Supervisors debate online tax‑sale bidding and owner protections

A lengthy discussion on tax‑sale procedures centered on whether to continue and how to advertise online bidding for tax liens.

Miss Lee, who oversees the tax‑sale process, described online bidding’s advantages: wider participation, remote registration safeguards (registration, blank check requirement) and easier tracking of bids. “The benefit of going to the online meeting was that first of all it don't take up all my day for four days,” she said, explaining that online auctions can attract more bidders and streamline the process.

Several board members expressed concerns that online bidding can invite absentee buyers who do not maintain properties, potentially leaving blight behind. The group discussed the legal distinction between selling tax liens versus property titles, redemption periods and the state’s role when deeds revert to the state after failed investments.

The tax collector and staff confirmed statutory notice requirements and said the county will publish the tax sale listing on the county website and Facebook in addition to required statutory publications; the board asked staff to make property information accessible to the public and consider whether individual property notices are warranted.

Board members asked staff to prepare clearer outreach materials explaining redemption periods and how owners can avoid losing property through the tax sale process. No change to the statutory framework was proposed; the board moved to notify the public via county channels and to review the process further.