friends and neighbors,
Let’s talk about Geraldine Tyler. She is a 94-year-old woman from Minneapolis who has found herself in a difficult situation. Tyler failed to pay his property taxes and lost his home. She owed about $2,300 in property taxes on her one-bedroom condo, which rose to about $15,000 with interest and fees. Hennepin County foreclosed on her home and sold it for $40,000. But after the sale, the county kept the entire amount, even though she only owed $15,000. In effect, Hennepin County received an additional $25,000 from Ms. Tyler.
Tyler shot back. Her case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. In a significant legal victory, the court ruled in Ms. Tyler’s favor, ruling that the government’s retention of the extra $25,000 from the sale violated her rights.
This lawsuit has far-reaching implications for property owners across Minnesota. Now, every county in Minnesota will be required to return any surplus money saved from tax forfeiture property sales. Congress provided funding for assistance in the last legislative session, and a class action lawsuit is also underway in Ramsey County to ensure property owners receive the compensation they deserve. For those eligible, compensation can amount to up to 90% of the surplus value of the property plus interest.
If you or someone you know may have been affected by asset forfeiture between 2012 and 2023, please visit www.mntaxforfeituresettlement.com to learn more about eligibility.
Please contact me
I love hearing your feedback! If you have any comments, questions, or concerns about what we’re working on here at Capitol Hill, please feel free to contact me. Contact us by phone at 651-296-5612 or email at sen.steve.drazkowski@mnsenate.gov.
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It’s an honor to be able to help you.
Dora’s
