Dougherty County tax officials urge residents to request IDs from tax valuation firm employees

ALBANY – Dougherty County officials put out the word that residents can expect to see strangers out and about performing a countywide property valuation project, but those workers’ presence has still sparked some concern.

“We’ve had calls about (it),” Dougherty County Chief Tax Appraiser Adam Bridges said. “We expected calls. We tried to get out front and provide all the information. We do expect calls, and we’re getting a few.”

Representatives from Georgia Mass Appraisal Solutions & Services started performing the property visits in late May. The representatives carry identification that residents can request to make sure they are who they say they are.

In addition, local law enforcement agencies have information on the workers’ cars on file that can be checked if a property owner calls for verification.

“We encourage the calls, just so we can verify,” Bridges said.

The last countywide property valuation was performed in 2007. Over time the property values on record fall out of line with the correct appraised value; for example, if a homeowner builds a pool on the property or makes other improvements.

Counties are required to maintain the property values on record close to the actual values or face penalties, Bridges said. The current revaluation process includes all properties in the city of Albany and unincorporated Dougherty County.

The property values apply to not only county taxes but those of the city and Dougherty County School System as well. The updated property values are expected to be in place for the 2026 tax year.

During their time in the county, GMASS representatives are not expected to request to view the interior of residences. If the performance of a property value enquiry requires that someone view the inside of the residence, local tax officials will perform those visits at a later time.

During the revaluation process, the GMASS representatives may leave the area to perform work in other areas and return later.

“We encourage property owners to ask for IDs, to call police,” Larry Thomas, vice chairman of the Dougherty County Board of Tax Appraisers, said. “We’re letting property owners know they can ask for information.”

Individuals who have a concern can call 311 or 911 to confirm the identification of a GMASS representative, he said.

Once the company performs the revaluations, the goal is for local tax officials to keep the values current going forward, Thomas said.

Staff Photo: Alan MauldinAlanMauldin[email protected]