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Treasurer reports 605 system problems, rising delinquencies and wins commission approval to advertise a full-time position
Summary
Treasurer Deb reported increased delinquent-tax balances and operational backlog after a county '605' system conversion, detailing overtime payments and a large processing queue; the commission authorized advertising for a full-time hire and reauthorized tax-certificate sales starting June 1.
Lawrence County Treasurer Deb reported to the commission that the county’s recent conversion to the statewide '605' system has resulted in processing delays, data errors and a backlog of titles and registrations that is stressing staff. “We're back up to $417,000 in delinquent taxes again,” she said while summarizing delinquencies spanning multiple years, and added that the office has paid $4,818.09 in overtime since January to cope with increased workload.
Deb described operational effects that include thousands of incoming items, data-entry errors requiring manual fixes, and added staffing pressure as several employees face medical leave or retirement. She said the county receives more out-of-state vehicle business because neighboring counties declined certain services post-conversion. The treasurer requested authority to advertise for a full-time staff position; commissioners approved the request after discussion.
The treasurer also requested reauthorization to resume sale of delinquent-tax certificates, which the board had paused in recent years; the commission approved resuming sales beginning June 1 and scheduled a December sale for new certificates. A bank representative and commissioners discussed escrow and letter-of-credit processes in a separate infrastructure MOA item the same day.
The commission’s staffing authorization is limited to advertising for a position; final hiring will follow normal personnel procedures. Treasurer Deb said staff will continue to work on backlog and provide updates as the county works through conversion-related issues.
