What is the status of ex parte communication between ARB members and the appraisal district?

Ex parte communication between Appraisal Review Board (ARB) members and the appraisal district is prohibited. This prohibition is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the property tax appeal process. Ex parte communications refer to any direct or indirect communication regarding a case that occurs outside of the public hearing process, typically without the knowledge or presence of the other party involved in the disagreement.

The rationale behind this prohibition is to ensure fairness and transparency in the assessment process. If ARB members were allowed to communicate with the appraisal district without the presence of taxpayers or their representatives, it could lead to biased decisions or conflicts of interest. The goal is to provide all parties an equal opportunity to present their case and have their concerns addressed in a public and fair manner. Keeping the communication strictly controlled helps uphold the legal standards and ethical considerations that govern property tax disputes, ensuring that all proceedings are just and above board.

This understanding reinforces the importance of maintaining a level playing field in property tax appeals, which ultimately protects taxpayers' rights and the administration of property taxes.