Benton County approves tax suspension for parcel 270-21-700 and hires part-time utility deputy

The Benton County Board of Supervisors voted to suspend property taxes on parcel 270-21-700 and approved the hire of a part-time utility deputy.

County staff member Ellie told the board the county typically suspends — rather than abates — taxes for qualifying parcels, explaining that ‘‘years down the line if they pass away or sell the residence, they have to bring it back to current. Okay. They have to pay us back.’’ She asked the board to amend a certified letter and move forward with the suspension.

The board then considered a personnel item. Addressing the board, the sheriff described the hire as a replacement for an existing part-time position, saying of the new hire, ‘‘Ryan... he’s a retired state trooper... Good guy.’’ The board voted to hire Ryan Harris as a part-time utility deputy with an effective start date discussed in the meeting.

Both the tax-suspension motion and the hire were approved by the board in roll-call votes. The county’s staff said no abatement is being granted; suspended taxes become due when ownership transfers or on other triggering events.

The board did not provide additional conditions on the suspension other than amending the certified letter to reflect the action. No public comment opposing either item was recorded during the meeting.