The recent auction of tax-delinquent properties in Jefferson County generated $570,606.52, according to the Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands.
The auction, held earlier this month, drew 153 registered bidders, who purchased 290 of 499 available parcels. The properties sold had taxes delinquent since 2020.
“Most owners redeem their property by paying the delinquent taxes; we only auction a fraction of the parcels certified for delinquent taxes,” Commissioner Tommy Land said. “Of course, we hope property is redeemed if the owners want to keep it, but it is vital that the parcels return to the county’s active tax rolls.”
The Commissioner’s Office disburses collected taxes and interest directly to the county, whether through redemption or sale. Land noted that in 2023, the office distributed more than $18.7 million statewide to local governments and school districts — including over $1 million to Jefferson County alone.
“These funds help support everything from county roads to local schools,” Land said.
Auction sales are final. Property owners who missed the auction may still redeem their parcels by paying delinquent taxes online at www.cosl.org or by calling 501-324-9422 to request a Petition to Redeem. Redemption does not grant ownership but brings taxes current.
Parcels that did not sell will be available in 30 days through an online auction by viewing the Post-Auction Sales List at www.cosl.org.
Auction Highlights
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Total raised: $570,606.52
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Bidders registered: 153
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Parcels sold: 290 of 499
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Tax years covered: 2020 and earlier
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Statewide impact (2023): $18.7 million returned to local governments and schools
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Funds to Jefferson County (2023): Over $1 million
