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August 15, 2011
Small business owner Scott Drapekin announced his candidacy for the office of Terrebonne Parish Assessor on Thursday.
A registered Independent, Drapekin is a Houma resident who has been a full-time, state-certified real estate appraiser for more than 25 years. He is a member of the Bayou Board of Realtors, has worked in real estate ethics and licensing, and is skilled in real estate law.
“I believe I am the best candidate for this job,” Drapekin said. “I am independent and have had no role in the present assessor’s office. It is time for a change [and] I am an expert in real estate appraising – the most crucial task of the assessor.”
Drapekin said his work in real estate has helped him establish a working network and an ability to understand the issues that confront property owners and taxpayers. He noted that he is a firm believer in the homestead exemption.
“While assessors may not set the amount of the homestead exemption, it is crucial that the taxpayer have an advocate forever on this issue,” Drapekin said. “I believe that the homestead exemption is entitled to vigilant protection. I will fight ’til my dying breath if someone tries to lower or abolish it.”
Under the Louisiana Constitution, the parish assessor is responsible for assessing the fair market value of homes, equipment, oil pipelines and other specific property items.
“This is something I’ve always wanted to do because it is giving back to the community that has been so good to me,” Drapekin said. “We have a chance to make a bold move ahead, to elect a man who knows the parish, its people and the very nature of the job.”
