Hundreds still owing on their property taxes

Watch the video above: Unpaid property taxes

SASKATOON – Although paying property taxes is required, the City of Saskatoon admits for some people it’s not always easy.

Notices have gone out reminding those with outstanding balances to pay up or have their property listed in the local newspaper.

“If there are taxes unpaid for the previous year then the tax enforcement process begins the next year so in 2014 what we’re working on is 2013 arrears,” said Shelly Sutherland, director of corporate revenue with the city.

If a notice was received in the mail, the Tax Enforcement Act will commence if the city doesn’t receive a payment.

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“They will be advertised in the paper this coming week-end and there will about 2,000 properties listed on that ad,” said Sutherland.

This compared to 1,980 properties last year printed in the paper.

“What goes in the paper is the legal description and the amount owing.” said Sutherland.

A step that’s all part of the Tax Enforcement Act to ensure there is adequate communication with property owners.

“People find themselves in the circumstances they find themselves for any number of reasons this isn’t about shame it’s just about continuing to be sure that people are well aware of what is owed and they’re getting the appropriate communication.”

In total 3,713 liens were placed on properties between 2008 and 2013.

Tax arrears have been paid in full on 3,298 of these properties and 415 liens remain where property owners have payment arrangements.

“Since 2008, of all the properties and all of the collection activity the city has only taken title to six properties and that’s where everything else failed.” said Sutherland.

“Throughout this whole process we’re communicating, we’re available to make arrangements with people and does take care of the majority of cases.”

City officials also suggest TIPPS or the Tax Installment Payment Plan Service to help homeowners budget.

A method more than 60 per cent of people use to pay their taxes, one that allows them to pay their annual taxes each month.