Realty World - Investors Realty
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     Visalia, California                                

KMJ 580 "Real Talk"
Did Fresno Irrigation District Break the Law?

It has recently come to light that the Fresno Irrigation District sold in private sales at least 38 properties since August of 1998 to one purchaser, Public Properties, Inc., for the cost the unpaid district taxes.  The total cost to buy 25 of the properties (the only ones for which public records are available) was $37,357.  The assessed valuation of these properties was in excess of $2.4 million.  These properties were sold under the state Water Code under provisions of Section 26314.  Some of these properties were purchased for less than $200.  The purchaser, Public Properties, Inc., is solely owned by Roger K. Boman, a friend, client and business associate of the Irrigation Districts Lawyer, Craig M. Mortensen.

The state Water Code is an arcane law with many provisions whose interpretation is  murky at best, even by legal experts in water law.  Those who lost their property are in agreement about one thing, this deal smells.

Under the Revenue and Taxation Code, properties can only be sold for delinquent taxes in public auctions, unless a public entity wants the property for the public good, and a careful process is followed.  Irrigation District assessments are liens similar to property taxes, and property can be sold if the taxes are five years delinquent, however, it appears as if state Water Code gives irrigation districts a loophole to simply "assign" certificates of sale.

We will have an open phone line this Saturday to discuss this as well interest rate trends, development news, and as always we are here to answer your questions regarding real estate.  The numbers to call on Saturday are 490-5858 or 1-800-776-5858.

I welcome your comments and suggestions for this show and future shows
Want to be a guest?  Have a subject you want covered?

To contact Brad call at (559) 732-4444 or email blueeyes@realestate-visalia.com

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Listen to "Real Talk" Saturdays Noon until One PM on KMJ 580 FM

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