UPDATE: Fligor is taking urgent action to ensure the Santa Clara County Assessor’s Office operates effectively for taxpayers and residents. With the election approaching on December 30, Fligor, the current assistant assessor, is urging voters to consider her unique qualifications and experience in managing the vital responsibilities of this role.
Fligor emphasizes that the Assessor’s Office plays a crucial role in evaluating over 500,000 properties, generating an impressive $700 billion assessment roll that produces approximately $8 billion in annual property tax revenue. This funding is essential for public services, including healthcare and education.
In her statement, Fligor highlights that her opponent lacks the necessary credentials and experience to fulfill the demands of the office. “The next assessor must be a professional focused on the work, not a politician using the role as a steppingstone,” she stated.
As the only candidate with the legally required property tax certification, Fligor outlines a clear vision for her leadership. She intends to ensure assessments are conducted legally and accurately, applying exemptions and exclusions as appropriate. She also plans to educate property owners on available tax exemptions to save them money, emphasizing customer service and community engagement as priorities.
Key initiatives in Fligor’s agenda include:
– **Modernizing the office**: Fligor has led efforts to acquire new technology, replacing a 40-year-old system to improve efficiency and data security. The new system is set to launch in two years.
– **Revamping the appeals process**: As an attorney, Fligor is focused on expediting the resolution of over 11,000 active appeals, ensuring that assessments are defensible and conducted correctly.
– **Community engagement**: She aims to provide information in multiple languages to assist taxpayers in navigating the assessment process.
Fligor’s leadership experience extends to her position on the Los Altos City Council, where she has served two terms and has been unanimously selected as both mayor and vice mayor. Her extensive network includes endorsements from influential figures like Rep. Sam Liccardo, the Mercury News, and several county supervisors.
As the election date approaches, Fligor is urging residents not to overlook their voting responsibility. “Voting has already started, and it’s crucial that you make your voice heard,” she said. With the holiday season in full swing, she extends a heartfelt reminder to prioritize civic engagement.
This election is not just about the Assessor’s Office; it’s about the future of Santa Clara County. Fligor’s vision focuses on efficiency, integrity, and service, underscoring the immediate impact of this decision on the community’s well-being.
Stay tuned for more updates as the election date nears and voters prepare to cast their ballots.
