A New View on Property Assessment: EagleView Imaging Software Demonstrated for Warren County

At the April 22nd Warren County Board of Supervisors work session, representatives from EagleView, a leading provider of aerial imagery and data technology, gave a live demonstration of the company’s advanced imaging tools. The software is being considered by the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office to assist with property assessment and public safety.

Commissioner Sherry Sours, who invited the company to present, was unable to attend due to illness. The demonstration was led by Jonathan Broida, EagleView’s Virginia district manager, who explained how the software can help streamline property assessments, enhance emergency response, and improve access to accurate data across county departments.

EagleView specializes in aerial imagery captured by Cessna aircraft. Unlike basic satellite maps, their technology offers high-resolution images from both overhead and angled views, allowing users to see buildings, signs, driveways, and even details like roof damage or small backyard sheds.

“These images are so sharp you can spot a golf ball on the green or a phone dropped in the grass,” Broer told the board. “And we capture the county leaf-off, during fall to early spring, so structures are easier to see without tree cover.”

Better Tools for Assessors and Emergency Responders

While the software is primarily being considered for the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office to use in tax assessments, Broer explained that the technology could be used by multiple departments, including fire and rescue, law enforcement, and planning.

The system allows users to:

• Measure building heights and distances directly from their desks

• Detect changes over time, like a new pool or deck

• Compare side-by-side images from different years

• Pinpoint exact locations for emergency response

“Imagine someone calls 911 from a garage during a heart attack,” Broer said. “With our imaging connected to the 911 system, dispatchers can see exactly where the caller is, what kind of structure it is, and how to get there fast. It could save lives.”

The software also helps assessors work more safely. Instead of knocking on doors, which can sometimes be risky or unwelcome, assessors can first study the property from their office. EagleView’s imagery is certified for desktop assessment by the International Association of Assessing Officers.

Cost-Sharing and Countywide Access

The software would be available to any county staff member with a government email address, Broer explained, at no extra cost per user. There is also no fee for training, which is offered online or in person throughout the life of the contract.

Although the service is being considered for the Commissioner’s office, other departments may benefit. Broer encouraged interdepartmental cost-sharing, so the financial load isn’t carried by one office alone.

The county would choose between one-inch or three-inch resolution images, depending on need and budget. Higher resolution offers more detail, but comes at a higher price. A six-year contract is typical, with imaging flights done every two years and payments spread out evenly.

In addition, counties that contract with EagleView receive access to imagery from neighboring counties already using the service. This can help during emergencies or regional planning efforts.

Disaster Response Included

One of the standout features of the proposal is EagleView’s Disaster Response Program. In the event of a natural disaster like a tornado or hurricane, the company will fly and capture updated imagery—at no cost to the county—within days.

“It’s all hands on deck when disaster hits,” said Broer. “We’ve had our CEO hand-carry hard drives from planes just to make sure emergency teams got their images fast.”

Privacy and Public Access

Broer addressed privacy concerns, noting that the resolution is detailed but not personal. “You can see there’s a person on a property, but you can’t tell who they are,” he said.

Images may also be made available to the public. Many counties using EagleView share top-down views on their websites, and in some cases, allow public access to the angled (oblique) images as well.

What’s Next?

While the board had several questions about contracts, usage, and pricing, the decision on whether to move forward will be delayed. Commissioner Sours’ reassessment contract renewal was tabled for the next meeting, giving the board more time to review the proposal.

If approved, EagleView’s technology could soon offer Warren County staff clearer views, smarter assessments, and faster emergency responses—all from their desktop.

Click here to watch the April 22, 2025 Warren County Board of Supervisors Work Session.