08/03/2026
From the Desk of Terry Tipton Jr., CFA
Franklin County Property Appraiser
***Long post alert!
It's hard to believe we're already in the month of August! Today also starts my 24th year with the Franklin County Property Appraiser's Office. Looking back, I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to serve the people of Franklin County. I can honestly say that I still love my job and appreciate the opportunity to come to work every day. It's been a blessing, and I don't take it for granted.
The first seven months of the year have been very busy for our office. We've processed hundreds of homestead exemption, agricultural classification, and tangible personal property applications, along with deed transactions as properties have changed hands throughout the county.
I'm happy to share that we've officially received our 2026 Tax Roll Approval Letter from the Florida Department of Revenue! That's a big accomplishment for our office, and it wouldn't be possible without an incredible team.
I want to brag on my staff for just a minute because they deserve the recognition.
Chief Deputy Casey Nash serves as our Tax Roll Processor and works closely with the Florida Department of Revenue throughout the year and especially during the tax roll certification process. Her attention to detail, knowledge, and dedication are second to none. I'm thankful for everything she does and appreciate all of her hard work.
Joseph Ferrell, our Director of Mapping & GIS Services, is one of those people who can solve just about any mapping or property issue that comes his way. His technical expertise, knowledge of Franklin County, and willingness to help make him an invaluable part of our office.
Stephanie Smith, our Director of Deed Services, oversees our deed processing and ownership records. She does an outstanding job making sure property ownership is updated accurately and efficiently. She's dependable, organized, and always willing to help both our staff and the public.
Brenda Benjamin, our Customer Service Manager, is usually one of the first smiling faces you'll see when you walk through our doors. She truly enjoys helping people and goes above and beyond to make sure every citizen who visits our office feels welcomed and taken care of.
Heather Carroll, our Director of Tangible Personal Property, manages our tangible personal property program while also spending time in the field appraising property throughout the county. She works hard every day and is always willing to do whatever is needed to help our office succeed.
Megan Shiver, our Director of Finance, keeps our office running behind the scenes by managing our budget, payroll, and financial records. Her attention to detail and professionalism help keep everything on track.
Aaron Paulk, our Director of IT and Field Supervisor, keeps our technology running, oversees field operations, troubleshoots computer issues, and is always willing to jump in and help wherever he's needed.
And last, but certainly not least, our newest team member, Caden Allen, who is about to celebrate his first year with our office as a Field Appraiser. Caden has been a great addition to our office. He came in eager to learn, has a great attitude, and has quickly become a valuable member of our team.
I truly believe we have one of the best teams anywhere. They work hard, they care about getting things right, and most importantly, they care about serving the citizens of Franklin County. I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work alongside each day.
To my staff...thank you for your hard work, your dedication, and for everything you do for this office and the people of Franklin County.
Please take a moment to look over the attached 2026 Preliminary Values and the 2026 Proposed Millage Rates.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our doors are always open, and when you call our office, you'll hear a brief automated greeting followed by a live person who will be happy to assist you. We believe great customer service still matters, and we're always here to help.
Finally, I want to thank the citizens of Franklin County for allowing me to serve as your Property Appraiser. It truly is an honor, and as I begin my 24th year with this office, I remain committed to providing fair, accurate, and transparent service to every citizen.
Here's to another great year of serving the county we all love!
- Terry T
