The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Falon Hoven, Wahkiakum County deputy assessor/appraiser, this week announced she would be a candidate for county assessor in this year's election.

A Wahkiakum High School graduate, she earned a bachelor degree at Washington State University. After graduating, she began working as director for the Appelo Archives Center in Naselle.

"My work at the Appelo Archives has instilled a lifelong appreciation for the history of Wahkiakum County," she said in the statement announcing her candidacy. "I remain on the archive's board of directors to this day.

"I became a licensed real estate broker in 2015 and began my career in property valuation. I specialized in Wahkiakum County residential real estate, guiding buyers and sellers in real estate transactions for almost five years."

She left real estate to join the assessor's office a few years ago. Since then, she received appraiser accreditation from the state Department of Revenue and has taken further educational training.

"My background in real estate was essential in my ability to perform the duties of an appraiser and helped fast track my accreditation," she said. "I have assisted with every function of the assessor's office and taken the lead on many. While there is always something new to learn, I have spent years in the field of property valuation and assessment developing the skills necessary to hit the ground running, should I be elected.

"While many of us don't enjoy receiving our valuations or taxes, it should give peace of mind to know that the elected officials administering these functions are well qualified, respectful and open to communication with the community members they serve. I believe I am that person; I look forward to this campaign and hopefully serving this county as assessor."

One may contact Hoven by email at falon4assessor@yahoo.com.