Been a while since we've shared how the tax sale process is coming along. We've passed several deadlines and we are no longer accepting 2005 payments with personal checks. The only deadline left is to stay out of the publications. So, without a doubt the final push is on.
Heading into today's business we have 273 eligible properties. Here's how the countdown has gone as reported in this blog.
May 10- 471 properties
May 21- 375
May 29- 354
June 5- 329
June 26- 273
I guess we're getting there. We are behind pace from this date a year ago and we've never gone to sale with more than 44 so we need to make up some ground.
I think a newspaper article has either been published in the last few days or will be published soon and that always seems to help.
Stay tuned and as always click the comments section and give us an update on how your tax sale numbers are progressing.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
JOKE Of The Week
Those three former Duke Lacrosse players wrongly accused of raping a stripper at a wild beer bash have been compensated by the University in an undisclosed monetary amount.
The players say they hope this helps bring closure to the ordeal that left a black eye on the university and the justice system.
To bring further closure the players are holding a free beer bash complete with strippers.
District Attorney Mike Nifong has been disbarred for his errors in prosecuting the players. He has apologized and wants to make right. So he has volunteered to appear at the bash and act as the human pinata.
The players say they hope this helps bring closure to the ordeal that left a black eye on the university and the justice system.
To bring further closure the players are holding a free beer bash complete with strippers.
District Attorney Mike Nifong has been disbarred for his errors in prosecuting the players. He has apologized and wants to make right. So he has volunteered to appear at the bash and act as the human pinata.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Free Preview
Hey all, in conjunction with Tipton Systems, who was a vendor at conference, I am hosting a one afternoon preview of new check scanning equipment that is catching on in popularity.
Jill Rodenhofer of Tipton will be the featured guest. Jill will show off equipment that allows us to scan our daily checks and send them directly to the bank for deposit in our account.
Our depository is just now getting the technological updates it needs to accept these types of transactions. Even if it's for down the road consideration it might be fun to see. Jill has sent invites to area counties but know that you are welcomed too.
The display day is set for Tuesday, July 10th, starting at 1:30 in the afternoon. Come on down and see the large two wall mural on the main floor of the courthouse.
If you are coming to the event leave me a message in the comment section of this article and I will pass the info along to Jill.
Jill Rodenhofer of Tipton will be the featured guest. Jill will show off equipment that allows us to scan our daily checks and send them directly to the bank for deposit in our account.
Our depository is just now getting the technological updates it needs to accept these types of transactions. Even if it's for down the road consideration it might be fun to see. Jill has sent invites to area counties but know that you are welcomed too.
The display day is set for Tuesday, July 10th, starting at 1:30 in the afternoon. Come on down and see the large two wall mural on the main floor of the courthouse.
If you are coming to the event leave me a message in the comment section of this article and I will pass the info along to Jill.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Birthday Addition
We learned at the conference that Donna Nash (Platte) is celebrating a birthday this month and I would like to add her to my list of June birthdays.
Donna's birthday is actually today! June 21, which means there will be more sunlight for her birthday party than any other birthday party through the year.
Happy summer solstice birthday to Donna!
Let me ask you this. If your birthday falls on daylight savings day are you a year younger in the Spring and a year older in the Fall?
Joke Of The Week
Due to travels to and from Jeff City I did not post a joke of the week. I know, you're heart broken.
I already have next week's joke in my head and will have it posted at its regularly scheduled time of Tuesday Morning.
Thank you, and have a laugh today!
I already have next week's joke in my head and will have it posted at its regularly scheduled time of Tuesday Morning.
Thank you, and have a laugh today!
Legislative Meeting (Wednesday)
All in attendance gathered Wednesday morning for the scheduled legislative meeting.
Current President Sharon Cockrum (Clinton) chaired the event and after a brief welcome introduced Past President Margie Bowman (Ray) who introduced her special guest Trish Vincent.
Trish is the Director of the Department of Revenue who apologized for the email sent out last week about the counties who provide tax records to DOR so that taxpayers can go to the Fee Agent Office for tags without needing their paid personal property tax receipt.
Trish said the DOR appreciates those counties who are involved in that program and said that the reason they are still asking taxpayers to bring their receipts is because having them is faster than looking it up, and in the event the system is down, the taxpayer can still be helped without being sent to the courthouse for a duplicate.
We basically learned for a variety of reasons the program, of which, about 40 of us participate in is not perfect. We received a pledge from Ms. Vincent that free agents will make every effort to look up records on line but asked that we continue to urge taxpayers to take the receipt with them and to emphasize it will make their stay at the fee agent office a shorter one.
I felt like Ms. Vincent and the Collector's in attendance left with a better understanding of the programs deficiencies and the difficulties both sides deal with as a result.
Legislative Chair Wayne Scharnhorst (Howell) and MCCA Governmental Consultant Mark Ausmus who made brief comments regarding the ebb and flow of various bills we were tracking as an association. Mainly SB 22 which was the county omnibus bill and dealt with the compensation for municipal collections. Of course you will remember and maybe followed the progress of the bill here, that the bill passed, however the collection language was removed before being finally agreed to.
There was no major legislation passed that will have an impact on our offices for the coming year.
Thanks was given to Mark and Mark in turn thanked those of us who spent time at the Capital during the closing weeks of session. Mark indicates that while there is some sitting and waiting for the firehouse alarm to sound, that when it comes time for action having the bodies available to implement a plan makes a big difference, in most cases, in the outcome of an issue.
Some of the legislation we attempted to get passed but failed to do so, including the protection of taxpayer records from being acquired under the Sunshine Law and then resold by a company for commercial uses is still alive for next session. Several groups who opposed the language of last years bill indicate they understand where we are coming from and will work with us this summer to develop language they can live with. So the point is, work is already underway for the next session which will convene in January of 2008.
After lunch the meeting was adjourned.
Current President Sharon Cockrum (Clinton) chaired the event and after a brief welcome introduced Past President Margie Bowman (Ray) who introduced her special guest Trish Vincent.
Trish is the Director of the Department of Revenue who apologized for the email sent out last week about the counties who provide tax records to DOR so that taxpayers can go to the Fee Agent Office for tags without needing their paid personal property tax receipt.
Trish said the DOR appreciates those counties who are involved in that program and said that the reason they are still asking taxpayers to bring their receipts is because having them is faster than looking it up, and in the event the system is down, the taxpayer can still be helped without being sent to the courthouse for a duplicate.
We basically learned for a variety of reasons the program, of which, about 40 of us participate in is not perfect. We received a pledge from Ms. Vincent that free agents will make every effort to look up records on line but asked that we continue to urge taxpayers to take the receipt with them and to emphasize it will make their stay at the fee agent office a shorter one.
I felt like Ms. Vincent and the Collector's in attendance left with a better understanding of the programs deficiencies and the difficulties both sides deal with as a result.
Legislative Chair Wayne Scharnhorst (Howell) and MCCA Governmental Consultant Mark Ausmus who made brief comments regarding the ebb and flow of various bills we were tracking as an association. Mainly SB 22 which was the county omnibus bill and dealt with the compensation for municipal collections. Of course you will remember and maybe followed the progress of the bill here, that the bill passed, however the collection language was removed before being finally agreed to.
There was no major legislation passed that will have an impact on our offices for the coming year.
Thanks was given to Mark and Mark in turn thanked those of us who spent time at the Capital during the closing weeks of session. Mark indicates that while there is some sitting and waiting for the firehouse alarm to sound, that when it comes time for action having the bodies available to implement a plan makes a big difference, in most cases, in the outcome of an issue.
Some of the legislation we attempted to get passed but failed to do so, including the protection of taxpayer records from being acquired under the Sunshine Law and then resold by a company for commercial uses is still alive for next session. Several groups who opposed the language of last years bill indicate they understand where we are coming from and will work with us this summer to develop language they can live with. So the point is, work is already underway for the next session which will convene in January of 2008.
After lunch the meeting was adjourned.
Legislative Meeting
Was nice to see those who attended this weeks legislative review in Jefferson City.
On Tuesday 1st and 2nd class counties met for a round table discussion of items of interest and possible solutions to the problems.
We discussed the issue that emerged last week with the Department of Revenue. (We later heard from Director Trish Vincent on Wednesday).
We discussed phone calls we get from Land America representatives who are obviously from a foreign country, are difficult to understand, ask a ton of questions, and often call more than once about the same property. Ruthane Small (Johnson) will be making contact with Land America to see if there is something that can be done to remedy the situation. Among the solutions discussed were handling tax amount items via email or fax, or demanding they use our websites (if you have one) to look up tax amounts on their own.
Discussion Moderator Pam Shipley (Cass) voiced concern about communication and action regarding getting updates done on the websites of those who use Official Payments, Inc as their online collection company.
Pam asked how many used official payments for any purpose whether on-line or for credit card purposes and will be asking that Official Payments schedule a user meeting where those of you who use their company can get together and talk about the future. I understand if you're interested in using Official Payments, Inc. that you would be welcomed at the meeting as well. To be clear however, the meeting is designed for current users, not necessarily as a means of increasing participation from any county not currently with them.
We heard that most of us scratch are heads regarding enforcement of Merchant Licenses, how to increase the numbers of them, and what to do if someone is billed and refuses to pay. Some make trips through the county for spot checks, others receive lists of new businesses from their municipalities and chambers of commerce.
Christopher Williams (Jackson) talked about steps he takes to make efforts to contact owners of potential tax sale eligible properties and told us he and his assessor use assessor office staff to physically visit each tax sale property and take a digital picture of notice being posted that the property will be offered for auction due to delinquent taxes. That obviously made most of us gasp, however many of us have pending lawsuits that stem from arguments as to whether or not we (or tax sale buyers) went far enough in making sure an owner had been duly notified. Chris indicated he believed it may be time to look at tax sale statutes for possible revisions.
Thanks to Pam for organizing the meeting on Tuesday and before adjourning we informally decided to have our next one in an exotic, warm, tropical climate at a location that has umbrellas in their refreshments.
On Tuesday 1st and 2nd class counties met for a round table discussion of items of interest and possible solutions to the problems.
We discussed the issue that emerged last week with the Department of Revenue. (We later heard from Director Trish Vincent on Wednesday).
We discussed phone calls we get from Land America representatives who are obviously from a foreign country, are difficult to understand, ask a ton of questions, and often call more than once about the same property. Ruthane Small (Johnson) will be making contact with Land America to see if there is something that can be done to remedy the situation. Among the solutions discussed were handling tax amount items via email or fax, or demanding they use our websites (if you have one) to look up tax amounts on their own.
Discussion Moderator Pam Shipley (Cass) voiced concern about communication and action regarding getting updates done on the websites of those who use Official Payments, Inc as their online collection company.
Pam asked how many used official payments for any purpose whether on-line or for credit card purposes and will be asking that Official Payments schedule a user meeting where those of you who use their company can get together and talk about the future. I understand if you're interested in using Official Payments, Inc. that you would be welcomed at the meeting as well. To be clear however, the meeting is designed for current users, not necessarily as a means of increasing participation from any county not currently with them.
We heard that most of us scratch are heads regarding enforcement of Merchant Licenses, how to increase the numbers of them, and what to do if someone is billed and refuses to pay. Some make trips through the county for spot checks, others receive lists of new businesses from their municipalities and chambers of commerce.
Christopher Williams (Jackson) talked about steps he takes to make efforts to contact owners of potential tax sale eligible properties and told us he and his assessor use assessor office staff to physically visit each tax sale property and take a digital picture of notice being posted that the property will be offered for auction due to delinquent taxes. That obviously made most of us gasp, however many of us have pending lawsuits that stem from arguments as to whether or not we (or tax sale buyers) went far enough in making sure an owner had been duly notified. Chris indicated he believed it may be time to look at tax sale statutes for possible revisions.
Thanks to Pam for organizing the meeting on Tuesday and before adjourning we informally decided to have our next one in an exotic, warm, tropical climate at a location that has umbrellas in their refreshments.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Joke Of The Week
In the news today another scientific breakthrough from the animal kingdom.
After extensive research scientists say they have confirmed chimpanzee's learn and share techniques on how to fiddle with gadgets...they also pass on customs and culture..just as humans do...
The evidence came to light when the scientists witnessed the chimps using the remote to turn off Rosie O'Donnell and The View.
Scientists say these findings represent traits shared by our common ancestors more than five million years ago...
That probably explains, after all those years, how chimps from generation to generation are able to perform the hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil signs.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Legislative Meeting
Received notice from Pam Shipley (Cass) of a meeting for collectors from 1st and 2nd class counties that will be held before the board meeting in Jeff City next week.
The 1st and 2nd class meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 19th, at 2:00, check the hotel for room location.
Please let Pam know whether you will be attending, if you're unable to attend please notify her that I am allowed to have your cookie!
It might also be a good idea to give her an idea or two about what you want to discuss.
See you on the 19th!
The 1st and 2nd class meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 19th, at 2:00, check the hotel for room location.
Please let Pam know whether you will be attending, if you're unable to attend please notify her that I am allowed to have your cookie!
It might also be a good idea to give her an idea or two about what you want to discuss.
See you on the 19th!
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Online Look Up
I was disappointed today to receive an email from the D.O.R. regarding the online taxpayer look up program approximately 40 counties take part in. The D.O.R. now says the online look up feature was intended as a back-up in case a taxpayer didn't arrive with his/her paid receipt.
Shortly after entering office on March 3, 2003 I had two visits from suits from D.O.R. urging me to get with the times. They pointed out Jasper County is online and since we both have taxpayers in Joplin it didn't make sense for some Joplin residents to be able to benefit from the program while others still could not renew from the comforts of home. The second visit I was sold on the fact that it would be a great customer service tool for me and it would cut down on counter traffic for people needing a duplicate receipt.
Finally after Governor Blunt changed the fee agent structure my two fee agent's approached me urging me to come on board and make life easier for all of us. $850 dollar in programming costs later I was thrilled to see the smile on the face of each taxpayer we informed telling them that renewing their tags just became easier!
I also called D.O.R. at one point this winter because I was informed that some area fee agents refused to look up the taxes online despite admitting that every fee agent office in the state was required to be online with Jeff City. D.O.R. told me they could not force a fee agent to utilize the online system and that if they chose to require a receipt that was their option. So I said your department can force them to be online, ask me to spend almost a thousand dollars in programming, but you can;t force them to look up the paid status. His reply was something to the effect of, "As silly as that sounds, that's true!"
Now we seem to have seen a small rash (NOT like Paris Hilton's) of taxpayers who have been sent on a 40 minute round trip from Joplin to get a waiver from us when in 2006 they had lived in Jasper County AND had a 2006 paid receipt. But because they didn't owe tax in Newton they were told they needed a waiver indicating that. When we inform them that that is not how the system works it ends up making both offices look like we don't know whats going on. I assumed it was a new employee that maybe didn't understand the waiver system and the problem would fix itself soon. Until today and now I am putting two and two together.
So what's the solution? I think we for sure need to discuss it at the June 20 meeting in Jeff City. Until then, if you have an idea or thought or comment click the comment link at the end of this story and I'll post some discussion for others to see.
Shortly after entering office on March 3, 2003 I had two visits from suits from D.O.R. urging me to get with the times. They pointed out Jasper County is online and since we both have taxpayers in Joplin it didn't make sense for some Joplin residents to be able to benefit from the program while others still could not renew from the comforts of home. The second visit I was sold on the fact that it would be a great customer service tool for me and it would cut down on counter traffic for people needing a duplicate receipt.
Finally after Governor Blunt changed the fee agent structure my two fee agent's approached me urging me to come on board and make life easier for all of us. $850 dollar in programming costs later I was thrilled to see the smile on the face of each taxpayer we informed telling them that renewing their tags just became easier!
I also called D.O.R. at one point this winter because I was informed that some area fee agents refused to look up the taxes online despite admitting that every fee agent office in the state was required to be online with Jeff City. D.O.R. told me they could not force a fee agent to utilize the online system and that if they chose to require a receipt that was their option. So I said your department can force them to be online, ask me to spend almost a thousand dollars in programming, but you can;t force them to look up the paid status. His reply was something to the effect of, "As silly as that sounds, that's true!"
Now we seem to have seen a small rash (NOT like Paris Hilton's) of taxpayers who have been sent on a 40 minute round trip from Joplin to get a waiver from us when in 2006 they had lived in Jasper County AND had a 2006 paid receipt. But because they didn't owe tax in Newton they were told they needed a waiver indicating that. When we inform them that that is not how the system works it ends up making both offices look like we don't know whats going on. I assumed it was a new employee that maybe didn't understand the waiver system and the problem would fix itself soon. Until today and now I am putting two and two together.
So what's the solution? I think we for sure need to discuss it at the June 20 meeting in Jeff City. Until then, if you have an idea or thought or comment click the comment link at the end of this story and I'll post some discussion for others to see.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Credit Cards
O.K...I've been in office almost 4 1/2 years and I am considering making the transition to accepting credit card payments over the counter.
The office did so years ago. The program lasted about two weeks until the first snag came along and mt predecessor called the company and told them to busta move back here and get their equipment.
So I am asking for feedback. Click the comments portion under this story and let me know what county you're from, whether you accept credit card payments over the counter, who your processing company is and what rate customers pay.
Thanks very much and I look forward to hearing from you!
The office did so years ago. The program lasted about two weeks until the first snag came along and mt predecessor called the company and told them to busta move back here and get their equipment.
So I am asking for feedback. Click the comments portion under this story and let me know what county you're from, whether you accept credit card payments over the counter, who your processing company is and what rate customers pay.
Thanks very much and I look forward to hearing from you!
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Legislative Meeting
Looking forward to seeing all of you at the upcoming legislative meeting scheduled for 9:30 A.M., Wednesday, June 20, 2007, at the Capital Plaza.
Legislative Chairman Wayne Scharnhorst (Howell) is expected to give us a run down as to legislation that impacts our offices. Legislative Consultant Mark Ausmus will most likely be on hand as well.
Steve Holt (Jasper) has arranged for a block of rooms at the Capital Plaza. Make sure when you make your reservations to let them know you're with the MCCA so you can enjoy the low $69.01 room rate.
Legislative Chairman Wayne Scharnhorst (Howell) is expected to give us a run down as to legislation that impacts our offices. Legislative Consultant Mark Ausmus will most likely be on hand as well.
Steve Holt (Jasper) has arranged for a block of rooms at the Capital Plaza. Make sure when you make your reservations to let them know you're with the MCCA so you can enjoy the low $69.01 room rate.
Tax Sale Update
Entering today's business we were down to 329 eligible parcels. How is your tax sale preps going? Send me a note in the comment section by clicking "comments" at the bottom of this story.
Joke Of The Week
It's day two for Paris Hilton as she serves time in jail for a parole violation. In case you're not familiar with the story Paris apparently enjoys having a few drinks before getting behind the wheel.
Hilton who attended the MTV Movie Awards just hours before turning herself in said she was actually looking forward to serving her time..as she heard the jail was full of bars!
Controversy continues to surround the young boy from Alabama who claims to have hunted down a wild hog that weighed more than 1,000 pounds. Many believe pictures of the hog were doctored and no such animal exists.
Oddly enough, down in Australia a man is fighting the same type of controversy. he recently bagged a toad that weighed over 20 pounds and was the size of a small dog.
Though no pictures exist the man swears he saw the toad hike its leg on a fire hydrant.
Hilton who attended the MTV Movie Awards just hours before turning herself in said she was actually looking forward to serving her time..as she heard the jail was full of bars!
Controversy continues to surround the young boy from Alabama who claims to have hunted down a wild hog that weighed more than 1,000 pounds. Many believe pictures of the hog were doctored and no such animal exists.
Oddly enough, down in Australia a man is fighting the same type of controversy. he recently bagged a toad that weighed over 20 pounds and was the size of a small dog.
Though no pictures exist the man swears he saw the toad hike its leg on a fire hydrant.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Labor Laws
May 29th, 2007 may turn out to be a day that has a lasting impact on Missouri employers and county governments alike. The developments took place in Jefferson City and while the initial blast was soundless the repercussions could be heard from Maryville to Cape Girardeau and from Kirksville to Joplin.
Missouri Association of Counties Legal Counsel Ivan Schraeder has come out with his take on the Missouri Supreme Courts ruling that overturns Missouri labor laws as we know them.
The 5-2 decision overturns controlling laws that date back to 1947.
"All public employees now have the right to bargain collectively. He warns that there could be immediate and severe financial costs to county government. Here is a brief look at what Schraeder says is at risk on our level of government."
He adds, "The Court ruled that teachers have a right to bargain even though they are excluded from the coverage of the current Meet & Confer law. By extension, it can be expected that all police officers will also have the right to bargaining collectively, even though also excluded by current state statute.The Court also seemed to say that there can be no exclusions for persons who are employed even though they perform a management function or are supervisors or are confidential workers involved in bargaining."
"County government will be significantly affected because of the number of independently elected officeholders and the limited countywide control that county commissions have over employment-related decisions."
Schraeder advises counties to begin game planning immediately yet remain flexible as the Legislature will surely address the topic during the next session.
If you didn't receive an email from MAC regarding this decision and would like one you can call Assistant Director of MAC Mary Ellen Brennan and get on their mailing list or I can send one to you if you leave a request in the comments section at the end of this story.
Missouri Association of Counties Legal Counsel Ivan Schraeder has come out with his take on the Missouri Supreme Courts ruling that overturns Missouri labor laws as we know them.
The 5-2 decision overturns controlling laws that date back to 1947.
"All public employees now have the right to bargain collectively. He warns that there could be immediate and severe financial costs to county government. Here is a brief look at what Schraeder says is at risk on our level of government."
He adds, "The Court ruled that teachers have a right to bargain even though they are excluded from the coverage of the current Meet & Confer law. By extension, it can be expected that all police officers will also have the right to bargaining collectively, even though also excluded by current state statute.The Court also seemed to say that there can be no exclusions for persons who are employed even though they perform a management function or are supervisors or are confidential workers involved in bargaining."
"County government will be significantly affected because of the number of independently elected officeholders and the limited countywide control that county commissions have over employment-related decisions."
Schraeder advises counties to begin game planning immediately yet remain flexible as the Legislature will surely address the topic during the next session.
If you didn't receive an email from MAC regarding this decision and would like one you can call Assistant Director of MAC Mary Ellen Brennan and get on their mailing list or I can send one to you if you leave a request in the comments section at the end of this story.
Happy Birthday
It's the start of a new month and I am aware of a couple birthdays we have in the next few weeks.
June Grooms ( Caldwell) will celebrate next week on June 7th.
Carol Nauman (Cooper) waits till the end of the month her birthday is June 30th.
If you haven't sent in your birthday click the comments section at the bottom of this story and give me your name, county, and birthday. I promise not to tell the year born!!! Unless someone bribes me to tell.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Tax Sale Update
Lien searches continue to flow into the office as letters to lien holders get sent out.
Things have slowed since the passing of our May 15 deadline to avoid a possible lien search fee. Next deadline is June 15, the last day to pay with a personal check.
Hopefully that looming deadline will spur traffic at the counter.
Starting today we are at 354 eligible parcels.
Feel free to click the comment button at the end of this story and let me know how your sale is progressing.
Things have slowed since the passing of our May 15 deadline to avoid a possible lien search fee. Next deadline is June 15, the last day to pay with a personal check.
Hopefully that looming deadline will spur traffic at the counter.
Starting today we are at 354 eligible parcels.
Feel free to click the comment button at the end of this story and let me know how your sale is progressing.
Joke Of The Week
Michael Jackson has dropped his attempt to block a scheduled auction of Jackson family memorabilia.
The King of Pop dropped the suit after it was discovered his Macaulay Culkin poster wasn't among the items being sold.
Also not being offered are any of Janet Jackson's wardrobes. Who would buy them anyway?? We all know they're prone to malfunction.
The King of Pop dropped the suit after it was discovered his Macaulay Culkin poster wasn't among the items being sold.
Also not being offered are any of Janet Jackson's wardrobes. Who would buy them anyway?? We all know they're prone to malfunction.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Proud To Be An American
A brief note wishing all of you a safe Memorial Day weekend.
My wife Lynn and I are caretakers of Hazel Green Cemetery in Boulder City, Missouri and will be spending a lot of time greeting those guests who arrive to pay tribute to loved ones who are buried in the cemetery.
Anytime someone who has space reserved dies we make a trip to stake the graves to be dug in advance of the services. We often will clean up flowers, spread good black dirt and seed on fresh graves, and spent a lot of time helping to clean up following the ice storm which devastated many of the beautiful old trees which provide shade.
But given all of that time spent my favorite duty was performed last night. We walked the cemetery placing American flags on veterans graves. I don't know the exact number of veterans that are buried there but I would guess it to be close to 50-75 all who spent a portion of their lives in defense of this country and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.
Buried at the cemetery are soldiers from the Civil War era, one who I can remember served in WWII, the Korean, and Viet Nam wars, there is a Bronze Star recipient, there is a Naval Seaman whose ashes are at sea, and many others who thankfully never saw battlefield horror. But they are all veterans and deserve equal recognition and remembrance.
My Dad was in WWII as a B-25 pilot carrying out bombing missions in the South Pacific. My Dad passed away in 1989 and I regret I didn't spend more time learning about his service in WWII. He often told stories to family members and I regret that I didn't pay more attention and didn't ask questions as now I would give my eye teeth to be able to sit and listen to him tell me about his experiences.
My middle brother John, who is living, is a former Marine who navigated while flying in an F-4 jet carrying out reconnaissance missions during peacetime.
Last night as I put out flags I also thought of those veterans who are part of our association, of course Skip Rich (Cole) was the most recent active duty member but we have many others who have stood and been recognized at the conference banquet. A personal thanks to you for your service whether in a period of war or not.
Your honor should not be a once a year remembrance and I believe that there is more year round appreciation for veterans than there used to be.
I never served in the military, therefore I can not formally salute you. I hope however, you will accept this posting heading into Memorial Day as my salute to you.
***Please feel free to click the comments link at the bottom of this story and send in the names of those who you honor and remember for their service. I will post the comments as soon as possible after receiving them.
My wife Lynn and I are caretakers of Hazel Green Cemetery in Boulder City, Missouri and will be spending a lot of time greeting those guests who arrive to pay tribute to loved ones who are buried in the cemetery.
Anytime someone who has space reserved dies we make a trip to stake the graves to be dug in advance of the services. We often will clean up flowers, spread good black dirt and seed on fresh graves, and spent a lot of time helping to clean up following the ice storm which devastated many of the beautiful old trees which provide shade.
But given all of that time spent my favorite duty was performed last night. We walked the cemetery placing American flags on veterans graves. I don't know the exact number of veterans that are buried there but I would guess it to be close to 50-75 all who spent a portion of their lives in defense of this country and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.
Buried at the cemetery are soldiers from the Civil War era, one who I can remember served in WWII, the Korean, and Viet Nam wars, there is a Bronze Star recipient, there is a Naval Seaman whose ashes are at sea, and many others who thankfully never saw battlefield horror. But they are all veterans and deserve equal recognition and remembrance.
My Dad was in WWII as a B-25 pilot carrying out bombing missions in the South Pacific. My Dad passed away in 1989 and I regret I didn't spend more time learning about his service in WWII. He often told stories to family members and I regret that I didn't pay more attention and didn't ask questions as now I would give my eye teeth to be able to sit and listen to him tell me about his experiences.
My middle brother John, who is living, is a former Marine who navigated while flying in an F-4 jet carrying out reconnaissance missions during peacetime.
Last night as I put out flags I also thought of those veterans who are part of our association, of course Skip Rich (Cole) was the most recent active duty member but we have many others who have stood and been recognized at the conference banquet. A personal thanks to you for your service whether in a period of war or not.
Your honor should not be a once a year remembrance and I believe that there is more year round appreciation for veterans than there used to be.
I never served in the military, therefore I can not formally salute you. I hope however, you will accept this posting heading into Memorial Day as my salute to you.
***Please feel free to click the comments link at the bottom of this story and send in the names of those who you honor and remember for their service. I will post the comments as soon as possible after receiving them.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Jackson County Question
Hey all, Chris Williams (Jackson) is looking for answers. Here is the body of the email that was sent earlier today.
I am hopeful that you can forward this inquiry to other Collectors as their collector/treasurer function set up is probably different than Jackson County's. My question is whether their general funds retain the interest earned on tax payment deposits between the time they take in the tax payment and the time they distribute their taxes out to their political subdivisions or do they also distribute that interest earned on their deposits to the political subdivisions and schools along with the taxes / interest / penalties included in the tax payment.
I am not talking about deposits of payments made under protest as I know those have specific interest directives set by statute. Instead, I am talking about regular non protest payment deposits. I see that in Missouri statute 52.360, it provides:
"The county collector, in all counties of the first class not having a charter form of government and in all counties of the second class, shall deposit each day in the depositories selected by the county for the deposit of county funds, all money received by him as county collector during the day previous, and make a daily report thereof to the county auditor, as provided in section 55.190, RSMo. The interest on all money deposited by the county collector shall be computed upon the daily balances of the deposits, and all of the interest shall be paid and turned over to the county treasurer at the time and in the manner that the monthly settlement and payment are made by the collector, and the interest shall go to the general revenue fund of the county except as otherwise provided by law."
I have not had time to research, so I asked the County Counselor's office if they found anything more specific on this but they did not find anything in chapter 139 and are not familiar with all the statutes which may impact non charter counties.
My email address is willchris@jacksongov.org
Thank you in advance...................Chris Williams, Jackson County
Give Chris some help if you can. Send your email directly to Chris at the email address he provided.
I am hopeful that you can forward this inquiry to other Collectors as their collector/treasurer function set up is probably different than Jackson County's. My question is whether their general funds retain the interest earned on tax payment deposits between the time they take in the tax payment and the time they distribute their taxes out to their political subdivisions or do they also distribute that interest earned on their deposits to the political subdivisions and schools along with the taxes / interest / penalties included in the tax payment.
I am not talking about deposits of payments made under protest as I know those have specific interest directives set by statute. Instead, I am talking about regular non protest payment deposits. I see that in Missouri statute 52.360, it provides:
"The county collector, in all counties of the first class not having a charter form of government and in all counties of the second class, shall deposit each day in the depositories selected by the county for the deposit of county funds, all money received by him as county collector during the day previous, and make a daily report thereof to the county auditor, as provided in section 55.190, RSMo. The interest on all money deposited by the county collector shall be computed upon the daily balances of the deposits, and all of the interest shall be paid and turned over to the county treasurer at the time and in the manner that the monthly settlement and payment are made by the collector, and the interest shall go to the general revenue fund of the county except as otherwise provided by law."
I have not had time to research, so I asked the County Counselor's office if they found anything more specific on this but they did not find anything in chapter 139 and are not familiar with all the statutes which may impact non charter counties.
My email address is willchris@jacksongov.org
Thank you in advance...................Chris Williams, Jackson County
Give Chris some help if you can. Send your email directly to Chris at the email address he provided.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Just FYI
Speaking of legislation passed recently, NCS HB 616 may have some impact on taxpayers who want to plead their case for relief to the Board of Equalization.
616 makes the county assessor a nonvoting member of the board. It also requires the county commission to appoint two additional members to the board.
The county assessor or a member of his/her staff will be required to attend any meeting of the board and will have the right to present evidence regarding an assessment matter.
616 makes the county assessor a nonvoting member of the board. It also requires the county commission to appoint two additional members to the board.
The county assessor or a member of his/her staff will be required to attend any meeting of the board and will have the right to present evidence regarding an assessment matter.
The Dust Has Settled
O.K. so the legislature has adjourned, barring technicalities, until next January. Each of your Representatives and Senators are home in their districts talking about the successful session and landmark legislation which was hammered out during the four months in Jeff City and in fact there were many that will have a lasting impact on the lives of Missourians.
Here's some bills that you may not hear being highlighted at the next keynote speech you attend:
HB 272 Designates the Three Toed Turtle as the official state reptile.
HB 351 Designates the Crayfish as the official state invertebrate.
HB 576 Designates the Bobwhite Quail as the official state game bird.
HB 680 Designates Big Bluestem as the official state grass.
Also, next time you go to visit the State Agriculture Building at 1616 Missouri Blvd. be prepared as it has been renamed the George Washington Carver Building.
The 19th century African American agriculturist and botanist who discovered many uses for peanuts, such as peanut butter, spent his childhood years here in S.W. Missouri. In fact Newton County is the location for the George Washington Carver State Park. Take State Hwy 59 to Diamond and look for the signs.
Here's some bills that you may not hear being highlighted at the next keynote speech you attend:
HB 272 Designates the Three Toed Turtle as the official state reptile.
HB 351 Designates the Crayfish as the official state invertebrate.
HB 576 Designates the Bobwhite Quail as the official state game bird.
HB 680 Designates Big Bluestem as the official state grass.
Also, next time you go to visit the State Agriculture Building at 1616 Missouri Blvd. be prepared as it has been renamed the George Washington Carver Building.
The 19th century African American agriculturist and botanist who discovered many uses for peanuts, such as peanut butter, spent his childhood years here in S.W. Missouri. In fact Newton County is the location for the George Washington Carver State Park. Take State Hwy 59 to Diamond and look for the signs.
Joke Of The Week
The first ever cataract surgery on an orangutan is being called a success. Doctors say they have at least partially restored the vision to the 19 year old primate.
But as it turns out the patient wants a reversal surgery performed...as he realized his most recent fantasy love interest was actually Rosie O'Donnell.
The whole thing almost never took place as doctors at the vet clinic almost discharged the patient because the patient wouldn't quit drinking out of the bedpan.
If they didn't kick him out, he was bound to leave on his own as the primate was reportedly upset the hospitals cable system didn't carry re-runs of Lancelot Link: Secret Chimp. (see picture above)
(In case you don't know what Lancelot Link:Secret Chimp is about, it was a t.v. show that ran from 1970-72 that was a spoof of the show Get Smart that featured Chimps as spies. NOW do you get it?)
But as it turns out the patient wants a reversal surgery performed...as he realized his most recent fantasy love interest was actually Rosie O'Donnell.
The whole thing almost never took place as doctors at the vet clinic almost discharged the patient because the patient wouldn't quit drinking out of the bedpan.
If they didn't kick him out, he was bound to leave on his own as the primate was reportedly upset the hospitals cable system didn't carry re-runs of Lancelot Link: Secret Chimp. (see picture above)
(In case you don't know what Lancelot Link:Secret Chimp is about, it was a t.v. show that ran from 1970-72 that was a spoof of the show Get Smart that featured Chimps as spies. NOW do you get it?)
Monday, May 21, 2007
Tax Sale Update
O.K....now that we have the legislative session behind us it's full steam ahead to the tax sale. About ten days ago we talked tax sale numbers.
We had a big push leading up to a May 15 deadline before lien searches were tacked on and managed to lower our number of eligible parcels to as of this writing 375.
The lien searches seemed to have helped, not only in lowering the final total to offer, but also to help motivate the taxpayers to come to the counter.
How many are doing lien searches before the sale and what benefits, if any, have you seen?
Click the word comments at the bottom of the story, type in your note, type the red letters as you see them and then I will post them as they come in. Looking forward to seeing your responses.
We had a big push leading up to a May 15 deadline before lien searches were tacked on and managed to lower our number of eligible parcels to as of this writing 375.
The lien searches seemed to have helped, not only in lowering the final total to offer, but also to help motivate the taxpayers to come to the counter.
How many are doing lien searches before the sale and what benefits, if any, have you seen?
Click the word comments at the bottom of the story, type in your note, type the red letters as you see them and then I will post them as they come in. Looking forward to seeing your responses.
Friday, May 18, 2007
In The Nick O Time
With literally just hours to spare SB22 has been passed.
The bill which is a county omnibus bill originally had language dealing with compensation for collecting for municipalities. I can confirm that the final bill was altered to eliminate all language dealing with the compensation issue. I am of belief that earlier this week and amendment was offered allowing collectors to keep 1% as compensation with the balance being submitted to general revenue. As it turns out it was completely stricken from the bill.
The bill late Thursday advanced through the Senate and was in conference early this morning with changes being ratified by members of both sides of the legislature.
Mark and Wayne and all of those who either made calls or visited Jeff City for the Ice Cream Social and/or the last week of session did a great job in our efforts to reach a compromise on the bill.
Thank you to all who played a role and for backing those who had a reason to be concerned with the end result of this bill!
The bill which is a county omnibus bill originally had language dealing with compensation for collecting for municipalities. I can confirm that the final bill was altered to eliminate all language dealing with the compensation issue. I am of belief that earlier this week and amendment was offered allowing collectors to keep 1% as compensation with the balance being submitted to general revenue. As it turns out it was completely stricken from the bill.
The bill late Thursday advanced through the Senate and was in conference early this morning with changes being ratified by members of both sides of the legislature.
Mark and Wayne and all of those who either made calls or visited Jeff City for the Ice Cream Social and/or the last week of session did a great job in our efforts to reach a compromise on the bill.
Thank you to all who played a role and for backing those who had a reason to be concerned with the end result of this bill!
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