Dear Editor,

Hello. I am asking for your support for the two most experienced people for Gilpin County, Assessor April Nielsen and Treasurer Mary Lorenz.

I have heard from many property owners over the years that the Assessor and Treasurer set the taxes. Actually, the departments or authorities, County, Timberline Fire, Library and so forth, set the taxes through their budget needs yearly.

The Assessor’s office re-values all properties every odd year by using qualified market sales to determine the median value. The Assessor reports those values to the authorities who depend on taxes to operate, those authorities then set the mill levy or taxes. The Treasurer collects the taxes from all properties and ensures that all taxes are paid. The Treasurer then distributes the funds to all authorities in a timing manner.

The treasurer also ensures funds are available through the general fund so accounts payable can pay the bills and keep the lights on as they say.

Mary and April have built a strong communication line together between departments which has helped the interaction process of taking care of the residents.

With all the changes the elected officials at the Golden Dome have done over the last four years it has taken an experienced staff and highly dedicated, hard-working leaders to shift though the multiple changes in the regulations.

Mary Lorenz has twenty plus years in the office as a staff member and Treasurer, she has guided her staff with confidence and knowledge of the laws during the ups and downs from the Golden Dome.

April is in her first term but you would think she has been there for years. She started working for the county in the Community Development Department learning zoning, building and land uses. She brought that knowledge to the Assessor’s office and has since taken the courses for her appraisal license which she received. She has a thirst for learning, giving her the knowledge on each job within the department.

Folks, it’s not about party affiliation, the county Assessor, Treasurer, Sheriff and Clerk and Recorder must follow the State Constitution or fail their yearly audit by the state. What is important is, if there is a candidate running for office who has the experience within the department, that individual is already up to speed on the laws, office processes and has the support of the staff to keep the operation moving in the right direction.

Please vote, vote for experience, vote for your neighbors, vote April Nielsen and Mary Lorenz.

Thank you in advance for their support.

David Kurronen

Retired Gilpin County Chief Appraiser