Concerns over property tax assessments took center stage at the Walsh County Commissioners Meeting on May 20, 2025, as officials grappled with the complexities of verifying residential properties for tax credits. The discussion highlighted confusion surrounding eligibility criteria, particularly regarding trusts and primary residences.

Commissioners expressed frustration over a lack of clear communication from the state regarding the verification process. One commissioner noted, “The state did not ever reach out to us and say, hey, you guys need to be verifying that these are all residential.” This lack of guidance has led to uncertainty about how many properties qualify for tax breaks, with estimates suggesting that only a fraction of assessed farmland and commercial structures may meet the criteria.

The conversation also touched on the misconception among property owners that simply having a trust allows them to qualify for tax breaks, regardless of whether they have a primary residence on the property. “I think a lot of people should understand that it’s the primary residence that counts,” one commissioner emphasized, calling for clearer state directives to help counties navigate these issues.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners agreed to proceed with the current assessment process while acknowledging the potential for both honest mistakes and fraudulent claims. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the upcoming deadline for certifying delinquent tax notices, which must be completed by May 31 for properties with three years of unpaid taxes.

The outcome of this meeting signals a critical moment for Walsh County as officials seek to clarify property tax regulations and ensure fair assessments moving forward.