Press Releases
1) 2023 Oct 6: Tentative Property Values for the Triennial Update Available for Property Owner Review: New Website

ATHENS, OHIO – October 6, 2023:  Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson announces that property values have been updated and are currently available for property owners to view on the Auditor’s recently updated website:   www.athenscountyauditor.org

Davidson explained, “As Auditor, I am required by Ohio law to update real property values during the third year after a county-wide reappraisal.” The most recent reappraisal was effective for tax year 2020. This process is referred to as the Triennial Update.

 

The County Auditor is required to update property values based on a recommendation from the Ohio Department of Taxation. The values have been adjusted based on sales ratio studies from the previous three years. It’s important to note that the percentage adjustment will vary based on the sales ratio data. While Residential and Agricultural parcels had the largest percentage increases. Many parcels did not see any adjustment and some may have a percentage decrease.

 

The update involves a study and analysis to determine the impact that real estate sales had on the neighborhood market values. Properties that have sold in an arm’s length transaction are compared to those that do not have recent sales. When the sales prices are compared with the assessed values, a statistical percentage is determined which indicates the amount of increase or decrease in market value. Assessed values are then updated according to the statistical percentage.

 

The Auditor’s office is also required to update the Current Agricultural Use Valuation (CAUV) soil values at the time of the Triennial Update. The adjusted soil values are set by the State of Ohio and are not subject to appeal. Additional information including Triennial Update FAQs, a communication from the Ohio Department of Taxation concerning the CAUV changes and the letter to Property Owners is available on the website or by contacting the office.

 

Property owners can easily look up the updated parcel data including property attributes and values. To ensure fair assessments, Auditor Davidson commented, “I encourage all property owners to review their property values and the information we have listed for their parcels closely. If any of the property record information is not correct, this is an opportunity for property owners to contact our office so that we can timely correct any errors that may have occurred with the update. “  

 

The newly updated website makes it much easier for property owners to look up their property values and parcel attributes by using the SEARCH tool. Parcels can be searched on the site by owner name, parcel ID or address. Updated information provided in the parcel data includes the estimated cost of tax levies to the property owner that will be on the ballot this November. Additional tools make it easy to review property Sales Reports to compare their updated value with recent sales.

 

Property owners should be aware of the following information:

1.      Property taxes will not increase or decrease by the same percentage as your value adjustment.

2.      Property taxes are primarily determined by the voters of Athens County. Newly approved tax levies directly affect your property tax due next year. 

3.      The Auditor’s Office is not able to provide the amount of property tax that will be billed next year until after the election results are certified by the Board of Elections, provided to the State and new rates are calculated.

 

Auditor Davidson has arranged an opportunity for property owners to informally meet with an appraiser to review their property record and answer any questions they may have.

 

Appointments can be made by calling (740) 592-3223, emailing [email protected] or stopping in the office located at 15 S. Court Street, Room 330, Athens, OH 45701. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The office will be closed on Monday, October 9th in honor of Columbus Day.

2) 2024 Sept 20: Athens County Announces Website Update With Detailed Information on Upcoming Election and Tax Levies

Athens County Announces Website Update With Detailed Information on Upcoming Election and Tax Levies

Athens, OH — Athens County is pleased to announce the launch of a new feature on its website to provide property owners with comprehensive information regarding the upcoming General Election and the tax levies that will be on the ballot in their taxing district. This update is part of the county's ongoing effort to enhance transparency and ensure property owners are informed about potential changes.

The newly updated "Levies" section of each property record now includes the following details:

  • The jurisdiction responsible for the levy.
  • The levy use and a brief description of how the funds will be applied.
  • The number of years the levy will be in effect.
  • The millage rate associated with the levy.
  • The levy type, such as new, renewal, or replacement.
  • A detailed description of the levy’s purpose based on the relevant statute.

Additionally, property owners will be able to view a breakdown of their current tax amount per parcel, along with the proposed tax amount if the levy passes, and the expected change.

"This update is designed to give property owners easy access to critical information about how potential tax levies could affect their properties," said Jill Davidson, Athens County Auditor. "We encourage all residents to explore the updated features and stay informed ahead of the election."

Residents are encouraged to visit the website to review the new information and familiarize themselves with the levies on the ballot. For further assistance or questions, property owners can contact the Athens County Auditor's Office at 740-592-3223 or [email protected].

3) 2024 Dec 1: 2025 Dog License

Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson encourages all dog owners in Athens County to get an early start on purchasing or renewing their pet’s license. Renewal applications have been mailed to all current licensed dog owners.

Dog licenses for 2025 will go on sale December 1, 2024, and are valid through January 31, 2026. Licensing your dog is required by state law and may ensure that your pet will be returned safely and quickly if it becomes lost.

Dog licenses can be purchased at the following locations:

  • Athens County Auditor’s Office: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Athens County Dog Shelter:
    • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    • Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
    • Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Online: Licenses can be purchased with a credit card (a convenience fee applies) at https://www.doglicenses.us/OH/Athens/.
  • By Mail: Renewal applications include instructions for mail-in purchases.

Licenses for kennels may only be purchased at the Athens County Auditor’s Office. Individuals must be in the business of professionally breeding dogs for hunting or sale to qualify for a kennel license. Kennels will be subject to inspection by the Athens County Dog Warden.

By purchasing your dog tags, you may save your dog's life; a tagged dog has a much higher chance of finding its way home after wandering off.

Tags will be available for sale from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025.

4) 2024 Dec 12: Athens County Auditor Reminds Residents of Expanded Homestead Exemption Eligibility for 2025

ATHENS, OHIO – December 12, 2024 – Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson is encouraging residents to explore the Homestead Exemption Program, which provides property tax relief for qualifying homeowners, including senior citizens, individuals with permanent disabilities, and veterans with a qualifying service-related disability. The program has been updated for 2025 to reflect inflation-adjusted income limits and exemption amounts, as determined by the Ohio Department of Taxation.

The Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence, lowering property tax bills for those who qualify.

Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption?

Senior Citizens:

  • For applications submitted in 2025, applicants must be at least 65 years old during the year they apply for the exemption.

  • This means anyone turning 65 at any point in 2025 (January 1 through December 31) qualifies.

Permanently and Totally Disabled Individuals:

  • Applicants must provide proof of total and permanent disability, regardless of age.

Veterans with a Qualifying Service-Related Disability:

  • Honorably discharged veterans with a 100% service-connected disability (or a total disability rating based on individual unemployability) are eligible for an enhanced exemption.

Surviving Spouses:

  • Surviving spouses of previously qualified applicants may continue to receive the exemption if they meet the age, disability, or other qualifying requirements.

New Adjusted Income and Exemption Amounts for 2025

The Ohio Department of Taxation annually adjusts the income eligibility threshold and exemption amount based on inflation. For the 2025 property tax year (paid in 2026):

  • Income Limit: Homeowners with an Ohio Adjusted Gross Income (OAGI) of $40,000 or less qualify.

  • Standard Exemption: Eligible senior citizens or permanently disabled individuals can exempt up to $28,000 of the market value of their home.

  • Veterans’ Enhanced Exemption: Disabled veterans can exempt up to $56,000 of the market value of their home.

How to Apply

Residents can apply for the Homestead Exemption by:

  • Visiting the Athens County Auditor’s Office: 15 S. Court Street, Athens, OH 45701

  • Downloading the application form HERE

  • Requesting an application by phone: (740) 592-3223

Applicants must provide supporting documentation, such as proof of age, income, disability status, or qualifying military service-connected disability.

Deadline to Apply

Applications for the 2025 tax year must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

“The Homestead Exemption is an important tax relief program for qualifying homeowners, and the updated income and exemption limits will make it accessible to even more residents,” said Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson. “We encourage all eligible seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans to contact our office for help with the application process.”

For more information or assistance, please contact the Athens County Auditor’s Office at (740) 592-3223 or visit the Ohio Department of Taxation website for the latest updates.

About the Homestead Exemption

The Homestead Exemption, established under the Ohio Revised Code, offers property tax relief to qualifying homeowners by reducing the taxable value of their primary residence. The program is available to senior citizens, permanently disabled individuals, veterans with qualifying disabilities, and their surviving spouses. Income thresholds and exemption amounts are adjusted annually to account for inflation.

5) 2024 Dec 30: Athens County Auditor's Office to Send CAUV Continuing Forms

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jill Davidson, Athens County Auditor

Phone: (740) 592-3223

Email: [email protected]


Athens County Auditor’s Office to Send CAUV Continuing Forms

Athens, OH — January 2025 — The Athens County Auditor’s Office has mailed Continuing Applications for the Current Agricultural Use Valuation (CAUV) Program to property owners currently enrolled in the program. These forms are an important part of maintaining eligibility for the CAUV property tax reduction, which is available to land used for commercial agriculture.

Property owners enrolled in the program should expect to receive their CAUV Continuing Form along with detailed instructions during the month of January.

“The CAUV program plays a critical role in supporting our agricultural community by ensuring farmland is taxed based on its agricultural value, not its market value,” said Jill Davidson, Athens County Auditor. “We encourage all property owners to complete and return their renewal forms on time to continue receiving these important benefits.”


What You Need to Know

Action Required: All CAUV property owners must complete and return the form by the deadline of Monday, March 3, 2025.

Why It’s Important: Failure to return the form will result in removal from the CAUV program and a recoupment charge for the previous three years of tax savings.

If you do not receive your CAUV form by the end of January, please contact the Athens County Auditor’s Office immediately.

Contact Information for Program-Specific Questions:

For questions or assistance regarding the CAUV program, please contact:

Janet Harner, CAUV Administrator

Phone: (740) 592-3223

Email: [email protected]

About the CAUV Program

The CAUV Program allows eligible agricultural land to be taxed based on its current agricultural use, providing significant savings to landowners who meet program requirements. Landowners must demonstrate active use of their land, such as agricultural production or timber management, and comply with annual renewal requirements to maintain eligibility.

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6) 2025 Jan 14: Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson Announces New 2024 Aerial Imagery Now Available Online

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 14, 2025

Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson Announces New 2024 Aerial Imagery Now Available Online

Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson is excited to announce that the latest 2024 aerial imagery is now live and accessible through all Athens County Auditor online platforms, including the Standard Map, Mini Map, and both Basic and Advanced Parcel Viewers.

The imagery was collected on March 11 and 12, 2024, under optimal "leaf-off" conditions to ensure maximum clarity. With a remarkable 3-inch pixel resolution, this countywide Ortho imagery project, conducted in partnership with Woolpert, covers approximately 508.4 square miles.

“This project showcases the strength of collaboration and the dedication of our community partners,” said Auditor Jill Davidson. “A special thanks goes to Scott Dunfee, Athens County GIS Administrator, for his outstanding leadership in coordinating this effort. His work was instrumental in bringing together key partners and ensuring the success of this project.”

The 2024 imagery project would not have been possible without the contributions of several organizations, including the Athens County EMA, Athens County 911, City of Athens, Athens Township Trustees, Athens City/County Health Department, Athens County Engineer, and Ohio University. Their collaboration highlights the community’s shared commitment to providing valuable resources to Athens County residents.

The 2024 aerial maps are now available for public use and can be accessed via the Athens County Auditor’s website at www.athenscountyauditor.org.

For additional questions or assistance, contact the Athens County Auditor’s Office at (740) 592-3223.

About the Athens County Auditor's Office
Under the leadership of Auditor Jill Davidson, the Athens County Auditor's Office is committed to serving the community with transparency, accuracy, and innovation. The office provides a wide range of services, including property records, financial accountability, and community resources.

For Media Inquiries:
Jill Davidson, Athens County Auditor
Athens County Auditor's Office
Phone: (740) 592-3225
Email: [email protected]

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7) 2025 Feb 05: Athens County Auditor Announces Updated Property Values and Tax Amounts Now Available Online

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Jill Davidson, Athens County Auditor

Phone: (740) 592-3223

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.athenscountyauditor.org

Athens County Auditor Announces Updated Property Values and Tax Amounts Now Available Online

Athens County, OH – February 5, 2025 – The Athens County Auditor’s Office has updated property values and tax amounts for the current tax year, and this information is now available on the county’s website. Property owners are encouraged to review their updated values, verify parcel details, and explore available tax resources.

“This update provides taxpayers with the most current valuation and tax calculation data, ensuring transparency and accessibility,” said Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson. “We encourage property owners to review their information and contact our office if they have any questions.”

Where to Find Your Updated Property Information:

Property owners can search for their specific parcel at Athens County Auditor’s website to:

Review their updated property values

See real property tax calculations

Verify property attributes

Additionally, a "View Content" tab on the website homepage provides easy access to key tax documents, including:

📌 Tax Rates for Tax Year 2024

📌 Valuation Totals for Tax Year 2024

📌 Reduction Factor Report for Tax Year 2024

📌 Tax Duplicate 2025 by Subdivision

These resources allow citizens to better understand property taxes and assessments.

Notice to Property Owners: Report New Construction & Improvements Over $2,000

Ohio law requires property owners to report new construction or major improvements exceeding $2,000 to the Athens County Auditor’s Office.

What Property Owners Need to Know:

  • If your property is in an area without a local building registration or inspection system, you must notify the Auditor’s Office within 60 days of starting construction.

Your notice should include:

📌 An estimated cost of the project

📌 A brief description of the property (address or parcel number)

Failure to report improvements may result in a penalty equal to 50% of the taxes that would have been assessed on the unreported construction from the time it began. Reporting updates ensures accurate and fair property assessments for all taxpayers.

“We rely on property owners to help us keep property values up to date,” said Auditor Davidson. “By reporting improvements in a timely manner, you contribute to maintaining fairness in the tax system.”

For questions or assistance, please contact the Athens County Auditor’s Office at (740) 592-3225 or visit www.athenscountyauditor.org.

About the Athens County Auditor’s Office

The Athens County Auditor’s Office is committed to serving the community with transparency, professionalism, and integrity. The office oversees property assessments, taxation, and other financial responsibilities to ensure fairness and accuracy in Athens County.