Legislators propose new auction process for delinquent property sales in 55 counties

The Senate Finance Committee of the West Virginia Legislature convened on February 17, 2025, to discuss significant changes to the process of handling delinquent property taxes and the sale of associated lands. The meeting focused on the current system, which has been criticized for its inefficiency and lack of transparency.

Currently, when property owners fail to pay their taxes, their properties can be sold at sheriff sales. However, this process has been largely ineffective, with many properties being sold for as little as $300, often to a small group of buyers. The committee discussed the need for a more robust auction process that would allow for fairer bidding and potentially higher returns for counties.

One key proposal is to hire a professional auction firm to manage the sale of these properties. This firm would be responsible for marketing the properties effectively, ensuring that potential buyers are aware of upcoming auctions. The goal is to create a competitive bidding environment that could increase the sale price of properties, benefiting local governments financially.

The committee emphasized that many of the properties in question are often abandoned or have unclear ownership, complicating the redemption process for original owners. By implementing a structured auction system, the committee believes it can streamline the process and provide counties with much-needed revenue.

In conclusion, the proposed changes aim to enhance the property tax delinquency process in West Virginia, ensuring that properties are sold at fair market value and that counties receive adequate funding. The committee plans to explore this proposal further, considering the logistics of implementing a new auction system across all 55 counties.