Editor,

The article “Property prices in Island County soar 20 percent” published in the July 7 South Whidbey Record includes two quotations attributed to me. While the statements are correct, additional information is needed to put them into context.

A property tax statement is mailed to every owner in Island County annually, even to those with $0 due; current and delinquent balances are included. In addition, property tax information is published online at the county’s website and is always available by phoning the Island County Treasurer’s Office or requesting an emailed statement. Because the tax due information is readily available, not receiving a statement does not relieve the owner of paying in a timely manner.

Property taxes in Washington are due April 30; if the first half (or the full year if the tax is $50 or less) is paid by that date, the taxpayer may pay the remainder by Oct. 31 without penalty or interest. If no payment is received by April 30, interest and penalty accrue on the delinquent (full year) balance at statutory rates. Taxpayers may pay the delinquent first half, including late charges, until Oct. 30; after that, the option to pay by half no longer applies and the full year is due. The exception to this is for personal property taxes: if no payment is made by April 30, the entire year becomes due and payable in whole, plus any accrued interest and penalties.

I hope this better explains the state statutes under which the treasurer’s office operates in Island County.

WANDA GRONE

County treasurer