Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michael G. Smith, CPA?
Michael G. Smith is a Collin County resident, Certified Public Accountant, operating executive, and consultant. His work has centered on evaluating complex information, managing budgets, strengthening controls, and holding organizations accountable for results.
What office is he seeking?
Michael is running for Place 2 on the Collin Central Appraisal District Board of Directors in the November 3, 2026 nonpartisan election.
What are his qualifications?
Michael’s CPA and executive experience includes financial oversight, budgeting, internal controls, organizational leadership, and advising businesses and families. He is accustomed to looking beyond surface-level explanations, asking careful questions, and making decisions involving other people’s interests and resources.
What does the CAD board control?
The board hires and evaluates the chief appraiser, adopts the district’s budget, and oversees its finances, contracts, policies, administration, and overall performance.
Can directors change individual appraisals?
No. The chief appraiser and appraisal staff determine property values, while the independent Appraisal Review Board decides taxpayer protests. CAD directors cannot intervene in individual appraisals, exemptions, or protests.
What are his priorities?
Michael’s priorities are fair and consistent treatment, clear lines of authority between management and the board, and adaptable, efficient administration of taxpayer resources.
Why is Michael running?
Michael is drawn to public service that requires careful, often unnoticed work. He is running to provide taxpayers with an independent director who will understand the details, ask difficult questions, and hold district leadership accountable for results.
Who sets property-tax rates?
Cities, counties, school districts, and other taxing units adopt their own budgets and tax rates. The Collin CAD Board does not set those rates or determine anyone’s final property-tax bill.
How is Collin CAD funded?
Collin CAD is funded by the local taxing units it serves, with each unit’s share generally based on its proportion of the property taxes imposed by all participating units. Those are still taxpayer resources. The board therefore has the same responsibility as any other public body to ensure taxpayers receive value for the money.
When is the election?
The election for the Collin Central Appraisal District Board of Directors, Place 2, is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
How can I contact the campaign?
You can reach the campaign team through the Contact/Support page on this site.