Elizabeth Towner, Petitioner V City Of Detroit, Respondent

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 

Elizabeth Towner, 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

 

Petitioner, 

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION 

 

v 

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980 

 

City of Detroit, 

 

Presiding Judge 

Respondent. 

 

Patricia L. Halm 

 

ORDER FOR DEFAULT HEARING 

 

The Tribunal has considered the file in this case and finds that Respondent was placed 

in default on November 6, 2025, because Respondent failed to file an answer. The 

Tribunal extended the time for Respondent to cure the default by an additional 14 days 

on December 5, 2025, and it has failed to respond or submit the required filing(s). 

Given this failure, the Tribunal finds that Respondent’s violation was willful. It also 

establishes a history of deliberate delay and refusing to comply with Tribunal rules and 

orders, both of which have prejudiced Petitioner. As a result, giving careful 

consideration to the Grimm factors and considering all options in determining what 

sanction is just and proper, the Tribunal finds that scheduling a default hearing is 

warranted, and a lesser sanction would not be appropriate or better serve the interests 

of justice.1 Therefore, 

 

IT IS ORDERED that a default hearing shall be scheduled in the normal course.2 

 

 

 

Entered: December 29, 2025 

 

 

By _____________________________ 

kac 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 See Grimm v Dep’t of Treasury, 291 Mich App 140 (2010). Though Grimm was specific to the sanction 

of dismissal, the cases cited by the Court, and the reasoning behind its adoption of the factors set forth 

therein are not so narrow. The factors apply equally to default judgements, or in the case of the Tribunal 

proceedings, the conducting of a default hearing. See Bass v Combs, 238 Mich App 16 (1999), overruled 

in part on other grounds by Dimmitt & Owens Fin, Inc v Deloitte & Touche (ISC), LLC, 481 Mich 618 

(2008), Vicencio v Ramirez, 211 Mich App 501 (1995), and Traxler v Ford Motor Co, 227 Mich App 276 

(1998). See also TTR 237. 

2 A “default hearing" is “a hearing at which the defaulted party is precluded from presenting any testimony, 

offering any evidence, and examining the other party's witnesses.” TTR 203(e).

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002980 

Page 2 of 2 

 

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.

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 

Elizabeth Towner, 

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL 

 

Petitioner, 

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION 

 

v 

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980 

 

City of Detroit, 

 

Presiding Judge 

Respondent. 

 

Patricia L. Halm 

 

ORDER EXTENDING TIME FOR RESPONDENT TO CURE DEFAULT 

 

The Tribunal has considered the file in this case and finds that it entered an order 

holding Respondent in default on November 6, 2025, because they failed to file an 

answer.1 Respondent was required to cure the default within 14 days, has had ample 

time to comply, yet has failed to respond or submit the required filings. Though the 

Tribunal finds an extension of time to cure the default appropriate, Respondent’s failure 

to comply with Tribunal orders and its Rules of Practice and Procedure has established 

a history of deliberate delay that would justify the scheduling of a default hearing for 

failure to timely comply with this order.2 Therefore, 

 

IT IS ORDERED that the time for Respondent to cure the default is EXTENDED. 

 

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent must complete the following to cure the 

default: (1) file an Answer for Valuation Appeal, (2) file a Motion to Set Aside Default, 

and (3) file proof the motion was served on Petitioner. The foregoing must be filed with 

the Tribunal within 14 days of the entry of this order.3 

 

Failure to comply with this order may result in the scheduling of a default hearing, as 

provided by TTR 237.4 

 

 

Entered: December 5, 2025 

 

 

By _____________________________ 

kac 

 

1 The order further stated, “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).” 

2 See Grimm v Dep’t of Treasury, 291 Mich App 140 (2010). 

3 “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. 

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). 

4 See also MCL 205.732.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002980 

Page 2 of 2 

 

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.

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF DEFAULT

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

Respondent has failed to file an answer. See TTR 281. Respondent must file an 

answer within 14 days of the entry of this order. Small Claims answer forms can be 

found on our website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. 

Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent 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: November 6, 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. 

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

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

Page 2 of 6

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF DEFAULT

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

Respondent has failed to file an answer. See TTR 281. Respondent must file an 

answer within 14 days of the entry of this order. Small Claims answer forms can be 

found on our website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. 

Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent 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: November 6, 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 

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

Page 4

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

Page 4 of 6

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 5

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF DEFAULT

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

Respondent has failed to file an answer. See TTR 281. Respondent must file an 

answer within 14 days of the entry of this order. Small Claims answer forms can be 

found on our website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib.

Page 6

MTT

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.

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF PARTIAL DISMISSAL

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

is appealing assessments for prior tax years and the Tribunal has no authority over 

those assessments under MCL 205.735a, as the petition was not timely filed.1 Further, 

the Tribunal also has no authority over those assessments, as the facts alleged do not 

establish that the assessments were the result of a clerical error (i.e., “an error of a 

transpositional, typographical, or mathematical nature”) or a mutual mistake of fact (i.e., 

“an erroneous belief, which is shared and relied on by both parties”).2 Rather, the facts 

alleged indicate a valuation dispute that does not involve the correction of a clerical 

error or mutual mistake of fact. Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner’s assessment appeal is PARTIALLY DISMISSED. The 

appeal shall continue for the 2025 tax year(s) only.

By:___________________________________

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

Entered: September 23, 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

1 See Electronic Data Systems Corporation v Township of Flint, 253 Mich App 538 (2002). 

2 See International Place Apartments – IV v Ypsilanti Township, 216 Mich App 104, 109 (1996), Ford 

Motor Company v City of Woodhaven, 475 Mich 425, 442 (2006).

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF PARTIAL DISMISSAL

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

is appealing assessments for prior tax years and the Tribunal has no authority over 

those assessments under MCL 205.735a, as the petition was not timely filed.3 Further, 

the Tribunal also has no authority over those assessments, as the facts alleged do not 

establish that the assessments were the result of a clerical error (i.e., “an error of a 

transpositional, typographical, or mathematical nature”) or a mutual mistake of fact (i.e., 

“an erroneous belief, which is shared and relied on by both parties”).4 Rather, the facts 

alleged indicate a valuation dispute that does not involve the correction of a clerical 

error or mutual mistake of fact. Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner’s assessment appeal is PARTIALLY DISMISSED. The 

appeal shall continue for the 2025 tax year(s) only.

By:___________________________________

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

Entered: September 23, 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

3 See Electronic Data Systems Corporation v Township of Flint, 253 Mich App 538 (2002). 

4 See International Place Apartments – IV v Ypsilanti Township, 216 Mich App 104, 109 (1996), Ford 

Motor Company v City of Woodhaven, 475 Mich 425, 442 (2006).

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

 SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v

 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

Respondent.

ORDER OF PARTIAL DISMISSAL

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

is appealing assessments for prior tax years and the Tribunal has no authority over 

those assessments under MCL 205.735a, as the petition was not timely filed.5 Further, 

the Tribunal also has no authority over those assessments, as the facts alleged do not 

establish that the assessments were the result of a clerical error (i.e., “an error of a 

transpositional, typographical, or mathematical nature”) or a mutual mistake of fact (i.e., 

“an erroneous belief, which is shared and relied on by both parties”).6 Rather, the facts 

alleged indicate a valuation dispute that does not involve the correction of a clerical 

error or mutual mistake of fact. Therefore,

IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner’s assessment appeal is PARTIALLY DISMISSED. The 

appeal shall continue for the 2025 tax year(s) only.

By:___________________________________

Patricia L. Halm, Tribunal Chair

Entered: September 23, 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

5 See Electronic Data Systems Corporation v Township of Flint, 253 Mich App 538 (2002). 

6 See International Place Apartments – IV v Ypsilanti Township, 216 Mich App 104, 109 (1996), Ford

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.

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

Elizabeth

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Towner

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

7835 Van Dyke Pl.

City or Town

Detroit

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

48214

Telephone Number

202-271-7378

Fax Number

E-mail Address

elizabethskuhl@gmail.com

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

First Name

M.I.

Last Name

Firm Name (if any)

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

City or Town

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

Telephone Number

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

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]

7835 Van Dyke Pl.

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Detroit 

Michigan

48214

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

City of Detroit (Wayne)

County 

Wayne

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

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

This appeal is filed to request reductions of the true cash and taxable values for 7835 Van Dyke Pl. in 2023-2025 because:

1. It was discovered at the 2025 March board of review hearing that 7835 Van Dyke Pl. had been incorrectly assessed as having a garage- an adjustment was made 

for 2025 but not for previous tax years.

2. Following this hearing, it was discovered that in 2023 and 2024, 7835 Van Dyke Pl. was assessed similar to or at a higher rate than homes in the same ECF that 

are fully modernized and renovated and include upgrades and high-end features. 7835 is not fully modernized or renovated, and does not include similar upgrades 

and high-end features.

3. A recent comparative market analysis suggests the value of 7835 Van Dyke Pl. has decreased overtime.

The attached “Facts to Support Appeal” document expands upon these points and includes the requested reductions. Supplementary files.(e.g., figures, tables, repair 

estimates, home inspection report, and comparative market analysis) provide additional information and data to support this appeal.

Per guidance of staff at the Michigan Tax Tribunal, it is noted here that 7835 Van Dyke Pl. is an NEZ Homestead property – the associated land parcel number is 

1000076. 

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2023, 2024, and 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: 27200179

Classification of Property:

Real

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Residential

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

156800

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

156800

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

242746 

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

121380

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

35420

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

Page 4

STATE OF

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.

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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

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 23, 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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

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 23, 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

Elizabeth Towner,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 25-002980

City of Detroit,

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 23, 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.

Page 1

Coleman A. Young Municipal Center

2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 105

Detroit, Michigan 48226

Phone: (313) 628-0722

Fax: (313) 224-4576

www.detroitmi.gov

50%

05/16/2025

Adjustment granted due to market and/or condition. 

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by May 31st of the current year for properties classified as:

Commercial Real, Industrial Real, Commercial Personal, Industrial Personal and Utility Personal Property.

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by July 31st of the current year for Residential Real Property

Classification.

A property Classification appeal may only be made for the current year. Such appeal may be filed with the

State Tax Commission, PO Box 30471, Lansing, MI 48909-7971 by June 30th of the current year.

Michigan Tax Tribunal

P.O. Box 30232

Lansing MI 48909

CONCLUSION:

Principle Residence Exemption:

The March Board of Review considered (if any) petitioner's and/or duly authorized representative evidence

and/or testimony. The March Board of Review considered facts presented as on the assessment roll and/or any

recommendations offered by the Office of the Assessor.

6.

7.

6.

5.

4.

3.

2.

27200179.

1. 

FINDING OF FACTS:

The March Board of Review has considered the appeal on the 2025 assessment for the below described property

and concluded that:

TOWNER, ELIZABETH

District:

5

7835 VAN DYKE PLACE

DETROIT MI 48214

RE: MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW PETITION NUMBER:

2025

M-001052

Parcel Number:

Property Address:

7835 VAN DYKE PL

Property Classification:

401 (RESIDENTIAL-IMPROVED)

NEZ Homestea

Property Legal Description:

Petitioner timely filed an appeal to the March Board of Review.

Before Appeal

After Appeal

2025

Assessed Value

333,000

156,800

2025

Taxable Value

173,208

156,800

If you are dissatisfied with the decision of the March Board of Review, submit this notice and complete the enclosed

small claims form to appeal to:

Sincerely,

City of Detroit Board of Review

N VAN DYKE PL 11WESSONS SUB L16 P91 PLATS, W C R 17/14 48.68 IRREG

Page 2

Coleman A. Young Municipal Center

2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 105

Detroit, Michigan 48226

Phone: (313) 628-0722

Fax: (313) 224-4576

www.detroitmi.gov

50%

05/16/2025

The Board of Review has considered the appeal filed and found there was no adjustment warranted.

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by May 31st of the current year for properties classified as:

Commercial Real, Industrial Real, Commercial Personal, Industrial Personal and Utility Personal Property.

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by July 31st of the current year for Residential Real Property

Classification.

A property Classification appeal may only be made for the current year. Such appeal may be filed with the

State Tax Commission, PO Box 30471, Lansing, MI 48909-7971 by June 30th of the current year.

Michigan Tax Tribunal

P.O. Box 30232

Lansing MI 48909

CONCLUSION:

Principle Residence Exemption:

The March Board of Review considered (if any) petitioner's and/or duly authorized representative evidence

and/or testimony. The March Board of Review considered facts presented as on the assessment roll and/or any

recommendations offered by the Office of the Assessor.

6.

7.

6.

5.

4.

3.

2.

17000076.

1. 

FINDING OF FACTS:

The March Board of Review has considered the appeal on the 2025 assessment for the below described property

and concluded that:

TOWNER, ELIZABETH

District:

5

7835 VAN DYKE PLACE

DETROIT MI 48214

RE: MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW PETITION NUMBER:

2025

M-002919

Parcel Number:

Property Address:

7835 VAN DYKE PL

Property Classification:

401 (RESIDENTIAL-IMPROVED)

Ad Valorem

Property Legal Description:

Petitioner timely filed an appeal to the March Board of Review.

Before Appeal

After Appeal

2025

Assessed Value

9,400

9,400

2025

Taxable Value

5,361

5,361

If you are dissatisfied with the decision of the March Board of Review, submit this notice and complete the enclosed

small claims form to appeal to:

Sincerely,

City of Detroit Board of Review

N VAN DYKE PL 11WESSONS SUB L16 P91 PLATS, W C R 17/14 48.68 IRREG

Page 3

Coleman 

A. Young Municipal Center 

oo. (313) 628-0722. 

2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 105 

Fax: (313) 224-4576 

Detroit, Michigan 48226 

WWW. detroitmi.goy 

5 

Board of 

| Roview 

DETROIT 

05/15/2024 

TOWNER, ELIZABETH 

7835 VAN DYKE PLACE 

DETROIT-MI 48214 

RE: 

2024 

MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW PETITION NUMBER: 

M-001584 

The March Board of Review has considered the appeal on the 2024 assessment for the below geacnosd Property 

and concluded that: 

FINDING 

OF FACTS: 

1.” Parcel Number: 

27200179. 

2. 

Property Address: 

7835 VAN DYKE PL 

3. 

District: 

5 

a 

4. 

Property Classification: 

401 

_(RESIDENTIAL-IMPROVED) 

NEZ Homeste. 

N 

6. 

Principle Residence Exemption: 50% 

ey 

5. 

Property Legal Description: 

N VAN DYKE PL 11WESSONS SUB L16 P91 PLATS, 

W 

CR 17/14 48.68 IRREG 

Petitioner timely filed an appeal to the March Board of Review. 

. The March Board of Review considered 

(if any) petitioner's and/or duly authorized representative. evidence 

and/or testimony. The March Board of Review considered facts presented as on the assessment roll and/or any 

recommendations offered by the Office of the Assessor. 

[of 

LUSI 

> 

aie 

Adjustment granted due to market and/or condition. 

Safe 

P 

Ne 

Before Appeal 

After Appeal 

2024 

Assessed Value 

238,700 

222,500 

2024 

Taxable Value 

168,000 

} 

168,000 

If you are dissatisfied with the decision of the March Board of Review, submit this notice and complete the enclosed 

small claims form to appeal to: 

ER PR Ee 

Michigan Tax Tribunal 

P.O. Box 30232 

Lansing MI 48909 

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by May 31st of the current year for properties classified as: 

Commercial 

Real, 

Industrial 

Real, 

Commercial Personal, 

Industrial 

Personal 

and 

Utility 

Personal 

Property. 

A Michigan Tax Tribunal appeal must be made by July 31st of the current year for Residential Real jEIopeny 

Classification. 

A property Classification appeal may only be made 

for the current year. Such appeal may be. filed with the 

State

Page 4

Col

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.

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

Elizabeth

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Towner

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

7835 Van Dyke Pl.

City or Town

Detroit

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

48214

Telephone Number

202-271-7378

Fax Number

E-mail Address

elizabethskuhl@gmail.com

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

First Name

M.I.

Last Name

Firm Name (if any)

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

City or Town

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

Telephone Number

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

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]

7835 Van Dyke Pl.

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Detroit 

Michigan

48214

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

City of Detroit (Wayne)

County 

Wayne

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

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

This appeal is filed to request reductions of the true cash and taxable values for 7835 Van Dyke Pl. in 2023-2025 because:

1. It was discovered at the 2025 March board of review hearing that 7835 Van Dyke Pl. had been incorrectly assessed as having a garage- an adjustment was made 

for 2025 but not for previous tax years.

2. Following this hearing, it was discovered that in 2023 and 2024, 7835 Van Dyke Pl. was assessed similar to or at a higher rate than homes in the same ECF that 

are fully modernized and renovated and include upgrades and high-end features. 7835 is not fully modernized or renovated, and does not include similar upgrades 

and high-end features.

3. A recent comparative market analysis suggests the value of 7835 Van Dyke Pl. has decreased overtime.

The attached “Facts to Support Appeal” document expands upon these points and includes the requested reductions. Supplementary files.(e.g., figures, tables, repair 

estimates, home inspection report, and comparative market analysis) provide additional information and data to support this appeal.

Per guidance of staff at the Michigan Tax Tribunal, it is noted here that 7835 Van Dyke Pl. is an NEZ Homestead property – the associated land parcel number is 

1000076. 

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2023, 2024, and 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: 27200179

Classification of Property:

Real

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Residential

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

156800

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

156800

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

242746 

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

121380

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

35420

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

Page 4

STATE OF

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.