New Hampshire’s Tax Deeds Move Forward with Council Approval
CLAREMONT, NH — During a comprehensive review of its tax deeding procedures at the Wednesday, October 25th meeting, the Claremont City Council gave its unanimous approval to proceed with tax deeding across multiple properties. Assistant Mayor Deb Matteau officially read the motion, and it was seconded by Councilor Andrew O’Hearne, indicating a united front from the Council on the matter.
The action impacts a wide range of properties, including some that are currently occupied. Gwen Melcher, the City Clerk and Tax Collector, supplied the councilors with an extensive list of properties eligible for tax deeding. Among the notable updates was the shift of 132 Elm Street from the deeding list to a payment agreement list, signifying a change in its status.
Councilor Jonathan Stone brought up a pertinent question about the standard practice concerning properties already under payment agreements. He specifically questioned the cases involving 12 Cottage Street and 38 Webster Avenue, both owned by the same individual. “Is it common for property owners in default, who possess multiple properties, to set up separate payment agreements?” he inquired.
Melcher clarified the situation by stating, “Both properties are owned by the same individual, and we’ve received payment from New Hampshire Homeowner Assistance for them. There’s an agreement in place to work collaboratively with the homeowner, who is expected to fully pay off the properties by the end of November.”
Additionally, Councilor Nicholas Koloski inquired about environmental checks on the properties slated for deeding. Melcher assured that the list had been shared with other city departments and no environmental concerns had been flagged yet. “We will definitely double-check that aspect before we move ahead with the deeding,” she added.
Stone further noted that several of the listed properties are mobile homes, prompting him to ask about the city’s strategy for dealing with these structures. Melcher responded, saying a few such units are located on Upham Place and are beyond repair. “The city is planning to apply for a grant specifically for the removal of these dilapidated mobile homes,” she revealed.
Mayor Dale Girard then raised a question about one mobile home that had unpaid rent due to the park where it’s located. “Would that financial burden fall on the city if we acquire these properties?” he asked.
City Manager Yoshi Manale assured that Planning Director Nancy Merrill had already brokered an agreement. According to Manale, “The city will not be responsible for any outstanding rent before taking possession of the unit.”
With this meeting, Claremont City Council not only advanced its tax deeding action but also addressed a variety of related concerns, ensuring a transparent and considered approach to the process.
