51: Ron Dean - Valuation Methodologies and Market Data

In this episode, Ron Dean, Muscogee County Assessor, discusses his role and responsibilities, including overseeing the valuation of 49,000 real properties and all business personal property in a county of 69,000 residents. His team of 14 conducts visual inspections every four years on 13,000 parcels annually, with additional inspections for changes or deed transfers. They aim to reflect market values by February and mail notices to property owners. Dean emphasizes the importance of accurate valuation methods, such as sales data for residential properties and cost approaches for commercial properties. He also highlights the challenges of business personal property reporting and the benefits of early tax statement mailing, which Muscogee County has achieved for the past six years.

We cover:

• Introduction and Background (0:01)
• Current Challenges and Opportunities (1:20)
• Field Work and Team Dynamics (5:41)
• Valuation Methodologies and Market Data (9:00)
• Business Personal Property and Legislative Changes (12:30)
• Energy and Mineral Extraction (15:33)
• Coordination and Budget Processes (19:53)
• New Technology and Public Engagement (23:30)
• Support from County Commissioners (27:00)
• Advice for New Assessors (29:39)
• Leadership and Association Involvement (31:34)
• Final Thoughts and Future Goals (35:14)