Ursula Kelley-Wash Petitioner V City Of Oak Park Respondent
- Petitioner
- Ursula Kelley-Wash
- Respondent
- City Of Oak Park
Case overview
- Docket number
- 26-002905-TT
- Status
- Default Petitioner
- CaseType
- SC Property
- Division
- Small Claims Division
- County
- Oakland
- Judge
- No judge assigned
Docket history
| Line # | Subject | Filer | Line Ref | Enter Date/Post Mark | Fee | Related Item |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Order of Default of Petitioner | Not recorded | Not recorded | 10/09/2026 | Not recorded | Download |
| 3 | Petition has been verified | PET | 1 | 10/09/2026 | Not recorded | Download |
| Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Download |
| 2 | Notice of Docket Number SC | Not recorded | Not recorded | 10/08/2026 | Not recorded | Download |
| 1 | A petition was received. | PET | Not recorded | 07/30/2026 | $75.00 | Download |
| Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Not recorded | Download |
Documents
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Page 1
STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Ursula Kelley-Wash, Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION v MTT Docket No. 26-002905 City Of Oak Park, Respondent. ORDER OF DEFAULT The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that: Petitioner filed the wrong petition for the issue being appealed, 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.), and may owe an additional petition filing fee. See TTR 269 and 279. As such, the petition is not properly pending. Petitioner must complete and return the appropriate petition for the issue being appealed, submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal, and pay any applicable filing fees within 14 days of the entry of this order. The petition shall note the docket number assigned by the Tribunal and if filed utilizing the Tribunal’s e-filing system, must be filed on the assigned docket number as an “amended petition.” Small Claims petition forms, information on filing fees, and a filing fee calculator can be found on our website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Unfortunately, the payment may not be made via e-filing. 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.1 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). 1 “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). 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
Page 2
MTT Docket No. 26-002905 Page 2 of 2 By: /s/ Patricia L. Halm Entered: October 9, 2026 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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STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Ursula Kelley-Wash, Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION v MTT Docket No. 26-002905 City Of Oak Park, Respondent. ORDER OF DEFAULT The Tribunal has reviewed the file in the above-captioned case and finds that: Petitioner filed the wrong petition for the issue being appealed, 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.), and may owe an additional petition filing fee. See TTR 269 and 279. As such, the petition is not properly pending. Petitioner must complete and return the appropriate petition for the issue being appealed, submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal, and pay any applicable filing fees within 14 days of the entry of this order. The petition shall note the docket number assigned by the Tribunal and if filed utilizing the Tribunal’s e-filing system, must be filed on the assigned docket number as an “amended petition.” Small Claims petition forms, information on filing fees, and a filing fee calculator can be found on our website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Unfortunately, the payment may not be made via e-filing. 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.2 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 “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
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MTT
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2200 E. Eleven Mile Road Warren, MI 48091 888-234-2340 BILL TO Ursula Kelly 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 USA ESTIMATE ESTIMATE DATE 591732024 Jul 03, 2024 J O B A D D R ES S Job: 1055443 Ursula Kelly 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 USA EST I M AT E D E TA I L S Sump pump and check valve : Replace sump pump with new sump pump and check valve due to float sticking S E RV I C E D ES C R I P T I O N QT Y FLA-566040 Zoeller M53 Cast Iron 1/3 HP Sump Pump: 1.00 Cast Iron Sump Pump replacement- Includes 1.5" Male adapter PVC to attach to an existing check valve FLA-500410 Check Valve Up to 1 1/2" PVC: 1.00 Check Valve Up to 1 1/2" PVC Existing connections Good solution for a failing check valve on your existing sump pump discharge pipe FLA-GDD Gold Plan Diagnostic Discount: 1.00 Diagnostic discount applied to qualifying repairs CUSTOMER AUTHORIZATION I authorize the estimate in the amount of $737.50 Sign here Date Estimate #591732024 Page 1 of 1
Page 2
TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. All orders not paid for in full in advance are subject to approval by the Company's credit department. 2. This proposal includes all discounts, coupons, and may be withdrawn by the Company if not accepted within 30 (thirty) days. 3. The Company shall carry Workmen's Compensation insurance on all technicians, and $1,000,000 public liability insurance. The Company shall not be liable for damage, loss or delays resulting from fire, explosion, flooding, the elements, labor troubles, or any other cause beyond our control. The Company shall use ordinary care in performing all work, but shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages, nor shall it be liable for injuries to persons or damage to property expect those directly caused by negligent acts of the Company's employees. 4. Until final payment is made, the Company will retain title to all materials and equipment it installs. 5. Unless noted in this proposal, payment is due in full upon completion of work. A monthly finance charge, equal to the highest allowable interest rate, may be levied on Customer's account if delinquent over 30 days. 6. In the event Customer's account must be referred to attorneys for collection, Customer agrees to pay reasonable attorney fees, court costs and other collections costs. 7. Customer will carry fire, extended coverage and other necessary insurance on their real estate and improvements. Customer shall assume risk of loss or damage to equipment after it is set in place on the job. 8. Every attempt will be made to complete the work on the date(s) specified, but because the Company may have no control over equipment availability and delivery, all completion dates are estimates only. 9. All work, equipment and devices installed as a part of this proposal shall be guaranteed for a period of one (1) year from date of completion of this installation, except as otherwise noted, or in accordance with manufacturer's warranty. THE WARRANTY PERIOD HEREIN IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES. THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS OR PRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, NOT SPECIFIED BY THIS AGREEMENT AND THIS AGREEMENT CONTAINS THE ENTIRE UNDERSTANDINGS BETWEEN THE PARTIES. THE COMPANY'S LIABILITIES FOR DAMAGES SHALL NOT EXCEED THE CONTRACT PRICE OF THIS CONTRACT. 10. The Company shall not be responsible for any damages incurred due to inability of the building structure to properly support the installed equipment, or for the expense incurred in removing, replacing, or refinishing part of the building structure necessary for the performance of any service or installation, unless otherwise noted in this proposal. 11. The Company shall not be liable for any present or future taxes, charges or other government fees, or any items of equipment, labor or special tests required or recommended by insurance companies, equipment vendors, or governmental authorities. 12. The Company shall not be liable for the identification, detection, abatement, encapsulation, storage, removal, or transportation of any regulated or hazardous substances. Regulated or hazardous substances may include, but are not limited to asbestos, certain refrigerants and refrigerant oils. If any such products or materials are encountered during the course of work, the Company can discontinue work until regulated or hazardous materials have been removed or hazard or liability is eliminated. The Company shall receive an extension equal to the time of delay to complete the work and reserves the right to be compensated for any loss due to a delay.
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13. This agreement contains the entire understanding between the Company and the Customer. Any modifications, amendments or changes must be in writing and signed by both parties. 14. The Company and the Customer agree that any alteration and deviation from the specifications set forth in the contract agreement including extra costs will be executed only upon written orders and will become an extra charge over and above the estimate. 15. The Customer understands that applicable mechanical, electrical and/or plumbing inspections are their responsibility to schedule. In the event the inspector cannot gain access to the Customer's home, the corresponding re- inspection fee will be the Customer's responsibility. In the event the inspection isn't scheduled, the Customer understands that the benefits that they would have received from the permit and inspection process will be forfeited.
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STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM CLASSIFICATION APPEAL MTT DOCKET NO. Petitioner’s Contact Information: Filer Type: Local Unit of Government: Individual First Name M.I. Last Name Ursula Kelley-Wash Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route) 13101 Northfield Blvd. City or Town State ZIP Code Oak Park Michigan 48237 Telephone Number (313) 613-0066 E-mail Address ukelley2006@gmail.com Subject Property Information: How many parcels are you appealing? If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? *If 1 no, you must file separate appeals for each parcel N/A Property Address (No., Street, City, St, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address] 13101 Northfield Blvd. Oak Park Michigan 48237 Taxing Authority (City or Township) County City Of Oak Park (OAKLAND) Oakland Please Explain the Reason for this Appeal: Dear Members of the Board of Review: I respectfully submit this letter requesting that you reconsider and reduce the assessed taxable value and property taxes for my home located at 13101 Northfield Boulevard, Oak Park, Michigan. I understand the importance of property taxes in supporting our community and the essential services they provide. However, the current tax burden on my home has become increasingly difficult to manage, particularly when considering the significant repairs my property now requires and the continuing increase in my annual tax obligation. When I purchased my home in 2021, my monthly mortgage payment was $1,989.00. Due primarily to the continued increase in my property taxes, my monthly mortgage payment has risen to $2,552.23 in 2026—an increase of more than $563.00 per month, or nearly $6,800 annually. This significant increase has placed tremendous strain on my household budget and has made it increasingly difficult to keep up with both my mortgage obligations and the necessary maintenance of my home. According to the City's records, my 2026 summer property tax bill is $7,825.01, and my property taxes have steadily increased over the past several years. My summer taxes alone have increased from approximately $6,677.78 in 2022 to $7,825.01 in 2026. While my tax burden continues to rise, the condition of my home reflects several costly issues that require immediate attention and significantly affect its value. My home currently requires several major repairs, including: Replacement of the 40-gallon hot water tank. 1 of 3
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STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Replacement of the sump pump, which has failed and allows my basement to flood during heavy rainstorms. Each rainfall leaves me worried about additional water damage, mold, and costly structural repairs. Repair or replacement of the cracked sidewalks and driveway, which present safety hazards and continue to deteriorate. Repair or replacement of my fence, which sustained significant wind damage. These are not cosmetic improvements. They are essential repairs necessary to preserve the safety, integrity, and value of my home. Unfortunately, the increasing cost of my mortgage and property taxes has made it extremely difficult to afford these critical repairs. Like many homeowners, I purchased my home with the hope of building stability, investing in my community, and creating a place where I could remain for many years. Instead, I now find myself facing mounting financial pressure caused not only by rising housing costs but also by increasing property taxes that continue to outpace my ability to keep up. I am also deeply concerned that my experience is not unique. A recent FOX 2 Detroit news report highlighted the concerns of Oak Park residents who believe that continually increasing property taxes are forcing longtime homeowners out of the community because they can no longer afford to remain in their homes. Many residents expressed that escalating tax bills are making homeownership unsustainable and are placing an unfair burden on those who simply want to stay in the neighborhoods they have worked so hard to build. I never imagined that owning my home would become financially overwhelming because of rising property taxes. I have worked hard to maintain my property, pay my mortgage on time, and fulfill my obligations as a homeowner. However, each increase in taxes pushes me further away from being able to make the necessary improvements that my home requires and closer to the possibility that I may no longer be able to afford to remain in the community I love. I respectfully ask the Board to consider not only the assessed value of my property but also its actual condition, the substantial deferred maintenance and repair costs, the significant increase in my monthly housing expenses, and the financial hardship these increasing taxes have created. A reduction in my taxable value would provide meaningful relief, allowing me to make the necessary repairs, protect my investment, and continue contributing positively to the Oak Park community. My goal is simple: I want to remain in my home. I want to continue being a responsible homeowner, maintain my property, and preserve the value of my neighborhood. I respectfully ask for your compassion, understanding, and careful consideration of my circumstances. Thank you for your time, your service, and your thoughtful review of my appeal. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to present my request and respectfully ask that you grant a reduction in my property's assessed taxable value and property taxes. Respectfully, Ursula Kelley-Wash 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 Jurisdictional Issues: Did you protest the classification at the March Board of Review? Yes If No, please check the applicable reason(s):
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STATE
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STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Ursula Kelley-Wash, Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION v MTT Docket No. 26-002905 City Of Oak Park, 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: October 8, 2026 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 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
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STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Ursula Kelley-Wash, Petitioner, MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION v MTT Docket No. 26-002905 City Of Oak Park, 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: October 8, 2026 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 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
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Page 1
2200 E. Eleven Mile Road Warren, MI 48091 888-234-2340 BILL TO Ursula Kelly 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 USA ESTIMATE ESTIMATE DATE 591732024 Jul 03, 2024 J O B A D D R ES S Job: 1055443 Ursula Kelly 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 USA EST I M AT E D E TA I L S Sump pump and check valve : Replace sump pump with new sump pump and check valve due to float sticking S E RV I C E D ES C R I P T I O N QT Y FLA-566040 Zoeller M53 Cast Iron 1/3 HP Sump Pump: 1.00 Cast Iron Sump Pump replacement- Includes 1.5" Male adapter PVC to attach to an existing check valve FLA-500410 Check Valve Up to 1 1/2" PVC: 1.00 Check Valve Up to 1 1/2" PVC Existing connections Good solution for a failing check valve on your existing sump pump discharge pipe FLA-GDD Gold Plan Diagnostic Discount: 1.00 Diagnostic discount applied to qualifying repairs CUSTOMER AUTHORIZATION I authorize the estimate in the amount of $737.50 Sign here Date Estimate #591732024 Page 1 of 1
Page 2
TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. All orders not paid for in full in advance are subject to approval by the Company's credit department. 2. This proposal includes all discounts, coupons, and may be withdrawn by the Company if not accepted within 30 (thirty) days. 3. The Company shall carry Workmen's Compensation insurance on all technicians, and $1,000,000 public liability insurance. The Company shall not be liable for damage, loss or delays resulting from fire, explosion, flooding, the elements, labor troubles, or any other cause beyond our control. The Company shall use ordinary care in performing all work, but shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages, nor shall it be liable for injuries to persons or damage to property expect those directly caused by negligent acts of the Company's employees. 4. Until final payment is made, the Company will retain title to all materials and equipment it installs. 5. Unless noted in this proposal, payment is due in full upon completion of work. A monthly finance charge, equal to the highest allowable interest rate, may be levied on Customer's account if delinquent over 30 days. 6. In the event Customer's account must be referred to attorneys for collection, Customer agrees to pay reasonable attorney fees, court costs and other collections costs. 7. Customer will carry fire, extended coverage and other necessary insurance on their real estate and improvements. Customer shall assume risk of loss or damage to equipment after it is set in place on the job. 8. Every attempt will be made to complete the work on the date(s) specified, but because the Company may have no control over equipment availability and delivery, all completion dates are estimates only. 9. All work, equipment and devices installed as a part of this proposal shall be guaranteed for a period of one (1) year from date of completion of this installation, except as otherwise noted, or in accordance with manufacturer's warranty. THE WARRANTY PERIOD HEREIN IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES. THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS OR PRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, NOT SPECIFIED BY THIS AGREEMENT AND THIS AGREEMENT CONTAINS THE ENTIRE UNDERSTANDINGS BETWEEN THE PARTIES. THE COMPANY'S LIABILITIES FOR DAMAGES SHALL NOT EXCEED THE CONTRACT PRICE OF THIS CONTRACT. 10. The Company shall not be responsible for any damages incurred due to inability of the building structure to properly support the installed equipment, or for the expense incurred in removing, replacing, or refinishing part of the building structure necessary for the performance of any service or installation, unless otherwise noted in this proposal. 11. The Company shall not be liable for any present or future taxes, charges or other government fees, or any items of equipment, labor or special tests required or recommended by insurance companies, equipment vendors, or governmental authorities. 12. The Company shall not be liable for the identification, detection, abatement, encapsulation, storage, removal, or transportation of any regulated or hazardous substances. Regulated or hazardous substances may include, but are not limited to asbestos, certain refrigerants and refrigerant oils. If any such products or materials are encountered during the course of work, the Company can discontinue work until regulated or hazardous materials have been removed or hazard or liability is eliminated. The Company shall receive an extension equal to the time of delay to complete the work and reserves the right to be compensated for any loss due to a delay.
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13. This agreement contains the entire understanding between the Company and the Customer. Any modifications, amendments or changes must be in writing and signed by both parties. 14. The Company and the Customer agree that any alteration and deviation from the specifications set forth in the contract agreement including extra costs will be executed only upon written orders and will become an extra charge over and above the estimate. 15. The Customer understands that applicable mechanical, electrical and/or plumbing inspections are their responsibility to schedule. In the event the inspector cannot gain access to the Customer's home, the corresponding re- inspection fee will be the Customer's responsibility. In the event the inspection isn't scheduled, the Customer understands that the benefits that they would have received from the permit and inspection process will be forfeited.
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Page 1
STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM CLASSIFICATION APPEAL MTT DOCKET NO. Petitioner’s Contact Information: Filer Type: Local Unit of Government: Individual First Name M.I. Last Name Ursula Kelley-Wash Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route) 13101 Northfield Blvd. City or Town State ZIP Code Oak Park Michigan 48237 Telephone Number (313) 613-0066 E-mail Address ukelley2006@gmail.com Subject Property Information: How many parcels are you appealing? If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? *If 1 no, you must file separate appeals for each parcel N/A Property Address (No., Street, City, St, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address] 13101 Northfield Blvd. Oak Park Michigan 48237 Taxing Authority (City or Township) County City Of Oak Park (OAKLAND) Oakland Please Explain the Reason for this Appeal: Dear Members of the Board of Review: I respectfully submit this letter requesting that you reconsider and reduce the assessed taxable value and property taxes for my home located at 13101 Northfield Boulevard, Oak Park, Michigan. I understand the importance of property taxes in supporting our community and the essential services they provide. However, the current tax burden on my home has become increasingly difficult to manage, particularly when considering the significant repairs my property now requires and the continuing increase in my annual tax obligation. When I purchased my home in 2021, my monthly mortgage payment was $1,989.00. Due primarily to the continued increase in my property taxes, my monthly mortgage payment has risen to $2,552.23 in 2026—an increase of more than $563.00 per month, or nearly $6,800 annually. This significant increase has placed tremendous strain on my household budget and has made it increasingly difficult to keep up with both my mortgage obligations and the necessary maintenance of my home. According to the City's records, my 2026 summer property tax bill is $7,825.01, and my property taxes have steadily increased over the past several years. My summer taxes alone have increased from approximately $6,677.78 in 2022 to $7,825.01 in 2026. While my tax burden continues to rise, the condition of my home reflects several costly issues that require immediate attention and significantly affect its value. My home currently requires several major repairs, including: Replacement of the 40-gallon hot water tank. 1 of 3
Page 2
STATE OF MICHIGAN GRETCHEN WHITMER DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MARLON I. BROWN, DPA GOVERNOR LANSING DIRECTOR Replacement of the sump pump, which has failed and allows my basement to flood during heavy rainstorms. Each rainfall leaves me worried about additional water damage, mold, and costly structural repairs. Repair or replacement of the cracked sidewalks and driveway, which present safety hazards and continue to deteriorate. Repair or replacement of my fence, which sustained significant wind damage. These are not cosmetic improvements. They are essential repairs necessary to preserve the safety, integrity, and value of my home. Unfortunately, the increasing cost of my mortgage and property taxes has made it extremely difficult to afford these critical repairs. Like many homeowners, I purchased my home with the hope of building stability, investing in my community, and creating a place where I could remain for many years. Instead, I now find myself facing mounting financial pressure caused not only by rising housing costs but also by increasing property taxes that continue to outpace my ability to keep up. I am also deeply concerned that my experience is not unique. A recent FOX 2 Detroit news report highlighted the concerns of Oak Park residents who believe that continually increasing property taxes are forcing longtime homeowners out of the community because they can no longer afford to remain in their homes. Many residents expressed that escalating tax bills are making homeownership unsustainable and are placing an unfair burden on those who simply want to stay in the neighborhoods they have worked so hard to build. I never imagined that owning my home would become financially overwhelming because of rising property taxes. I have worked hard to maintain my property, pay my mortgage on time, and fulfill my obligations as a homeowner. However, each increase in taxes pushes me further away from being able to make the necessary improvements that my home requires and closer to the possibility that I may no longer be able to afford to remain in the community I love. I respectfully ask the Board to consider not only the assessed value of my property but also its actual condition, the substantial deferred maintenance and repair costs, the significant increase in my monthly housing expenses, and the financial hardship these increasing taxes have created. A reduction in my taxable value would provide meaningful relief, allowing me to make the necessary repairs, protect my investment, and continue contributing positively to the Oak Park community. My goal is simple: I want to remain in my home. I want to continue being a responsible homeowner, maintain my property, and preserve the value of my neighborhood. I respectfully ask for your compassion, understanding, and careful consideration of my circumstances. Thank you for your time, your service, and your thoughtful review of my appeal. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to present my request and respectfully ask that you grant a reduction in my property's assessed taxable value and property taxes. Respectfully, Ursula Kelley-Wash 13101 Northfield Boulevard Oak Park, MI 48237 Jurisdictional Issues: Did you protest the classification at the March Board of Review? Yes If No, please check the applicable reason(s):
Page 3
STATE
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