It has been one of the most talked about topics over the last couple of weeks, the increase in property taxes and the increase in property values across Cherokee County.

Revenue Commissioner Dustin St. Clair says first and foremost, the Revenue Commissioner does not have the authority to raise taxes.

On Thursday, St. Clair joined WEIS Radio morning show host Jerry Baker to explain a little bit about what is happening with tax bills and property values increases throughout the county.

The State of Alabama requires, as mandated by the Code of Alabama section 40-2-1 thru 40-2-66, all real property parcels in every county to be appraised and accessed for tax purposes based on the Alabama Appraisal Manual.

The manual, which is a compilation of construction cost studies and data originated and conducted by the Alabama Department of Revenue Property Tax Division, has updated and adjusted values for all taxable real property structures. The 2015 version of the manual is the first update since 2005.

For the 2018 Tax Year, Cherokee County will be implementing the 2015 Alabama Appraisal Manual values for property tax valuation. This change comes from the State of Alabama Department of Revenue and will affect the property tax appraisal values, assessment values and taxes.

The new 2018 values and tax estimates will be indicated on the Board of Equalization notices that are scheduled to be sent out this month. Most owners with a structure (i.e. home) on real property will see an estimated 10-20% increase in tax values as a result of the new manual.

Dustin said that there is an opportunity for you to appeal your appraisal; you can also schedule an appeal hearing with the Board of Equalization.

To schedule an appointment, simply call the Revenue Commissioner’s office at 256-927- 5527

You can hear our interview with Dustin in it’s entirety click the link below