Lyon County to provide relief for late property tax payments

The Lyon County Board of Commissioners, in coordination with the Auditor/Treasurer, took action earlier Tuesday, May 5 to provide temporary relief to residents and businesses that have been directly or indirectly impacted by the economic pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Lyon County Board voted unanimously (5-0) to abate the majority of penalties associated with late payment of property taxes through July, 2020.
The County Board recognized that, as a result of unemployment, lost or reduced wages, and loss of business income, prompt payment of property taxes may be a major economic pressure for many county residents and businesses this month.
"Imposing the full penalty for late payment of property taxes in 2020 would be unjust and unreasonable," said Lyon County Board Chairman Gary Crowley. "While Lyon County preferred a uniform statewide plan to help out our property taxpayers, we simply shouldn't wait any longer for legislative action."
In taking this action, Lyon County is striking a balance between helping out those residents and businesses seeking property tax payment relief with the critical cash flow needs of local schools, cities and other taxing districts dependent upon property tax revenues.
"As this COVID-19 pandemic continues to play out, it is clear that the financial implications to Lyon County residents and businesses, as well as local governments, are significant and growing," explained Auditor/Treasurer E.J. Moberg.
Minnesota Statute 279.01 allows for a County Board, with the concurrence of the County Treasurer, to abate penalties for late payment of property taxes.
The County acted to reduce penalties for late payment on all property classifications, except energy production taxes and utility and railroad real and personal property, as follows:
Reduced to 1% the penalty for unpaid taxes between May 16, 2020 and June 30, 2020.
Reduced to 2% the penalty for unpaid taxes between July 1, 2020 and July 31, 2020.
Consideration of specific requests for abatement of taxes or adjustment of property values will still be considered on a case-by-case basis, pursuant to state law.