By David M Barnett, MAI/RSA, GAR Associates CEO/ Partner
Transparency. Public Communication. Easy Access to Real Property and Tax Data.
Some challenges for local governments are maintaining the highest level of transparency and easy access to public information, while creating an open environment that allows users easy access to public information that can be managed more efficiently when the right applications are utilized.
Implementing a system that integrates Real Property Data and Tax information along multiple platforms can be streamlined to reduce time for IT teams while maintaining data security. Cloud-based products reduce the threats on internal systems and keep information isolated from other data and applications within the infrastructure. Multiple departments rely on property information and a web-based system provides easy access among departments, eliminating the need to provide access to the main assessment database.
Web-based municipal data systems have grown and developed into more user-friendly environments allowing the public to access information easily and reduces the need for in-person requests, thereby saving valuable staff time, not to mention, the public’s demanding for better access to this information.
Assessors also need the technology to administer their real property information databases and have complete control of their information uploads, which can include tax information.
The newest, most sophisticated online systems allow property owners the ability to access real property data 24n, including sales transactions, owners’ information (if authorized by the municipality to be included), exemption information, digital photographs and sketches of the properties, and GIS information. Property owners also need to be given the opportunity to review property inventory information and submit a request for a review of this information if the data appears inaccurate.
The systems can also allow users to review their current assessed value and if they believe the assessed value is inaccurate, they can select comparable properties that more accurately reflect the value they determine to be more reasonable and submit a request for an assessment review.
Artificial Intelligence (Al) is an integral part of deployed technology. Al can generate values with individual property attribute adjustments which can serve as a validator or is some cases, a primary source of value. Other Al solutions can assist assessment staff with property owner questions, leveraging call response technology including chat bots and virtual assistants.
Mobile-friendly technology is now commonplace across various industries. Leveraging this mobile technology can create municipal inter-department efficiencies and value accuracy by improving the assessment process and disseminating real-time data.
Forward thinking municipal offices are implementing and deploying technology that improves multi department communication while also demystifying property assessment and property taxes. The useof newer technology creates an element of open government transparency that will contribute to a more user-friendly environment for constituents.
You can reach David M. Barnett, MAl,SRA at dbarnett@gar-associates.com or 518-579-3770, ext. 3201.
