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Treasurer says notices were missed for several tax‑sale parcels; office will seek rescissions
Summary
The Treasurer/Tax Collector told the board eight tax‑sale parcels had incomplete notice to parties of interest because of title‑company guarantee changes, making those sales void under state law; the office will prepare rescission actions and work with auditor and counsel to remediate buyer and owner impacts.
The Plumas County Treasurer/Tax Collector informed the Board of Supervisors on May 12 that parties‑of‑interest notices for a number of tax‑sale parcels were missed during the county's recent tax‑sale process. The treasurer said the change was driven in part by new, more expensive title‑company guarantee products and human error in identifying parties of interest, and that state revenue and taxation requirements make any sale without proper notice void.
As a consequence, the treasurer said she will prepare rescission requests to return eight affected parcels to the prior owners' delinquent status, coordinate with the auditor's office to account for funds and refunds already processed, and bring rescission items to the board for formal approval. The treasurer also said she has reviewed the 34 parcels sold in the auction and is assembling documentation on those with notice irregularities.
Board members and members of the public raised immediate concerns about impacts on buyers who purchased parcels at tax sale, potential county liability, timing relative to upcoming sales and budget implications. The treasurer acknowledged those questions and said staff will work with county counsel and the auditor to determine remediation steps and legal consequences; she noted that rescission procedures vary depending on whether the prior owner or the buyer consents and that some parcels may require individualized handling.
Why it matters: Errors in statutory notice for tax sales can nullify sales, reverse transfers and create financial and administrative burdens for both buyers and the county. The board asked that the treasurer prioritize rescission work so June sales and budget timing can be addressed.
What’s next: The treasurer will present rescission items to the board for approval, prioritize parcels tied to upcoming auction dates and work with auditor and counsel to manage refunds, title changes and any legal exposures. Additional board discussion and potential board action are expected at upcoming meetings.
