Letters to the Editors

Placing liens on lots looks like losing idea

Editor: An article published on Jan. 17 regarding the problems of Brooksville City Council member and former Mayor Joe Johnston III has prompted my response, which follows:

The Hernando County Office of Code Enforcement has placed a lien of some $20,000 against 10 of his lots in the Hill 'n Dale subdivision. This appears to be a losing situation for everyone, including the county, because the unpaid taxes, combined with the lien, exceed the value of the lots at this time. I might note there are about 60 lots with taxes past due in this subdivision. Many of these are owned by people in Puerto Rico and Mexico.

To the best of my knowledge, Code Enforcement only takes cleanup action on properties that are reported by someone, or if one of the enforcement officers spots a code violation.

While on the subject of back taxes, it has been observed that each year the list of unpaid taxes published in May appears to be on the increase. I remember when it took only about one day to auction the tax certificates. Last year, I understand it took about three days. This year it may take even longer.

The tax collector issues the tax certificates, carrying as much as 18 percent interest. I believe the county is lucky that about a dozen out-of-state bidders arrive each year to purchase most of the certificates available.

According to public records, one party by the name of "Rashid" appears to be purchasing more than anyone else. Even one of our state senators is a frequent buyer. Of course, many of the old-time money people also buy them. Where else can we get that kind of secured return on our money today? Hundreds of tax deed applications are pending.

According to records, it appears there are hundreds of lots in various parts of the county that can be purchased for back taxes, plus processing fees, which is about half the assessed value.

I hear the Southwest Florida Water Management District is buying lots in Royal Highlands, direct from owners, for some reason, and paying about double the true value. Can anyone tell me why?
-- Louis F. Mlecka, Brooksville

County should just bid administrator farewell

Editor: County Administrator Paul McIntosh wants to go to Marion County. Please let him go, along with the 14 percent pay raise he needs so badly.

The commissioners say he should commit to Hernando County or get lost. What are the commissioners thinking? Or are they? When is no, no?
-- Mary Bartenope, Spring Hill

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