EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Office of the El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collector announced that it is temporarily closing two offices, effective March 1.
The offices that will be closed are at the Welcome Center on Fort Bliss and the Westside office at 424 Executive Center Blvd.
The Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office said that the implementation of HB 718 mandates that licensed automobile dealers report title transfers electronically to their office by July 1.
“I cannot address these changes without the proper staffing and space to focus on this major change statewide,” said Ruben P. Gonzalez, tax assessor-collector.
Here is the rest of his statement:
“It is with a deep sense of frustration and regret that I must decide to close the TAC offices that serve our citizens on the Westside and our Fort Bliss Military community. Starting on March 1, 2025, I will temporarily close to the public the Tax Offices located at the Welcome Center on Fort Bliss and at 424 Executive Center Blvd. As a result of the implementation of HB718 which mandates that Licensed Automobile Dealers report title transfers electronically to my office by July 1, 2025, l cannot address these changes without the proper staffing and space to focus on this major change statewide.
“Currently, my office is assisting the Department of Motor Vehicles to get dealers to comply; otherwise, they will not be able to transfer title ownership to the buyers and lienholders. Likewise, I must transition my staff to prepare for the increase of title transfers approvals coming our way. Without staff and space, owners and lienholders cannot receive a title, we cannot collect timely Motor Vehicle Fees and Taxes, Dealers will not get reimbursed by lienholders to buy more inventory, and will not be able to make payroll for their staff, etc.
“Under new TxDMV Administrative Rules on the implementation of HB718; employee training is a vital need in my department. All Divisions in my department will be affected. This mandate is an attempt to prevent statewide fraud in temporary paper permits and dealer tags.
“Included is title fraud and Motor Vehicle Tax evasion. At the point in our county budget process that I receive additional resources, I will be more than happy to continue my duties in serving our community. Please accept my sincerest apologies for any inconveniences that are created due to my decision. I trust that you understand my predicament.”
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