Ashland County committee approves foreclosure of three tax-delinquent properties

In a recent Ashland County Zoning & Land Committee meeting, officials took significant steps toward addressing properties eligible for foreclosure due to unpaid taxes. The committee reviewed a list of properties, identifying three specific parcels recommended for foreclosure, which will allow the county to recoup lost tax revenue and potentially resell the properties.

The discussion highlighted the importance of transparency and fairness in the foreclosure process. Committee members expressed a desire to ensure that all interested buyers have equal access to information about the properties. This approach aims to prevent any perception of favoritism or insider knowledge regarding property sales, which has been a concern in past transactions.

The committee also debated whether to engage a realtor for the sale of these properties. While some members argued that hiring a realtor could add unnecessary costs, others emphasized the legal protections and market expertise a realtor could provide. The consensus leaned toward utilizing a realtor to ensure compliance with regulations and to mitigate any potential liability for the county.

Additionally, the committee reviewed a separate list of county-owned properties acquired through previous foreclosures. They discussed the necessity of selling these properties, as mandated by state law, and the challenges associated with selling parcels that include right-of-way easements. The committee recognized the need to prioritize properties with higher assessed values for sale, while also considering the implications of selling land with existing easements.

As the committee moves forward, the next steps will involve finalizing the list of properties for foreclosure and determining the best approach for selling county-owned land. These actions are crucial for maintaining the county's financial health and ensuring that properties are returned to productive use in the community.