Selectboard weighs tax-collection resolution and reviews years of delinquent accounts totaling hundreds of thousands

Town Manager Karen Astley introduced a resolution authorizing the collection of delinquent real property taxes and recommended engaging Monaghan Safar PLLC to prepare and conduct tax sales or other collection measures; she confirmed Monaghan Safar is the new town attorney. Board members discussed whether the Delinquent Tax Collector could also be authorized to bid on properties up to the total owed or whether a specific person should be named; the Town Manager agreed to clarify that point.

The Selectboard reviewed a spreadsheet of delinquencies dating from 2011–2025. The minutes record a list amounting to approximately $220,757.16, with a separate line noting the total due as $331,542.85; utilities arrears were reported as $21,071.36. The board emphasized that once accounts go to an attorney, legal costs and penalties accrue and delinquent balances affect the operating budget. Property owners were reminded they can consult the Town Manager to arrange repayment plans.