State Rep. Bradley Slagh of Zeeland today introduced a proposal to protect Michigan taxpayers when buying subdivided property.

Slagh’s proposal would require that all property taxes be paid in full before a parcel of land could be subdivided and sold. A primary goal is to ensure new owners aren’t on the hook for unpaid property tax bills that should have been paid by previous owners.

“This is a commonsense proposal to protect taxpayers,” said Slagh, who recently began his first term in the Michigan House and is introducing his first bill. “Under the current system, a new owner could face property tax hassles and potentially even foreclosure – through no fault of their own — after buying a subdivided parcel if property taxes weren’t paid by the previous owner. That isn’t right, and the solution we’re proposing will provide some peace of mind in these situations.”

The proposal also will help local governments as it will ensure that taxes are paid by the original owner so they never go delinquent.

Slagh has an extensive background helping him shape improvements in state law in this area. He has worked in financial services and real estate, and also previously served as Zeeland Township supervisor and Ottawa County treasurer.

House Bill 4055 was referred to the Committee on Local Government and Municipal Finance for consideration.

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