History
In 1796 seven of the fifteen states levied uniform capitation taxes. Twelve taxed some or all livestock. Land was taxed in a variety of ways, but only four states taxed the mass of property by valuation. No state constitution required that taxation be by value or required that rates on all kinds of property be uniform. In 1818, Illinois adopted the first uniformity clause. Missouri followed in 1820, and in 1834 Tennessee replaced a provision requiring that land be taxed at a uniform amount per acre with a provision that land be taxed according to its value (ad valorem). By the end of the century thirty-three states had included uniformity clauses in new constitutions or had amended old ones to include the requirement that all property be taxed equally by value. A number of other states enacted uniformity statutes requiring that all property be taxed
Specialties
My staff and I are here to assist you with your questions and concerns regarding assessment practices in Monterey County. Property tax laws can be complicated and many times require detailed explanations. Our aim is to provide you with the best customer service and to provide you with as much information on property tax related issues as possible. The Assessor's office has the responsibility to locate all taxable property in the County and identify ownership. This office establishes value for all taxable property and applies all legal exemptions to the property. We are committed to establishing accurate and fair assessed property values and to assisting property owners and the public at large. If you have any questions or need further clarification on any information please come in and see me or a member of my staff. We are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. We can also be contacted by phone at (831) 755-5035 or by email at vagninis@co.monterey.ca.us.