The Tarrant Appraisal District announced a new website March 14 after technical issues made the website temporarily unavailable. The district is using the website outage as an opportunity to transition to the new website, which offers a more user-friendly experience.

"The revamp of our website is not just about addressing technical glitches; it's about elevating the overall user experience," said Joe Don Bobbitt, chief appraiser at TAD, in a news release. "We recognize that our website serves as a vital touchpoint for our customers, and we are committed to providing them with a modern, user-friendly platform that meets their needs."

The details

There are a number of new features available now, with more expected to be available by May. The features now available include:
  • New category search feature with 14 unique filters, allowing for more precise searches
  • 15 new fields, including specific values, dates, multiownership and agent information, have been added to the property search and dashboard
  • Ability to export data in multiple formats, including exporting directly into Microsoft Excel or as a text file
  • Ability to request an online PIN for self service
  • Advanced dashboard features, such as receiving departmental-specific messages and notifications
  • An updated online value negotiation tool to streamline taxpayer experience
The features that will be available by May include:
  • Ability for agents to submit mass protests
  • Ability to view and download Tarrant Appraisal District evidence to prepare for appraisal review board meetings
  • Ability to watch Appraisal Review Board meetings from the website’s dashboard
The background

In December, the Tarrant Appraisal District board hired a third-party information technology firm to investigate the potential of interference with the district's information systems. In March, officials with the appraisal district released a summary of those findings indicating the inability to pinpoint the initial source of the attack and no direct evidence of data theft.