County Auditor Statement on Treasurer Special Audit
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez in a statement expressed his frustration that the people of Stark County (including himself) will be the ones who will have to absorb the financial losses from this extreme case of betrayal of the public trust. Said Auditor Perez, "As County Auditor, I have worked hard over the past 5 years creating an office that is efficient, accountable, and that values service to our fellow taxpayers. In this one instance, because of the actions of these individuals, my office and the people’s faith in our government has been undermined."
The Special Audit report released today by the State Auditor revealed that this regretful incident stops at the door of the Stark County Treasurer. According to Auditor Perez, "Mr. Zeigler should take full responsibility for the alleged illegal actions of his Chief Deputy, Vincent Frustaci and his co-conspirator committed between 2003 and 2009, and for the gross lack of internal controls and lack of appropriate financial procedures as detailed in the findings of the special audit. Because of the irreparable financial harm caused to the taxpayers of Stark County, I call upon Treasurer Zeigler to immediately step down from the office of County Treasurer."
Area County Auditor Appointed Co-Chair of Statewide Committee
Kim Perez, Stark County Auditor, was recently appointed to serve as co-chairperson of the 2010 Technology/Cooperative Ventures Committee of the County Auditor's Association of Ohio (CAAO). CAAO President Athens COunty Auditor Jill Thompson made the appointment. Mr. Perez assumes leadership of the CAAO Technology/Cooperative Ventures Committee at a time of increased activity and visibility. The committee works with state and local entities in implementation and application of new technologies, assists in the use and development of new technologies, and the formation of cooperative ventures between counties to assist in acquisition of new technologies. The committee serves as liaison to Ohio County/City Information Technology Association and Ohio Geographically Referenced Information Program to foster and promote education on technology advances for a broad range of application including GIS and appraisals.
The CAAO includes all 88 Ohio County Auditors. Entering its 142nd year, the CAAO was established to promote and protect the interests of the taxpayers of Ohio and to improve the administration of county government.
Area County Auditors Elected to District Offices
Stark County Auditor Kim Perez was recently elected President of the Northeast District of the County Auditors’ Association of Ohio (CAAO). Also elected were Vice President Trumbull County Auditor Adrian Biviano and Secretary/Treasurer Ashtabula County Auditor Roger Corlett. The District works closely with the CAAO Columbus office to monitor legislative proposals that impact local taxpayers and to offer initiatives that assist County Auditors in carrying out their duties. Major initiatives for the upcoming year include school funding and taxation issues, review of the state’s biennial budget and to continue working with the Ohio General Assembly to maximize county government efficiency and effectiveness.
The CAAO includes all 88 Ohio County Auditors. Now in its 142nd year, it was established to promote and protect the interests of the taxpayers of Ohio and to improve the administration of county government.
Stark County Auditor Kim Perez reminds people not to get burned when buying firewood
With a weakened economy, more and more people will turn to burning wood this winter to heat their homes. Because of this, it is important to know all the facts when it comes to buying firewood. "Remember, if you do buy firewood, understand what you're buying, your rights as a buyer, and purchase it from a reputable dealer," said Auditor Perez.
Some important things to remember when making your purchase is that in Ohio, the most common legal method of sale of firewood is the cord or fraction of a cord. A "Cord" is defined as 128 cubic feet when the wood is stacked and well stowed. When a cord is properly stacked, it should be at least as large as a stack that is eight feet long by four feet high and four feet wide.
Also, the seller must provide the purchaser with a sales invoice which states:
Perez advises consumers to contact the Auditor's Weights and Measurements Department before they burn their wood. "It's about consumer protection," Perez said. "We want consumers to be sure they receive what they pay for."
If there is a problem with a firewood sale, and the seller will not correct the problem, contact the Weights & Measures Department at 330-451-7356. A pamphlet titled, Helpful Tips When Purchasing Firewood, is available free of charge by calling the same number or by visiting the Auditor's website at: www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor's office at 330-451-7106.
Senior Citizen Tax Reduction
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez is reminding senior citizen homeowners that the state has expanded the Homestead Exemption Program.
The program provides a reduction in property taxes for homeowners 65 years or older, or those permanently disabled under the age of 65. Homeowners receive an exemption based on a reduction of $25,000 in the "market value" appraisal of the home, regardless of their income.
The law became effective July 2007. People may apply in the year they turn 65 as long as they own and occupy a home as their principle place of residence as of January 1 of the tax year for which they are applying. Applications are available now through June 1. Homeowners who currently receive the reduction do not have to reapply.
Applications are available online at www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us, click on Real Estate, or at the Stark County Auditor's Office, 110 Central Plaza South.
For additional information, call 330-451-7323.
Area County Auditors Elected to District Offices
Stark County Auditor Kim Perez was recently elected Vice President of the Northeast District of the County Auditor's Association of Ohio (CAAO). Also elected were President Columbiana County Auditor Nancy G. Milliken, and Secretary/Treasurer Mahoning County Auditor Michael Sciortino. The District works closely with the CAAO Columbus Office to monitor legislative proposals that impact local taxpayers and to offer initiatives that assist County Auditors in carrying out their duties. Major initiatives for the upcoming year include real estate taxation reform, fuel content testing, and to continue working with the Ohio General Assembly on issues that impact local government.
The CAAO includes all 88 Ohio County Auditors. Now in its 140th year, it was established to promote and protect the interests of the taxpayers of Ohio and to imporve the administration of county government.
Auditor Announces “Dog Tags” Outreach Program
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez is pleased to announce additional opportunities to purchase your dog tags at local area businesses. Auditor Perez’s office has implemented a dog tag sales outreach program in partnership with area businesses that will allow you to purchase and receive your dog tags immediately. Payment by cash or check will be accepted at all locations.
Said Auditor Perez, “This is a great opportunity for pet owners to purchase their dog tags and make them legal. Also, dog tags make your pet easier to find if they become lost or stolen”.
Auditor Office staff will be on hand to sell dog tags at the following locations and times:
Petsmart – 5465 Dressler Rd Nw - Canton
Saturday December 1, 2007 -12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday December 2, 2007- 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Petsmart-2026 Lincoln Way E- Massillon
Saturday December 1, 2007 -12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday December 2, 2007- 1:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Petco- 4824 Whipple Ave Nw- Canton
Saturday December 1, 2007 -12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday December 2, 2007 - 1:00 p.m - 4:00 p.m.
Pet Supplies Plus -2424 W State St-Alliance
Saturday December 1, 2007 -12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday December 2, 2007- 1:00 p.m- 4:00 p.m.
Carnation Mall- 2500 W State St – Alliance
Saturday December 8, 2007- 12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday December 9, 2007-1:00 p.m-. 4:00 p.m.
These local businesses may be offering promotions like coupons on goods in their store and/or dog treats on these days. For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s Office at 330-451-7354.
Stark County Weights & Measures Employee Recognized
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) in cooperation with the Ohio Weights & Measures Association (OWMA), a non-profit organization dedicating to promoting uniformity in weights & measures and equity in the marketplace, presented certificates to participants in the ODA/OWMA Individual Study Course. The course is designed to provide comprehensive technical training in the area of weights and measures enforcement and administration.
During the awards ceremony, held last week at the ODA Fall Technical School in Columbus, Robbie Davis of the Stark County Auditor’s Office was recognized for his successful completion of the course and for becoming a State Certified Weights & Measures Inspector.
Said Auditor Perez, “When it comes to consumer protection, we set high standards for our weights & measures inspectors in carrying out the duties of the office in protecting the public”.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s Office at 330-451-7106.
Stark County GIS Day To Be Held At Stark State College
The 3rd Annual Stark County Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day will be held on November 16th, 2007, from 12pm-4pm, at the Stark State College Atrium (parking available in front of the Student Center off Frank Ave). This FREE event is brought to you by the Stark County Auditor's Office, Educational Service Center, Range Resources - Appalachia, LLC, Regional Planning Commission, and Stark State College. Everyone is invited to attend.
GIS Day is a great opportunity for the public to learn about GIS, the system that produces digital maps in Stark County, and how its many benefits are affecting our every day lives.
Did you know that 9-1-1 can find your location when you place an emergency call on your cell phone? Did you also know that the fire department could look at all sides of a home and know where the nearest fire hydrant is before they even leave the station? These are some of the benefits of GIS technology that are happening today in Stark County.
Local government offices will be on hand to answer questions along with providing hands-on GIS / Engineering demonstrations. Also, Stark State College representatives will be available throughout the day for student/parent consultations about GIS careers.
According to Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez, "GIS mapping technology is the wave of the future for Stark County that will not only save lives but will also create more efficiencies within local government saving vital tax dollars”.
This event showcases the state of technology in Stark County and provides a glimpse into the future. All are encouraged to join us for this very worthwhile and informative event.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County GIS Director at 330-451-7105.
Auditor Announces 2006 Reappraisal Property Values
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced today that the 2006 Reappraisal values are available for public inspection. Ohio State law requires that each County Auditor conduct a reappraisal of all real property every six years. The last reappraisal for Stark County occurred in 2000.
The Auditor’s office is responsible for establishing the fair market value of properties only. Property taxes are established by the State Legislature through the passage of levies by local voters in each taxing district. Since property values determined by the auditor form a basis for sharing the cost of important local services, it is vital that these values be established uniformly and accurately across various markets in Stark County. Real estate markets change over time and a reappraisal is designed to adjust the local values accordingly.
Property owners may review the details on their property record card for accuracy. These records may be found online at www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us under the “Real Estate Search” link. Owners may search by name, address or parcel number to find property information. “The more accurate the information on our property record, the more accurate the fair market value will be” said Auditor Perez. “We strongly encourage all owners of property to visit our website, call us or come in the office to review this information. Our goal of establishing a fair and accurate appraisal can only be realized through the active participation of the citizens in the process”, he continued.
The 2006 reappraisal includes for the very first time an adjustment for neighborhood location within a city or township area. “Through the establishments of local neighborhoods, properties that are located in the same vicinity and local market will be valued and adjusted together in accordance with the sales trends of the particular neighborhood. This should further insure the uniform and fair treatment of all property owners in their individual property assessments,” said Mr. Perez.
If you have any questions or concerns about the value placed on your property, contact the Stark County Auditor’s office. If you don’t have a problem with the value established for your property, but do have a question concerning your property tax burden, contact your representative in the State Legislature.
For more information contact the office:
Stark County Auditor
110 Central Plaza S.
Suite 220
Canton OH 44702
Phone Numbers:
Residential Property 330-451-7087
Commercial Property 330-451-7327
Agricultural Property 330-451-7296
Fax 330-451-7630
Email: appraisal@co.stark.oh.us
Website: www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us (Follow the Real Estate Search link on the main page.)
GIS DAY 2006 sponsored by Stark County Auditor’s Office, Stark County Educational Service Center & Stark State College
The Stark County Auditor’s Office, Stark County Educational Service Center and Stark State College invites everyone to attend our 2nd Annual GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Day on November 1st, 2006, held at the Stark State College Atrium (park in the main parking lot, located in front of the Student Center) from 10:00AM-1:00PM. GIS Day is a great opportunity for the public to learn about GIS and how it is being used in the County. Stark State personnel will be available for student/parent consultations, and all participating agencies will have representatives available in the exhibit hall for hands-on GIS/Engineering demonstrations.
PARTICIPATING AGENCIES:
Stark State College * Stark County Auditor’s Office * Stark County Educational Service Center Stark County College Tech Prep Consortium * Stark County Emergency Management Agency Stark County Regional Planning Commission * Stark County Sanitary Engineer’s Office Stark County Health Department * Stark County Engineer’s Office * Stark County Parks Digital Data Technologies, Inc. * Accurate Technologies, Inc. * United Way – COMPASS Great Lakes Energy * Pictometry * ESRI
GIS Day is a global event celebrating the technology that provides the innovative tools used in geography to bring countless benefits to the public. We are providing an opportunity for those curious about GIS to see its applications in action.
According to Stark County Auditor Kim Perez, “GIS will provide the county with a variety of opportunities to increase efficiencies while providing more accurate databases. GIS is the wave of the future for Stark County that will not only save lives with its mapping technology but will also assist in approximately 80% of all local government office functions. Currently, the Auditor’s office is using GIS for developing neighborhood and parcel maps to assist in property appraisal”.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7105.
Special Audit of Real Estate Appraisal Values Released
Stark County Auditor Kim Perez announced the release of the special audit that was issued today by the State Auditor and conducted by Plante & Moran. Plante & Moran was engaged to perform an analysis on the apparent reductions made to appraised values of real estate in Stark County during the 2000 reappraisal. Although they were unable to determine any pattern for declining values, there was clear evidence that irregularities did occur because over 77% of the reduced properties tested had no documentation or documentation provided did not support a decline in value.
Because all residents share the burden of property taxes in the county, if some appraisals are lowered then others must be adjusted higher to offset the lower values. According to Auditor Perez, “The issue in this audit becomes whether some people were given preferential treatment at the expense of others. If lowered values were not justified, then every other taxpayer was not treated fair and equitable in the 2000 reappraisal.”
Plante Moran report identified:
Based on these findings, the Auditor's office policies have been updated to ensure that all taxpayers are treated fair and equitable.
“I welcome these recommendations and have already implemented several new policies along with taking the necessary steps to update our outdated computer system for better efficiency and accuracy,” Perez stated.
For more information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106
Stark County to be the first in Ohio to E-File
Stark County Auditor Kim Perez and Recorder Rick Campbell announced today a program for e-filing conveyances of real estate property and the e-recording of documents that need conveyed like deeds. This new e-file program will be the first of its kind in the state and will provide both businesses and residents the ability to file transfers electronically. This project is a joint effort between the Stark County Recorder and Auditor offices in conjunction with Document Technology Systems (DTS) of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. According to Recorder Campbell, “This is groundbreaking, and we will be the only ones in the state of Ohio that will be doing this. Ultimately, it’s going to mean cost savings and time savings for everyone involved.”
This project will not only substantially automate the conveyance process within the Stark County Auditor’s office but will provide better customer service to Stark County residents and businesses relative to conveyances and recordings. “This will help our office in efficiency, eliminating paperwork and duplication, which saves taxpayer dollars,” Auditor Kim Perez said. “I think it shows the direction and the type of things that can be accomplished when there are no political boundaries and everyone works together as a team.”
Stark County residents and businesses can have access to e-file conveyances through software installed in their office or in the future the option to submit their conveyance through the Stark County Auditor’s website. In most cases, this will allow for a conveyance of real property to take place from transfer to all the way through to recording of the deed at the Stark County Recorder’s office without having to physically go to either county office.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7333 or the Stark County Recorder’s at 330-451-7443.
County Auditor Announces New Residential Rental Property Policy
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez today announced that the County Auditor’s office is implementing residential rental property policy in accordance with recently enacted legislation. Ohio Revised Code Section 5323.02 requires the owners of residential rental property to file with the county auditor of the county in which the property is located the residential property address, residential property permanent parcel number, and year the unit(s) were built (if dwelling units are leased or otherwise rented to tenants) together with the residential property owner name, address, and phone number.
Residential real property is defined as:
Residential property does not include a hotel or college or university dormitory.
According to Auditor Perez, “This mandate was recently enacted in House Bill 294 and requires the County Auditor to be the collection agency for this information. In accordance with this new law, my office will provide the best customer service possible and will work with residential rental property owners to fulfill this new state requirement.”
Residential rental property forms can be downloaded from the Auditor’s website at www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us or can be obtained from the Auditor’s office. For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
Stark County Auditor Announces Federal Grant
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez today announced a federal grant award of $187,901 for Stark County for Visual Intelligence Image Library and Software. The award is part of a four county award for Northeast, Ohio.
Visual Intelligence will create libraries of digital, full color aerial imagery and geospatial information. It takes ortho (straight-down) and oblique (side-view) images, capturing every square foot of the county from as many as twelve direct directions. The unique oblique images reveal the front, back and sides of objects rather than just the building rooftops, as with normal ortho images. Within seconds, a law enforcement officer can literally view and analyze any house, building, intersection, fire hydrant, tree, body of water, or any feature in their district from their laptop, workstation, or mobile device.
The tools provided permit authorized users to almost instantaneously locate images by searching a specific address, parcel, road intersection or a geographic coordinate. The user can also easily measure distance, area, height or slope; determine an elevation from sea level; and annotate directly upon the images. The software will be utilized by local law enforcement agencies, first responders, dispatch agencies, school districts, and local government offices.
Said Auditor Perez, “the awarded grant strongly impacts public safety and county government by providing a valuable set of tools to governmental agencies and their employees to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively on a day-to-day basis”.
For more information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
County Auditor Supports Fuel Testing Legislation
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced his support for fuel testing legislation that will be introduced today by Representative William J. Healy II of Canton. The legislation would give County Auditor’s, through their Weights & Measures Departments, the ability to test for fuel quality. At present, testing is only done for volume, not quality.
Said Auditor Perez, “With the high price of gas people deserve to know that they’re getting a quality product for their hard earned money.” This consumer protection legislation will give County Auditor’s the ability test for octane, water, and sediment content. Currently, Ohio is one of only four states that do not test for fuel quality. It is important to note that passage of this legislation would only give County Auditor’s the ability to do fuel testing. Funding for the program would still need to be provided.
Perez noted, “This legislation, along with funding, will provide Weights & Measures personnel the ability to do additional testing that will protect consumers from fraud, and sometimes costly automotive repair bills. This legislation is long over-do.”
To learn more about the Stark County Weights & Measures Department, log onto www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us and click on Weights & Measures or go to the Consumer Protection Inspection Reports.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s Office at 330-451-7106.
County Auditor’s Employees Have Public Records Training
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced that mandatory training sessions were held for all County Auditor’s office employees. The sessions were conducted by Kate Clifford, Education Consultant, for the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The Stark County Auditor’s office has recently adopted a comprehensive public records policy. The intention of the policy is to fully comply with the provisions of the Ohio Revised Code that provides for the general public to review and/or obtain copies of public records maintained by the Stark County Auditor’s office.
The training was provided free of charge by the Attorney General’s office as a public service to educate Auditor’s office employees on public records law. According to Auditor Perez, “My pledge to the people of Stark County is to hold the Auditor’s office to the highest standards of the law. This training ensures that all my employees understand the public records law so that the public is always treated in an appropriate and professional manner.”
This is one in a series of steps being taken in the Auditor’s office to create a structure of higher accountability standards and efficiency. For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
Auditor Reminds Residents of Benefits of Tax Estimator
With the numerous tax levies that are placed on the ballot each year, Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez wants to remind County residents of the benefits of the tax estimator tool on the Auditor’s website. The tax estimator tool allows people to look up their property to estimate how current, proposed tax levies, and bond issues would impact their property. People can also gather decision-making tax information if they are considering moving or building and wish to look at different real estate tax rates around Stark County.
According to Auditor Perez, “The tax estimator tool is a valuable resource for people seeking information about their tax rates and obligations. The Auditor’s office provides this resource as a customer service tool to the general public to assists taxpayers in making informed decisions about real estate taxation.”
The tax estimator tool can be accessed by going to the Stark County Auditor’s website- www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us- click on Tax Estimator and click on the appropriate link to begin the search.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s Office at 330-451-7106.
COUNTY AUDITOR OFFERS ASSISTANCE TO PEOPLE IMPACTED BY RECENT STORMS
In the wake of the recent severe storms, Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez wants to assist property owners who may eligible to claim a reduction in the taxable value of their property that has been destroyed or damaged.
Ohio law enables property owners to claim the reduction at any time, regardless of the cause of the damage (tornado, flood, fire, wind, etc). The amount of reduction will be prorated based on the calendar quarter in which the damage occurred. For example, if the damage or destruction took place in the first quarter of the tax year, the property owner may receive a full deduction from their valuation of the amount that represents the extent of the damage as determined by the County Auditor. Property owners must file an application with the County Auditor for a reduction no later than December 31st in the year that the damage occurred and reductions will be reflected on their 2007 tax bill.
Ohio law also enables property owners to extend the time for payment of taxes for up to one year whenever real property has been destroyed or damaged in an amount not less than twenty-five percent of the assessed value, or in no event less than two thousand dollars of taxable value. Taxpayers must file an Application for Remission of Penalty form with proof of claim with the County Treasurer’s Office. Once filed, the County Auditor, in consultation with the County Treasurer, will review the application. Once reviewed, the County Board of Revision by Resolution makes a determination of eligibility of the application. Application forms will be available at the locations below or are available during regular business hours at the Stark County Treasurer’s Office.
Auditor Perez noted, “With the tremendous storm damage recently, the residents of Stark County deserve the relief that this law provides. These laws provide quick and effective property tax relief to those homeowners during this time of need.”
Auditor’s office staff will be available to help fill out applications and answer any questions on Thursday, June 29, 2006, from 3:30pm till 6:30pm at the following locations:
Application forms are also available at the Stark County Auditor’s Office or at the Stark County Auditor’s website-www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us-click on Real Estate-Destroyed Property. For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
County Auditor’s Employees Have Ethics Training
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced that mandatory training sessions were held today for all County Auditor’s office employees. The sessions were conducted by Susan Willeke, Education Director, for the Ohio Ethics Commission. The Ohio Ethics Commission was created in 1973 by the Ohio General assembly to administer ethics laws and related statues for most public officials and employees at the state and local levels of government.
The training was provided free of charge by the Commission as a public service to educate Auditor’s office employees on ethics laws. According to Auditor Perez, “My pledge to the people of Stark County is to hold the Auditor’s office to the highest ethical standards. This training ensures that all my employees understand the ethics laws so that they can conduct themselves in an appropriate and professional manner.”
This is the first step in a series of steps being taken in the Auditor’s office to create a structure of higher accountability standards and efficiency. For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
County Auditor’s New Policy To Help Senior Citizens/Disabled
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez today announced a revision of the Auditor’s Homestead Exemption policy. Homestead Exemption is a property tax reduction program offered to eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities who qualify. In an effort to modernize and streamline policy and procedures in the Auditor’s office, the Auditor and his staff are doing an internal review creating and revising all office policies and procedures.
After reviewing the Homestead Exemption policy dating back to 1997 under a prior Auditor, it was discovered that individuals who did not return their renewal application form were kicked off the program. After consultation with the Ohio Department of Taxation and receiving a legal opinion from the Stark County Prosecutor, it was determined that under Ohio law individuals could not and should not be kicked off the program for not returning the renewal application.
To date, it is not known how many individuals fell victim to this flawed policy. With the implementation of the new policy, over 450 seniors/disabled will be reinstated on the program for the 2005 tax year. Said Auditor Perez, “Regretfully, many seniors and individuals with disabilities were treated unfairly by the prior policy and were denied their rightful tax reduction. I am committed to have all of our new policies follow the rule of law and will ensure that all people (including seniors/disabled) are treated equally and fairly across the board”.
In addition, with an extra emphasis on Homestead education, the Auditor’s office was able to enroll an additional 1,400 people on the Homestead program last year. All of this ensures that seniors/disabled are both educated about the program and are treated fairly during the application process.
Auditor’s office personnel will be available to answer any questions at the Senior Expo on April 5th and 6th at the Canton Civic Center. For any additional information about the Homestead Exemption program, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7323.
Auditor Announces County Terrorism Advisory Team (CTAT) Grant
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced the award of $120,000 to the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department from the County CTAT Committee. CTAT is an advisory committee that decides how and where to spend Federal Homeland Security funds earmarked for Stark County. GIS is a computer database system that combines geographic (spatial) layers of information about a place to give you a better understanding of that place, developing a ‘smart map’. The system inputs, edits, stores, maintains, manages, retrieves, analyzes, and outputs geographically referenced information for the whole county.
The award will assist the GIS department by funding:
According to Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez, “GIS provides the county with a variety of opportunities to increase efficiencies with more accurate databases. GIS will provide law enforcement and emergency response officials with precise accurate information that will enable them to respond more effectively and efficiency, saving lives”. GIS mapping technology is estimated to assist in approximately 80% of all local government office functions saving time and taxpayer dollars.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7105.
County Auditor Announces Consumer Protection Addition To Website
County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced today an addition to the Auditor’s website that details Weights & Measures inspection reports from 1997 to present. These inspection reports include: Gas pumps, retail/supermarket scales, scanner testing, fuel oil truck meters, truck scales, etc. The reports identify the retailer or business, the device tested, and whether the device passed or failed.
The County Auditor is the official “Sealer” for the county. The responsibility of the Weights & Measures Department is to ensure the accuracy of weighing and measuring devices used commercially in the county. The seal of the Weights & Measures Department protects the buyer and the seller by maintaining equity in the marketplace.
According to Auditor Perez,” the Weights & Measures Department fulfills an important consumer protection role for the residents of Stark County that we take very seriously. By making the inspections available on our website it gives the public access to past and current performance records that provide important consumer protection information”.
The inspection reports are available by visiting the Stark County Auditor’s website at www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us and click on consumer protection inspection reports.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
Auditor Perez Reminds Stark County Businesses to Register for CAT Tax
County Auditor Kim Perez reminds businesses doing business in Stark County to register for the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) by the registration deadline of November 15, 2005. Businesses that do not register by that deadline can be assessed fines of up to $100 per month not to exceed $1,000 according to The Ohio Department of Taxation. However, the department stated they did not expect strict enforcement since the tax is new. In addition, the Ohio Department of Taxation has provided two websites for businesses to be able to register online:
The CAT tax is a broad-based, low-rate tax on a business’ gross receipts. It applies to both in-state and out-of-state businesses and, in general, is based on gross receipts from the sale of property or the benefit of services received in Ohio. For the first semi-annual period from July 1 to December 31, 2005, the CAT rate will be .06 percent of gross receipts in excess of $500,000.
According to the Ohio Department of Taxation the first return is due February 10, 2006. In addition to excluding businesses with taxable gross receipts of less than $150,000, the CAT does not apply to certain other businesses such as nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, insurance companies and some of their affiliates. Financial and insurance companies will continue to be liable for the corporation franchise tax with no phasing out of the tax rate.
Auditor Perez advises business owners that information regarding the CAT tax can be obtained from the Auditor’s office and also from the Ohio Department of Taxation website. Auditor Perez stated, “It’s important for business owners to learn as much as possible about this new tax. Please contact my office with any questions you may have and take the time to register”.
There is a one-time fee for registration of $15 for online registration and $20 for a paper registration through the Department of Taxation; however the fee is given a full credit when the taxpayer files its first return. Businesses can contact the Ohio Department of Taxation at their website or by calling 1-888-7-CATTAX (1-888-722-8829).
For additional information or a CAT Tax brochure, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7329.
Stark County Auditor, Stark County Educational Service Center & Stark State College Sponsor GIS Day
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez, Stark County Educational Service Center and Stark State College welcomes everyone to attend GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Day on November 18, 2005, held at the Stark State College – W.R. Timken Center for Information Technology (parking at Northeast corner of Mega St. & Frank Ave.) from 1:00PM-5:00PM. GIS Day is a great opportunity for the public to learn about GIS and how it is being used in the County Stark State representatives will be available for student/parent consultations, along with hands-on GIS/Engineering demonstrations and a large range of exhibit hall presenters.
Participants will include:
GIS Day is held each year during the National Geographic Society’s Geography Awareness Week (November 13–19 in 2005). GIS Day is a global event that celebrates the technology that provides the innovative tools that use geography to bring countless benefits to the public. We are providing an opportunity for those curious about GIS to see its applications in action. GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes information from a database about a location, such as streets, buildings, parcels, water features, and terrain, and turns it into visual layers called maps.
According to Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez, “GIS will provide the county with a variety of opportunities to increase efficiencies while providing more accurate databases. GIS is the wave of the future for Stark County that will not only save lives with its mapping technology but will also assist in approximately 80% of all local government office functions. Currently, the Auditor’s office is using GIS for developing neighborhood maps to assist in property appraisal”.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7105.
Auditor Kim R. Perez reminds people not to get burned when buying firewood
With skyrocketing energy prices, more and more people will turn to burning wood this winter to heat their homes. Because of this, it is important to know all the facts when it comes to buying firewood. Said Auditor Perez, “Many people in our county rely on burning wood to help them over the winter reduce their reliance on other fuel sources while others burn it out of necessity. Remember, if you do buy firewood, understand what your buying, your rights as a buyer, and purchase it from a reputable dealer.”
Some important things to remember when making your purchase is that in Ohio, the most common legal method of sale of firewood is the cord or fraction of a cord. A “cord” is defined as 128 cubic feet when the wood is stacked and well stowed. When a cord is properly stacked, it should be at least as large as a stack that is eight feet long by four feet high and four feet wide.
Also, the seller must provide the purchaser with a sales invoice which states:
The Auditor’s Weights & Measures department is responsible for enforcing Ohio’s laws regulating firewood sales in the county. If there is a problem with a firewood sale, and the seller will not correct the problem, contact the Weights & Measures department at 330-451-7356. A pamphlet titled, Helpful Tips When Purchasing Firewood, is available free of charge by calling the same number.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106.
Auditor, Treasurer Implement Positive Pay in Stark County
County Auditor Kim Perez, County Treasurer Gary Zeigler and the Auditor’s Information Technology Department have implemented a new Positive Pay banking program for Stark County Government that will help protect the County from responsibility for financial fraud and other criminal intent, while saving time and money processing County warrants (checks).
The new program, effective today for Payroll warrants and next Wednesday for Finance warrants, is an automated fraud detection tool that is offered by the cash management departments of most banks. It works by electronically matching the account number, warrant number and dollar amount of each warrant presented for payment to First Merit Bank, Stark County’s banking source, against a list of issued checks provided to the bank by Perez.
Perez’s Fiscal department issues Finance warrants daily and Payroll warrants bi-weekly, and will electronically submit a list of those issued each day to First Merit. The bank will then check all three of these components against this list and if they do not match exactly, the bank will not process the warrant until the County verifies it is valid.
The Auditor issues approximately 140,000 warrants a year. According to Zeigler, the County now incurs an average cost of $200 per month in stop payment fees, which should be greatly reduced with this new program. He estimates a cost savings of approximately $1000 a year.
The program also automatically checks for and corrects encoding errors that may be made by other financial institutions during the warrant cashing process, which will save valuable time during the end of month balancing process in the County’s two financial offices.
According to First Merit Bank officials, Stark County is the first County they do business with to institute this cost saving program, and may very well be the first County in the State to do so.
AUDITOR ANNOUNCES INITIAL TESTING OF GAS PUMPS COMPLETE
With gasoline prices reaching record levels, it is important to protect consumers from fraudulent or mechanical irregularities that may be present at retail establishments across the County. One of the many functions of the County Auditor is to be the Official Sealer of Weights and Measures for the County. According to Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez, “The Weights and Measures Department plays a major role in protecting our residents while ensuring the accuracy of a variety of measuring devices, including gasoline pumps, that effect what we pay for goods and services”.
This year in Stark County over 3500 gasoline pumps have been tested and retested for accuracy in the amount of gasoline dispensed. When a pump is out of the tolerance range, the pump is tagged and shut down until repairs are made and it is retested. Once a pump is retested and found to be functioning properly, it is put back in service. All pumps that pass inspection retain the Auditor’s Seal of Inspection.
Said Auditor Perez, “Today with the price of gasoline this really is a valuable service being provided to our community. I know with gasoline reaching $3 dollars a gallon what it cost me to fill-up my truck. At the very least, people can be assured that they’re getting what they paid for with their hard earned money”.
The Weights and Measures Department continually monitors retail establishments ensuring the accuracy of weighing and measuring devices used commercially across the county. People are encouraged to contact the County Auditor’s Office Weights and Measures Department with any questions or complaints at 330-451-7356.
For additional information, please contact the Stark County Auditor’s office at 330-451-7106
COUNTY AUDITOR ANNOUNCES PLANTE MORAN TO CONDUCT SPECIAL AUDIT
Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez announced today that Plante & Moran, an independent auditing firm, will conduct a special audit into irregularities in the auditor’s office during the year 2000 county-wide property reappraisal. Said Perez, “There is an appearance that some neighborhoods or people received preferential treatment at the expense of others.” Plante & Moran was selected to perform the audit by State Auditor Betty Montgomery who removed herself from the audit due to her existing relationship with the former Stark County Auditor who is part of the investigation. “To avoid even the appearance of partisan politics, I am accepting the recommendation of Auditor Montgomery and I look forward to working with her on resolving this important issue,” stated Perez.
After uncovering irregularities, Perez brought the appropriate information to both Sheriff Tim Swanson and Prosecutor John Fererro who examined it and agreed that it needed further attention. They then forwarded it to State Auditor Montgomery and the State Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation. After consultation, all of the parties agreed that more investigation was needed and Auditor Montgomery asked Plante Moran for a preliminary opinion of the information. Following that examination, all agreed that a special audit was needed.
“I would be negligent in my duties if I didn’t investigate concerns that were brought to my attention. I only want to ensure that every taxpayer is treated equally and that the valuations of this office are done honestly and fairly across the board. I have followed both the law and the advice of the appropriate authorities throughout this entire process,” said Stark County Auditor Perez while discussing his motivation regarding the investigation.
According to Perez, if everything was done correctly the audit will prove it, and the concerns around this issue will be laid to rest. If not, then the opportunity exists to fix the issues in question before the 2006 property valuations are finalized. Perez stated, “The bottom line is that the people of Stark County need to be treated equally and fairly in the appraisal process and deserve a thorough and honest examination of the 2000 appraisal. Ultimately, the issue has nothing to do with raising people’s taxes and everything to do with whether preferential treatment was given to some and not others.”
CITIZEN’S INPUT COMMITTEE ON REAPPRAISALS TO MEET
With the upcoming 2006 reappraisals of some 195,000 parcels of land in Stark County, Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez has formed a committee to seek input on enhancements to the current appraisal system. This committee will provide objective input for the process of updating residential appraisals, thus ensuring the most effective way to determine fair and equitable property values.
The Citizens Input Committee is made up of 25 members of the community from both the public and private sectors representing a variety of constituencies. After the Committee concludes, Town Hall meetings will follow throughout the County allowing the public further opportunity to become more educated with the updated system. According to Auditor Perez, “The mission of this committee and the Town Hall meetings is to seek input and educate the public on the changes we are making in the appraisal system. My intention is simple, I believe that all property owners both small and large should be entitled to a fair and equitable appraisal system. I have no intention of changing the system for the sake of raising values”.
FLOOD VICTIMS MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR EXTENSION ON TAX PAYMENTS
In the wake of the recent severe storms, Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez and Stark County Treasurer Gary D. Zeigler want to assist property owners who have damage do to flooding.
Ohio law enables property owners to extend the time for payment of taxes for up to one year whenever real property has been destroyed or damaged by fire, flood, tornado, or otherwise, in an amount not less than twenty-five percent of the assessed value or in no event less than two thousand dollars of taxable value.
Taxpayers must file an Application for Remission of Penalty (DTE Form 23-A) with proof of claim with the County Treasurer’s Office. According to Treasurer Zeigler, “Proof for a claim may be provided by the taxpayer’s insurance company or local government agency”. Once filed, the County Auditor, in consultation with the County Treasurer, will review the application. Once reviewed, the County Board of Revision by Resolution makes a determination of eligibility of the application. Application forms are available during regular business hours at the Stark County Treasurer’s Office.
Auditor Perez noted, “With the tremendous storm damage recently, the residents of Stark County deserve whatever relief the law provides. This law provides temporary relief to homeowners who are experiencing very difficult times.”
COUNTY AUDITOR MAY BE ABLE TO REDUCE TAXABLE VALUE OF DAMAGED PROPERTY
In the wake of the recent severe storms, Stark County Auditor Kim R. Perez wants to assist property owners who may claim a reduction in the taxable value of their property that has been destroyed or damaged.
Ohio law enables property owners to claim the reduction at any time, regardless of the cause of the damage. The amount of reduction will be prorated based on the calendar quarter in which the damage occurred. If the damage or destruction took place in the first quarter of 2005, the property owner may receive a full deduction from their valuation of the amount that represents the extent of the damage as determined by the County Auditor. Property owners must file an application with the County Auditor for a reduction no later than December 31st in the year that the damage occurred and reductions will be reflected on their 2006 tax bill.
Auditor’s office staff will be available to help fill out applications and answer any questions on Saturday from 10:00am till noon at the following locations:
Application forms are also available at the Stark County Auditor’s Office or at the Stark County Auditor’s website-click on Real Estate-Destroyed Property.
County Auditor Perez noted, “With the tremendous storm damage recently, the residents of Stark County deserve the relief that this law provides. This law provides quick and effective property tax relief to those homeowners during this time of need.”
NEW PROPERTY TAX LEVIES LEAD TO INCREASED TAXES
Kim R. Perez, Stark County Auditor, wants to remind the tax-paying public of the new school levies that were passed and the resulting tax increase this creates for them. “Home and Business owners in several communities need to be aware that the tax increases they will see on their tax bills are due to the passage of new levies throughout the county”, stated Perez. “For this reason, the majority of the tax increases seen in 2005 will be the result of the increased tax rate in the district and NOT because of a reappraisal of their property value.”
The Auditor in Ohio is required by law to conduct a general reappraisal of all properties every six years, with a triennial update in the third year between reappraisals. For citizens of Stark County, the next reappraisal is not scheduled until the 2006 tax year and will not be reflected until the 2007 tax bills are issued. Mr. Perez reminds citizens that the passage of new levies typically results in increases to their property tax bill; tax bill increases are not always the result of property value increases. Listed below are the new or replacement levies effecting the 2005 tax bill notices being sent out this weekend:
NEW OR REPLACEMENT LEVIES FOR TAX YEAR 2004| SUBDIVISION | MILLAGE INCREASE | DATE PASSED | LEVY FUND |
| Alliance City Schools (New 7.90) | 7.90 | 3/2/2004 | Emergency |
| Canton City City Schools (New 7.90) | 7.90 | 3/2/2004 | Current Exp |
| Fairless Local Schools (New 5.20) | 5.20 | 11/2/2004 | Bonds |
| Jackson Local Schools (New 2.60) | 2.60 | 3/2/2004 | Bonds |
| Bethlehem Township (Replaced 2.00) | 0.35 | 11/4/2003 | Fire |
| Nimishillen Township (Replaced 4.00) | 0.90 | 11/4/2003 | Fire |
| Nimishillen Township (Replaced 1.00) | 0.22 | 11/4/2003 | Roads |
| Waynesburg Village (Replaced 2.00) | 0.75 | 11/4/2003 | Roads |
| Stark County District Library (New 1.00) | 1.00 | 11/2/2004 | Current Exp |
Citizens are encouraged to visit the auditor’s website, www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us for property value information as well as tax information. “We aim to provide excellent public service to the public and invite them to contact us with any questions or concerns they may have”, said Perez.
STARK COUNTY TREASURER GARY D. ZEIGLER AND AUDITOR KIM R. PEREZ TEAM UP ON NEW TAX BILL FORMAT.
Stark County Treasurer Gary D. Zeigler and Auditor Kim R. Perez have teamed up to provide the taxpayers of Stark County a simpler more user friendly tax bill. The new bill was designed to provide the maximum amount of information about a specific parcel in an easy to read letter format. The new layout provides additional space, that wasn’t available in prior years, for more information. An example of this is the “Homestead Exemption” notice of eligibility that will appear on the new bill. This notice provides eligibility information for seniors along with a contact number. The new flexible format will also allow for more detailed information to be provided in the future when new systems are enabled.
Additionally, for the first time a duplicate copy of your bill will be mailed to each parcel owner who does not see their bill because it is sent to a bank or lender. Treasurer Zeigler said, “This is the first time that a property owner who escrows their taxes will have a copy sent to them showing their actual tax bill. It will provide that property owner a valuable record of all their appropriate tax information”. This duplicate copy will be sent out once a year to those affected taxpayers.
This newly designed tax bill format and duplicate copy is a joint effort between the Treasurer’s and Auditor’s office to provide more information to taxpayers in a efficient cost effective manner. Auditor Perez stated, “This is a great example of two governmental entities working together in the best interests of the taxpayers. The new tax bill and duplicate is simple easy to read document that will be a useful tool for all residents of Stark County”. The new tax bills will be mailed out January 14, 2005 and will be due February 18, 2005. The tax duplicate copy, for informational purposes only, will be mailed out on January 28, 2005 and no payment is required.
AUDITOR KIM R. PEREZ REMINDS DOG OWNERS OF LICENSE DEADLINES
Stark County Auditor, Kim Perez wants to remind Stark County dog owners that time is running out for them to renew their 2004 dog and kennel licenses. According to Perez, in December he mailed approximately 33,000 license application forms to dog owners on record with his office. The Stark County Commissioners have set the price of a 2005 license at $12.00.
The 2005 dog and kennel license can be obtained at the Auditor’s office at 110 Central Plaza South, Suite 210, or over the internet at www.auditor.co.stark.oh.us. Licenses can also be acquired at the Stark County Animal Control at 1801 Mahoning Road, N.E., Stark County Humane Society at 5100 Peach St. N.E., or at any of the agents (listed below) throughout the county.
Perez pointed out that dog license fees cannot be used for general governmental purposes, but by Ohio law are used for the control and impoundment of dogs running at large, the payment of claims to owners of livestock killed by wild dogs, and provide partial support to the Stark County Humane Society. Also, the fees provide supplemental payments to the Ohio State College of Veterinary medicine for research in the treatment and prevention of animal transmitted diseases.
Perez reminds dog owners that the last day for purchasing a new license without penalty is Saturday, January 31, 2005. According to Ohio Law, licenses renewed after that day are subject to an additional $12.00 penalty. There can be no exceptions.