By Associated Press
Bay Minette, AL – The state Department of Revenue took over Baldwin County property tax appraisals Monday. The action aims to address issues that state officials say have led to skewed property evaluations and a huge number of appeals.
It follows the revenue department's September 12th order requiring Baldwin Revenue Commissioner Phil Nix to let the state revamp appraisal procedures in the county. The state will also be responsible for addressing the roughly 22,000 appeals on appraisals that affect tax bills due December 31st.
Lewis Easterly of the state revenue department said about 20 officials will work on the issues until it is determined that the county office can meet state requirements and follow the annual assessment schedule. He said the process could take years.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)