County attorney to conduct tax sale of 22 properties years ago
Marion County Commission adopted a resolution for a county tax sale.
County clerk Carol Maggard presented the resolution and information to the commission on behalf of county attorney Susan Robson.
Twenty-two properties will be on the sale and Hannaford Abstract and Title Company has completed the title work. Maggard said the statement from Hannaford Abstract and Title reflected a considerable rate increase.
The total bill from the title company was $3,300, or $150 per property. Maggard told the commission it may want to consider going out for bids next time.
Commissioners were concerned about the expenditure from the general budget without their knowledge. Maggard noted the proceeds from the tax sale would go back into the general fund to offset the expenses. Expenses, in addition to the title work, will be publishing costs. Not all 22 properties will end up on the sale, said Maggard. Some property owners will pay their taxes and be removed from the list.
Howard Collett, commissioner, asked if this was the most efficient way to conduct the sale.
"I'm not sure if selling only 22 properties is the most efficient way to do this," said Collett.
Bob Hein, commissioner, said he was not sure if the commission had a choice.
"I think we need to go ahead and do it," said Hein. "The work has been done. People are asking me about the sale."
Leroy Wetta, commission chairman, wants accountability from the county attorney.
"Should a memo be sent to the attorney asking her in the future to come before the board before committing expenses from the general fund?" asked Wetta.
Contact by the clerk will be made with the attorney. The date of the sale has not been announced.
