3b. Abatement applications-Lynn Utke

for the Maple River Project. It appears that the water resource district will pay the pro rata share of taxes on the valuation loss attributable to the easement. The estimate of the loss in value due to the easement is quite subjective, due to the uncertainty, duration, and timing of the future flood events. The Highland Twp board action of denial of the abatements because of uncertainty is understandable. However, I believe that an adjustment is warranted, based on the facts at this time. The properties in question did flood in the later part of June 2007. It appears that grass was drowned out and that thistle is now overtaking those areas. I understand that the farm program requires the owner/operator to carry crop insurance on the tillable lands, but will not pay for losses due to preventive planting or flood loss. Based on the facts affecting the property valuation, it is my recommendation to approve the abatements as presented. I'm basing this recommendation on the overall reduction of all the Utke parcels subject to the easement area. It was difficult to apply exact percentages to each single tract due to the irregular fields, descriptions, and easement areas. Also the tillable and non-tillable areas complicated the analysis. Assessments are reviewed annually. Depending on future events, the assessments could change. The proposed year 20 10 revaluation of all agricultural lands in Cass County will undoubtedly readdress the assessments on these tracts. It's my understanding that the Cass County Auditor will bill the water resource district for any loss in taxes due to the easement. Suggested Motion: "I move that the Abatement #4314, 4315, 4316, 4317, 4318, and 4319 be approved, as recommended by the Director of Equalization." Dated June 2ih, 2008 of~~ Frank Klein Director of Tax Equalization jltaxlwplabate