UPDATE: Originally, WGNS incorrectly presented Commissioner Craig Harris’s statements as an op-ed submission. In reality, the remarks below were simply the statements made by Commissioner Harris to WGNS shortly after the Tennessee Comptroller warned the county commission about improper property appraisals that were reportedly uncovered by the Comptroller’s Office.

Below is the full statement released by Commissioner Harris:

“As a Rutherford County Commissioner running for mayor, I believe all sides should be heard but based on Comptroller Mumpower's report, I feel we must take action. 

“This isn’t about politics — it’s about trust. Every taxpayer in Rutherford County deserves confidence that their home or business is being assessed fairly. We’re talking about people’s life savings, not spreadsheets 

“As Commissioner, I’m already calling for a full independent review of all parcels. 

“When leadership fails to ensure basic oversight in something as critical as property valuation, every homeowner pays the price. I believe in leadership that listens, investigates, and corrects before small errors become countywide crises.”

Harris went on to state:

I’m for:
1. An Independent Property Assessment Review Committee,
2. A Public Database Transparency Dashboard, and
3. A Taxpayer Hotline to report errors.

“This isn’t just about numbers — this is about fairness. A homeowner shouldn’t have to wonder if their tax bill is based on reality or error. Let’s fix this and protect the integrity of our county.”

Related News Article: To see the video of Comptroller Mumpower speaking before the Rutherford County Commission, see our News Article about the Comptroller's report regarding property assessments HERE.