EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — The El Paso County Commissioners Court is addressing ongoing disruptions at the El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office, which have affected public services such as vehicle registration and property tax payments.

These issues are linked to the implementation of House Bill 718, effective July 1, which mandates the use of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles’ WebDealer system for all vehicle title and registration transactions.

While many counties adapted smoothly to the new system, the El Paso Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office has struggled, resulting in a backlog of over 5,600 dealer transactions and reduced public access to services.

The Tax Assessor-Collector attributes recent office closures to a lack of resources not provided by the Commissioners Court. Data has been submitted to the County Human Resources Department to assess resource needs.

The Commissioners Court, which does not manage the day-to-day operations of the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office, said on Friday during a meeting that it is committed to supporting solutions within its legal authority.

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego stated, “Residents deserve reliable and timely access to the essential services provided by the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office. While the challenges created by the transition to House Bill 718 have been significant, the County remains committed to doing everything within our legal authority to support solutions that restore stability and ensure the public is not further burdened.”

Despite financial constraints, the Commissioners Court said it has prioritized support for the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office by approving funding for vacancies, addressing open positions, supporting internal promotions, and authorizing overtime funding.

As the tax season approaches, the Court said it is prepared to continue collaborating with the Tax Assessor-Collector to best serve the community. Residents are encouraged to renew vehicle registrations online to avoid delays or unplanned office closures.

RECOMMENDED: West El Paso tax office closed until further notice due to backlog

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