SB235 Summary

• Authorizes Class 5 municipalities to file expedited quiet title and foreclosure actions in circuit court for abandoned tax sale properties acquired from the State Land Commissioner within municipal limits.

• Requires municipalities to record a notice of intent in probate court and make good faith efforts to identify interested parties through deed records, tax assessor records, voter registration lists, and Secretary of State business records.

• Mandates municipalities post a sign (4 feet by 6 feet) on the property for at least 30 days and provide notice to identified interested parties at least 30 days before the hearing via certified and regular mail.

• Circuit court must set hearing within 90 days and shall enter judgment within 10 days after hearing; judgment vests fee simple title absolutely in the municipality and extinguishes all liens, redemption rights, and recorded/unrecorded interests except for easements, deed restrictions, and environmental law restrictions.

• Allows municipalities and interested parties to appeal within 42 days by posting a bond equal to redemption costs; appeals are affirmed unless there is a defect in property identification or notice depriving a party of due process.