County Appraiser Steven Miles to retire June 23 after 32 years with Douglas County office

Douglas County Appraiser Steven Miles is retiring June 23, 2023. Miles began working in the Appraiser’s Office in 1991 and was appointed County Appraiser by the Board of County Commissioners in 2009. The public is welcome to attend a retirement reception for Miles from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 23, at the Douglas County Courthouse, 1100 Massachusetts St., in the County Commission meeting room.

“My goal was always to be as fair and accurate as possible within the statutes and guidelines of the position,” Miles said. “Common sense and empathy have been very important over the years. I have enjoyed getting to know the people and my work, even during some difficult times.”

Miles began working in the Appraiser’s Office as field staff appraiser and “did a little bit of everything.” He collected data, did GIS mapping, and worked mostly in commercial and agriculture because of his background in farming and ranching. He studied animal sciences and industry at Kansas State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural production.

He worked as a cattle herdsman and trained horses after college and then moved to Lawrence in 1981 to continue that career. In the late 1980s, he obtained a real estate license and sold real estate until he was hired to work in the Douglas County Appraiser’s Office in 1991.

Miles has served as president of the Kansas County Appraiser’s Association, president of the regional chapter of IAAO, and director to the North Central Regional Association of Assessing Officers.

Miles has had success showing his horses in championship contests and has served as a judge for horse shows, both large and small in New Mexico, Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, Michigan, Missouri and Kansas.

A lifetime 4-Her, Miles has given back to the organization by serving as a project leader and equestrian and Hippology coach. He served on the Douglas County Fair Board when the new indoor arena was built. Additionally, he has served on boards for livestock and horse organizations and currently is assisting with planning the 30th annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade in downtown Lawrence.

In retirement, Miles is looking forward to doing what he loves: ranching, working with his AQHA horses and spending time with family.

Commercial Real Estate Supervisor Brad Eldridge will serve as interim County Appraiser.

“Steve has put together a good staff and supported professional development during his tenure,” Eldridge said. “I enjoy working with our team and assisting the public. I appreciate the opportunity to keep our department on course until the administration finds Steve’s permanent replacement.”