Sawyer County updates property acquisition timeline to three years under new ordinance

The Sawyer County Board convened on April 15, 2025, to address several key issues, including property management and community health initiatives. The meeting began with a discussion on a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the sale of tax-delinquent properties, specifically the case of Tyler versus Hennepin. The ruling mandates that any proceeds from the sale of such properties, after deducting fees and expenses, must be returned to the previous owners.

County officials emphasized the importance of adhering to state statutes, which require that properties be sold within 240 days of acquisition. This is a significant change from the previous practice of waiting five years, which was deemed inefficient. The board discussed the need for timely action to manage properties, particularly those in hazardous condition, to minimize maintenance and security issues.

A resolution was proposed to update the ordinance governing these processes, which includes establishing new fees for property management. An administration fee will be assessed for each property, along with an $1,800 fee upon sale. These fees will cover legal and maintenance costs, with any surplus returned to the former property owners. The board unanimously approved the resolution, reducing the timeline for property acquisition from five years to three years.

In addition to property management, the board received updates from the Elton Newman Service Board. Highlights included the opening of a new urgent care facility, which is now operational, and a successful fentanyl awareness event that attracted over 200 attendees. The board also reported on various health and social services, noting a decrease in influenza cases and ongoing efforts to address drug and alcohol use and affordable housing in the county.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving property management practices and addressing pressing community health concerns, with plans for further action and follow-up in the coming months.