Letter to the Editor: Monroe mayor commends tax assessors office regarding accurate and equitable assessments

Letter to the Editor

The City of Monroe appreciates the Walton County Tax Assessors Department, Chief Appraiser Tommy Knight, and the Walton County Board of Commissioners for providing the resources necessary to ensure accurate and equitable property assessments.  Last year, the City requested that all properties, particularly commercial and industrial properties, be appraised at true fair market value. This approach promotes fairness across all property classifications and helps reduce the disproportionate tax burden that had fallen on residential properties and small businesses, as their values increased while many other properties remained undervalued.

Bringing all properties closer to fair market value broadens the tax base, which can help maintain lower millage rates over the long term. The updated valuations ensure equitable treatment among all property owners, from apartment complexes and single family homes to retail businesses and major industries, while still generating the revenue needed to support essential services.

We commend the Tax Assessors Office for its diligence and applaud Tommy Knight, and his entire team, for a job well-done.

Monroe Mayor John S. Howard