Olivia Drake

Profession: Boundary County Assessor

Education: Associate's Degree

Residency: 50 years, Boundary County

Contact: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585033799284 

1. As the incumbent, my goal is to continue the progress already underway.  My priorities include refining our valuation methods, improving the accuracy and consistency of assessments, and exploring options to modernize our valuation and tax software.  I would like to provide more opportunities for community engagement and continue working with other county departments to expand the use of our GIS data-sharing system. 

2. Fair and equitable assessments:  Assessed values must reflect the market accurately and consistently to ensure taxpayers are treated fairly.   

Increased mandates with limited resources:  Outdated technology limits efficiency and ability to adapt to changing markets.  Evolving regulations often increase workloads and make it challenging to maintain the level of service taxpayers deserve.     

Community engagement and education:  An informed public is essential in identifying problems and making meaningful improvements to the system.    

3. Continue refining our mass appraisal methods using market data, consistent standards, and regular quality reviews. Pursue software upgrade options while improving the systems we currently have. Invest in staff training, streamline office processes, and collaborate with other counties and state agencies to share resources and technical expertise.  Improve website or other online resources and provide opportunities for taxpayers to ask questions and provide feedback.

4. The Assessor does not establish land-use policy, though our office plays a supporting role in providing accurate and accessible property ownership and parcel boundary information.  I will continue to work on improving GIS data-sharing to help other departments make informed decisions regarding infrastructure, land use, and public services. 

5. The distinction between property assessments and property taxes. Assessors don’t control the market; they track the market to determine assessed values according to state law.  Taxing districts establish budgets that drive property tax levies. Rising assessments do not automatically mean a proportional increase in property taxes. Understanding this distinction helps taxpayers know where decisions are made and how to hold government accountable. 

6. I believe in transparency and remaining accessible to the public.  I encourage taxpayers to review their assessments and ask questions.   

7. I am willing to reconsider an approach when new information is brought to light.  Decisions should be based on facts and results, not simply on how things have always been done in the past.   

8. The Legislature establishes tax policy, local taxing districts set budgets, and assessors are responsible for equitable valuations.  I support transparent and responsible budgeting, and tax relief that does not simply shift the burden to other taxpayers or undermine essential services such as infrastructure and public safety.  I believe that informed citizen engagement is vital when exploring where non-essential services can be cut.  I remained committed to working with citizens and legislators to help gather information and identify possible opportunities or challenges associated with property tax legislation.   

9. I bring over a decade of experience in the Assessor's Office, from cadastral mapping and property appraisal to managing office operations. During my first term, we have made meaningful progress in improving accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration across county departments. I understand both the responsibilities and the challenges of this office, and I am committed to continuing that work with fairness, accountability, and respect for the taxpayers we serve. 

Editor's note. Drake included this message in her questionnaire: "AI Disclosure: Artificial intelligence was used to assist with editing and refining these responses. The views, experiences, and positions expressed are my own."