BYC files with Tax Tribunal for relief from tax on new clubhouse

By Rosemary K. Otzman
Independent Editor
BYC Commodore Scott Jones has filed an appeal with the Michigan Tax Tribunal seeking a reduction of property taxes on the former Moose Lodge that is now the BYC clubhouse.
The 3.98 acres of lakeside property and building at 831 East Huron River Drive was assessed taxes of $10,411.12, which was paid on July 8.
The property was purchased by the. BYC from the Moose on Jan. 14, for $251,000. The winter taxes of $2,879.85 were paid on Jan.18, along with the summer 2012 taxes of $10,569.77.
The State Equalized Valuation of the property for 2013 was $498,900, which is supposed to be half of its real value.
After an unsuccessful appeal to the Van Buren Township Board of Review, Jones took his appeal to the state tribunal.
BYC stands for Belleville Yacht Club, but the yacht club name is legally owned by the owner of Johnny’s Grill.
The Moose Lodge is in the process of purchasing the PNA Hall and 4.2 acres from Sumpter Township for $175,000 and hopes to hold an open house after it moves in this fall.