The Eagle County assessor race affects how the county values homes, businesses and land. Voters are choosing between Andie Noakes, a longtime employee of the assessor’s office, and Christopher Buono, who emphasizes leadership and data experience outside the office.
The distinction matters, but neither candidate can simply set your property-tax bill. Here is what the office does and how the candidates describe their approach.
What the Eagle County assessor controls
The Eagle County Assessor’s Office identifies, classifies and values taxable property under Colorado law. It also maintains property records and runs the assessment and appeals process. The county says all property is reappraised in odd-numbered years.
Property value is one part of a tax calculation. State assessment rates and mill levies from taxing districts also affect the bill. The assessor does not set those levies or collect the tax.
Andie Noakes: experience inside the office
On her campaign site, Noakes says she has worked in the office for about 25 years and now serves as chief appraiser. She is a certified residential appraiser. Noakes says she would focus on accurate records, consistent valuations, accessible appeals and continuity for the staff.
Her case to voters is that direct knowledge of Eagle County’s varied real-estate market and state appraisal rules would help her manage the next valuation cycle.
Christopher Buono: management and analysis
Buono says on his campaign site that he has spent more than 25 years leading complex operational and analytical work. He also teaches at Battle Mountain High School. Buono argues that clear standards, disciplined management and transparent communication would help property owners trust the office’s decisions.
His case is for bringing an outside management perspective to an office that handles large property datasets and decisions residents may challenge.
Eagle County assessor race: questions worth asking
How would each candidate check that similar properties receive similar treatment? What would make an appeal easier to understand? How would the office explain a sharp value change to a homeowner or business owner?
Those questions test promises the assessor can actually carry out. For another ballot decision, see our Colorado judicial retention guide. You can review your own record and the county’s assessment and appeals information before deciding which approach you prefer.
Candidate experience and priorities above come from their campaign materials. This guide does not endorse either candidate.
