For the Reporter

King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer and King County Assessor John Wilson will host two town halls on property taxes in Auburn and Federal Way.

The gatherings:

• Auburn: 7-8:30 p.m. April 4, Green River College Conference & Event Center, River Room, 12401 SE 320th St.

• Federal Way: 7-8:30 p.m. April 11, Federal Way City Hall, Council Chambers, 33325 Eighth Ave. S.

The public meetings are an opportunity for South King County residents to learn more about how property values are established, how property taxes are calculated and where the money goes. It will also be an opportunity to learn more about available exemptions, online services and the appeals process.

“With the current economy’s ever changing real estate values and property taxes, it is important that our local property owners understand the correlation between specific levied taxes and local real estate values in their area,” von Reichbauer said.

“The effects of King County’s growing economy and hot real estate market are not felt the same in all parts of the county,” Wilson said. “In 2015, King County voters spoke loud and clear about their desire to invest in high quality services around the region, which impacted property taxes.”

Barbara Sbisa from the County’s Tax Advisor’s Office will join von Reichbauer and Wilson. They will be available to field questions from residents and discuss how the Assessor’s Office can better serve King County taxpayers.

Some low-income seniors, disabled veterans, or disabled persons retired because of a disability might be eligible for a property tax deferral or exemption.

For more information, contact von Reichbauer’s office at 206-477-1007.