Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Ryan McGill
Walker County Chief Appraiser Andy McSpadden has dedicated over 18 years to the field of property appraisal. Originally from Winston County, Andy was ready for a new challenge when an opportunity with the Revenue Commission presented itself.
“I had a job, but I needed a change,” Andy recalls. “Somebody told me that the Revenue Commission in Winston County was hiring, so I applied and went to work there.”
Andy explains that becoming an appraiser isn’t a career path you can pursue through traditional college education. “You can’t go to college to get the training you need to become an appraiser. You have to start working for the county, and they send you to training. After I started, I took classes, and a man from the state trained me to do my job.”
He quickly realized that appraisal was a field in which he could build a fulfilling, lifelong career. Now, after nearly two decades in the business, Andy serves as Chief Appraiser for Walker County. In this role, he oversees staff responsible for mapping, fieldwork, and clerical duties. His team appraises property values, which are then used by the Revenue Commission to calculate annual property taxes.
Andy’s career has brought him many rewards. No two days are the same—some are spent in the office, while others take him out on the road. He’s also proud to be surrounded by a strong, supportive office staff. But the most meaningful part of his job is building relationships with people throughout the county.
“I’m in different parts of the county all the time, and there are some great people here. No matter the situation, I do my best to help people. Even though property taxes have to be paid, there’s always a way to meet people where they are. I also take the time to educate them on the best way to handle their property taxes,” says Andy.
Over the years, Andy has learned that every situation requires a personal approach. Listening, understanding, and helping each person navigate their unique circumstances is a key part of his role.
“I want to make it as easy as I can. When I meet people, and they get to know me, they feel like they can come in and talk to me if they have a problem,” he says. “Also, I’ve learned that the first look at something can be deceiving, either in a good or a bad way. It made me realize that when somebody comes in, maybe mad about their taxes, I don’t know what that person is going through at the time. So, patience is needed, but letting someone talk and taking my time to figure out how to help them has been helpful.”
While being Chief Appraiser has helped Andy McSpadden serve his community in a vital role, it has also impacted his outlook on the world in a meaningful way, allowing him to show others that he truly cares. WL