Tarrant County's appraisal scene is getting a shake-up as Joe Don Bobbitt takes the helm as the new chief appraiser, charged with bolstering public confidence following a slew of controversies. The Tarrant Appraisal District, dogged by a recent series of missteps culminating in the resignation of former chief Jeff Law, is looking to turn over a new leaf with Bobbitt's appointment, as reported by NBC DFW.
In the wake of a unanimous no-confidence vote against Law by the Tarrant County Commissioners Court, and with challenges including, a botched website rollout and data security breach, Bobbitt promises to restore trust and ensure transparent leadership. "I will get to work immediately on securing our network and data, rebuilding public trust, and building a strong working relationship with the taxing entities that support TAD," Bobbitt said, per NBC DFW.
Yet as Joe Don Bobbitt steps in, he is mindful of the task before him. "Just because I’m here doesn’t mean we are automatically going to be trusted, so it’s going to take time for us to show people that we mean it," Bobbitt said. His arrival coincides with the impending addition of three new board members to the district in January, signaling further potential changes in governance and oversight, according to FOX 4 News.
Bobbitt, succeeding Law, who helmed the TAD since 2008, comes with his track record of turning around the appraisal district in McLennan County, according to Ben Perry, McLennan Appraisal District Board Chair, handled soaring appraisals "with a confidence that is uncanny". Meanwhile, concerns in Tarrant County have simmered over inflated home values and allegations of retaliation against TAD employees amid the scandals, as per NBC DFW.
