Kalamazoo County Treasurer reveals ambitious plans to combat foreclosures

In a recent government meeting, the Kalamazoo County Treasurer's Office presented its annual report, highlighting significant achievements and future initiatives aimed at improving financial management and community support. The treasurer emphasized the dual nature of their work, balancing the power to positively impact residents' lives while confronting the harsh realities of poverty and hardship.

Key accomplishments included a notable reduction in property foreclosures, which have remained below 50 for the past four years, a significant achievement considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The treasurer expressed gratitude for the support from the Board of Commissioners and local grants that have helped residents facing financial difficulties.

The meeting also addressed the collection of accommodation taxes, with plans to enhance the current system through a new Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This upgrade aims to improve customer service and enable the collection of taxes from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, potentially generating an additional $350,000 in revenue for the county.

Furthermore, the treasurer reported a substantial increase in tax adjustments processed, reflecting a proactive approach to managing taxpayer refunds. The office has streamlined its processes, reducing the lead time for refunds from 30 days to just one week.

Investment strategies were also discussed, with the treasurer outlining a shift towards longer-term strategies to mitigate the impact of fluctuating interest rates. The office reported returns of approximately $7 million for 2023, with expectations to maintain similar figures in 2024.

The treasurer's office is also focused on addressing delinquent taxes, with a current total of nearly $11.8 million owed across approximately 33,100 parcels. The office is committed to working with taxpayers to prevent foreclosure, utilizing grant funds and partnerships with various organizations to provide assistance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the treasurer's commitment to enhancing financial operations while prioritizing community welfare, aiming for a future with minimal foreclosures and improved financial stability for residents.