Toledo, Ohio – Anita Lopez, the current Lucas County Commissioner and former county auditor, has resigned from her position on the Board of Revision, the panel responsible for hearing appeals of property values. The move comes after significant public outcry over last year’s property valuations and the recent revelation of a programming error that led to inflated property assessments.
Lopez, who had served as the county designee on the board, announced her decision on Tuesday, citing both the scrutiny surrounding property values and the need for long-term solutions. The decision was supported by the Board of Commissioners, including Lopez herself, who agreed it was best for her to step aside from the board. Lucas County Commissioner Pete Gerken will now take her place as the county designee.
The controversy surrounding property valuations has sparked frustration among local residents, many of whom received higher assessments than anticipated. The error in programming, which inflated some property values, has only intensified these concerns, prompting residents to demand answers and seek ways to dispute the new valuations.
In response to the mounting criticism, current Lucas County Auditor Katie Moline has called for an independent, third-party review of the valuation process. Meanwhile, Lopez expressed that stepping away from the board would enhance transparency in the process, as she felt conflicted by the situation and the public’s demands for action.
Lopez, who has always emphasized her dedication to helping residents and businesses during financial hardships, acknowledged the difficult circumstances. “Now that the values have been scrutinized so much by the public, I am conflicted from being able to not just do everything to citizens want me to do,” Lopez said. “I’ve always taken it to heart. The financial crisis we were going through just broke my heart and I wanted to do anything and everything to help businesses and citizens.”
Looking ahead, Lopez has expressed a desire to focus on long-term solutions to the issues residents face with taxes, which are determined by property valuations. She has also indicated interest in collaborating with individuals such as State Rep. Josh Williams, who has been vocal about concerns over the property values set during Lopez’s tenure as auditor. Williams had previously requested an investigation by State Auditor Keith Faber, claiming that the Lucas County Auditor’s Office, under Lopez’s leadership, had intentionally undervalued properties.
As the controversy continues to unfold, residents and local leaders alike await further action and clarity on how the county will address the issues surrounding property valuations and taxes.