Wichita County Commissioners on July 29 authorized the county judge to sign a deed without warranty conveying the county’s interest in property at 100 South Red River Expressway in Burkburnett to the City of Burkburnett in return for payment of $16,933.14.

County staff said the figure represents unpaid taxes on the parcel going back to February 2009. The commissioners approved the conveyance 5-0. Commissioner Beauchamp made the motion to authorize the signature; Commissioner Fincannon seconded it.

According to county staff, the City of Burkburnett will consider the matter at a city council meeting in August; if the city approves, the payment will be received by the tax assessor-collector, who will then disperse proceeds to the county treasurer. The conveyance agreement is structured so that the county’s obligation to transfer its interest does not trigger until the payment is received.

The county noted the property is already titled in the city’s name and that the conveyance is intended to clear county interest so the city can market or sell the parcel and return it to the tax rolls. County staff and commissioners framed the transaction as a way to recoup missed tax revenue and move the property back into productive use rather than pursue extended collection or retention by the county.

No closing or additional escrow process was described in the open meeting; staff said disbursement will be handled through the tax-assessor’s office upon receipt of payment.