DEAR EDITOR:

I estimated there are approximately 4,600 properties listed in the 12-page supplement published in The Vindicator this week listing delinquent Mahoning County land taxes for 2024. Of those, only about 30 taxpayers owe between $10,000 to $100,000 in back taxes, with most of these 30 taxpayers closer to the $10,000 side of this bracket.

But there is one more which is above $100,000. The Southern Park Mall Reality owes in excess of $1,000,000 and it’s growing monthly. In fact, the owners are causing security payroll problems, rumors abound that they are delinquent on utility bills and they continue to refuse to communicate in any way with local officials.

Our county auditor stated he can do nothing at this point because there is a usual and customary two-year wait period before he can take legal action. There is nothing usual and customary about the way the mall owners are conducting business within the county and they do not deserve any “usual and customary” treatment. These owners have shown absolutely no intent to work with our leaders and have exhibited a history of similar practices in other communities.

The county auditor and prosecutor should proceed with necessary steps on their part so action will be initiated the day it is “legally” permitted.

LEE A. ARENT

Youngstown