Carol Kirsten urges Lewis County to address soaring property tax assessments

Lewis County officials addressed pressing community concerns during the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on March 11, 2025, with significant discussions surrounding property tax assessments and local infrastructure improvements.

A poignant moment came when Carol Kirsten, a long-time resident and business owner from Ashford, expressed her distress over a dramatic increase in property taxes, which she claimed had doubled this year. At 71 years old, Kirsten fears that the $19,000 tax bill will force her to sell her home of over 40 years, a situation she described as "grossly unfair." Her comments highlighted the broader issue of property tax assessments, which are determined by an independent elected assessor, not the county commissioners. The commissioners acknowledged the need for a review of how short-term rentals are evaluated compared to primary residences, indicating a potential shift in policy discussions moving forward.

In addition to tax concerns, the meeting included the approval of several resolutions aimed at improving county operations. The commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to surplus five county vehicles, which will be auctioned off as part of routine maintenance and budgetary planning. This decision reflects ongoing efforts to manage county resources effectively.

The meeting also featured discussions on infrastructure, including a resolution to acquire additional right-of-way for the Evans Road culvert project, which is necessary to comply with environmental regulations following a washout in 2022. This project aims to replace the temporary fix with a fish-passable structure, demonstrating the county's commitment to sustainable development.

Furthermore, the commissioners ratified contracts for public defender services and discussed funding for health initiatives, including a significant grant aimed at addressing high nitrate levels in local water systems.

As Lewis County navigates these challenges, the decisions made during this meeting are expected to have lasting impacts on the community, particularly regarding property tax fairness and infrastructure resilience. The commissioners plan to continue addressing these issues in future meetings, ensuring that community voices are heard and considered in their decision-making processes.