Shawnee County Commissioner talks property values, opioid settlement

TOPEKA (KSNT) - County Commissioner Kevin Cook joined the 27 News Morning Show to discuss property values, the recent opioid settlement and severe weather awareness week.

Starting on Friday, March 1, 2024 Change of Value Notices were sent to more than 67,000 property owners in the county. Morning Anchor David George asked the Cook to explain the notices.

Cook said there are about 76,000 parcels of land and the county appraiser determines what they believe the value of the property is. Everyone who had their property value changed was sent a notice.

"If you believe that your property evaluation is wrong," Cook said. "Either too high, or too low, you do have between March 1 and April 1 to appeal that."

Cook was asked if property values are a double-edged sword; if property values go up, property owners must pay more in taxes.

"You know, it is a double-edged sword," Cook said. "But I think in this point what you're looking at is what is the value of the property. That's what you should really be focused in on. What is the value of your property if it was to go on the real estate market today?"

Regarding recent opioid settlements, Shawnee County has received $475,000. Cook said the county is looking at the best use for the money with some funds planned to go towards addiction services.

Cook spoke on severe weather awareness week. He said this is the time for the county to make sure all the systems and sirens are working and to make sure everything is where it needs to be.

"This is our check before we get into the severe weather season," Cook said. "Did you know today is lightning day? We're supposed to learn about lightning today. So if thunder roars, go indoors. Every day this week has been focused on one part of severe weather and on how we can be safe during severe weather season."

You can watch the full interview with Cook above.

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