The purpose of this qualitative study is twofold. First, it aimed at examining problems and obstacles in using tax maps and registered assets in taxation at Wang Nam Yen Municipality, Amphoe Wang Nam Yen, Sa Kaeo Province. Also, this study attempted to provide suggestions and solution to the problems and obstacles in taxation using tax maps and registered assets.
The data collected were purposively selected via an interview, asking the subjects who had experienced using tax maps and registered assets in taxation. The key informants participating in this study were 20 people who had involved in using tax maps and registered assets for more than 2 years in their work, including local administrators, municipality council members, municipality staff holding administrative positions, staff at operational level, and hired working staff.
The instrument used to collect the data was an interview form. A content analysis was used to analyze the collected data based a set conceptual framework.
The results of the study revealed that using tax maps and registered assets in taxation had four problems. First, there was a problem in relation to the division of complex organizational structure, leading to the difficulty in taxation. The number of permanent working staff was not consistent with that indicated in the organizational structure, nor was the job assignment clear and simple enough, resulting in taxation problems. Second, regarding the quality of materials and equipment used in tax mapping and asset register, they were found low and inadequate.
The number of staff who collected the data to facilitate tax mapping was not sufficient; they lacked knowledge and understanding of tax mapping. Also, the job assignment was unclear, leading to the failure of assigned work. In addition, in terms of context and environment, there was a problem in relation to public participation in releasing information regarding their assets.
It was found inconsistent with the actual conditions. Lack of cooperation and communication both
from government and private sectors was also a problem in tax mapping. Finally, the results of the study showed that the most difficult and problematic steps in tax mapping, in terms of process and practice, included the collection of field data and the indication of assets with the owners.
With reference to the suggestions, there should be sufficient working staff in taxation, using tax maps and they should be trained in order to have better understanding of rules, regulations, and information law. Furthermore, the development of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) was needed to better facilitate taxational work. Information regarding local taxation, and taxational rules and regulations should be publicized. Finally, rules and laws regarding tax evasion at local level should be strictly enforced in order to be fair for other tax payers.