ABQ Times

The Office of the Bernalillo County Assessor has expanded its appraisal team by adding eight newly certified appraisers. This move is aimed at enhancing the property assessment process in the region.

"This year’s certification pay is a reflection of the qualifications of our staff and their vast accomplishments," stated Bernalillo County Assessor Damian Lara. "I believe assessment knowledge and a willingness to learn and improve should be rewarded."

Under New Mexico State law, appraisers are eligible for additional pay when they complete approved courses by the International Association of Appraising Officers (IAAO), as part of the State Assessors Certification Program. After being elected in 2022, Assessor Lara opted to extend this certification pay to all staff members, with the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners approving the change.

The incentive pay scale for the certifications is as follows: $750 for one state certificate, $2,500 for two, $5,500 for three, and $9,000 for four state certificates. In 2022, the staff received slightly under $255,000 in incentive pay, which increased to nearly $398,000 in 2023. By 2024, the total payout from the Assessor’s Certification Program amounted to $448,000.

"While employees get incentive pay, the real winners here are the property owners who benefit from having certified staff in the Office of the Assessor," added Lara.

The Office employs over 110 people.