Proposed Land Acquisition by Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

The Process Explained

When property owners cannot fulfill their property tax obligations, their properties are classified as tax-defaulted. After a period of five years, these properties become eligible for sale by the Treasurer-Tax Collector. The Revenue and Taxation Code of California guides this process. In accordance with this code, taxing agencies and eligible nonprofit organizations have the opportunity to acquire these tax-defaulted properties for public purposes.

In alignment with this code, the Anza-Borrego Foundation has proposed purchasing four parcels of tax-defaulted land that directly adjoin the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The intention behind this acquisition is to preserve these parcels as open space, thereby contributing to the park’s expansion for the public’s benefit.

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Do you have insights or perspectives on the upcoming agenda items before the Board of Supervisors? Your input matters! We encourage you to submit your comments online to contribute to decision-making. Your thoughts could help shape the discussions and outcomes on these important matters. Let your voice be heard by participating in the online comment submission for upcoming items before the Board of Supervisors. Your engagement is a valuable part of our community’s democratic process.

Key Recommendations

The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office has put forth recommendations for consideration by the Board of Supervisors:

1. The adoption of a resolution titled: “A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO CONCERNING THE PROPOSED CHAPTER VIII AGREEMENT SALE NO. 7087 OF TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY TO ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION.” This resolution, presented in Attachment B, is currently under review for approval.
2. The approval of an Agreement authorizing the sale of four tax-defaulted land parcels, as outlined in Chapter VIII Agreement No. 7087. These parcels have been tax-defaulted for more than five years. Upon approval, with the attestation of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, the Chairperson will execute two copies of the Agreements.

Financial Considerations and Community Impact

While selling these land parcels to the Anza-Borrego Foundation isn’t part of this year’s budget, the funds earned from the sale will be utilized to settle outstanding taxes, expenses, and fees. Any surplus funds will be reserved for a specified duration during which legitimate requests* for compensation will be assessed. After this period, any remaining funds will be contributed to the General Fund, which aids in funding essential community services.

* Valid claims could include requests for compensation from individuals or entities with a rightful financial interest in the sold property.

Understanding the General Fund: The Financial Backbone of Community Operations

The General Fund is a primary and flexible account used by government entities, such as local municipalities or counties, to manage their day-to-day operations and cover various expenses. It is the main repository for revenues generated from taxes, fees, and other income not specifically designated for particular programs or services.

From the General Fund, governments allocate funds to different departments and services, such as public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and more. It acts as a kind of financial hub from which funds are distributed to support various essential functions and services that contribute to the overall functioning of a community or jurisdiction.

The ultimate decision rests with the Board of Supervisors, underscoring the need for a balanced approach encompassing preservation, sustainability, and fiscal prudence. Community input and awareness play a pivotal role in ensuring a well-informed and inclusive decision-making process.

Documents Providing Details

Statement of Proceedings/Minutes  (available after Aug, 29th 2023)

Attachment A TTC Aug 29 2023 ChapVIII 7087 Agreement Signed by Anza
Attachment B TTC Aug 29 2023 ChapVIII Board Resolution 7087
Attachment C TTC Aug 29 2023 ChapVIII 7087 EXHIBIT A
TTC Aug 29 2023 ChapVIII 7087 Anza Borrego Foundation AIS
TTC Aug 29 2023 ChapVIII 7087 Anza Borrego Foundation Approval Log