While the deadline to redeem 2017 and prior property tax bills was extended to June 29th under Executive Order 2020-106 by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, that deadline is now rapidly approaching, and Berrien County Treasurer Shelly Weich is working to share the same compassion of her predecessor, Bret Witkowski.
Weich recognizes that the unprecedented impact of the coronavirus pandemic may have left property owners with unexpected financial hardship due to the loss of a job, health issues, or some other extenuating circumstance, but wants everyone to know that she is “ready and willing to assist those who need some relief to insure that their home or business is not taken from them.”
Weich says, “Treasurers do not like foreclosing on property and will work hard to provide alternatives to the taxpayer.” She points out that there are many resources available to help taxpayers who find themselves in trouble. Those resources can stem foreclosure and result in a positive outcome.
By way of example, Weich says a monthly payment agreement can be established, or a search for financial assistance through local agencies and state programs can be undertaken.
Within the last two years alone, more than 800 Berrien County property owners have managed to avoid foreclosure by signing on to the county treasurer’s monthly payment plan. Additionally, that plan has produced a 95-percent success rate, benefiting not only the property owner, but the local municipality as well.
Despite all of that, the clock is ticking, and time is running out even on the extension approved by the governor, so Weich strongly encourages anyone facing impending foreclosure due to lack of payment on delinquent property taxes to arrange to speak with her about the options available.
Because, however, the Berrien County Administration Building remains closed to the public, you are asked to call her at 269-983-7111, extension 8569 anytime Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5pm.
Weich urges, “Get the assistance you need today to avoid the foreclosure of your home or business.”
