Editor’s note: Annette Springs is the Democratic candidate for
Arapahoe County assessor.
A native of Colorado, I grew up in west Denver and graduated
from West High School. While working and helping to raise a family
of three boys, I completed the Executive MBA program and received
certification in Alternative Dispute Resolution (mediation,
arbitration, and negotiation) from the University of Denver.
I also participated in various professional and community
organizations. I hold a bachelor of science in Business
Administration from the University of Phoenix.
My first “real” job was at Mountain Bell (a US WEST company) in
an entry-level position, from which I was promoted to various
management positions, and finally to directorship at US WEST
Communications, a position in which I gained significant business
experience.
I have spent the last 10 years as owner of a real estate
appraisal firm, a Mortgage Loan Officer, Certified Residential and
FHA Appraiser, and Broker Associate and Realtor specializing in
lender-owned properties. I am also a Certified Short-Sales and
Foreclosure Specialist. I am a member of the Aurora Association of
Realtors, Colorado Association of Realtors, and National
Association of Realtors.
From time to time, because of my knowledge and expertise, I
receive requests to handle assignments usually outside the norm for
appraisers, such as producing a property appraisal for use in the
settlement of a property boundary dispute; estimating the cost
and/or benefit of splitting a duplex into two single-family homes;
resolving challenges to assessed property values; and reviewing
appraisals completed by other appraisers.
Why me as assessor?
I am confident that my experience, qualifications, and
enthusiasm for fulfilling the duties of Arapahoe County assessor
makes me the best choice for this position.
Improvements
Room for improvement exists in any system. As Arapahoe County
assessor, I will be enthusiastic about implementing improvements
wherever necessary.
Education
As county assessor, I will make it a top priority to educate
constituents about matters concerning their property values.
The public fully expects the assessor’s office to assess
property values in a fair and uniform way as defined by law. But is
the public sufficiently aware of the assessor’s role, the process,
and how it may affect their livelihood? Does the constituent know,
for example, why the assessed value of his or her property may
differ from an appraiser’s opinion of its market value, a real
estate agent’s market valuation of competitive properties, an
insurance company’s valuation, or an automated system’s
valuation?
Best practices
As county assessor, I will also evaluate “best practices” and
incorporate them where appropriate, provided they cut costs and
result in efficiencies that benefit property owners and
stakeholders.
Equal access
As county assessor, I will ensure that property owners are made
aware that they have equal access to property records to which
appraisers, real estate agents, lenders, and title companies are
now privy. This access will afford property owners a valuable
resource and at the same time improve the function of the
assessor’s office.
I have a track record of hard work, commitment, good work ethic,
and integrity. I will bring all these qualities and more to the
position.
My husband and I have lived in Aurora for the past 32 years. One
of our three sons resides in Aurora, one in Pahrump, Nev., and one
in Portland, Ore. I enjoy fishing, reading, and traveling. I am
quick to say that there is no place more beautiful than Colorado,
from the Four Corners to Grand Junction, to Pueblo, to Fort
Collins, to Lamar, and all the fishing spots in-between.
