Inside Value Adjustments Boards

The truth is, property taxes are the ONLY levy based upon opinions. Coupled with that, the methods used to gather and apply data in this important and constitutional area are not exact. What does all that mean? That there are INACCURACIES in tax rolls, and, on the flip side, we as taxpayers make mistakes too.

One way for most Florida taxpayers to lower their property taxes is through Value Adjustment Boards. Using the VAB process is an affordable, effective way to lower your property tax bills. It is intended to find errors, and whenever possible, get them FIXED!

FYI: While a part of intended uniform state-wide taxation, each VAB is still locally managed.

VAB WATCH
POLK: Hearings conducted behind locked doors. At least one magistrate is not applying the standards adopted in House Bill 521 (2009 Legislation). Opening Statement is NOT a DOR document, and does NOT include all material parts of section 193.011, Fla. Stat.

Broward County VAB Public Hearing Accommodations

As an example:

Previously in Broward County, hearings occurred behind close, unmarked doors. Today appropriate signs on the doors indicate public hearings are being held - a protection against ex parte communication.
When petitioners are not present, representatives of the property appraiser are required to leave hearing rooms, another way of keeping proceedings fair and objective.
As of March, 2009, the VAB Clerk has been instructed not to demand written authorizations from agents or attorneys. There is nothing in the statute that states that written authorization is required, and we all have the right to contract as we see fit, even if verbally.