FARMINGTON — The Board of Selectmen unanimously voted Tuesday night to send letters to delinquent taxpayers.

Town Treasurer Diana Young presented selectmen Tuesday night a list of 43 property owners who owe taxes.

Town Manager Richard Davis said the total owed in back taxes, interest and lien fees is $146,872.10. Most of the owners owe up to three years in taxes. Ten owe taxes for four to 12 years.

Young told the board that 23 of those listed have made attempts to pay amounts in arrears or have made a commitment to paying back taxes. She has had little or no contact with the other 20 owners.

Chairman Joshua Bell said it would be in poor taste for the town to take anyone’s home. “We don’t know their circumstances. They may have lost their job or have a serious illness,” he said.

Davis said residents have the option of applying for abatements because of poverty.

Bell also said that by not trying to collect tax owed to the town, officials would not be doing justice to residents who are paying their taxes.

The board unanimously voted to send two letters. The wording for those 23 who have made efforts to pay taxes would reflect the recent contacts and/or payments and say the town needs consistent payments or further consideration will be taken by selectmen.

The other 20 property owners will be informed they have 45 days to contact the town or action will be taken to advertise the foreclosed property for sale.

In other business, selectmen voted to authorize the tax collector, through the town attorney, to proceed to small claims court to collect delinquent personal property taxes owed by seven businesses.

Selectman Stephan Bunker said he was reluctant but it was a necessary process that the town needs to follow.

Selectman Matthew Smith said the businesses may have a judgment against them forever but the taxes may not be paid.

Davis said some of the owners may be deceased or can’t be found. “We may have to write them off,” he said.

The businesses for which action will be taken are Farmington Towing, Greenlaw Collectibles and Pawn, Hair Razor, Loose Ends Hair Salon, Reboot Computer, Roost Pub and Winery, and RS Electric.

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