By: JoAnn Groff
I don’t know about any of you reading this, but I sincerely doubt anyone graduating from school and starting a career thinks of being the Property Tax Administrator. Yet, it is one of the best jobs in state government!
The position of property tax administrator (PTA) is fairly unique in the state. A non- elected position but still ensconced in the Colorado Constitution and statutes. Appointed (read hired) by the State Board of Equalization (SBOE) - made up of the Governor, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House (or their designees) and two members appointed by the Governor and approved by the Senate – the PTA serves for a five-year term. I will be ending my fourth term (twenty years) January 1, 2026.
So, what are the highlights of being the PTA? First, the qualified and dedicated staff of the Division of Property Taxation (DPT.) What a great group of people to work with every day. Collectively they know so much more than this simple person, and if you become the PTA you will have the opportunity to learn from them and offer your leadership to them on a regular basis.
Expanding beyond the division itself, DPT is located in the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA.) The PTA serves on the DOLA leadership team as head of DPT. A small but mighty department, it’s focused primarily on relationships with local governments. Being part of DOLA enhances and supports the work of DPT and PTA with our most relevant partners - the sixty-four county assessors. The PTA establishes working relationships with county treasurers, county commissioners and property taxing jurisdictions. Finally, let us not forget answering questions and helping actual property owners understand the property tax system in the state.
The PTA is directed by statute to “assist and cooperate in the administration of all laws concerning the valuing of taxable property, the assessment of same, and the levying of property taxes.” Due to the make-up of the state board, the PTA is not beholding either to the Administration nor the legislative branch but has the opportunity to work and cooperate with both, advising and serving as a resource on issues of property taxation as they are considered. Even though occasionally tempting, the role is to advise, not advocate, but the PTA does occasionally have the opportunity to influence.
Over the past nineteen plus years that I have had the privilege of being the Property Tax Administrator I am often asked how I like my job. I will tell you here what I usually answer, “If I have to work, and I do, this is a great job!” It is both interesting and challenging on most days.
The application deadline for the position of Property Tax Administrator has been extended until Monday, August 4, 2025, at 4:00 PM MDT. If it sounds attractive to you, you still have time to apply.
Thank you!