COEUR d'ALENE - Kootenai County Assessor Mike McDowell officially announced Wednesday he is seeking re-election.

McDowell, 59, has been the assessor since 2003, and before that he was the senior deputy assessor since 1983. From 1977 to 1983, he was the mapping division manager for the county.

"I know and understand the many challenges of the office," McDowell said Wednesday. "I place a high value on quality customer service, professional development for staff, and cost-effective operations."

The county assessor's office evaluates more than 91,000 parcels of property with a net taxable value of more than $11 billion. The vehicle license division registers more than 100,000 cars and trucks each year. The office has 60 employees.

"We have the ability to put a face on government that's a little bit different," he said. "We really care about the folks who come in to see us. We recognize they probably have an issue that they need help with, and we can help provide answers to them, or do the research to get them the information."

During another term, McDowell said he would focus on upgrading both the office's assessment and mapping software. That would improve efficiency and service delivery, he said.

"We will continue to work with our legislators to maintain the balance in our state's tax system and guard against shifting state tax burdens to local property taxpayers," McDowell said.

If elected, he promised to continue his open-door policy to the public.

"I plan to continue our long-standing tradition of professionalism and quality customer service that the assessor's office is known for," he said.