Tangel was awarded the designation on June 25, following completion of the final exam in a series of four. The cumulative series encompasses the various methods of evaluating property, management, statutes and relationships between government and citizens.
"This is the highest level of competence for a field appraiser in the tax assessor's office certified by the state of Georgia," Board of Assessors Chairman John Stegall said.
"This certification is given by the state Department of Revenue. It's not local; it's statewide and it's very competitive and it's quite an achievement. There are not that many Appraiser Fours around."
Chief Appraiser Clarence Brown said, "most people take the tests multiple times and Kurt has passed every one of them on the first try."
Tangel spent about 30 months in the process traveling to Department of Revenue classes all over the state of Georgia. This designation enhances Tangel's eligibility to become a chief appraiser.
In recent memory, according to Brown, this is the first level four appraiser in Dawson County. "A 'four' exceeds the requirements of the state based on number of parcels in the county," he said.
"Having this certification will better prepare Kurt to handle the growth of the county as we get more complex properties that have to be appraised," Stegall said. "He will have the background to do that."
Tangel is appreciative of the acknowledgment by his colleagues. Said Kurt of his achievement, "I know I'll be able to provide better all-around service to our citizens - better than before."

John Stegall, Kurt Tangel, Clarence Brown
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/7/211785