Staff writer
Marion County commissioners once again ignored the rules of the neighborhood revitalization property tax rebate program, granting approval to an application submitted as a building was nearing completion.
“He thinks he’ll be done Sept. 30,” office assistant Nikki Reid said. “I think they’re just waiting on concrete for in front of his house, so for like a driveway and a sidewalk.”
Applicants are supposed to submit applications and have them approved before they start work on the project.
Commissioners put discussing the matter further and reviewing the program on the agenda for Sept. 14.
“It was supposed to be an annual deal,” commissioner Randy Dallke said, “and we haven’t done that.”
“We can’t issue tax breaks like the state can,” chairman Dan Holub said. “I would like to keep the 5 year plan like we got now,” but other than that I think its run its course.”
Neighborhood revitalization rebates cost the county $364,000 in 2014, up seven percent from the prior year, treasurer, Jeanine Batement said.
Attorney Susan Robson from the informed commissioners that she hoped the tax sale for properties delinquent on their taxes would be held at 10 a.m. Sept. 25, but was waiting on a signature for approval.
Robson said Tuesday that she had received the signature, and would go forward with the sale on that date.
The sale will have strict guidelines because of issues with the first tax sale.
“The first sale that we had, we had some people who were speculators who came and bought property,” Robson said. “The law basically says if you owe any property taxes, then you can’t purchase any property at a tax sale.”
Commissioners also approved $6,908 worth of rescue roping equipment for Marion and Hillsboro fire departments.
“It warms my heart to see you two working together the way you do,” Holub said. “It is a countywide group effort, and it’s just pretty awesome.”
In other business:
- Commissioners accepted a transport fuel bid from Cardie Oil, Tampa, for $16,106.
- Mike Ottensmeier, sheriff’s deputy, was promoted to sergeant and Alicia Stone was promoted to lead 911 operator.