Columbiana countians to get third tax notices

By D.a. Wilkinson

The county treasurer said that third billings have been used in the past.

LISBON — Property owners in Columbiana County who haven’t paid taxes this year will get a third notice next week.

County Treasurer Nick Barborak said Wednesday he will mail about 8,000 tax bills to owners who haven’t paid anything this year for the tax year 2008.

Barborak said he had no idea how much money the drive may bring in.

He recently had looked through the county’s list of delinquent property, such as residential or commercial, but no type of property stood out.

“It’s a mix of everything. I don’t think that has changed a lot,” he added.

The county has tried a third collection in the past, although officials could not remember the last time it was used.

Since the first- and second-half tax collections are over, those who do pay will have to pay a penalty. Repayment programs can be set up.

The announcement came as part of a county effort to make sure its finances are in good shape.

County Auditor Nancy Milliken’s latest figures show that the county at this time last year had spent 68.8 percent of its revenue. Spending for 2009 is at 68.5 percent of its revenue.

Commissioner Jim Hopppel asked about the county’s portfolio of investments that are not making much interest.

Barborak said that county has $26.2 million invested with United American Capital Corp. in Worthington, Ohio. An additional $10 million is invested in other investment accounts.

Barborak said that in some cases, investments are bringing only 0.25 percent interest.

“They are almost nonexistent rates,” the treasurer said.

He told the commissioners that the economy may not begin to rebound until the third fiscal quarter of 2010.

wilkinson@vindy.com