In an effort to address the frustrations of property owners over appraisal processes, the Bexar Appraisal District welcomes three newly elected members to its expanded board of directors. The board now comprises nine individuals tasked with setting the valuations that ultimately determine property tax bills for the city, county, and school districts. According to the San Antonio Report, these valuations are calculated based on recent selling prices of similar local properties.
Historically, criticism has been leveled at Texas appraisal districts, which had boards filled with representatives from taxing entities, which can, give the appearance of a conflict of interest. "I call it the shell blame game," Michael Berlanga, a tax consultant, mentioned in a San Antonio Report interview. The revamped board is a legislative countermeasure intended to instill greater balance and taxpayer representation in the valuation process.
Furthermore, the restructured board assumes a significant new role: overseeing the Appraisal Review Board (ARB), which hears property valuation disputes. Property owners not in agreement with issued valuations can appeal to the ARB, described by Berlanga as the "courthouse of independent citizens." This separation of powers is designed to offer a fairer hearing for taxpayers contesting their property's valuation.
In the past, ARB members were selected by a local administrative judge, but moving forward, the Bexar Appraisal District board will influence these positions. As an unsuccessful candidate for the board, G.L. "Larry" Lamborn shared with the San Antonio Report his intent had he has been elected, "My platform is very, very simple: I’m going to initiate report cards every time you go before [the review board], they are going to have to answer to you, [and] to be polite."
Despite these changes, the opportunity for the new board members to impact the selection of ARB members this year is limited. Their involvement in the selection process will commence in October, with ARB member terms lasting two years and staggered for turnover stability. Jennifer Rodriguez, the district’s communications director, conveyed that the details for the 2025 appointment process are still under development.
Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia, an appointed board member representing the city, expressed optimism regarding the new elected positions. She believes they will bring a sharper focus on strategies to clarify the appraisal district's operations to residents.“I think we will have the opportunity to engage more members in subcommittees to help with strategies about communicating with our residents,” she told the San Antonio Report.
