Ellis Calls For Greater Transparency For Tax Assessor's Office

MILTON, GA -- A basic and vital function of the Fulton County government is the determination of fair market value for all property within the county for property tax purposes.

Tax assessment is a critical function of county government, as it provides the base for establishing the major source of funding for not only the county, but also for the cities and school systems that fall within that county.

When this function "fails," it has a systemic effect on all local governments, said Fulton District 2 Commissioner Bob Ellis.

“While it appears that the Tax Assessor’s Office has finally provided tax digests to all jurisdictions, this year’s two month delay is totally unacceptable," Ellis added. "It has created unnecessary complications and distractions for many local governments. The delay, as well as other issues that have emerged, highlight the need for greater accountability from the Fulton County Tax Assessor’s Office.”

While Fulton Chief Tax Appraiser David Fitzgibbon reports directly to the Board of Assessors, Ellis stated the office "must demonstrate greater accountability" to the Board of Commissioners as well as the taxpayers.

To that end, Ellis states he will call for implementing a set of measures to be developed for the office to bolster effectiveness and transparency into the tax assessment function.

Ellis noted he will make this proposal at the Wednesday, Aug. 17 County Commission meeting, which will begin at 10 a.m. at the Fulton County Government Center.

"It must be timely and transparent in utilizing the funds that are provided to it by the county, determine the financial impact of litigated appeals, be operationally ready to meet necessary deadlines and ensure that it is in compliance with state regulations," he added.

Image via Bob Ellis