Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has taken legal action against Jackson County over the controversial 2023 property tax assessment process. The lawsuit, filed in conjunction with the State Tax Commission, alleges that the county violated the law by improperly assessing and levying taxes, causing financial harm to residents with "dramatically and illegally" increased property valuations and resultant excessive tax burdens.

This development follows the release of preliminary findings from Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick's audit of the property tax assessment process. Fitzpatrick identified "deficiencies and noncompliance" in the county's valuation assessments and notification practices.

According to Bailey, the Missouri Constitution explicitly forbids counties from unlawfully taxing residents. He vowed to protect the interests of Jackson County residents and rectify the alleged wrongdoing. The lawsuit highlights two key issues: delivery of assessment notices beyond the legally mandated deadline and failure to conduct required physical inspections.

Property owners in Jackson County were hit with an average 30 percent increase in assessed valuations, exacerbating the financial burden. Bailey's lawsuit argues that these actions deprived property owners of the opportunity to utilize the administrative remedies provided by law.

Jackson County residents wasted no time in voicing their concerns, as numerous complaints poured into the Attorney General's office. Bailey expressed gratitude for their willingness to come forward, emphasizing his commitment to assisting Missourians in need.

Affected residents have been advised by Bailey to pay their taxes, due on December 31, under protest. They are encouraged to explore available legal remedies to address the issue. In his statement, Fitzpatrick emphasized that residential real property valuation increases exceeding 15 percent are likely invalid. He called upon the Jackson County Legislature, County Executive, and Assessor to explore potential remedies, such as limiting assessed valuation increases to 15 percent, using prior year assessments, or allowing additional avenues for appeals and tax protests. Taxpayers should be notified of these options and given adequate time to pursue them.

Fitzpatrick concluded the report by assuring that his office will continue reviewing the highlighted issues and will release a more comprehensive report with additional discoveries, conclusions, and recommendations in the future. As the legal battle unfolds, stakeholders will be eagerly awaiting further updates and potential resolutions to the property tax assessment controversy in Jackson County.