Commissioners set recommended starting bids for three tax‑delinquent properties

Emmons County commissioners reviewed three tax‑delinquent properties scheduled for the tax sale on the third Tuesday in November and set recommended starting bids to balance tax recovery and demolition risk.

Staff explained the properties had unpaid taxes for multiple years and were difficult to clear because ownership histories were incomplete or the structures were in poor condition. The board discussed a town‑edge lot where the county or city might prefer to acquire a parcel to demolish a blighted house: commissioners noted tearing down a house typically costs several thousand dollars; staff estimated county demolition costs in the range of $5,000–$10,000 depending on size, disposal and potential asbestos remediation.

Several commissioners argued for starting bids that reflect both taxes owed and likely demolition costs so the county would not inherit additional expense. Others favored starting at the taxes‑due minimum to encourage private buyers who might rehabilitate lots or remove blight. After discussion, the board voted to set the starting sale price for each of the three properties at the assessor’s recommended sale price included in the packet.

Commissioners also discussed the auction process: if no bidders purchase a property at auction, the county may accept later offers and could convey properties to a city for $1 where local government demolition is the plan. Staff will prepare sale notices and list the properties with the county’s tax sale officer; the auction is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday in November.