Ferndale grants two-week summer tax grace period after delayed bills

Ferndale City Council authorized a two‑week grace period for summer property tax payments, extending the penalty‑and‑interest deadline to Aug. 13, 2025, after staff reported that physical tax bills were delayed in mailing though electronic bills were available July 1 as required by statute.

Staff told council the city met the statutory requirement to make tax bills available by July 1 but that the printed copies were delayed in distribution. Finance staff said they have received a high volume of calls — staff counted roughly 291 recorded calls in the prior ten days — from residents seeking guidance. The council asked staff to expand notification efforts and directed the communications team to send targeted mailings and electronic notices to residents most likely affected, especially those who do not pay taxes through escrow.

Riley, the city’s communications specialist, told council a postcard or separate mailing could be produced quickly; staff said a postcard mailer could be initiated the next business day and that email, website and social media updates would be used in parallel. Council members discussed narrowing the mailing to non‑escrowed payers and people with outstanding balances to manage costs and speed delivery.

A motion to authorize the grace period through Aug. 13, 2025, passed unanimously. Staff said they will provide continued phone and in‑person assistance at the front counter for taxpayers with questions and will return to council with any further issues.