BLOG Branch County Real Estate

December 31st- Tax Day

March- BOARD OF REVIEW- TUESDAY FOLLOWING THE 1ST MONDAY IN MARCH.

MAY 1ST: DEADLINE FOR PRE

AUGUST 1ST: SUMMER TAX BILLS ARE MAILED

SEPTEMBER 15TH- SUMMER TAX BILLS ARE DUE!

DECEMBER 1ST: WINTER TAX BILLS ARE MAILED

FEBRUARY 14TH: HAPPY VALENTINES- WINTER TAXES ARE DUE!

MARCH 1ST: ALL TAX COLLECTIONS ARE TURNED OVER TO THE COUNTY FOR ADDITIONAL COLLECTIONS FEES.

Zoning issues remain an emotional subject for our townships.  Especially those areas surrounding our biggest asset for tax revenue, and tourism- Branch County lakes. There are townships that have adopted a common sense approach to zoning for the complicated platted areas surrounding our lakes, and have little trouble with residents. Some continue to struggle with language that is too restrictive and time consuming.  Instead of spending thousands of dollars on attorneys couldn't the troubled townships seek advise and information from those townships not in turmoil? 

When area non-homesteaded residents pay 1/3 more in taxes than their homesteaded neighbor, can't vote, and have little say on what goes on in their township due, in part, because they live and work in other States it creates negative feelings on both sides.

Nonconforming language in most area zoning ordinances must be changed.  If a homeowner wants to put a CONFORMING addition on a nonconforming structure it should be allowed.  What's done is done.  As long as a resident is conforming with newly established zoning for any new structures it makes sense to allow for such permitted use.

Common sense is what is needed. Leave the emotion behind.  Leave the history behind. Make it work. It benefits all residents to create a kinder, gentler ordinance.  Our builders will build, our real estate will sell, and our largest tax base will joyfully spend their money in our County.