Hubard County highlights recent land sales, accepts donated parcels and moves to consolidate tax‑forfeited holdings

Hubard County commissioners reviewed recent tax‑forfeited land sales and voted to accept a package of donated and previously planned parcels to consolidate county holdings.

Staff reported the March 27 auction sold five parcels for $148,800, including three lake parcels, and two subsequent over‑the‑counter sales totaled $54,966. "We did end up selling quite a few of the parcels. The total amount we sold was $148,800," staff said, and added that continued interest exists for other lake parcels that did not sell at auction.

The county also presented five parcels (about 200 acres total) it seeks to add to its holdings: two 40‑acre parcels in Lake Alice and NEAS townships (forest roads and a snowmobile trail) and three parcels in Lake George Township that the snowmobile club and the North Country Trail use. Staff emphasized both recreational and fiscal values, noting timber thinning on donated lands has produced $218,611 in receipts in recent years. "A lot of these ones that are on the list now are ready to thin," staff said, adding that timber revenue and PILT payments benefit schools, townships and general revenue.

The board moved to accept donated parcels from the Northern Waters Land Trust and to proceed with the acquisition steps; the motion carried by voice vote. Commissioners discussed ensuring title and survey work and noted the parcels will be managed for timber and trail access.

Action: The board approved acceptance of the donated and recommended parcels and authorized staff to continue title, survey and management planning.