Flyover debate: For property tax assessments, aerial photography could be the future

Anne Arundel County's property tax base could expand by more than $168 million in the span of three years if assessors are allowed to use aerial photographs to inspect homes and businesses, according to a recent state report.

But General Assembly lawmakers this session appear to have shot down an attempt by the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) to use the photos for assessments in counties across Maryland, citing concerns about privacy and rising taxes.

Sen. Ed Kasemeyer, a Democrat representing Howard and Baltimore counties who chairs the Budget and Taxation committee, said $2.2 million intended to pay for the photos has been cut from next fiscal year's budget, which passed both chambers of the legislature last week.

Kasemeyer has also submitted an amendment gutting a bill that would have allowed the use of aerial and ground photography for property tax assessments. His proposal, which was approved by the Senate last month, bans the practice outright. The measure is now under review by a House committee. CONTINUE READING