Board hires interim chief appraiser

The Cass County Appraisal Board convened Monday, June 22, to discuss and approve the hire of Gary Zeitler for interim chief appraiser to serve the district until a candidate is approved for permanent employment.

Following a 27-minute executive session, David Cothren made the motion, seconded by Joe Wall, to hire the president of Eagle Appraisal Services, Gary Zeitler, to act as interim chief appraiser beginning Aug. 3. The vote to approve Zeitler was unanimous.

Zeitler served as interim chief appraiser in Feb. 2015 until Jordan Klein was hired as chief appraiser in April 2015.

The appraisal district is currently contracted with Eagle Appraisal of Jacksboro, Tex. to service its commercial and business personal property accounts.

Anita White, who has been chief appraiser for the district since Apr. 2019, resigned at a board meeting Mar. 9. White had previously worked for Bowie County Appraisal District for 29 years.

White told board members that she would continue working through July 31 to certify values which are due by July 25.

“It’s a very busy time and I do not want to run out on them already being shortstaffed.”, White said.

Director Scotty Bates was grateful for White’s nearly four-month notice.

“I am very pleased to know that she will be with us through July in order to complete the certification of values for our district”, Bates wrote, “I understand her decision is a personal one, and I hope it is satisfying to her. I wish her the very best in her future endeavors!”

Director Jack Salmon lauded White’s effort in “helping to bring functionality back to the Appraisal District.”

“After a 30-year career in the industry, the Appraisal Board and I wish Mrs. White great joy and happiness in retirement and all other future pursuits”, Salmon wrote.

The appraisal board will reconvene in regular session at 5:30, Monday, July 20 at the Historic Cass County Courthouse on the second floor, 100 East Houston Street, Linden.