Dear Editor:
To all Rio Blanco County property owners, as required by the Colorado Revised Statutes, 2019 is a reappraisal year. Therefore, all properties within the boundary of Rio Blanco County have been revalued. Market sales, business income, and/or appraisal data for an 18-month period, Jan. 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018, was used to establish real property values. This data was analyzed to ensure the use of the proper valuation models as well as the setting of correct values. You will receive notification from this office on May 1. If you have any questions concerning your Notice of Valuation, please contact our office. This notice is not your Tax Bill; it is only notification of the value of your property that will be taken by a percentage to arrive at your taxable value. The State Legislature stipulates the assessment percentages the Assessor’s office uses when determining the taxable value of your properties. This is then multiplied by the mill levy for the taxing district boundaries where your property is located.
The Colorado Constitution requires the Assessor to rely exclusively on market (i.e., sales) information when valuing improved residential property. During the 18-month period,
Jan. 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018, our analysis of Rio Blanco County indicates an appreciation in the market value of property. It is the Assessor’s responsibility to ensure all taxable property is assessed equitably and at the correct level of value. Colorado procedural and statistical standards for mass-appraisal and assessment equity for real property are some of the most stringent in the United States. To ensure compliance with these strict procedures and standards, the Assessor’s office is audited yearly by a State of Colorado auditor.
Taxing entities supported by your property taxes provide vital community services to the citizens of Rio Blanco County, including schools, municipalities, regional libraries, fire districts, cemetery districts, hospital districts, recreational districts, river and water conservation districts, etc.
Please contact the Assessor’s office if you have any questions concerning your Notice of Valuation. If you would like to discuss your valuation, please contact the Assessor’s office at 970-878-9410 to schedule an appointment. Protests to real property valuations must be postmarked by June 1, 2019 or delivered in person no later than June 3, 2019.
Renae T. Neilson
Rio Blanco County Assessor
