County attorney: July 31 redemption deadline approaching; 123 parcels remain in tax‑foreclosure process

Warrensburg, N.Y. — Warren County Attorney advised the Board of Supervisors on July 16 that July 31, 2025 is the final redemption date for properties scheduled in this year’s county tax‑foreclosure process and that 123 parcels still showed unpaid taxes as of the meeting.

The attorney described the multi‑step process: after the redemption deadline passes, the county files for a judgment of tax foreclosure in Supreme Court; if the judgment is signed, county title can transfer via the treasurer’s deed prior to the public auction. At auction, properties may sell for less than or greater than the delinquent amount. If a sale generates surplus funds (sale price above taxes/fees), those funds go into an escrow maintained by the treasurer’s office; claimants with recorded interests have up to three years to petition the court for distribution. Unclaimed surplus funds may ultimately revert to the county and be applied to reduce the county levy, subject to court procedures.

The county attorney said the county prefers not to foreclose on properties but warned owners that after July 31 it becomes difficult, if not impossible, for the county to assist owners who have not acted (by paying taxes or entering installment agreements).

He noted the foreclosure filing timeline changed under statutes enacted last year, which advanced the filing date and lengthened notice by approximately three months for this cycle. Property owners with questions were told to contact the treasurer’s office before July 31 to explore options.

The county attorney also clarified the distribution and administrative‑fee treatment for sale proceeds and said the county has not yet reached the point where unclaimed surplus funds would revert to the county’s use.

This was an informational legal report to the board; no vote was required or recorded on this item.