Carrie Woodson, chief appraiser at the La Plata County Assessor's Office, announced her candidacy Tuesday for top job at the Assessor's Office.
Woodson, a 40-year resident of La Plata County, said she'd like to continue and advance her 21 years of experience, which includes "quality service," being approachable and helping property owners understand what the Assessor's Office does.
"I hope that those of you who have met with me over the past 21 years in the Assessor's Office have felt that I was fair and reasonable - that is important to me," Woodson said Tuesday in front of the La Plata County Administration Building, 1101 East Second Ave.
Woodson seeks to replace Craig Larson, who plans to retire after serving eight terms as assessor. Larson was one of about two dozen people who attended Woodson's announcement Tuesday.
"I want to thank Craig Larson, who over the past 21 years has been a trusted leader and mentor," Woodson said. "I am proud of the job you have done as the assessor for the past 30-plus years. It is important to me to keep the good work moving forward."
The Assessor's Office values property, including oil and gas assets, to determine the amount of property tax owed. The assessor oversees about 14 employees and a $1.2 million budget.
Woodson said she values innovation and new technology to be more efficient and reduce waste in terms of staff time and resources.
Woodson met her husband, Larry, on top of Molas Pass. They have two children, Rusty and Pepper, who were raised in Durango.
Prior to joining the Assessor's Office, Woodson worked in construction, property management and as a licensed real estate agent. She is a graduate of the 2007-08 Leadership La Plata class. She received her certified general appraiser license around 2002.
Woodson oversees the Pictometry Project and a group of local agencies - including La Plata County, city of Durango, La Plata Electric Association, town of Bayfield and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe - to share the cost of purchasing high-resolution aerial images of the county that are used by most county departments, first responders, and search and rescue personnel.
"I am asking for your vote to keep experience, innovation and my commitment to teamwork and public service at work for you," she said.
shane@durangoherald.com
