GAINES GAZETTE

August 2023

2023 Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Hearing

On August 29, the Board of Equalization (BOE) held its annual Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Hearing. Taxpayers, assessors, and other stakeholders were invited to provide comments on BOE-administered programs, property tax issues, and any items discussed in the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate’s 2021-2022 Annual Report.

During the hearing, we heard from various taxpayers – some expressed gratitude to the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate’s Office for assistance in navigating complex tax issues, and others expressed frustration and confusion with property values and tax assessments.

We take all taxpayers’ rights seriously at the BOE. Our employees are expected to honor and safeguard your rights every time they interact with you. We welcome all ideas, concerns, and recommendations regarding the programs and laws that we administer. If you have questions or concerns regarding property tax laws, don’t hesitate to contact my office. 

August Board Actions

During day one of the August Board meeting – in addition to the Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Hearing – we discussed various property tax matters, including petitions for penalty abatement for state-assessed properties, reassessment of unitary value, unitary escaped assessment, and Board Roll changes. We also held a Board Work Group meeting on workforce planning.

On day two, we discussed Board Member matters and initiatives; and held a Board Work Group meeting on Veterans’, Disabled Veterans’, and Homeowners' Exemptions. Finally, the Executive Director shared reports and outlined operational priorities.

We are honored as a Board to meet our constitutional duties and remain committed to our mission to serve Californians through fair, effective, and efficient tax administration in support of state and local governments.

Proposition 8 Adjustments

California is divided into 58 counties, and each county is represented by an elected assessor, whose job is to provide equitable, timely, and accurate property tax assessments and information, following guidance from the BOE.

I'm lucky to work with some great assessors in the First District and would like to highlight the number of assessors throughout the state who proactively conducted Proposition 8 adjustments for their constituents who had seen decreases in their property values. 

In all my time as a legislator and at the Board, I have always been a taxpayer advocate, someone who looks to make sure that working families and businesses keep more of what they earn, and that government treats them fairly.

It’s one thing to respond to a taxpayer request. It’s another to lead the way by actively seeking out taxpayers to tell them how they can save money. These assessors who took such an active role to help their fellow Californians deserve the highest praise and I want to thank them all.

It is not too late to receive a Prop. 8 adjustment, if warranted, so that you can lower your property tax if your property value has decreased. I encourage you to contact your county assessor for help and to understand the process and timelines for this assistance.

California Assessors' Association Conference

In the News...

Check out my latest opinion piece on a pro-crime bill making its way through the legislature and what it could mean for California public safety and property tax values.

Pro-Crime Legislature Looking to Make Fools of Lawful Citizens

By Ted Gaines

The Mountain Democrat

August 23, 2023

Around the First District

It was my privilege to attend the dedication ceremony naming the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office headquarters in honor of former Sheriff John D’Agostini and his 28 years of law enforcement service. The building will now be called the Sheriff John D’Agostini Public Safety Facility. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

Thanks to the Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce for inviting me to speak during a recent meeting. We covered a lot of topics, including my work at the BOE, various policies and regulations impacting small business owners, and the insurance crisis hitting California.

California Mortgage Relief Program

The California Mortgage Relief Program has provided millions of dollars in critical assistance to thousands of California homeowners struggling with financial hardships. This government program is free, and here to help. There is nothing to pay back.

If you’ve struggled with missed mortgage payments, late property taxes, loan deferrals, partial claims, or other homeowner financial hardships, you may qualify for assistance from the California Mortgage Relief Program.

For more information and to find out if you are eligible, click here.

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.

Monthly Board Meeting: September 26-27, 2023

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