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mherst County homeowners are stunned by sharp real‑estate tax increases, with many reporting hikes over 65% and one resident, Amy Hall, expecting an 87% rise. Hall says the new assessment could add about $700 to her annual bill if the current rate of 61¢ per $100 of value stays unchanged. She describes the news as “shocking” and worries about how residents will afford the added cost.

    The county’s Board of Supervisors Chair, Claudia Tucker, acknowledges the community’s alarm. She notes that the last assessment was six years ago, pre‑COVID, and that real‑estate values have changed significantly since then. To avoid a sudden shock, the board plans to reassess properties every two to three years instead of every six. Each assessment cycle costs roughly $600,000. Tucker assures residents that the board will set a lower tax rate, so the increase will be less severe than the current projections. The new rate will be announced in the spring, and the board will meet on Dec. 2 at 3 p.m. to discuss the matter.

    The additional revenue will fund schools and public safety, according to Tucker. She urges residents to be frugal but also to support a strong county. The assessments were performed by Pearsons Appraisals, now part of Vision Government Solutions. Homeowners who disagree can appeal before Dec. 10; if unsatisfied, they may take the case to the Board of Equity and then to circuit court. Tucker warns that appeals can sometimes result in higher assessments if the initial value was too low, and she encourages applicants to come prepared.

    All five board members own property, so they share the residents’ concerns. Tucker emphasizes that the board’s decisions affect everyone. Hall hopes the board will establish a reasonable rate and urges accountability to prevent excessive taxation. The upcoming meeting will likely address these issues and set the new tax rate for the spring.