Codington County 2026 Property Values Certified as Ag Land Assessments Rise About 4%

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Codington County Director of Equalization Shauna Constant delivered a brief but notable monthly update to commissioners Tuesday, confirming that the South Dakota Department of Revenue has officially certified the county’s 2026 property values.

Constant said the state also released updated ag productivity numbers, showing an estimated 4% increase in agricultural land values for the coming assessment year. “Just at a glance, approximately a 4% increase in ag land this coming year,” she told the board.

Appraiser Assistant Hiring Underway

Constant reported strong early interest in the county’s newly created Appraiser Assistant position, with four applications already received. The temporary role was approved earlier this month to help the office complete the Lake Kampeska reappraisal, which is now halfway finished.

“I would like to have someone working as soon as possible,” Constant said, noting that the office continues to manage a heavy workload following the recent resignation of an appraiser and an upcoming medical leave for another.

To keep pace, the three remaining appraisers are rotating field duties while office staff assist with appointments and property reviews.

2027 Budget Request

Constant also presented her department’s 2027 budget proposal, which includes:

·         3% employee wage increase

·         10% health insurance increase

·         10% dental insurance increase

·         $2,000 increase in maintenance contracts

All other budget lines remain unchanged. Maintenance contracts cover software systems such as ProVal, Esri, and other vendor update agreements, along with copier and printer service.

Commissioners had no questions on the budget.

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