I read with interest Susan Knopf’s opinion piece in which she compared candidates in the upcoming primary election. I have worked in the county assessor’s office for over 40 years and known Frank Celico since he began his employment as an attorney with Summit County, working on arbitration and state-level appeal cases. I have served as his deputy and chief appraiser. In addition, I was Lisa Eurich’s direct supervisor for two years. I offer the following perspective for your consideration.

Both individuals are intelligent, friendly and provide good service to all who do business with this office. Since Celico assumed his role as assessor, I have observed how well he has executed his responsibilities, treated employees fairly and interacted professionally with all county departments.

Celico is thoughtful, wants to know all aspects of an issue and consults HR guidelines or Colorado statute before making decisions. He asks for staff opinions. He does not panic when faced with difficult situations and draws upon the knowledge of office personnel, other assessors and state resources.

His innovations are notable. We are embarking upon a replacement of our database software that will update the administrative and appraisal programs. The 2021 valuations employed a new valuation calculator that applied uniformly accurate values to residential and vacant land parcels. Celico instituted procedures to review decisions on appeals to ensure equitable valuations.

Why is this important? Your tax dollars support your schools, local governments, and fire and police protection. The future of the county depends upon sound public policy and honest, competent and demonstrated leadership. Celico has demonstrated these qualities and the work ethic to do so effectively.

Celico has proven himself as an effective manager of a complex organization. Eurich has proven herself as a competent appraiser.