File photo.

PORTLAND, Ore. - KATU reported Tuesday that property tax bills are on their way to residents in Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington counties.

If you thinking you'll get a break because of falling property values, think again. Indeed, most homeowners in the Portland metropolitan area will see higher taxes on property tax bills arriving this week.

So why hasn't your property tax bill dropped in line with declining home values?

"I think our local government is trying to make up for lost revenue in other areas, so they're sticking it to the man," quips one Multnomah County property owner.

In fact, the taxed amount is based on Measure 50, which was passed by local voters in 1997. The measure made it so that your property taxes are based on the assessed value, and not the market value, of your house.

Here's how those numbers compare:

•  The real market value had been dramatically climbing until this past year.
•  The assessed value - though still increasing - is substantially lower.

Your property taxes will jump by the mandated 3 percent, plus another 3 percent will be tacked on because of measures approved by Multnomah County voters.

For the average homeowner this year that translates to an increase of $68.41 for the Children's Investment Fund, $55.91 for Portland Community College bonds and $15.29 for the Oregon Zoo bonds.

Your tax increase also depends on where you live in these counties. Those in Riverdale will see the biggest increase, 9 percent due to a new school bond. In Gresham, the increase will be only 2 percent, because one school bond expired and another was voted down.

If you renovated your house and its value went up but you think the county is overvaluing your property, you can appeal. But good luck.

Last year, 2,400 property owners appealed - but only 280 actually got their accessed-values changed.

"We plan to do that, but I don't anticipate a win because we've never won before," said one property owner. "But you do it anyway. Yeah, you go through the motions because it's unfair."

And what is the most sure-fire way to get a break on your property tax bill?

"If you pay in full by Nov. 16," said Multnomah County Assessor Randy Walruff, "you'll receive a 3 percent discount."

Payments must be postmarked by Nov. 16.

There is a property tax deferral program in Oregon which helps low-income seniors and people with disabilities keep their homes. While it is too late to apply for deferral relief this year, starting in January you can apply for a deferral for 2010. Call (800) 356-4222 for more information on this option.

Meanwhile, taxpayers can opt to pay their tax in installments. However, you'll want to know the county will not be sending out statements in February or May "as a cost-cutting measure." So, as far as remembering to pay, you'll be on your own.
 

Online resources

How to appeal your assessment in Multnomah County, or call (503) 988-3326

How to appeal your assessment in Clackamas County

How to appeal your assessment in Washington County

How to appeal your assessment in Marion County

How to appeal your assessment in Clark County