Published on August 13, 2024
Statement from Wayne County Treasurer Eric R. Sabree regarding recent Michigan Supreme Court Decision
The Michigan Supreme Court has recently ruled that the 2020 Rafaeli vs. Oakland County decision, which deemed it unconstitutional for local governments to retain surplus proceeds from tax foreclosure sales, applies retroactively. This ruling has important implications for counties and former property owners across the state.
At the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office, we are currently reviewing this opinion and evaluating our next steps to ensure we comply fully. We are establishing a claims process for taxpayers who lost their property and are entitled to surplus proceeds pursuant to the court order. Owners whose properties were sold in the auction for more than the amount owed may be eligible to file a claim under the existing statutory claims process (under MCL211.78(t))
Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process for all affected individuals. We appreciate the community’s patience as we work through the details. Further information will be provided as soon as it becomes available.