Two candidates are running for tax assessor-collector in Harris County this election, while incumbents in Fort Bend and Montgomery County are running unopposed. Here is everything you need to know about what a tax assessor-collector is responsible for.
What does a tax assessor-collector do?
A tax assessor-collector has a number of responsibilities, including:
- Calculating property tax rates and collecting property taxes for the county
- Collecting various other fees for the state, county, cities, schools and other local taxing entities
- Registering voters and conducting elections
- Processing motor vehicle title transfers and boat titles and registrations
- Issuing motor vehicle registrations and licenses
Why is this job important?
Without a state income tax, many public services are funded entirely through property taxes. For example, public schools receive the majority of their revenue via property taxes, collected by the tax assessor-collector.
Tax assessor-collectors handle large sums of money. In Harris County, the office collects $6 billion annually in property taxes.
As the people in charge of the voter registrar, tax assessors also manage the process for voter registration in their counties. He or she could potentially alter the way voters register, including allowing online registration.
Does this job affect you?
Have you ever registered your car, submitted your voter registration or paid property tax? If so, you have seen this office in action.
How often is a tax assessor-collector elected?
Every four years. In counties with less than 10,000 residents, the sheriff of the county operates as the tax assessor-collector unless the commissioner’s court decides otherwise. The commissioner’s court can ask for a vote on the election of a tax assessor-collector. If approved, the office would be elected at the next general election.
Who is on the ballot?
Harris County
Montgomery County
Fort Bend County
*incumbent
