Change-of-value notices will be mailed to 105,215 Kitsap County property owners Wednesday, July 1.

Most owners will see an 8-12 percent reduction in their Jan. 1, 2009 assessed value when compared to the Jan. 1, 2008 assessed value. The new values are posted on the “Parcel Search” feature at the assessor’s homepage at www.kitsapgov.com/assr. Click on “assessor data” and “value history.”

Sales from Jan. 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009 were analyzed in determining the Jan. 1, 2009 assessed value. In the analysis, sales prices were typically adjusted from the sale date to the Jan. 1, 2009 appraisal date using a minus 1 percent per month trend factor. Sales used in the analysis are shown by neighborhood on the assessor’s Web page.

Property owners in Bremerton may see more variation in their change percentage. These properties received their required six-year physical inspection prior to the setting of this year’s value. Any property characteristic changes noted in that inspection are reflected in the new value.

Taxpayers in the typical 8-12 percent reduction range should not expect a corresponding reduction in next year’s taxes. Taxing districts (state, county, cities, fire, port and library districts) will continue to be allowed the 1 percent increase to their previous levy amount. Additionally, voters in the Central Kitsap, North Kitsap, Bremerton and Bainbridge School Districts have previously authorized school districts to increase their annual maintenance and operations levy by 4-6 percent depending on the school district. The South Kitsap School District voters earlier this year approved a 14 percent increase to their M&O levy. Substantial increases approved for EMS levies in both the South Kitsap and Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue Districts will take effect in 2010.

Those disagreeing with the Jan. 1, 2009 estimate of market value will have 60 days to appeal to the County Board of Equalization. Potential appellants should first contact the assessor’s office at (360) 337-7160 to review property characteristics and receive property specific valuation information. Information on property tax relief programs also is available.