisal districts to post on their website an explanation, in plain language, of the methods they use to appraise residential property. They must also indicate which method is used most frequently in the district.

"The goal of this legislation is to give taxpayers a better understanding of how their home's value was reached," said Creighton. "Homeowners deserve to have an explanation of the process, and it will better prepare them if they choose to go through the appeals process."

Another Creighton bill, HB 1548, allows counties to set requirements for the board of directors of appraisal districts. If a county chooses, they can require that the board be elected officials of taxing entities within the appraisal district, such as city councilmen or school board members.

"This measure will allow the public more oversight of the board by making directors responsible to voters," said Creighton. "Montgomery County already voluntarily uses this practice, but this legislation will allow counties around the state to ensure that future boards have improved public oversight."

Creighton says meaningful appraisal reform is a priority of his so that taxpayers see relief from constantly rising property tax bills.

"True tax relief will not be seen until we have more transparency and public oversight in the appraisal process as well," said Creighton.