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EQUALIZATION APPEALS `... Implementing as many "Best Practices" recommendations as possible from the Minnesota Department of Revenue Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Handbook, we hope to improve the process on May 7. 1. Goal of the meeting: to provide a fair and objective forum for property owners to appeal their MARKET VALUE or CLASSIFICATION... This is your yellow slip. 2. Property owner MUST bring evidence to support their claim. Our decision can only be based upon facts. 3. We are looking at the "sales window" of October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008. 4. Department of Revenue looks at every change we make. You need to know that the Revenue Department can change our decisions. 5. If there is even an appearance of conflict, the council member should withdraw and leave the room. 6. All appeals will be heard before any decision is made. The Council will have a form (attached) to complete as each taxpayer presents, and decisions will be made after everyone presents. It is important that each Council person take good notes. 7. While we want each taxpayer to feel they are being heard, we do want to allow everyone to present. In light of that goal, we will strive to allot 10 minutes to each person: 4 to taxpayer, 3 to assessor, 3 to city council for questions. 8. Procedures: A. If someone calls to inquire, Sandy will recommend they call /visit the Assessors Office first. They also should check the city web site for information on the appeal process. This information is also available in the library. B. When they arrive to appeal, they must sign in. C. Everyone will gather in the Council Chamber. Mayor will make an opening statement, Assessor will make a statement. D. Taxpayer will come to front table to present. He /she will have 5 minutes to present case and evidence; Assessor will have 5 minutes to respond and Council will have time to ask questions. E. After all taxpayers are heard, the Council will discuss each case and make a decision. Final decisions will be mailed to the taxpayer within one week.