Craig and Kathleen Saari cite 1857 land grant, ask board to consider Rock Creek tax exemption

Craig and Kathleen Saari told the Pine County Board of Review and Equalization on April 14, 2026, that they believe an 1857 land grant intended for educational purposes covers portions of their Rock Creek property and could affect taxability.

The Saari family presented documents and asked the board and Pine County Assessor Troy Stewart whether parcels tied to that historical grant should be exempt from property tax. Craig Saari asked whether assessing property taxes on what he described as "unrealized gains" was lawful.

Assessor Troy Stewart replied that county assessments are performed "in accordance with applicable state statutes" and advised that a formal challenge to an assessment would be a matter for Minnesota Tax Court. He did not indicate a county decision at the meeting.

Kathleen Saari said the family previously attempted to file related documents with the county in 2021 but were unable to complete the process. She also suggested residential structures might be treated as personal property rather than real property, a characterization the board did not accept or adopt at the meeting.

Acting Mayor Dan Saumer noted the Saari family was providing information for the record; no formal action was requested. Saumer moved, and Don Ramberg seconded, that the board make no decision at this time; the motion carried unanimously.

The Saari family left written materials with the board for further review. The board did not set a follow-up date or hearing at the session.