Property taxes are a significant burden for many Wood County families, and homeowners deserve to know that the system is fair. One issue that deserves more attention is commercial properties being undervalued and the gaps in reporting real estate transactions that make it harder to ensure everyone pays their fair share.
When commercial properties are undervalued, it can contribute to an inequitable distribution of the property tax burden, leaving residential property owners carrying more than their fair share. Fair assessments require accurate information, consistent standards, and a commitment to ensuring that property values reflect the available evidence of market value.
Another concern involves real estate held by limited liability companies or LLCs. When ownership interests in an LLC change hands without a deed transferring the underlying property, the transaction may not appear in the usual property conveyance records. This can make it more difficult for county auditors to identify transactions that could provide valuable information about a property’s market value.
That is why I am encouraged to hear Mark Wongrowski’s commitment to addressing these issues. Wood County needs an auditor who will proactively seek out available information, examine transactions that might otherwise go unnoticed, and work to ensure that commercial and residential properties are assessed fairly and consistently.
The auditor’s office plays an important role in maintaining public trust and protecting taxpayers. Fairness should not depend on whether a property is owned by an individual, a large corporation, or an LLC. Every property owner should be subject to the same commitment to accurate and equitable assessments.
I appreciate Mark’s willingness to address these concerns and his commitment to transparency, accountability, and fairness for Wood County taxpayers. I believe these issues deserve attention, and I am glad to see a candidate prepared to make them a priority.
Mark Wongrowski has my vote. I encourage Wood County voters to consider how important fair, accurate property assessments are to their families and communities when choosing their next county auditor.
Dr. Erika Manis
Perrysburg
