Director Daniel K. Phillips
Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation
700 E. Pratt St. Suite 2700
Baltimore, MD 21202-6377
Regarding: Request for Information on Real Property Assessments and Taxpayer Resources
Dear Director Phillips,
We are writing to seek clarity on several aspects of the real property assessment process administered by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). The Minority Caucus is deeply troubled by the recent increases in residential and commercial property valuations, which appear to greatly exceed normal year-to-year deviations. We would greatly appreciate it if
you could address the following:
1. Real Property Assessment Process: Please provide a detailed explanation of how the assessment process is conducted, including the methodologies and data sources used to determine property valuations.
2. Valuation Increases: What factors have contributed to the significant increases in property valuations observed recently (in some cases by over 35%), and how does the Department justify these increases, when they appear to exceed historical norms and typical market fluctuations?
3. Taxpayer Assistance Programs and Tax Credits: What resources and programs are available to assist taxpayers who may be impacted by these substantial increases? Can you provide detailed information about eligibility criteria and application processes for any available tax credits or assistance programs?
4. Appeals Process: What are the steps for appealing a property assessment, and what guidance or resources are available to ensure taxpayers understand and successfully navigate this process?
We appreciate your attention to these matters and look forward to your prompt response. Understanding these issues is critical for ensuring that the property assessment process remains transparent, equitable, and accessible to all Maryland residents.
Please feel free to contact Theresa Goddard via email at Theresa.Goddard@mlis.state.md.us or by phone at 410-841-3561 if you have any questions or require further clarification. Thank you for your time and assistance.
Download the letter here.