2012 Allegheny County Tax Assessments to Continue Despite Fitzgerald Controversy

If you’ve been following the drama with Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, you know that Fitzgerald found himself in the predicament of standing up for his constituents rights in the Allegheny County tax assessments and facing legal action. While the drama continues, the Allegheny County Tax Assessment experts, Flaherty & Fardo, are here to keep you filled in on all the latest happenings.

Judge Wettick Overrules Fitzgerald

Allegheny County Tax Assessments Continue as Scheduled

The Honorable R. Stanton Wettick ordered that the 2012 reassessments in Allegheny County must continue pursuant to his previous Orders of Court. Over the last week, County Executive Rich Fitzgerald declared the 2012 reassessments “null and void.” However, today’s Order specifically directed the Allegheny County Office of Property Assessment, County Manager, and County Chief Assessor to continue with the 2012 reassessments or be held personally in contempt of court, even if County Executive Fitzgerald directs them otherwise.

Judge Wettick left open the possibility that the actual payments of the new tax bills could be deferred until 2013 (a decision he stated he will render on Thursday, January 12, 2012). The City of Pittsburgh School District has a pending motion asking for a 1 year delay in implementation of the 2012 assessment numbers so as to provide time for the actual appeals process.

What does this Mean for Allegheny County Residents?

You still have Options for the Allegheny County Tax Assessments

For now, the 2012 assessment deadline for the City of Pittsburgh is still February 10, 2012. All commercial and residential property owners in the City of Pittsburgh who believe their new 2012 assessments are too high, should file formal appeals with the Allegheny County Office of Property Assessment by February 10, 2012.

We will continue to keep our clients updated concerning the Allegheny County Assessment chaos.

If you have questions about Allegheny County tax assessments, please feel free to contact Flaherty & Fardo for a free consultation.