The main function of the Equalization Department is to assure that all the local units of government in the county are assessed fairly and equitably.

The fundamental principle of property taxation is to see that all property is assessed equitably according to market value. Equalization; therefore, does appraisal and sales studies to develop ratios for each class of property in each township and city. These ratios are converted into factors which put township at the constitutional uniform assessment not to exceed 50 percent. Besides these studies, the department furnishes assistance to the tax units and assessing officers. The department maintains property descriptions, assessments, homesteads, property maps, 911 house numbering, data processing, and ownership changes for all 14 townships, 2 cities and 2 villages. The equalization department is currently working on digital maps and aerials.

Please contact us for the application form to issue house numbers for new construction.