Contractor reports lower delinquent tax base; court renews contingent-fee collection contract

A representative for the county's delinquent-tax collection contractor reported to the Chambers County Commissioners Court that the county's outstanding delinquent tax base has fallen substantially since last fall and that a tax sale is scheduled for June 2.

The presenter, identified in court as Mike, said the county's outstanding tax base totaled about $1,100,000 in the report (down from about $1,700,000 in the previous report). He outlined collections by tax year, noting recent decreases and that collections through March on the most recent turnover equaled about $439,000 (roughly 62% of the initial turnover for that group). He also said the contractor's collection services are provided at no cost to the county and that fees are charged to the delinquent taxpayers when collected.

Following the presentation the court considered and approved renewal of the contingent‑fee contract with Purdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott LLP for collection of delinquent government receivables pursuant to the tax code and with required notice posted with the agenda. The motion to renew the contract was made and seconded and carried without recorded opposition.

The contractor reiterated outreach efforts including text reminders and a recent postcard campaign intended to prompt case resolution. The tax‑sale date of June 2 was announced for properties to be offered under the county's delinquent tax procedures.