Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Judicial Sales topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board tables vote on judicial sales list pending solicitor consultation
Summary
Directors expressed frustration over judicial sale appraisals and potential loss of tax revenue; the board voted to table the county's judicial-sales list until they consult the district solicitor.
The Keystone Central School District board discussed a county judicial-sales list on May 8 and voted to table a decision until the board could consult with its solicitor.
Several directors criticized the judicial-sales process under state law, saying properties sold in judicial sales are often struck at nominal prices (for example, $250 or $500), which then resets assessed values at an artificially low level and reduces future tax revenue to the school district and other taxing authorities. Board member Butch said the system's mechanics allow purchasers to acquire properties for nominal amounts and then be assessed at that lower sale price until a reassessment or significant renovation occurs.
Directors noted they had little ability to change the state-level law that governs judicial sales, and they discussed the trade-off between approving the sales list now and the potential for incurring legal costs if the board objects. One director suggested that if the board voted no, the county could schedule a hearing that might require the district solicitor's attendance.
A motion was made to table the item pending consultation with the district solicitor; the board approved the tabling motion. Directors said they will request solicitor guidance and then revisit the item at a subsequent meeting.
