34: Pat Alesandrini – Small Jurisdictions, Dark Store Theory, and Technology in Assessment

In this episode, we're joined by Pat Alesandrini, Past-President of IAAO and Chief Deputy Property Appraiser in Hillsborough County, Florida. We talk about the growth and usage of artificial intelligence and machine learning, small jurisdictions and “dark store theory”, as well as other new trends in the assessment industry.

We cover:

• Introduction to Assessment Matters podcast 00:00

• Pat’s bio and big ideas 00:35

• Pat’s experience in the building and valuation, economics, and mass appraisal, and more

• Combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) with geospatial analytics, expansion of IAAO internationally, and difficulties of smaller assessment offices

• AI and ML, Chat GPT, LLM — what are the big opportunities, especially in assessment, in the next 5-10 years? 3:52

• “The sky's the limit” — automating mundane and repetitive work

• Being cognizant of data quality and effect on software

• Important for people who don’t use it to see that it’s not magic, but rather a tool

• Pushing IAAO to set up standards for AI usage

• Struggles of smaller jurisdictions 12:18

• Tend to be understaffed and underpaid

• Lack good training and good data

• Low market activity and small catchment areas

• “Dark store” theory 18:53

• How deed restrictions are used by commercial property owners to lower commercial property assessments across the board

• Factors assessors must be cognizant of when determining market value

• How it started, established legal precedent, and relevant legislation

• Advice for newcomers 25:18

• Education — classes, training programs

• Experience — learn on the job

• Exposure — finding out more about various other different industries, property uses, etc.

• How to contact Pat 31:04

• Phone: [phone]

• Email: [e-mail]