Rallying for Fair Valuation: CDO Barangay Execs Support for Real Property Ordinance Sought

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

If you've been in Cagayan de Oro City lately, you might have heard some buzz about the new real property ordinance. City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia recently called on CDO's barangay officials to lend their support to this proposed ordinance. It aims to update the fair market valuation of the city's real properties. This all went down during the second round of public hearings, which took place at the City Council session hall. And guess what? There's another hearing coming up this Friday, June 7, at the same venue.

So, what’s the big deal about this ordinance? Well, for one, updating the fair market valuation of properties is crucial for the city's revenue. It ensures that property taxes are in line with the current market, which helps fund essential public services and infrastructure projects. City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia emphasized this point during his call to action, urging barangay officials to back the ordinance.

Councilor George Goking, chairperson of the City Council’s ways and means committee, hosted the hearings. He’s been a key figure in facilitating this dialogue, making sure everyone gets a say. This inclusive approach is essential because it helps build community consensus, which is vital for any policy change.

Now, let's dig a little deeper. Updating property valuations isn't just about numbers on a spreadsheet. It has real-world implications. For residents, it means paying property taxes that reflect the true value of their homes and lands. For the city, it means having the funds needed to improve roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. It's a win-win, but only if everyone gets on board.

During the second hearing, a lot of interesting points came up. Some barangay officials expressed concerns about the potential increase in property taxes. They worried it might burden low-income families. Others, however, recognized the long-term benefits, like better public services and infrastructure. Balancing these concerns is what makes these hearings so important.

One of the most compelling aspects of these hearings is the dialogue it fosters. It's not often you see such a diverse group of people coming together to discuss something as seemingly mundane as property valuation. But this is what democracy looks like—everyone having a say in decisions that affect their lives.

Councilor George Goking has done a fantastic job of keeping the conversation constructive. He’s made it clear that the goal is to find a balanced solution that works for everyone. This kind of leadership is crucial in times like these, where public trust in government is more important than ever.

So, what can we expect from the third public hearing this Friday, June 7? For starters, more dialogue and hopefully, more consensus. The goal is to address any lingering concerns and refine the ordinance to make it as fair and effective as possible. City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia and Councilor George Goking will be there, continuing their efforts to rally support from barangay officials.

If you're a resident of Cagayan de Oro, this is something you might want to keep an eye on. The decisions made in these hearings will have a lasting impact on the city’s future. So, whether you're a homeowner, a renter, or just someone who cares about the community, your voice matters.

In the end, the push for the CDO barangay execs' support for the real property ordinance is more than just a bureaucratic exercise. It’s a community effort to ensure that the city’s growth is sustainable and inclusive. With leaders like City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia and Councilor George Goking at the helm, there’s a good chance that a fair and balanced ordinance will emerge.

So, let’s stay tuned and see how this unfolds. The next hearing promises to be another step forward in making Cagayan de Oro a better place for everyone. And that’s something we can all get behind.

Navigating the Future of Real Property: Insights from Cagayan de Oro's Valuation Reforms

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDIT: BY SC

The city of Cagayan de Oro is currently at the forefront of a pivotal transformation in real property valuation, an initiative set to redefine urban development and economic growth. The kickoff of public hearings on the "Prescribed Revised Schedule of Fair Market Values of Real Property in Cagayan de Oro City and other purposes" ordinance marks a critical juncture for stakeholders across the spectrum. This series of hearings, initiated by the 20th City Council's committee on ways and means, spearheaded by Councilor George Goking, is a testament to the city's commitment to transparent and inclusive governance.

The inaugural session, which concluded on a note of optimistic negotiation among City Hall officials, business leaders, and city administrator Roy Hilario Raagas, underscores the potential for a balanced approach to urban planning and development. The collective willingness to negotiate on real property valuation for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural areas reflects a shared vision for Cagayan de Oro's future. Such collaboration is crucial, as it ensures that the revised valuation not only fosters a conducive business environment but also aligns with the city's broader development goals under Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy's administration.

City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia's presentation highlighted the comprehensive benefits that the proposed ordinance aims to deliver. By adjusting the fair market values of real property, the initiative seeks to lay the groundwork for a more equitable and dynamic urban economy. This revised valuation is more than a fiscal adjustment; it's a strategic move to fuel development projects, enhance public services, and stimulate economic growth. The upcoming hearings, scheduled for May 31, June 7, and June 21, represent critical milestones in refining and implementing these changes.

The engagement of the city's top business leaders in these hearings is a promising sign of the cooperative spirit driving this initiative. Their active participation ensures that the revised schedule of fair market values is grounded in real-world economic dynamics and business needs. This collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for crafting policies that are both realistic and forward-thinking, ensuring that Cagayan de Oro's development trajectory benefits from a broad spectrum of insights and expertise.

As Cagayan de Oro City moves forward with these public hearings, the implications of the proposed real property valuation reforms extend far beyond immediate fiscal considerations. This initiative represents a strategic pivot towards sustainable urban development, one that balances economic vitality with social equity. By fostering an environment that encourages investment and innovation, while also ensuring that development projects align with the city's long-term goals, Cagayan de Oro is setting a precedent for cities nationwide.

In conclusion, the public hearings on real property valuation in Cagayan de Oro City are more than just statutory requirements; they are a forum for shaping the future of urban development in the Philippines. As stakeholders continue to engage in constructive dialogue, the potential for a revised valuation scheme to catalyze comprehensive economic and social benefits is immense. The outcome of these negotiations and the eventual implementation of the ordinance will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for other localities aiming to harmonize economic growth with sustainable urban planning.