Pine County Board to sell 200 acres of tax forfeited land in Wilma Township

The Pine County Board Meeting on July 1, 2025, focused on the public hearing regarding the sale of tax-forfeited land, specifically a 200-acre parcel in Wilma Township. County Auditor-Treasurer Kelly Schroeder outlined the process for reclassifying these lands from conservation to non-conservation, which allows for their sale. This discussion is particularly significant as it highlights the county's management of tax-forfeited lands, which currently encompass approximately 39,354 acres.

Schroeder emphasized that the properties in question are from before June 2016, meaning they are governed by older statutes. The county receives a payment in lieu of taxes (PILT) of $2 per acre for these lands, with a portion allocated to local municipalities. The county's approach to managing these lands includes sustainable forestry practices, recreational use, and potential sales.

The board's decision to classify the Wilma Township parcel as non-conservation is part of a broader strategy to manage land effectively and generate revenue. The proposed sale aims to maximize value by dividing the land into three parcels, ensuring each has buildable potential. However, this move has sparked concerns among local residents about the loss of public access to land.

During the public hearing, Mike McCollum, chairman of Wilma Township, voiced strong opposition to the sale, arguing that it would restrict access to land for the community and future generations. He highlighted the historical context of land sales in the area and expressed frustration over the diminishing public land available for recreational use. McCollum's comments reflect a broader tension between economic development and community access to natural resources.

The board acknowledged the concerns raised during the public hearing but ultimately reaffirmed their intent to proceed with the sale, citing the need for economic development and the management of public resources. The decision underscores the ongoing debate in Pine County about balancing private land ownership with public access to natural spaces.

As the board prepares for final approval of the sale in August, the discussions from this meeting will likely resonate with community members who are increasingly concerned about land use and conservation in the region. The outcome of this decision may set a precedent for future land management policies in Pine County, highlighting the importance of community engagement in local governance.