City Council Faces Tough Decisions on Blighted Properties

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing challenges surrounding property foreclosures and blight management in the community. The tax collector reported that typically, 20 to 30 properties are acquired by the end of the foreclosure date, with a current list showing 68 properties, half of which are expected to be resolved by the upcoming deadline. Last year, 19 properties were eligible for foreclosure, but all were waived, and only nine remain unpaid, valued at approximately $10,000 against a broader $9 million commitment.

The discussion highlighted the complexities of managing properties, particularly mobile homes and trailers, which often incur additional costs such as lot rent. The tax collector noted that many properties on the list are linked to deceased individuals, complicating the process of finding heirs and selling the properties. The legal firm Petrie and Flaherty indicated that upcoming legislative changes in 2025 might alter the current foreclosure laws, prompting recommendations to continue waiving foreclosures until then.

Concerns were raised about the blighted properties in the community, with officials expressing a desire to cross-reference the foreclosure list with the blight list to prioritize cleanup efforts. The current legislation is seen as cumbersome, making it difficult for municipalities to effectively manage and sell foreclosed properties. The Maine Municipal Association (MMA) has advocated for legislative changes to streamline this process, as many municipalities feel the existing framework is ineffective.

The council debated whether to waive all foreclosures or selectively address certain properties, particularly those that are blighted or on leased land. Some members expressed that waiving foreclosures could lead to financial losses, while others argued that it might be more prudent to wait for potential legislative improvements before taking action. Ultimately, the council voted to waive the majority of the foreclosures, with the understanding that the situation would be revisited as new legislation emerges.

This meeting underscores the ongoing struggle municipalities face in managing foreclosures and blight, balancing the need for community improvement with the complexities of existing laws and financial implications.