For 2014, we are still on the June 30, 2012, level of value based on sales trended to that date. In a year-to-year comparison, we have seen an 8.7 percent increase in total assessed value countywide, this year. The increases include 214 new residential units with a 2012 actual value of $75,942,860, a 1.6 percent increase and an overall commercial/industrial actual value increase of $24,880,310, a 1.9 percent increase. These numbers are based on new and under-construction properties and again are in 2012 dollars.

The sector with the largest increase was gas and oil production value, showing an increase of 39.6 percent. The main factor was the increased price received for gas in 2013. The downside is that, though price increased, production decreased by 8.9 percent. Overall gas and oil value, for 2014, including equipment and pipeline, is 41.4 percent of our tax base as opposed to 31.7 percent last year for 2013. Next year will bring a new appraisal sample, the 2014 level of value, using sales analysis from 2012 to 2014 trended to June 30, 2014.

Preliminarily, we are anticipating residential real estate increases in the cities and towns for the 2014 reappraisal as well as the same for commercial properties. The median price of natural gas is currently up, and gas-well drilling is on the rise.

Much like this changing fall weather that we are seeing, the tax base is growing, and next year’s harvest currently is looking good and healthy. The assessor’s office is happy to answer questions about valuations at any time. Call (970) 382-6221.

Craig N. Larson, La Plata County Assessor

Durango