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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Ind. Gov't. - "LaPorte turns to Supreme Court for tax help"

Stan Maddux of the South Bend Tribune reported May 18, 2010 in a story that gives an overview of several related legal issues:

LAPORTE — Officials in LaPorte are turning to the Indiana Supreme Court to force a quick decision on the still pending tax reassessment to keep the city from possibly running out of money.

City Attorney Don Baugher submitted a written request asking the state's highest court to immediately assume jurisdiction over the matter and issue a quick ruling.

"We're just hoping under the circumstances the court will accept our petition," said Baugher.

The property tax reassessment that began in 2007 is still awaiting a final decision in the Indiana Tax Court. A proposed settlement reacher earlier this month has been approved by the LaPorte County Commissioners, Michigan City Area Schools and all other parties involved, including LaPorte County Assessor Carol McDaniel, whose legal challenge forced the disputed reassessment into the tax court.

Her attorney, Mark GiaQuinta said McDaniel signed the settlement Friday. Under the agreement, her $35,000 in legal expenses will be covered.

Property owner George Wendt of Long Beach has also filed a motion with the Indiana Supreme Court challenging the validity of the legal action taken by McDaniel that sent the case to the tax court.

Wendt and other lakefront property owners claim the 2006 figures approved under terms of the agreement are flawed and would unfairly raise their property taxes to much higher levels than many other property owners in the county.

Baugher said the case will likely be decided by the Indiana Supreme Court, given the most recent snags and possibility for other appeals. Baugher is asking the high court to assume jurisdiction now to expedite when official tax bills can start being distributed again.

Posted by Marcia Oddi on May 19, 2010 01:16 PM
Posted to Indiana Courts | Indiana Government