To the Editor,
I want to call attention to something that many people in our community may not realize has changed this year—and it could affect far more residents than just one household.
My property is about a quarter acre. A neighboring property, nearly three times larger, is being assessed at the same land value. When I asked why, I was told it was because my home sits on a corner lot.
That explanation should concern anyone who values fair and uniform taxation.
Being on a corner does not magically create more usable land. In my case, a portion of what is being counted as “land value” is actually occupied by a drainage culvert and pipe—public infrastructure that exists for street drainage, not for my use. It cannot be built on, landscaped, or enjoyed, and it certainly does not increase what a buyer would pay for the property.
I assumed this had to be an error. It was not.
This raises an important question: how many other property owners—especially those on corner lots—are seeing large increases based on the same reasoning?
If this new method of valuation is applied without careful comparison to neighboring properties, it creates winners and losers based not on market value, but on lot position alone. That is not how property appraisal is supposed to work.
I urge residents to review their appraisal notices carefully this year. Compare them to similar properties nearby. If something doesn’t add up, ask questions and consider filing a protest.
The deadline to protest is May 15. After that, there is no opportunity to challenge your valuation until next year—no matter how unreasonable it may be.
Property taxation works best when it is transparent, consistent, and fair. That only happens when citizens pay attention and speak up. I hope more people will take a moment to review their appraisals and ensure they truly reflect reality.
Rick Edgett
Fairfield, Texas
