“I, Melissa Shinkle having been elected assessor of Teton county, state of Wyoming, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of assessor of the county of Teton, state of Wyoming, according to law and to the best of my ability, and that I will without fear of favor assess all taxable property within the county of Teton, at its fair value. So help me God.”

*Per Wyoming State Statute 18-3-202, county assessors are required to take a separate oath that is specific to the their duties as property appraisers.

The Teton County Assessor’s office is tasked with a multitude of duties in addition to valuing your property. It is essential to recruit and retain highly skilled individuals that not only have the experience to help you, but most importantly, have the ability to make you feel heard and understood.

My staff knows how important it is to me that we treat each taxpayer as a valued customer. We believe that the valuation process should be transparent, and we pledge to provide answers to all of your questions with data, experience, courtesy and integrity.

I cannot promise to lower your taxes. But, I can promise that your concerns and comments will be carefully considered, and corrective action will be taken when warranted.

As we look toward the future, my goal is simple. I want to see the Wyoming Legislature alleviate some of the property tax burden that is placed on Wyoming residents - and I will do anything I can to assist them.

There are many states that offer some form of tax relief for their residents. Wyoming does not have to reinvent the wheel - but we do have to buckle down and make some tough choices.

Whether it means changing the assessment rate, instituting a cap on the percentage of increase, taxing at acquisition cost, offering long-time residents a homestead exemption, or reducing the state-mandated school mills for our elderly residents, we CAN find a solution.

My pledge to you is that I will stay informed and active in all property tax related issues both locally and at the state level. I will continue to work with my collegues across the state and with legislators when property tax reform bills are introduced, and I will advocate for change.