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Council forms ad hoc committee to rewrite tax‑acquired property policy amid spike in liens
Summary
Facing a jump in tax‑lien notices and new state guidance, the council created an ad hoc committee to rewrite Chapter 19 and explore a land‑bank approach; staff will also pursue a realtor solicitation and options for 49 Herschel Street.
Caribou — After receiving an update from staff about a large increase in tax‑lien activity, the City Council voted to form an ad hoc committee to rewrite the city’s Chapter 19 tax‑acquired property policy and to consider land‑banking and other tools to manage blighted properties.
Why it matters: City staff reported that 342 notices of lien were sent recently — roughly 102 more than last year — and councilors said the city should avoid letting tax‑acquired properties accumulate. The council authorized staff to pursue administration steps outlined in state guidance and to return a rewritten policy to the council.
What staff reported: Finance Director Carl (last name in packet) explained the tax‑lien and foreclosure process, noting that when the council waives foreclosure it typically extends collection efforts rather than abandoning claims: for example, staff said waiver of prior foreclosures has still produced collection on many accounts over subsequent months.
Action on specific properties: The council accepted a deed offered for 49 Herschel Street, authorized use of Downtown TIF funds to pay unpaid CUD charges and related fees, and directed staff to abate taxes as appropriate and to seek demolition bids for the building. The council also directed staff to advertise tax‑acquired property sales through a real‑estate solicitation consistent with recent State of Maine guidance.
Ad hoc committee and next steps: Councilors authorized an ad hoc committee (members were identified in the meeting) to work with staff and the planning board on a rewrite of Chapter 19; staff will draft ordinance language reflecting the state’s new guidance, including how to handle property listings through broker solicitations and potential land‑bank arrangements.
Ending: Councilors said they want a clearer, proactive policy so that properties can be rehabilitated or responsibly removed rather than becoming long‑term city liabilities.
