Tax expert’s work bridges policy and community
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, UNC School of Government’s Kirk Boone stepped up to support tax assessors.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s unprecedented devastation in September 2024, western North Carolina faced challenges that tested the resilience and expertise of its communities. Among those deeply invested in the region’s recovery was Kirk Boone, associate teaching professor of public finance and government at the UNC School of Government.
“I’m from that area,” said Boone, a seasoned tax professional and a certified appraiser with a career spanning over 30 years. “That’s my home.”
The magnitude of the disaster prompted immediate response from the public, including professionals from neighboring communities. County tax assessors were among the many under-resourced groups, yet they played a crucial part in disaster recovery in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Stepping up in a time of crisis
After Helene hit, “I made it a point to speak with the tax assessor in each county to make sure they were OK,” Boone said. He recognized that, beyond the immediate humanitarian relief, there was a pressing need for guidance to help tax assessors. These professionals, who were also dealing with the disaster’s effects on their own homes and families, were also required by law to assess each property’s physical damage from hurricane winds and flooding — something many of them had never done before.
With support from the UNC School of Government, collaboration with the North Carolina Association of Assessing Officers and insights from experienced tax assessors in Onslow, Craven, Dare and Ashe counties, a comprehensive damage assessment training was developed for North Carolina tax assessors.
Boone, alongside the tax assessor experts, led a nearly two-hour session at the NCAAO fall conference in Greensboro. The training was recorded by audio and video production specialist Paul Bonner and later published on the school’s public finance blog, “Death & Taxes,” as a lasting resource for assessors across the state.
Looking ahead
“We want to make sure that assessors never feel like they’re alone or don’t know what to do in this difficult situation,” Boone said. “As an assessor, knowing your resources is key. Organizations like the School of Government, North Carolina Association of Assessing Officers, North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, North Carolina City and County Management Association and the North Carolina Department of Revenue are those core resources.”
Beyond these efforts, Boone worked with Rob Shepherd, executive director of the N.C. City and County Management Association, to administer information about how the assessor’s office can provide expertise on the damage assessment process.
As western North Carolina continues its recovery, professionals like Boone and his colleagues carry on the crucial role of combining expertise and public service to overcome adversity. These contributions have not only helped provide relief to those affected by Hurricane Helene but also contributed to a more resilient and informed community that is better equipped to handle disasters.
How Carolina is responding to Helene
Learn more about how Carolina is lending a helping hand.
