Meet Wes
Wes Cornelius has dedicated his career to public service, property valuation, and taxpayer advocacy. A graduate of Leavenworth High School, Wes served honorably in the United States Army from 1983 to 1986 before beginning a successful career in real estate as an agent, property manager, sales manager, and Designated Broker.
In 2007, Wes joined the Chelan County Assessor's Office as a real property appraiser. Through hard work and leadership, he advanced to analyst, chief appraiser, chief deputy assessor, and was unanimously appointed Chelan County Assessor by the County Commissioners in 2023.
Wes brings more than 39 years of combined experience in real estate, appraisal, and property tax administration. He has worked in every aspect of
Wes brings more than 39 years of combined experience in real estate, appraisal, and property tax administration. He has worked in every aspect of
the assessor’s office, including property valuation, levy calculations, senior and disabled exemption programs, current use classifications, and taxpayer assistance.
As Chelan County Assessor, Wes has worked closely with state legislators and county officials to protect taxpayers and improve property tax relief programs for seniors, disabled persons, and veterans. He helped support the passage of House Bill 2375, allowing accessory dwelling units to qualify under senior property tax exemption programs, and worked with 12th District legislators on ESSB 6162, expanding income thresholds and benefits for property tax relief beginning in 2027.
Wes remains committed to transparency, fairness, accurate assessments, and courteous customer service for all Chelan County taxpayers.
Chelan County Assessor's Office
October 2007 to Present
Elected Assessor- November 2023Appointed Assessor- April 2023- October 2023Chief Deputy- October 2012-March 2023Chief Appraiser- March 2011-October 2012Real Property Appraiser- October 2007-March 2011
Real Estate Broker
March 1986 to October 2007
United States Army
June 1983 to March 1986
Washington State Broker's LicenseReal Estate AgentProperty ManagerSales Manager
Administrative SpecialistServed in United States, Germany and Korea