Direct Assessment Processing

Assessment Administration

Datastream Business Solutions has a proven track record in providing direct assessment services for many special districts throughout California. Datastream Business Solutions has successfully administered assessment programs since 1989. We have been responsible for raising over $800 million in assessment revenue for our clients over the last 18 years. The following highlights the unique direct assessment services provided by Datastream Business Solutions' highly-trained staff:

• Real Property Information Subscription
• Exemption Processing and Maintenance
• Data Enhancement
• Public Hearing Notifications
• Preparation of Proceedings to Implement Direct Assessments
• Engineer's Reports/Data Documents
• Processing and Submitting Direct Assessments in accordance with County requirements
• Toll-Free Telephone Assistance to Taxpayers
• Proposition 218 Compliance
• Related Data Processing Services

All services can be tailored to meet the individual and unique needs of any agency. Datastream Business Solutions provides administration of direct assessments that is accurate, timely, comprehensive and cost-effective.

Feasibility Studies and Finance Plans for Revenue Programs using Direct Assessments

Designed for clients that have not previously used direct assessments, this service provides the client with an orientation for the entire direct assessment process. During this study, Datastream Business Solutions will review applicable government code sections and other legal matters, facilitate Board workshops, and prepare a finance plan with appropriate revenue models.

Real Property Information Subscription

Datastream Business Solutions's state-of-the-art IT (Information Technology) unit provides the reliable and current data necessary for revenue modeling, mailings, reporting, and calculating and submitting charges. The quality of the data is vital to successful and cost-effective administration of direct assessment programs.

Exemption Processing and Maintenance

Any direct assessment program must have the ability to handle exceptions to wholesale placement of charges. Datastream Business Solutions has developed successful procedures for handling exemptions, when appropriate.

Data Enhancement

Datastream Business Solutions recognizes the need to have the flexibility to add new forms of information to any database. Therefore, Datastream Business Solutions has invested in the latest technology to be able to quickly and accurately enhance any database to meet the data-tracking needs unique to your agency.

Public Hearing Notification

Datastream Business Solutions has successfully coordinated notifications covering millions of properties with mailed and published notices. Our background and knowledge have enabled us to guide our clients to follow the letter of the law with regard to the public hearing process, even as legal requirements continue to change.

Preparation of Proceeding to Implement Direct Assessments

Datastream Business Solutions provides complete and comprehensive implementation services to our clients; including, but not limited to, balloting, adoption of resolutions of intention, mailed notices, data document preparation, public hearings, and formal Board action to adopt charges. In some cases, an extensive public information and education campaign may be necessary to develop taxpayer support. Datastream Business Solutions can prepare the necessary documents for Board review, including the script and visual aids for a public presentation.

Engineer's Reports and Data Documents

With legal requirements getting stricter with regard to direct assessments as a revenue source, Datastream Business Solutions' certified engineers can write, revise or consult on any of the documents and reports required for proof of benefit in implementing direct assessments.

Processing and Submitting Direct Assessments

Datastream Business Solutions retains a trained professional staff and maintains an IT unit within the company solely dedicated to direct assessment administration. Clients subscribing to Datastream Business Solutions' information services have been able to substantially reduce their cost of submitting annual direct assessments, while receiving higher than expected revenue. Datastream Business Solutions is well-known for our level of accuracy and timeliness when submitting data for direct assessments.

Toll-Free Telephone Assistance to Taxpayers

As a condition of placing assessments, all counties require a phone number for taxpayer inquiry. Datastream Business Solutions maintains a trained staff of professionals to respond to specific inquires and general questions freeing our clients' administrative staff from handling sometimes angry and unpleasant phone calls. Datastream Business Solutions' staff are backed up by principals and supervisory staff who have years of experience and in-depth knowledge of taxes, assessments, and the workings of local agencies and county government.

Proposition 218 Compliance

Whether you are considering direct assessments, or have placed direct assessments for years, Proposition 218 affects how you will administer your program in the future. Datastream Business Solutions uses its knowledge and experience to help chart your path to 218 compliance.

Related Data Processing Services

At times, our clients prefer a reduced level of direct assessment service. In this case, Datastream Business Solutions provides the resources to process the information provided by the client, makes the necessary preparations, and submits the data to the county's specifications. This service may be suitable for small projects such as Mello Roos, 1911, 1913, and 1915 assessment districts.

Datastream Business Solutions provides clients in California with the accuracy, professionalism and expertise required for the administration of successful direct assessment programs. With Datastream Business Solutions, any agency can succeed and perform at the level required by law and by their Board of Directors. Datastream Business Solutions wants to be a member of your team.