Only four properties on city’s back-tax auction, with collection efforts dating back to 2017

An initial batch of properties set to be auctioned off to collect back taxes is smaller than in recent past, but administrators had to remind elected officials the process began four years ago.

Four properties in Medicine Hat appeared on the list presented to Tuesday’s meeting of the corporate services committee, where elected officials said they expected larger than usual numbers due to current economic uncertainty.

“I’m quite surprised that it’s down a little bit, considering the economic headwinds that we know we’re facing,” said Coun. Darren Hirsch.

Administrators confirmed the number is fewer than usual, but refer to unsuccessful collection actions that began in 2017.

Most accounts are cleared up between the announcement and a potential auction date of March 31 each year, either by property owners or mortgage holders that foreclose.

A posted list of overdue accounts (which are in arrears but not yet at auction stage) viewed by the News is also substantially shorter than in previous years.

Administrators said the current auction deals with longstanding collection files, and doesn’t provide a good picture of the current economic situation.

“We’re curious to see what happens in four years,” said Dennis Egert, managing director of corporate services.

Tuesday’s process sets minimum bids and confirms an auction date that would only be kept if arrangements to clear the accounts cannot be made by 9 a.m. on the day of the auction.

This year’s list includes one mobile home, two houses (located in Ross Glen and Crescent Heights) and a condo unit in Southlands.

Only two homes advanced to the auction stage in 2020, though no bids were registered, from an initial list of 12 properties.

Only one property has actually sold at auction since 2000.

There was no auction in 2019, and the 2018 auction comprised two parking stalls at a condominium with unique land titles, as is common.