The Lewis County Assessor’s Office has mailed approximately 48,000 property change-of- value notices for taxes to be paid in 2027, a news release from the county announced on Tuesday.
The notices are based on property values as of Jan. 1, 2026.
The Lewis County Assessor’s Office has the responsibility to determine the true and fair market value of all taxable real and personal property within the county per RCW 84.40. State law requires the assessor to revalue real property at 100% of true and fair market value on an annual basis.
The news release stated that, contrary to popular misconceptions, the assessor does not generate taxes, initiate tax rates, collect taxes or create tax bills, the release stated. Valuation of properties determines the portion of taxing districts’ budgets each property is billed.
In addition to valuation, the Lewis County Assessor’s Office also keeps property record inventory, appraisal reports, various maps of properties within the county and an assessment roll of all properties in the county, including ownership, description, tax code area, location and sales.
As for taxes, the assessor’s office allocates taxes for the state, county, cities and other taxing districts such as schools and fire districts. The assessor’s office ensures that the taxing districts receive the amounts they’ve budgeted and approved, as outlined in state law.
Other allocations of taxes include those that fund voter-approved measures, including those for veterans, seniors, fire protection and parks.
For the most part, voter-approved measures and taxing district budget increases are responsible for changes in property taxes, more so than changing property values, the release stated.
Owners can appeal the valuation to the county Lewis County Board of Equalization, an independent board that can be reached at 360-740-1391.
Residents can call the assessor’s office at 360-740-1392 or visit the office on the second floor of the Historic Lewis County Courthouse, 351 NW North St. in Chehalis.
Information is also available on the assessor’s website at https://lewiscountywa.gov/offices/assessor/.
