Supervisors Decry Assessor’s Stand on Program

County supervisors on Tuesday again criticized Assessor Bradley L. Jacobs for his repeated refusal to participate in a state program that could ease the lengthy backlog in property-tax assessment appeals.

“I have a little difficulty with you not working with us on this,” Supervisor Charles V. Smith told Jacobs during a lengthy debate. “We are trying to help you do your job.”

But Jacobs said he would not back down, describing the state program as “a scheme” to raise property owners’ taxes.

Orange County is eligible to receive as much as $14 million under the state’s Property Tax Administrative Loan Program. The loans convert to grants if the county meets certain efficiency goals.

County officials have repeatedly urged Jacobs to seek the state funding, saying some of the money could be used to handle the backlog of appeals from residents and business owners who challenge their property-tax assessments.

But Jacobs has questioned whether the county actually qualifies for the program because it does not maintain the minimum level of staffing required by the state. He also said he is uncomfortable accepting money that might have to be paid back later.

“This is clearly a loan,” Jacobs said. “If it was a grant, I would grab your pen and sign it.”

Some supervisors remained unconvinced.

Supervisor Todd Spitzer pointed out that a new law makes it easier for the county to participate in the program. The law effectively reduces the minimum staffing requirement that has concerned Jacobs.

“Why in the world will we not come together and solve this?” Spitzer asked Jacobs.

Forty of California’s 58 counties now take advantage of the state loan-to-grant program.

The board on Tuesday formally asked Jacobs to apply for the program. But the move was largely symbolic because, under law, only the assessor can submit a funding request, even though money can be used by other departments involved in the assessment appeals process.