County Assessor

Department: Assessor

Reports To: County Board

Supervisory Duties: Yes

FLSA Status: Exempt

Benefits: Eligible

Union Status: N/A

Last Updated: May, 2018

Position Details

The Assessor is responsible for the maintenance and implementation of the property tax system in Fillmore County and is appointed by the County Board of Commissioners under Minnesota Statutes 273.061 to fulfill the powers and duties of the office as set forth in M.S. 273.061. Interprets, determines, and applies Minnesota Property Tax Laws and provides specialized, detailed input to the Minnesota Department of Revenue regarding changing conditions that affect the appraisal of property values. Supervises and provides direction and technical assistance to Property Appraisers, office staff, other government offices, vendors, taxpayers, attorneys, and others while maintaining effective working relationships and communications.

Property Tax, Appraisal and Property Classification Management

Responsible for estimating the market value and determining the classification of each of the 21,000 parcels of property in Fillmore County. Develops and maintains valuation guides and establishes schedules for property appraisals as well as oversees value and assessment of all real, personal and exempt property for valuation.

Generates complex valuation trend reports, appraisal reports and manages the exchange data to promote uniform assessment across counties. Generates and executes assessment information data for State Commissioner of Revenue.

Generates and maintains records, in conjunction with other county offices, on all transfer of property. Analyzes and monitors all Certificate of Real Estate Values and performs the finalization of sales for the Department of Revenue Sales Ratio Study. Ensures accurate data is maintained on Computer Aided Mass Appraisal System.

Manages and coordinates requests for abatements and reductions of valuation.

Appraises and establishes estimates of value on complex or specialized property within Fillmore County.

Generates and maintains a topographical land map and a land valuation map of the county in such forms prescribed by the Commissioner of Revenue.

Program and Office Management

Supervise, train and direct the work activities and functions of office support staff, property appraisers, vendors, and contractors.

Interprets and applies property tax laws for staff, elected officials and the public. Informs involved parties regarding changes in assessment laws affecting valuation of real and personal property and their classifications.

Assists attorneys and provides expert testimony to defend tax court petitions.

Attends and coordinates Boards of Review and Equalization, attends required meetings, and completes required educational mandates to stay current with property assessment under statutory guidelines.

Analyze, plan, prepare and manage annual department budget and appropriations. Determines and executes annual assessment charges to taxing districts.

While these are the primary focus of the position, we believe strongly in teamwork and employees will be called upon to perform a variety of duties as part of their role with Fillmore County.

Position Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Skill with assessment related software applications, especially mapping, GIS, and CAMA systems.

Knowledge of principles, practices and methods of the appraisal process and the Minnesota real estate tax system.

Knowledge of real estate terminology and markets.

Considerable knowledge and experience with the techniques of mass appraisal and computer-aided mass appraisal.

Skilled in effective oral and written communications to a variety of professional and non-professional audiences including preparing and presenting numerical and narrative reports.

Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with staff, other departments, governmental officials and the general public.

Skill with human resource management practices including training, delegation and performance appraisal.

Minimum Requirements

Education/experience equivalent to a four year degree in a relevant field and five years relevant work experience. Must possess current certification as an accredited assessor by the Minnesota State Board of Assessors and meet the requirements for achieving Senior Accreditation as set forth in Minnesota Statute 273.061. Must possess valid Driver's License. Prior supervisory experience is desirable.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Positions in this job typically require: sitting, feeling, manual dexterity, grasping, talking, hearing, typing, and seeing. There is also sustained exposure to computer keyboards and video screens. This position is generally light-duty and may require the exertion up to 20 pounds of force on occasion and the ability to lift, carry, push, pull and move objects.

The physical demands described here are representative to those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Working Conditions

Most work is performed in an office setting. Some work is performed in a field environment involving working outside and in buildings. Vehicle travel is required. Seasonal conditions can include excessive heat or cold. Conditions can include working in wet, muddy, slippery or dusty and windy conditions.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative to those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Competencies Common to All County Positions

Develop, maintain a thorough working knowledge of, and comply with all departmental and applicable County policies and procedures

Demonstration by personal example the spirit of service, excellence, and integrity expected from all staff.

Develop respectful and cooperative working relationships with co-workers, including willing assistance to newer staff so job responsibilities can be performed with confidence as quickly as possible.

Confer regularly with and keep immediate supervisor informed of all important matters which pertain to the applicable job functions and responsibilities.

Represent Fillmore County in a professional manner to the public, outside contacts and constituencies.