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Council authorizes treasurer to sell two tax‑title properties if court awards judgments
Summary
The council gave the treasurer authorization to sell two properties in the event judgments are entered in ongoing Land Court tax‑title cases: 21 Hanover Street (parcel 127435518) and 78 Cleveland Street (parcel 167542273). Council votes authorized sale and recorded a recusal by Councilor Colon Hayes on one item.
The Malden City Council authorized the city treasurer to sell two properties if and when the Land Court awards judgments to the city in pending tax‑title litigation.
City Treasurer Dan Grover explained both properties are currently in Land Court and the owners have time to resolve outstanding taxes; the council was asked to provide a preliminary determination so the treasurer could act within the 14‑day decision window that follows a judgment. Grover said the cases are at different stages: the 78 Cleveland Street matter was closest to a hearing on Aug. 8, and 21 Hanover Street likely would reach judgment later in the year (November was cited as a possible date).
Councilors asked procedural questions about how a sale would be conducted. Grover explained state tax title law changes had removed the old public‑auction purchase process; if the city elects to sell it will list the property through MLS and work with a realtor. Councilor Colon Hayes moved to recuse herself from votes involving properties because of her role with the North Shore Housing Authority; the council approved that recusal before proceeding.
On the record, the council voted to authorize the treasurer to sell the properties in the event of Land Court judgments; the motions were approved by roll call votes. No decision to retain either property was made at the meeting; the authorization is contingent on the city being awarded judgment in court.
