Assessor candidates discuss fair valuations, transparency and taxpayer service

EPHRATA — With ballots due Nov. 3, Grant County voters will soon decide who will serve as the county's next assessor, an office responsible for valuing property, administering exemptions and ensuring assessments comply with state law. The position plays a key role in determining the property values used to calculate local property taxes for homeowners, farmers, businesses and other property owners throughout the county. The race features Clayton Johnson, a longtime employee of the Grant County Assessor's Office who currently serves as the county's senior sales analyst, and Anson Bartrand, a chief financial officer who says his background in finance, real estate and organizational management would bring a fresh perspective to the office.