Missouri auditor rates Jackson County assessment process as poor
A state review released Friday found flaws in notifications and appeals handling, prompting homeowners to demand changes before the 2027 cycle.
By Alina Marshall ·
Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick issued a final report on Friday that rates Jackson County's 2023 property assessment process as poor.
The audit describes the department's performance during the 2023 reassessment as a catastrophic failure. The document identifies specific issues in how the county handled homeowner notifications, property inspections, and the processing of assessment appeals.
The findings follow a period of intense scrutiny regarding how the county managed its most recent valuation cycle. Homeowners who saw their property values rise during the 2023 period have pointed to inconsistencies in the data. One resident, Greg Walters, noted that his home's assessed value increased by $30,000. Walters stated that he was not surprised by the audit's conclusions, citing previous staffing issues in the department, including one employee who was recalled.
Walters said he was eventually able to have his property taxes rolled back. However, he argues that the current appeals process remains structurally flawed. He noted that representatives from taxing entities, such as the City of Raytown, local school districts, and fire districts, sit on the boards that judge these disputes. Walters described this arrangement as unfair because these entities receive a portion of the tax revenue but also hold the power to approve or deny challenges to the assessed values.
The audit raises questions about how the county will conduct its next full property reassessment, which is scheduled for 2027. Local officials are now expected to address the procedural gaps identified in the report. Walters said that elected officials who oversee the process should take responsibility for staffing decisions and ensure that future cycles are transparent and fair to residents.
The state auditor's report serves as the primary benchmark for the county's current standing. It will likely influence how the Jackson County assessment department prepares its internal workflows for the upcoming cycle.
Source: KSHB 41
