Cook County officials to explain assessment appeals

In response to historical lows in the housing market, Cook County tax officials are organizing taxpayer appeal seminars throughout the county.

The next seminar in the Northwest suburbs is at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 24, at the Des Plaines city hall, 1420 Miner Street. Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Brendan Houlihan and Des Plaines Mayor Marty Moylan will discuss how you can appeal your property assessment if you believe you are overassessed.

The seminars are opportunities for individual homeowners to seek relief in their property taxes due to a depressed market and overvaluations to their homes.

"I will not stand by as my neighbors are being taxed out of their homes," Houlihan said. "The board of review is an option where people can find serious relief."

Attendees are asked to bring their property tax bills to more effectively file an appeal. There will be a short presentation, and staff members from the board of review, or property tax appeals board, will be on hand to answer questions and help fill out appeal forms.

The only requirement for a review of property assessments is a timely completed appeal form from the board of review.

The presentation will explain how to file an appeal and how an appeal is granted. Please arrive at 7 p.m. If you have any questions, contact Houlihan's office at (312) 603-3644.

Maine Township is open for appeals until March 29. For more information please go to www.cookcountyboardofreview.com.