Appraiser fights for political life

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Gary Nikolits is embroiled in a tough re-election campaign, and his methods have cost him several key endorsements, endangering his political future. He clashed with county commissioners for years over property valuations and tax rates, and the housing downturn has created an opportunity for his challenger, state Rep. Richard Machek of Delray Beach, whose fundraising efforts are at twice the pace of the incumbent. Nikolits has had endorsements from the nonpartisan Palm Beach County Voters Coalition and the local Realtors’ association withdrawn in recent weeks. The vote will be held on August 26.