Posted on: Tuesday, March 19, 2002

Big Isle tax notices have errors

By Hugh Clark
Advertiser Big Island Bureau

HILO, Hawai'i — Hawai'i County officials are recalling at least some of the 148,000 property assessment notices sent to Big Island landowners because of errors, and will be sending out new notices.

According to the Big Island mayor's office, the errors were made by Electronic Management Support Services Inc., a private company under contract to mail the notices.

Mistakes were made adding the values of land and structures. And some landowners were notified that they owe no taxes, when they actually owe the $25 minimum.

County Deputy Finance Director Nancy Crawford said the company would pay the cost of mailing out new notices. Company officials could not be reached for comment.

It should be known soon exactly how many notices will have to be remailed at the first-class bulk rate of 28 cents each, said Crawford and her boss, Bill Takaba, county finance director.

The actual tax bill for the year starting July 1 will be mailed in July, after tax rates are adopted by the county.

Both the mayor and some members of the council are proposing tax rate increases to meet an expected $8.1 million revenue shortfall.

Kim has until May 5 to submit a final tax rate proposal.