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Quinton officials identify more than $2 million in outstanding tax liens, plan review of eight properties
Summary
Mayor Joseph Hannagan told the township committee that municipal training revealed over $2 million in delinquent tax liens dating to 2010; officials will verify legal steps before pursuing lien certificate sales or foreclosure for eight properties, including occupied residences.
Mayor Joseph Hannagan told the Quinton Township Committee on June 23 that training on municipal tax-lien procedures revealed the township currently has more than $2 million in outstanding tax liens dating back to 2010. Hannagan said he is reviewing eight properties with significant delinquent taxes and will verify all legal procedures before recommending any sale of lien certificates or foreclosure actions.
Acting Clerk Emily Thalwitzer said there are multiple approaches available — including lien certificate assignments and property foreclosure sales — and that the Clerk's office, the municipal finance officer and the Tax Collector will meet with Hannagan next week to determine the most appropriate course. Municipal Finance Officer Diane Elwell (listed in the minutes as the CFO) is involved in resolving discrepancies and ensuring accurate records for any action.
Committee member Marjorie L. Sperry noted the township conducted lien certificate sales in 2020 and said documentation of previous foreclosure referrals remains on file. Sperry also cautioned that many older liened properties consist of undersized lots that may not be suitable for development, a factor that could affect whether a sale or foreclosure is practical.
No formal motion to sell specific lien certificates was made at the June 23 meeting; Resolution 2026-89 (authorizing lien assignment of certificate #19-00014) was tabled. Hannagan said he will verify all legal requirements before presenting recommendations to the committee.
The committee did not set a timeline for final decisions on the eight properties; staff will return with recommended next steps after the scheduled review meeting.
