MINOT — Selectmen on Monday continued efforts to reach agreements with the seven property owners who forfeited their properties Jan. 15 because of unpaid taxes for 2013, 2014 and 2015.
After the meeting, three owners made arrangements to reacquire their properties.
In the instance of a resident who met with the board two weeks ago, the full amount in back taxes plus penalties and fees have been paid and, Administrator Arlan Saunders told the board, the person has received a quitclaim deed returning the town’s interest in the property.
Two other owners have made commitments to regain their properties, one of whom, Saunders said, is expected to make full payment this week.
The four remaining property owners have either been notified or, due to complicating factors, taken steps to sort out how an arrangement might be achieved, Saunders said. He is doing all he can to keep the town out of the real estate business, he said.
Selectman Eda Tripp said the town is still owed $91,657 in 2013 taxes, $51,579 in 2014 taxes and $206,138 in 2015 taxes.
In other business, Saunders reported he received results from a recent inspection by the Bureau of Labor that found violations in highway and fire department operations. He said the majority of the deficiencies dealt with record keeping or training issues. The Bureau of Labor has levied a $2,800 fine for each department, he said.
Saunders said he has given copies of the reports to Highway Department foreman Scott Parker and Fire Chief Dean Campbell.
“I need to respond within 15 days. I have met with Scott and have information for their response,” Saunders said, “I have yet to contact the fire chief in regard to their status with correcting the issues and his response.”
Saunders said 90 percent of the Highway Department’s citations have already been rectified and he expects to file a timely report to the Bureau of Labor indicating the departments are in compliance.
At the request of Tom Reynolds, chairman of the Androscoggin County Democratic Party Committee, selectmen gave permission for Minot party members to caucus in the Town Office conference room on Sunday, March 6.
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