The tax collection office for Carroll County says it’s behind in processing mailed-in property tax payments due to the high number of people choosing to pay in person.
Temporary employees were again hired this summer to help with payment processing, and to assist with the backlog, but a new online payment system recently launched, creating delays.
“Even with the additional staff, the office is behind, partly due to a higher volume of phone calls and emails with questions about the new online system,” said Christine Cambareri, the county’s communications manager.
“… The office also saw an increase of in-person payees. Customer service is the number one priority. A customer at the window and answering a phone call, comes first, opening the mail, second.”
The office collects and processes most county fees and taxes. Last month, the office processed more than $50 million in property tax payments.
“In addition, the office handles sewer/water bills, permit and inspections payments and other invoices,” Cambareri said.
The county issued a news release Tuesday alerting the public about the delay.
A resident that paid in full either on or before July 31 or Aug. 30, will receive the appropriate discount noted on their statement, the news release states.
“If a resident’s payment has not cleared by mid-September, please call the county tax office at 410-386-2971 for more information,” it states. “We appreciate everyone’s understanding, cooperation and patience.”
