Aug. 10, 2019

Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement regarding proposals to increase funding for the Board of Equalization (BOE):

“Following a request by the Chair of the Board of Equalization seeking additional support to process appeals related to the 2019 reassessment, my Administration has identified the necessary funding to assist the Board.

“Our proposals recommend an increase in compensation for all Board of Equalization members, as well as the Board’s legal counsel. Additionally, there is funding for the Board of Equalization to engage the services of hearing officers.

“Hearing officers are experts used to help expedite the appeal process. Currently, hearing officers are being used in St. Louis County where 27,000 appeals and counting have been filed with the BOE. There, hearing officers review the assessor’s recommendation and meet with property owners to hear their case. The hearing officer will then make a recommendation to the BOE, who considers all of the information to make a final decision.

“Our recommended funding proposals show we remain committed to working with the Board in support of a fair and accurate assessment process.”