GAINES GAZETTE
May 2020
Board Makes Changes to Better Inform Taxpayers
In 2017, BOE staff initiated a project to address issues related to the county assessment appeals process, namely the fair and consistent treatment of taxpayers across the state’s 58 counties.
 
For over three years, County Assessors, county counsels, clerks of boards of supervisors, and representatives from taxpayer advocacy groups have been involved in crafting changes to the Assessment Appeals Manual and developing a new form to standardize information requests.
 
This week the Board adopted revisions to the Assessment Appeals Manual and a new form for requesting information from taxpayers. These changes will better inform taxpayers of their due process rights while recognizing the needs of County Assessors and assessment appeals boards to properly perform their duties while promoting uniformity in assessment practices across the state.

I commend all involved for their commitment to improving taxpayers' experience and look forward to other collaborative efforts as we continue to streamline the administration of property tax in California.
The Governor's Revised 2020-21 Budget
Earlier this month, Governor Newsom released a revised state budget proposal that reflects a $54 billion shortfall. In just a few short months, the Governor’s spending priorities have drastically changed, forcing him to make many cuts. While I agree with the Governor’s focus on funding essential services such as public safety, healthcare, education, and supporting our workforce and businesses, I believe it is unrealistic to place too much reliance on financial help from the federal government.
 
The Governor’s revised budget is only a starting point. Legislative budget committees have been holding telephonic hearings in order to craft next year’s budget. I know it will be difficult, but I hope legislators and the Governor are prepared to make more reductions in state spending, use the rainy day fund wisely, and support a safe reopening of the economy so public and private sector employees can get back to work. I also hope legislators and Governor Newsom will not resort to raising taxes on California’s many struggling families and business owners as we begin to rebuild our economy.
Special Board Meeting on COVID-19
On May 13, the Board held a special meeting to discuss issues and potential actions related to the impacts of COVID-19 on property tax assessment as determined by the Working Group created at the Board’s April meeting.
 
In addition to Chairman Vazquez and Vice Chair Schaefer, the COVID-19 Property Tax Relief Working Group included county assessors, personnel from assessment appeals boards, representatives from taxpayer advocacy groups, BOE staff, taxpayers, and other stakeholders. During the publicly noticed teleconference, the Board discussed the options they have regarding tax relief for various property tax-related issues.
 
Members of the Working Group discussed whether it is prudent to ask the Governor to issue an Executive Order granting an e xtension of the 2-year deadline for assessment appeals boards to render decisions on appeals
 
The Working Group also examined whether Revenue and Taxation Code section 170—which authorizes mid-year reassessment of properties that have declined in value due to physical damage caused by a calamity during a governor-declared emergency—could be extended to include economic damage.
 
Finally, there was discussion about whether electronic signatures could be used on property tax documents. The Board voted to issue an advisory letter encouraging county assessors to accept electronic signatures in lieu of wet signatures.
 
Another special meeting is scheduled for May 29 for further discussion and possible action on the Working Group’s recommendations.
Wildfire Season is Here!
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection ( CAL FIRE ), last year, California had 7,860 wildfires that burned an area of 259,823 acres. Those fires damaged or destroyed 732 structures and caused 3 fatalities.
 
Approximately 95 percent of all wildfires are sparked by people, which means almost all wildfires are preventable. Here are some basic ways to stop a wildfire before it starts:
 
  • Use powered equipment before 10 a.m. and never on hot and windy days.
  • Don’t use a lawn mower or weed trimmer with a metal blade to clear dead or dry grass or vegetation.
  • Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and that nothing is dragging on the ground like trailer chains or other metal.
  • Don’t burn campfires, debris, or rubbish unless you stay by the fire and have adequate means to extinguish it immediately.
  • Always follow “No Burn” orders.
 
Property owners should create and maintain between 30-100 feet of defensible space around their homes. Grass and other vegetation should be trimmed down to at least four inches and trees and shrubs should be laid out in such a way as to minimize fire risk.
 
Summer is nearly here and so is wildfire season. Be prepared, and please do your part for your safety and that of the entire state. For more information visit ReadyForWildfire.org
Complete the Census Today!
Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau collects information from all 50 states and island territories in order to have an accurate count of all people living in the United States. The outcome of the Census determines California’s federal funding levels for important community services and ensures state residents have fair representation in California and Washington D.C.
 
Every Californian can respond to the 2020 Census online , by phone , or by mail . Let’s ensure all Californians are counted so we can put those resources to good use in our own state!
At Your Service
As a Board Member, my number one priority is to advocate for taxpayers. I believe hardworking Californians deserve to have someone working on their behalf to streamline and promote efficiency in state government.
 
Should you need assistance with tax-related problems or have questions, visit my website for information on how to contact my office or email me directly anytime.
Mark Your Calendar!
Monthly Board Meeting: June 23-24, 2020 in Sacramento

Informational Hearing on Split Roll: July 23, 2020 in Sacramento