Hall County Tax Commissioner Darla Eden will seek a second four-year term.
“It is certainly reassuring to hear support of improvements to the office since 2013,” Eden said. “My desire to serve as Tax Commissioner was primarily because I believe professional standards are necessary to deliver excellent customer service. During my first term, many interactions with taxpayers impacted changes that resulted in a more efficient and positive experience for both customers and staff. While challenging and ever changing, I have found the Tax Commissioner’s responsibilities to be very rewarding.”
The tax commissioner’s office acts as an agent for the state in processing motor vehicle titles and registrations as well as billing and collecting property tax for local governments and municipalities.
Early in Eden’s 1st term, the state legislature implemented House Bill 386 that resulted in a massive overhaul in the taxing system for motor vehicles. “These new laws created a demand for staff training and education to allow us to properly advise and educate our taxpayers in the correct system based on their individual circumstances.”
Eden said she has made it a priority in this first term to create a friendly environment and promote a good experience for the taxpayer. “While no one likes paying taxes,” she said. “Our job is to make it as painless as possible with an educated staff with a helpful attitude and efficient processes. Formation of some key services added during Eden’s 1st term have been; an information desk to greet and interview taxpayers upon entry, and a communications center to handle phone calls, emails and fax documents to assist the taxpayer.”
Eden is complimentary of the staff and gives them much credit for working together to recognize, develop and implement strategies to achieve desired results. “I thank the employees for being receptive to cross training, use of technology, and forming stronger partnerships with other county departments.
In her second term, Eden said that she will continue to work on taxpayer service initiatives, which include going paperless, and working closer with legislation and state policies that directly affect taxpayers.
“It is a great honor to serve the citizens of Hall County,” Eden said. “I have the drive and dedication to support the demands of the ever evolving state tax laws on the local level and keep our taxpayers properly informed. I would very much appreciate your support. “
Eden, a certified public accountant, was elected in 2012 and has 25 years’ experience in private industry, government, public accounting and taxation.
