There’s an ongoing fight with millions of dollars on the line as some of our largest industries do battle with the county tax appraiser over their annual tax bills.
It’s a trend we’ve covered for years – and now – it looks like the fight is once again.in full swing.
Valero owns one of the largest refining complexes here in the Coastal Bend. And for years, they’ve sued the county appraiser over their tax bill.
Chief Appraiser Ronnie Canales tells us this year, Valero is taking things even further and forbidding tax appraisers from stepping foot on Valero’s property.
“This year, we’re allowed on the outside of the fence. We’re not allowed to come in. So really, their tactics are getting to be changing for some reason or other. Why we don’t know.”
This matters because Valero’s tax value is worth millions to our schools, our city and our county and getting an accurate tax appraisal is key.
Canales says that’s hard to do when you can’t get in to see what you’re appraising.
Valero responded via email to us this morning.
They say Canales is not entirely correct.
More on that on KRIS 6 News at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.