Record Finder / 25-002704-TT
Michigan

Carol Fasbender, Petitioner V City Of Benton Harbor, Respondent

Petitioner
Carol Fasbender
Respondent
City Of Benton Harbor

Case overview

Docket number
25-002704-TT
Status
Disposed
CaseType
SC Property
Division
Small Claims Division
County
Berrien
Judge
No judge assigned

Docket history

Line #SubjectFilerLine RefEnter Date/Post MarkFeeRelated Item
11Consent JudgmentNot recordedNot recorded10/06/2025Not recordedDownload
10GrantedPET910/06/2025Not recordedDownload
9A Stipulation has been received.PETNot recorded10/06/2025$0.00Download
8Answer was receivedRESPNot recorded09/19/2025Not recordedDownload
7Notice of FilingNot recordedNot recorded09/25/2025Not recordedDownload
6Order Setting Aside P DefaultNot recordedNot recorded09/25/2025Not recordedDownload
5Attachments to the Petition were filedPETNot recorded09/03/2025Not recordedDownload
4Order of Default of PetitionerNot recordedNot recorded09/03/2025Not recordedDownload
3Petition has been verifiedPET109/03/2025Not recordedDownload
2Notice of Docket Number SCNot recordedNot recorded09/03/2025Not recordedDownload
1A petition was received.PETNot recorded07/13/2025Not recordedDownload

Documents

25-002704 Consent Judgment.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

GOVERNOR 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

 

 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760 

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906 

Carol Fasbender, 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

 

Petitioner, 

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION 

 

v 

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704 

 

City of Benton Harbor, 

 

Presiding Judge 

Respondent. 

 

Marcus L Abood 

 

 

ORDER GRANTING JOINT STIPULATION FOR ENTRY OF CONSENT JUDGMENT 

 

CONSENT JUDGMENT 

 

The Tribunal has reviewed the Stipulation and finds that it comports with the mandates 

of State law.1 As a result, the Tribunal shall enter the parties’ Stipulation. Therefore, 

 

IT IS ORDERED that the Joint Stipulation for Entry of Consent Judgment including all 

attachments, terms and conditions is GRANTED and ADOPTED, unless otherwise 

indicated. 

 

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the officer charged with maintaining the assessment 

rolls for the tax years at issue shall correct or cause the assessment rolls to be 

corrected to reflect the property’s true cash and taxable values as provided in this 

Consent Judgment within 20 days of the entry of the Consent Judgment.2 

 

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the officer charged with collecting or refunding the 

affected taxes shall collect taxes and any applicable interest or issue a refund as 

required by the Consent Judgment within 28 days of the entry of the Consent 

Judgment. If a refund is warranted, it shall, unless otherwise indicated, include a 

proportionate share of any property tax administration fees paid and of penalty and 

interest paid on delinquent taxes. The refund shall also, unless otherwise indicated, 

separately indicate the amount of the taxes, fees, penalties, and interest being 

refunded. A sum determined by the Tribunal to have been unlawfully paid shall, unless 

otherwise indicated, bear interest from the date of payment to the date of judgment and 

the judgment shall bear interest to the date of its payment. A sum determined by the 

Tribunal to have been underpaid shall not bear interest for any time period prior to 28 

days after the issuance of this Consent Judgment. Pursuant to MCL 205.737, interest 

shall accrue (i) after December 31, 2013, through June 30, 2016, at the rate of 4.25%, 

(ii) after June 30, 2016, through December 31, 2016, at the rate of 4.40%, (iii) after 

December 31, 2016, through June 30, 2017, at the rate of 4.50%, (iv) after June 30, 

 

1 See MCL 211.27a. 

2 See MCL 205.755.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002704 

Page 2 of 2 

 

2017, through December 31, 2017, at the rate of 4.70%, (v) after December 31, 2017, 

through June 30, 2018, at the rate of 5.15%, (vi) after June 30, 2018, through December 

31, 2018, at the rate of 5.41%, (vii) after December 31, 2018, through June 30, 2019, at 

the rate of 5.9%, (viii) after June 30, 2019, through December 31, 2019, at the rate of 

6.39%, (ix) after December 31, 2019, through June 30, 2020, at the rate of 6.40%, (x) 

after June 30 2020, through December 31, 2020, at the rate of 5.63%, (xi) after 

December 31, 2020, through June 30, 2022, at the rate of 4.25%, (xii) after June 30, 

2022, through December 31, 2022, at the rate of 4.27%, (xiii) after December 31, 2022, 

through June 30, 2023, at the rate of 5.65%, (xiv) after June 30, 2023, through 

December 31, 2023, at the rate of 8.25%, (xv) after December 31, 2023, through June 

30, 2024, at the rate of 9.30%, (xvi) after June 30, 2024, through December 31, 2024, at 

the rate of 9.50%, (xvii) after December 31, 2024, through June 30, 2025, at the rate of 

9.47%, and (xviii) after June 30, 2025, through December 31, 2025, at the rate of 

8.66%. 

 

This Consent Judgment resolves all pending claims in this matter and closes this case. 

 

See docket look up for a copy of stipulation and for any possible refund paragraph. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

Entered: October 6, 2025 

sy 

 

PROOF OF SERVICE 

 

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives. 

 

By: Tribunal Clerk

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MTT Docket 25-002704 - Stipulation.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

Jape 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

GOVERNOR 

Carol Fasbender 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

LANSING 

\ 

Petitioner(s) 

City Of Benton Harbor 

Respondent(s) 

"CEIVED 

SEPYg 2025 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL, 

MARLON |. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

MTT Docket No._25-002704 

STIPULATION FOR ENTRY OF CONSENT JUDGMENT 

(VALUATION) 

1. The subject property is in Berrien 

2. 

Parcel Number: 54-9425-2983-21-0 

(If more than one parcel is at issue, attach a completed Multiple Parcel Stipulation 

Form addressing all other parcels at issue.) 

County. 

3. 

The values for the property identified above as established by Respondent's Board 

of Review are: 

4. The values for the property identified above as stipulated by the parties for 

Tax year 

Assessed Value (AV) 

Taxable Value (TV) 

2025 

$347,000 

$344,766 

settlement purposes are: 

Tax year 

True Cash Value 

AV 

Tv 

2025 

$575,300 

$287,650 

$287,650 

5. 

If the stipulated TV does not equal the prior year TV multiplied by the applicable 

inflation rate multiplier, explain why (e.g., transfer of ownership, additions, losses, 

omitted property etc.) 

There was a transfer of ownership in 2023. In addition, the stipulated Assessed and 

Taxable Values are reflective of True Cash Value.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002704 

Page 2 of 2 

NOTE: The Stipulation MUST include ALL parcels and ALL tax years included in the 

appeal (including subsequent tax years on or after April 

1 of each year for appeals 

pending in the Small Claims Division). The parties may agree, however, to withdraw the 

appeal of specific parcels and/or tax year(s). 

IF APPLICABLE, complete the following section(s). Otherwise, LEAVE BLANK. 

7. 

The parties agree to the withdrawal of parcel number: 

(If more than one parcel is being withdrawn, attach a separate page addressing 

all other parcels being withdrawn.) 

8. 

The parties agree to the withdrawal of tax year(s) 

Signature of Petitioner's Authorized Representative or, if none, Petitioner: 

Digitally signed by Michael Tyska 

M IC h a el Tys ka 

ON: cn=tichael Tyska, o= 

Property Tax C 

ou, 

indptc.com, c=Us 

Date; 2025.09.05 11:19:54 0400 

Printed Name: Michael Tyska, Petitioner's Authorized Representative 

Date: 

September 5, 2025 

Signature of Respondent's authorized representative: 

) 

< 

(Lang Le 

Con 

Stor 

Printed Name: 

Pig eda 

orf 

Date: 

q Jo [ Co Fa

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MTT Docket 25-002704 - Stipulation.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

Jape 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

GOVERNOR 

Carol Fasbender 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

LANSING 

\ 

Petitioner(s) 

City Of Benton Harbor 

Respondent(s) 

"CEIVED 

SEPYg 2025 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL, 

MARLON |. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

MTT Docket No._25-002704 

STIPULATION FOR ENTRY OF CONSENT JUDGMENT 

(VALUATION) 

1. The subject property is in Berrien 

2. 

Parcel Number: 54-9425-2983-21-0 

(If more than one parcel is at issue, attach a completed Multiple Parcel Stipulation 

Form addressing all other parcels at issue.) 

County. 

3. 

The values for the property identified above as established by Respondent's Board 

of Review are: 

4. The values for the property identified above as stipulated by the parties for 

Tax year 

Assessed Value (AV) 

Taxable Value (TV) 

2025 

$347,000 

$344,766 

settlement purposes are: 

Tax year 

True Cash Value 

AV 

Tv 

2025 

$575,300 

$287,650 

$287,650 

5. 

If the stipulated TV does not equal the prior year TV multiplied by the applicable 

inflation rate multiplier, explain why (e.g., transfer of ownership, additions, losses, 

omitted property etc.) 

There was a transfer of ownership in 2023. In addition, the stipulated Assessed and 

Taxable Values are reflective of True Cash Value.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002704 

Page 2 of 2 

NOTE: The Stipulation MUST include ALL parcels and ALL tax years included in the 

appeal (including subsequent tax years on or after April 

1 of each year for appeals 

pending in the Small Claims Division). The parties may agree, however, to withdraw the 

appeal of specific parcels and/or tax year(s). 

IF APPLICABLE, complete the following section(s). Otherwise, LEAVE BLANK. 

7. 

The parties agree to the withdrawal of parcel number: 

(If more than one parcel is being withdrawn, attach a separate page addressing 

all other parcels being withdrawn.) 

8. 

The parties agree to the withdrawal of tax year(s) 

Signature of Petitioner's Authorized Representative or, if none, Petitioner: 

Digitally signed by Michael Tyska 

M IC h a el Tys ka 

ON: cn=tichael Tyska, o= 

Property Tax C 

ou, 

indptc.com, c=Us 

Date; 2025.09.05 11:19:54 0400 

Printed Name: Michael Tyska, Petitioner's Authorized Representative 

Date: 

September 5, 2025 

Signature of Respondent's authorized representative: 

) 

< 

(Lang Le 

Con 

Stor 

Printed Name: 

Pig eda 

orf 

Date: 

q Jo [ Co Fa

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Page 1

REREGRLVED 

SEFSER 1 9 2005 

MICMIGHAGA. 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

IeH 

AX JBARYNAL 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

MARLON |. BROWN, DPA 

GOVERNOR 

DIRECTOR 

LANSING 

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL ANSWER FORM 

VALUATION / EXEMPTION / CLASSIFICATION APPEAL 

MTT DOCKET NO. 25-002704-TT 

Section 1: Respondent’s Contact Information 

First Name 

City of Benton Harbor 

MI 

Last Name 

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route) 

200 E. Wall Street 

City or Town 

Benton Harbor 

State 

Ml 

ZiP Code 

49022 

Telephone Number 

Email Address (do not enter unless you want MTT to send all correspondence via email) 

Section 2: Respondent’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information 

First Name 

M.L 

Last Name 

Angela 

J 

Story 

Firm Name (if any) Assessor 

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route) 

200 E Wall St 

City or Town 

State 

ZIP Code 

Benton Harbor 

Mi 

49022 

Telephone Number 

269-207-2590 

angelastory14@yahoo.com 

Email Address {do not enter unless you want MTT to send all correspondence via email) 

Section 3: Subject Property Information 

Yes 

[No 

Does the subject property have a Principal Residence Exemption of 50% or more? 

Are the parcels listed by Petitioner contiguous or adjoining? 

If not, list which parcels adjoin one another.

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

GOVERNOR 

LANSING 

Section 4: Explain Your Answer to this Appeal 

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

Respondent is in agreement with Petitioner. Please see enclosed stipulation. 

Section 5: Jurisdictional Issues 

IF PETITIONER |S APPEALING THE TRUE CASH AND/OR TAXABLE VALUES 

Did Petitioner protest the assessment at a Board of Review (BOR)? 

Yes 

[Il] No 

If yes, check which BOR Petitioner attended: 

March 

[H| July 

[| December 

If no, was the Notice of Assessment properly sent to Petitioner prior to the March BOR? [| Yes 

Od No 

*Submit a copy of the Notice of Assessment with the Answer. 

if the July or December BOR revised the assessment(s) at issue, did it have authority? J Yes 

[i] No 

if yes, cite the Board's authority. 

Was the assessment(s) at issue established as the result of a clerical error or mutual mistake of fact? [1 ves 

[No 

If yes, explain 

Is Petitioner appealing from a State Tax Commission Order? 

[7 ves 

No 

If so, what is the issue date?

Page 3

Pet 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

GOVERNOR 

LANSING 

MARLON 1. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

Did Petitioner request a Poverty Exemption at a BOR? [| Yes 

No 

if Yes, check which BOR Petitioner attended: [I] March 

[i July 

[] December 

List the date the BOR denied Petitioner’s Poverty Exemption: 

IF PETITIONER IS APPEALING THE DENIAL OF AN EXEMPTION 

OTHER THAN POVERTY, PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE, OR QUALIFIED AGRICULTURAL EXEMPTIONS 

Did Petitioner request the exemption ata BOR? [Hl] Yes 

O No 

If Yes, check which BOR Petitioner attended: O March 

[} July 

[| December 

Tax Year(s) denied: 

List the date the exemption was denied: 

What statutory section did Petitioner request the subject property be exempt? 

IF PETITIONER IS APPEALING THE CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY 

What do you believe the classification should be: 

Real 

Personal 

(check one) 

mj 

Agricultural 

Commercial 

Industrial 

Residential 

Timber-Cutover 

Developmental 

Utility 

(check one) 

Section 6: Valuation Information *use the multiple parcel form for additional, contiguous parcels, 

Parcel Identification Number: 

11-54-9425-2983-21-0 

Classification of Property: 

Real 

Personal 

(check one) 

Agricultural 

Commercial 

Industrial 

Residential 

Timber-Cutover 

Developmental 

Utility 

(check one) 

Current Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value) as established by the BOR: 

347,000 

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR: 

344,766 

What do you believe is the fair market value {also known as True Cash Value)? 

575,300 

Multiply the True Cash Value by .5 and enter here. This is your contention of Assessed Value. 

287,650 

If you believe the Taxable Value differs from your contention of Assessed Value, enter your contention of Taxable Value.

Page 4

Jape 

GRETCHEN WHITMER 

GOVERNOR 

Carol Fasbender 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS 

LANSING 

\ 

Petitioner(s) 

City Of Benton Harbor 

Respondent(s) 

"CEIVED 

SEPYg 2025 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL, 

MARLON |. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

MTT Docket No._25-002704 

STIPULATION FOR ENTRY OF CONSENT JUDGMENT 

(VALUATION) 

1. The subject property is in Berrien 

2. 

Parcel Number: 54-9425-2983-21-0 

(If more than one parcel is at issue, attach a completed Multiple Parcel Stipulation 

Form addressing all other parcels at issue.) 

County. 

3. 

The values for the property identified above as established by Respondent's Board 

of Review are: 

4. The values for the property identified above as stipulated by the parties for 

Tax year 

Assessed Value (AV) 

Taxable Value (TV) 

2025 

$347,000 

$344,766 

settlement purposes are: 

Tax year 

True Cash Value 

AV 

Tv 

2025 

$575,300 

$287,650 

$287,650 

5. 

If the stipulated TV does not equal the prior year TV multiplied by the applicable 

inflation rate multiplier, explain why (e.g., transfer of ownership, additions, losses, 

omitted property etc.) 

There was a transfer of ownership in 2023. In addition, the stipulated Assessed and 

Taxable Values are reflective of True Cash Value.

Page 5

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

Page 6

S

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SC-Notice_of_Filing_of_Answer.2025-09-25_11-58-35.0000.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF FILING

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims answer has been filed and the electronic copy of the 

answer can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup on the Tribunal’s website. 

Unless Respondent was defaulted, this case is ready to be scheduled for a Small 

Claims hearing and will be scheduled in the normal course of scheduling. You will 

receive a Notice of Hearing from the Tribunal by e-mail if you have identified an email 

address in the petition or other documentation. The Notice of Hearing will inform you of 

the date, time, and location of your hearing (note that your hearing will likely be 

conducted by telephone). Please read the Notice of Hearing as it includes important 

information.

EVIDENCE: Parties are required to submit all evidence to the Tribunal and send a copy 

to the opposing party at least 21 days before the hearing date even if the documents 

had been submitted to the local Board of Review or the Michigan Department of 

Treasury. If the documents are not timely submitted to the Tribunal and served on the 

opposing party, the documents may be excluded. Documents may be filed with the 

Tribunal by mail or through the Tribunal’s e-filing system. Documents may be sent to the 

opposing party by mail or by e-mail, if the parties agree to service by e-mail.

Alternate Dispute Resolution Options

INFORMAL SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE: Parties have the option of handling this 

case through an informal settlement conference. An informal settlement conference 

is a meeting between the parties and/or their representatives to discuss the issues in a 

case in an effort to settle the case. This process may be an alternative to a hearing with 

a judge and may result in the parties’ filing a Joint Stipulation for Entry of Consent 

Judgment. Visit the Tribunal’s ADR webpage for more information.

NOTE: The parties may not request an informal settlement conference to discuss an 

appeal of a principal residence exemption that was denied by either the Michigan 

Department of Treasury or a County. Also, state taxes levied by the Michigan 

Department of Treasury, such as income taxes, are not subject to the informal 

settlement conference process.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

Page 2 of 6

MEDIATION: Parties have the option of handling this case through mediation. 

Mediation is a voluntary process where a mediator facilitates communication between 

the parties, assists in identifying issues, and helps explore solutions to promote a 

mutually acceptable settlement. This process may be an alternative to a hearing with a 

judge and may result in the parties’ filing a Joint Stipulation for Entry of Consent 

Judgment. Visit the Tribunal’s ADR webpage for more information.

If you have any questions, please contact the Tribunal by phone at (517) 335-9760 or 

email taxtrib@michigan.gov.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Entered: September 25, 2025

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF FILING

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims answer has been filed and the electronic copy of the 

answer can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup on the Tribunal’s website. 

Unless Respondent was defaulted, this case is ready to be scheduled for a Small 

Claims hearing and will be scheduled in the normal course of scheduling. You will 

receive a Notice of Hearing from the Tribunal by e-mail if you have identified an email 

address in the petition or other documentation. The Notice of Hearing will inform you of 

the date, time, and location of your hearing (note that your hearing will likely be 

conducted by telephone). Please read the Notice of Hearing as it includes important 

information.

EVIDENCE: Parties are required to submit all evidence to the Tribunal and send a copy 

to the opposing party at least 21 days before the hearing date even if the documents 

had been submitted to the local Board of Review or the Michigan Department of 

Treasury. If the documents are not timely submitted to the Tribunal and served on the 

opposing party, the documents may be excluded. Documents may be filed with the 

Tribunal by mail or through the Tribunal’s e-filing system. Documents may be sent to the 

opposing party by mail or by e-mail, if the parties agree to service by e-mail.

Alternate Dispute Resolution Options

INFORMAL SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE: Parties have the option of

Page 4

M

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Order_Setting_Aside_P_Default.2025-09-25_08-55-08.0000.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender, 

Petitioner,

 MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

ORDER SETTING ASIDE DEFAULT

The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that Petitioner 

was held in default on September 3, 2025, and the default has been timely cured. The 

documents curing the default can be reviewed through the docket search function on 

the Tribunal’s website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib by inputting the docket number and 

clicking on the document link next to the line item entry for the documents. Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that the Default is SET ASIDE.

By_________________________________

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

Entered: September 25, 2025

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender, 

Petitioner,

 MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

ORDER SETTING ASIDE DEFAULT

The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that Petitioner 

was held in default on September 3, 2025, and the default has been timely cured. The 

documents curing the default can be reviewed through the docket search function on 

the Tribunal’s website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib by inputting the docket number and 

clicking on the document link next to the line item entry for the documents. Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that the Default is SET ASIDE.

By_________________________________

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

Entered: September 25, 2025

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

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Page 1

Michigan Department of Treasury 

618 (Rev. 11-12) 

Petition to Board of Review 

L-4035 

This form is issued under the authority of P.A. 206 of 1893, as amended. Filing is voluntary, however you may not appeal to the Michigan Tax Tribunal 

or the State Tax Commission unless you first protest to the Board of Review. 

TO BE COMPLETED BY OWNER OR OWNER'S AGENT 

Owner's Name (Please Print or Type) 

Petitioner's Name 

(If Other than Owner. 

Please Print or Type) 

Carol Fasbender 

Michael Tyska, Petitioner's Authorized Representative 

Township or City 

County 

City of Benton Harbor/City of St. Joseph 

Berrien 

The undersigned protests the assessed value and/or the tentative taxable value and/or the property classification and/or the qualified 

agricultural property exemption of the following described property: 

Property Identified (Parcel code required. Property address & legal description optional) 

Parcel No. 11-54-9425-2983-21-0 

990 Whitwam Dr. 

Protested Item 

Assessed Value 

Tentative Taxable Value 

|_| Classification 

~~ [_] Qualified Agricultural 

Property Exemption 

1. PROTEST OF ASSESSMENT 

(Complete this section for a protest of assessed value and/or tentative taxable value) 

Assessed Amount 

Owner's Estimate of True Cash Value 

Tentative Taxable Value 

Year 

$347,000 

$575,300 

$344,766 

2025 

2. PROTEST OF CLASSIFICATION 

(Complete this section for a request to change the classification. The Board of Review must make their decision regarding classification in 

accordance with Section 211.34c of the Michigan Compiled Laws. The Board of Review shall not be influenced by the effect that a particular 

classification has on that property's status as a homeowner's principal residence or qualified agricultural property.) 

Classification of property on this year's assessment roll 

Classification should be (check one of the following): 

[] Agricultural 

[] Industrial 

[] Timber Cutover 

[] utility (Personal Property Only) 

[] commercial 

[] Residential 

[] Developmental 

3. PROTEST OF EXEMPTION FOR QUALIFIED AGRICULTURAL PROPERTY 

(If the assessor has denied or changed the percentage of the exemption from the 18 mills of local school operating tax for qualified agricultural 

property, the owner may appeal this action to the March Board of Review. THE BOARD OF REVIEW HAS NO AUTHORITY TO CONSIDER OR ACT 

UPON THE EXEMPTION FROM THE 18 SCHOOL OPERATING MILLS FOR HOMEOWNER'S PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE PROPERTIES.) 

Percent qualified agricultural exemption granted by assessor (Enter 0 if exemption 

Percent qualified agricultural exemption requested by owner (Enter 100 if full 

denied) 

exemption requested) 

4. REASON FOR PROTEST 

State reason(s) for protest of assessed value and/or the tentative taxable value and/or classification and/or qualified agricultural property exemption 

The 2025 Assessed and Taxable Values are excessive and do not reflect the True Cash Value of the property. 

The owner purchased the property on 2/23/2023 for $523,000. Terms of the sale are consistent with True Cash Value

Page 2

Form 618, Page 2 

FOR BOARD OF REVIEW USE ONLY 

INSTRUCTIONS: Incorporate a copy of this form and the assigned number in the Board of Review minutes. 

Petition Number 

Parcel Code 

Mz25- 32 

11-54-9425-2983 

- 21-O 

1. ASSESSED VALUE 

Disposition by Board of Review. The Board of Review must Se reasoners actonbeion) 

Denied 

[| Assessed Value Changed From 

to] 

Record of vote - Board or three 

member iy of 

poard 

7 

o 

Chairperson: 

es [No yay 

Member: Nl Yes 

[ 

|No 

% 

Member: [Aes [INo Er 

¥ 

Initials 

Initials 

nitials 

Reason for board action 

: 

mn 

| 

g 

) 

Frpilamnas 

olent Duppik chorze, 

If you disagree with the decision of the Board of Review regarding tentative assessed value, you may appeal that decision by filing a petition with the 

Michigan Tax Tribunal at P.O. Box 30232, Lansing, MI 48909. Commercial Real, Industrial Real, Developmental Real, Commercial Personal, 

Industrial Personal and Utility Personal Property may be appealed by May 31. Agricultural Real, Residential Real, Timber-Cutover Real and Agricultural 

Personal Property may be appealed by July 31. The petition must be filed on a Michigan Tax Tribunal form or a form approved by the Michigan Tax 

Tribunal. Michigan Tax Tribunal forms are available at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. 

2. TENTATIVE TAXABLE VALUE 

Dispositipfi by Board of Review. The Board of Review must state the reason for its action below. 

enied 

[| Tentative Taxable Value Changed From 

to 

{ 

Record of vote - Board or thrge'member comm) 

of board 

y 

Chairperson: (Hes [Ino 

LAT 

Member: i Yes 

[ 

| No 

St 

Member: ves [INo 

hs 

Initials 

Initials 

Initjals 

Reason for board action 

(dares And DuppatC feosl 

If you disagree with the decision of the Board of Review regarding tentative taxable value, you may appeal that decision by filing a petition with the 

Michigan Tax Tribunal at P.O. Box 30232, Lansing, MI 48909. Commercial Real, Industrial Real, Developmental Real, Commercial Personal, 

Industrial Personal and Utility Personal Property may be appealed by May 31. Agricultural Real, Residential Real, Timber-Cutover Real and 

Agricultural Personal Property may be appealed by July 31. The petition must be filed on a Michigan Tax Tribunal form or a form approved by the 

Michigan Tax Tribunal. Michigan Tax Tribunal forms are available at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. 

3. CLASSIFICATION 

Disposition by Board of Review. The Board of Review must

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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

ORDER OF DEFAULT

The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that:

Petitioner did not submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (i.e., notice of 

action taken by Board of Review, uncapping notice, PRE denial notice, final assessment 

notice, etc.), as required by TTR 279. As such, Petitioner must submit the notice within 

14 days of the entry of this order. 

Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner is HELD IN DEFAULT.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the defaulted party shall cure the default, as indicated 

above, within 14 days of the entry of this order.i 

Failure to comply with this order will result in the defaulted party being required to file a 

motion to set aside the default (with appropriate filing fee).

By:_______________________________

Entered: September 3, 2025

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

i “A submission by mail is considered filed on the date indicated by the United States Postal Service 

postmark on the envelope containing the submission. A submission without a postmark or with an illegible 

postmark is considered filed on the date the submission is received by the tribunal. A submission by 

commercial delivery service is considered filed on the date the submission is given to the commercial 

service for delivery to the tribunal as indicated by the receipt date on the package containing the 

submission. A submission by personal service is considered filed on the date the submission is received.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

Page 2 of 4

A submission through the tribunal’s e-filing system by 11:59 p.m. on a business day is considered filed on 

that business day. A submission by email to the email address designated by the tribunal by 11:59 p.m. 

on a business day is considered filed on that business day. A submission on a Saturday, a Sunday, or a 

holiday is considered filed on the following business day, as provided by section 35a of the tax tribunal 

act, MCL 205.735a.” TTR 225(5)

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

ORDER OF DEFAULT

The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that:

Petitioner did not submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (i.e., notice of 

action taken by Board of Review, uncapping notice, PRE denial notice, final assessment 

notice, etc.), as required by TTR 279. As such, Petitioner must submit the notice within 

14 days of the entry of this order. 

Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner is HELD IN DEFAULT.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the defaulted party shall cure the default, as indicated 

above, within 14 days of the entry of this order.ii 

Failure to comply with this order will result in the defaulted party being required to file a 

motion to set aside the default (with appropriate filing fee).

By:_______________________________

Entered: September 3, 2025

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

ii “A submission by mail is considered filed on the date indicated by the United States Postal Service 

postmark on the envelope containing the submission. A submission without a postmark or with an illegible 

postmark is considered filed on the date the submission is received by the tribunal. A submission by 

commercial delivery service is considered filed on the date the submission is given to the commercial

Page 4

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

Page 4 of 4

service for delivery to the tribunal as indicated by the receipt date on the package containing the 

submission. A submission by personal service is considered filed on the date the submission is received. 

A submission through the tribunal’s e-filing system by 11:59 p.m. on a business day is considered filed on 

that business day. A submission by email to the email address designated by the tribunal by 11:59 p.m. 

on a business day is considered filed on that business day. A submission on a Saturday, a Sunday, or a 

holiday is considered filed on the following business day, as provided by section 35a of the tax tribunal 

act, MCL 205.735a.” TTR 225(5)

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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM

VALUATION / EXEMPTION / CLASSIFICATION APPEAL

MOAHR DOCKET NO. 

Do not use this form to appeal Principal Residence Exemption, Qualified Agricultural Exemption, Special Assessment, or Non-Property tax 

disputes.

Pursuant to Michigan Tax Tribunal Rule (TTR) 277(3), you MUST submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (e.g. Board of Review 

Decision or Notice of Uncapping) with this Small Claims Petition, if applicable. If you do not submit this document, you may be held in default.

Section 1: Petitioner’s Contact Information

Filer Type: Individual 

First Name

Carol

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Fasbender

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

990 Whitwam Dr.

City or Town

St. Joseph

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49085

Telephone Number

269-757-2478

Fax Number

E-mail Address

cifasbender@hirep.net

Section 2: Petitioner’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information

First Name

Michael

M.I.

Last Name

Tyska

Firm Name (if any)

Fairwind Property Tax Consulting

Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

6986 Adaridge Dr SE

City or Town

Ada

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49301

Telephone Number

616-648-4300

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

mike@fairwindptc.com

Section 3: Subject Property Information

How many parcels are you appealing?

1

If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? 

 *If no, you must file separate appeals for each non-contiguous or non-adjoining parcel.

Property Address (No., Street, City, ST, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address]

990 Whitwam Dr.

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

St. Joseph

Michigan

49085

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

City Of Benton Harbor (BERRIEN)

County 

Berrien

Section 4: Issues Being Appealed (check all that apply)

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

The 2025 Assessed and Taxable Values are excessive and do not reflect the True Cash Value of the property.

The Petitioner purchased the Subject Property on 2/23/2023 for $523,000 and the terms of the sale are consistent with True Cash Value as defined by the General 

Property Tax Act (Excerpt) 206 of 1893, MCL 211.27.

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2025

Did you protest the assessment at a Board of Review (BOR)? Yes

If Yes, check which BOR you attended AND upload the BOR decision: March

If No, check the applicable reason(s):

Did you request a Poverty Exemption at the BOR? 

If Yes, check which BOR considered your application AND upload the BOR decision: 

 March  July  December

If No, explain why:

Section 7: Valuation Information *Use the multiple parcel form for additional, contiguous parcels.

Parcel Identification Number: 54-9425-2983-21-0

Classification of Property:

Real

Residential

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Current Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value) as established by the BOR:

347000

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

344766

What do you believe is the fair market value (also known as True Cash Value)?

575300 

Multiply the True Cash Value by .5 and enter here. This is your contention of Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value).

287650

If you believe the Taxable Value differs from your contention of Assessed Value, enter your contention of Taxable Value.

Section 8: Classification Information *Only the MI Dep’t of Treasury may appeal this issue to the Tribunal*

Parcel Identification Number:

 

Current Classification of Property as established by Board of Review:

What do you believe is the property’s classification?

If improved property, how is the property currently being used?

If improved property, for what use was the property designed?

Fee Information

Does the subject property have a Principal Residence Exemption of at least 50% as of the date of the filing of this petition?

Yes

Are you appealing ONLY the denial of a Poverty Exemption?

No

If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you are not required to pay any filing fees.

The filing fee is based on the greater of the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention. If you are appealing more than one parcel, the parcel with the 

highest State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention will be used to determine your filing fee, plus $25.00 will be added for each additional parcel being 

appealed, not to exceed a total filing fee of $1,000.

If your property is residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $125.00

$100,000.01 to $500,000.00 $200.00

$Over $500,000.00 $300.00

If your property is NOT residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $250.00

* Plus $25.00 for each additional parcel, as indicated above.

If your property is NOT residential property and the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is $100,000.01 or greater the appeal does not qualify for 

Small Claims. Therefore, an Entire Tribunal petition must be filed.

Page 4

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.

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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF DOCKET NUMBER

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims petition has been filed and the above-noted docket 

number has been assigned to that petition. The assignment of the docket number does 

not mean that the Tribunal has authority over the petition or that the petition complies 

with the Tribunal’s rules. The docket number needs to be included on all documents 

submitted in this case.

Respondent shall file an answer to the petition within 28 days of the issuance of a 

copy of this Notice to Respondent. Tribunal answer forms are available on our 

website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Respondents must utilize the appropriate answer 

form. Failure to file the answer within the 28-day time frame may result in the 

placement of Respondent in default, as provided by TTR 281. Further, an electronic 

copy of the petition can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup Search on the 

Tribunal’s website.

By: __Tribunal Clerk_____

Entered: September 3, 2025

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Carol Fasbender,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002704

City Of Benton Harbor,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF DOCKET NUMBER

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims petition has been filed and the above-noted docket 

number has been assigned to that petition. The assignment of the docket number does 

not mean that the Tribunal has authority over the petition or that the petition complies 

with the Tribunal’s rules. The docket number needs to be included on all documents 

submitted in this case.

Respondent shall file an answer to the petition within 28 days of the issuance of a 

copy of this Notice to Respondent. Tribunal answer forms are available on our 

website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Respondents must utilize the appropriate answer 

form. Failure to file the answer within the 28-day time frame may result in the 

placement of Respondent in default, as provided by TTR 281. Further, an electronic 

copy of the petition can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup Search on the 

Tribunal’s website.

By: __Tribunal Clerk_____

Entered: September 3, 2025

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.

01._Property_Tax_Appeal_Petition_Form_Valuation_Poverty_Classification.1eef34b0-fa20-477e-b04a-b7f12bb1eac4.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM

VALUATION / EXEMPTION / CLASSIFICATION APPEAL

MOAHR DOCKET NO. 

Do not use this form to appeal Principal Residence Exemption, Qualified Agricultural Exemption, Special Assessment, or Non-Property tax 

disputes.

Pursuant to Michigan Tax Tribunal Rule (TTR) 277(3), you MUST submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (e.g. Board of Review 

Decision or Notice of Uncapping) with this Small Claims Petition, if applicable. If you do not submit this document, you may be held in default.

Section 1: Petitioner’s Contact Information

Filer Type: Individual 

First Name

Carol

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Fasbender

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

990 Whitwam Dr.

City or Town

St. Joseph

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49085

Telephone Number

269-757-2478

Fax Number

E-mail Address

cifasbender@hirep.net

Section 2: Petitioner’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information

First Name

Michael

M.I.

Last Name

Tyska

Firm Name (if any)

Fairwind Property Tax Consulting

Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

6986 Adaridge Dr SE

City or Town

Ada

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49301

Telephone Number

616-648-4300

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

mike@fairwindptc.com

Section 3: Subject Property Information

How many parcels are you appealing?

1

If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? 

 *If no, you must file separate appeals for each non-contiguous or non-adjoining parcel.

Property Address (No., Street, City, ST, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address]

990 Whitwam Dr.

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

St. Joseph

Michigan

49085

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

City Of Benton Harbor (BERRIEN)

County 

Berrien

Section 4: Issues Being Appealed (check all that apply)

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

The 2025 Assessed and Taxable Values are excessive and do not reflect the True Cash Value of the property.

The Petitioner purchased the Subject Property on 2/23/2023 for $523,000 and the terms of the sale are consistent with True Cash Value as defined by the General 

Property Tax Act (Excerpt) 206 of 1893, MCL 211.27.

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2025

Did you protest the assessment at a Board of Review (BOR)? Yes

If Yes, check which BOR you attended AND upload the BOR decision: March

If No, check the applicable reason(s):

Did you request a Poverty Exemption at the BOR? 

If Yes, check which BOR considered your application AND upload the BOR decision: 

 March  July  December

If No, explain why:

Section 7: Valuation Information *Use the multiple parcel form for additional, contiguous parcels.

Parcel Identification Number: 54-9425-2983-21-0

Classification of Property:

Real

Residential

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Current Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value) as established by the BOR:

347000

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

344766

What do you believe is the fair market value (also known as True Cash Value)?

575300 

Multiply the True Cash Value by .5 and enter here. This is your contention of Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value).

287650

If you believe the Taxable Value differs from your contention of Assessed Value, enter your contention of Taxable Value.

Section 8: Classification Information *Only the MI Dep’t of Treasury may appeal this issue to the Tribunal*

Parcel Identification Number:

 

Current Classification of Property as established by Board of Review:

What do you believe is the property’s classification?

If improved property, how is the property currently being used?

If improved property, for what use was the property designed?

Fee Information

Does the subject property have a Principal Residence Exemption of at least 50% as of the date of the filing of this petition?

Yes

Are you appealing ONLY the denial of a Poverty Exemption?

No

If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you are not required to pay any filing fees.

The filing fee is based on the greater of the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention. If you are appealing more than one parcel, the parcel with the 

highest State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention will be used to determine your filing fee, plus $25.00 will be added for each additional parcel being 

appealed, not to exceed a total filing fee of $1,000.

If your property is residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $125.00

$100,000.01 to $500,000.00 $200.00

$Over $500,000.00 $300.00

If your property is NOT residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $250.00

* Plus $25.00 for each additional parcel, as indicated above.

If your property is NOT residential property and the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is $100,000.01 or greater the appeal does not qualify for 

Small Claims. Therefore, an Entire Tribunal petition must be filed.

Page 4

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.