‘What is the basis for fair taxation?’

By Assessor Erroll Williams
Contributing Columnist

It’s a question I hear over and over again, but often it is stated in this way: Am I paying the same thing as my neighbor and if not, why not?
Fair value is the basis for fair taxation.

A uniform, transparent and automated property valuation system makes sure every property owner in Orleans Parish pays their fair share…no more, no less.
 
Since we consolidated the seven assessor’s offices, we have taken several steps to promote fair valuation of residential and commercial properties.
 
We first had to bring distressed properties back on the rolls. Eighty percent of the city was flooded when the levees broke after Hurricane Katrina. Picto­metry, or the use of global imaging and mapping, helped us document the status of a neighborhood’s rebuilding.
 
The first revaluation of all properties in Orleans since 2005 occurred last Fall, and all storm-related assessments were ended.
 
The second significant step we’ve taken is instituting a computer-assisted mass appraisal system, known as CAMA, which allows us to use technology to gather and analyze data, monitor changes in property values or owner status, and provide a more accurate picture of Orleans properties.
 
There are now nearly 400 assessment “neighborhoods” and another 147 commercial zones which are grouped by like architectural styles, sales price and other factors so we can promote uniform assessments.
 
This data is then published on our website, www.nola­asses­sor.com so you can compare your property’s value to your neighbors.
 
And it’s easy to use. Once you are at the website, just click on the heading marked “Search Records,” read the disclaimer, and then you can search records by owner’s last name, tax bill number, map or the property address.
 
Once you find the address or block you are interested in, click the link in the “Parcel Number” column to view the property’s taxable assessment, whether the owner claims any special assessments like an age or disability freeze—you can even click the “Tax Information” button to see if the taxes on the property have been paid to the City of New Orleans.
 
Thus, all the research my office can make public about a parcel of land is now available at your fingertips. Aerial photographs highlight improvements and demolitions faster than human inspection, saving valuable resources and labor.
 
There are 166,230 par­cels assessed by my office in Orleans Pa­rish. As I stated earlier, my concern is fair valuation of your property’s worth.
But keep in mind, “fair” does not mean “lower.” And while we strive for accuracy, we are not above mistakes. Therefore, please utilize this website, www.nolaassessor.com and inform us of any inconsistencies.
 
We’ll provide an explanation if there is one, or make a correction if needed.

This article originally published in the April 23, 2012 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.