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Colfax County Assessor

The County Assessor determines the taxable value of homes, businesses and other property within the county, as the basis of setting ad valorem (property) taxes, sending notice of assessed values to property owners, and preparing the property tax rolls for the County Treasurer. Term: Four years, limited to two consecutive terms.

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  • Candidate picture

    LINDA L GALLEGOS
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    JOSEPH J MARTINEZ JR
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

1. What qualifies you for this office?

2. List your top priorities, and explain how you will achieve them.

3. How do you plan to ensure fairness and transparency in property valuations?

4. What training will you provide for your staff in the technical, legal, and administrative aspects of property valuation and taxation?

Campaign Endorsements Hon. Deb Haaland, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, Animal Protection Voters NM, CWA Local Union 7076, Jane Fonda Climate PAC, Planned Parenthood Votes NM
Campaign Email briggs4assessor@gmail.com
Occupation Chief Deputy Assessor
Filing County Colfax
Life-long resident of Colfax County Former Colfax County Assessor 2011-2018 Chief Deputy Assessor 2019-2026 NM Counties' Assessor Affiliate Char 2018-2023 NM Counties' Board of Directors Member 2014-2018 NM State Certified Appraiser NM State EDGE Certifications: CPO, CPS, CAPE, CPAO 15 yr Member of International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) Extensive knowledge in budgets, statutory reports & reporting, ownership/title conveyance
I have continually worked to improve operations within the offices that I have served including advocating for education & training for all staff. My leadership and experience are based on commitment, passion for serving our communities & residents, and a strong work ethic. and my integrity as a person and professional goes hand-in-hand. I enjoy sharing knowledge and helping people and believe that shared knowledge & cooperation amongst local government departments is necessary for a successful working environment. I have fostered a strong a positive working relationship with the State Taxation & Revenue Department-Property Tax Division and have maintained a collaborative working relationship with that oversight department for many years.
Transparency is not a perk or benefit; it is fundamental requirement of public records and government accountability. By communicating clearly and education on the Assessor's statutory responsibilities of one of the most misunderstood parts of local government, we have the ability to educate and rebuild trust in our departments. The processes of the Assessor's office which includes property valuation, property classifications, taxpayer benefits, and much, much more, rebuilding trust in local government is a goal that I have in one of the most misunderstood parts of local government.
I have always been a proponent of education and training. In this department, education through training builds a foundation for a well-prepared staff who will become experts in their perspective areas of assessment, and very staff member plays an integral part in the efficiency, production, and professionalism in the Assessor's office. In order to have property valuations that are fair and equitable and current and correct, team members must be knowledgeable and specialized in their respective fields. There are many avenues of education that are available to elected officials, department heads and staff through NM Counties, NM State EDGE Programs, IAAO Courses, etc., and especially networking with our counterparts on best practices.
mailingstate NM
Campaign Endorsements Hon. Deb Haaland, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, Animal Protection Voters NM, CWA Local Union 7076, Jane Fonda Climate PAC, Planned Parenthood Votes NM
Campaign Email jmartinez8346@gmail.com
Occupation Chief Deputy Assessor, Colfax County Assessors Office
Filing County Colfax
I bring nearly 14 years of experience in property assessment with Colfax County, beginning my career as an appraiser and completing more than 7,000 appraisals. I have served in leadership roles within the Assessor’s office, working directly with valuation, exemptions, and property data. I understand how property values are determined and how they impact taxpayers. My experience allows me to apply the law accurately, ensure consistency across the county, and provide clear, reliable information to property owners. I am committed to professionalism, transparency, and earning the trust of the public.
My top priorities are fairness, transparency, and accountability. I will ensure property values are applied consistently across all areas of Colfax County by using accurate data and following established guidelines. I will improve communication by providing clear explanations of how values are determined and making the office more accessible to the public. I will also lead by example by building a professional and responsive team through training and oversight, ensuring property owners are treated with respect, receive reliable service, and have confidence in the process.
Fairness and transparency are achieved by applying the same standards to every property and clearly communicating how values are determined. I will use accurate market data, follow state guidelines, and ensure consistency across all areas of Colfax County. I will make information more accessible so property owners understand their valuations and know their rights, including the protest process. I will also emphasize accountability by ensuring values are reviewed carefully and applied correctly, so no one pays more than their fair share and the process is clear, consistent, and trustworthy.
I will prioritize ongoing training to ensure staff understand the technical, legal, and administrative aspects of property valuation. This includes state-required courses, professional development, and hands-on training in appraisal methods, data accuracy, and customer service. I will lead by example and provide oversight to ensure standards are followed consistently. My goal is to build a knowledgeable, professional, and responsive team that serves property owners with respect and ensures values are applied fairly and correctly. Ongoing training ensures the office remains consistent, accountable, and trusted by the public.