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Mount Vernon committee begins in‑house title searches for six tax‑foreclosed properties
Summary
At a March 5 meeting, the Mount Vernon Real Estate Committee heard an update from the comptroller that the city has identified six priority tax‑foreclosed properties and has begun in‑house title searches; bids on the properties are paused until clear title and a recommended process are established.
MOUNT VERNON — The Mount Vernon Real Estate Committee on March 5 heard an update from the comptroller that the city is beginning in‑house title searches on six priority tax‑foreclosed properties and will only resume sales or accept new bids after confirming clear title and following legal review.
The comptroller and committee chair said the review responds to delays caused by an unspecified recent U.S. Supreme Court decision and gaps in records from prior administrations, including unclear deposit and contract histories. “We are aware of your offers, and we're hoping to move this process forward, sooner than later,” the comptroller said, describing a months‑long effort to reconstruct records and confirm foreclosure dates and ownership chains.
Why it matters: Committee members and residents said the lengthy process has been frustrating for people who have bid on or are occupying city properties. The comptroller said the city must secure clear title before recommending sales to avoid future litigation and costs to taxpayers.
Committee discussion and staff steps The comptroller told the committee staff are working with the city law department (corporation counsel) to run title searches on the six priority parcels and to reconstruct records where files are missing. The comptroller said the law department will begin the work in house “to gather as much information as they can,” and the city may hire an outside vendor later if needed.
The comptroller said the review includes confirming the date of foreclosure for each parcel, determining whether required service or notice was completed, and verifying whether previously recorded deposits or partially executed contracts are supported by city records. The comptroller said those steps were necessary after finding inconsistencies — for example, a foreclosure date in the city system that was actually two years later than the date shown in underlying paperwork.
Public comment and specific parcels Several residents asked about individual addresses. Andrea Laird identified herself as interested in 119 South Fourth Avenue and said she was having trouble with the online application link. Jorge Barra asked about 224 North Seventh Avenue, and another resident queried the status of 331 South Second Avenue. The comptroller confirmed those properties are among the six prioritized for title review.
Bids and timeline Committee members asked whether the city should continue accepting bids. The comptroller said it “makes no sense for us to continue to take bids on this until we actually make sure we have the clear path forward,” saying accepting more bids would risk further confusion for applicants and extra work for staff. Committee members also asked how long the law department would need; the comptroller said timing depends on the complexity of each title and the law department's capacity and could not guarantee a timeline for the next meeting.
Formal actions The committee approved the Jan. 13, 2025 meeting minutes by roll call before the property discussion. At the close of the meeting a motion to adjourn passed by roll call.
What’s next The committee did not set specific dates for further action. The comptroller said staff will continue title searches, work with corporation counsel, and return recommendations on the prioritized parcels when the city has verified title and supporting records. Residents and bidders who spoke were told to expect follow‑up once staff have completed those steps.
