Whenever a building is (1) razed, or (2) destroyed or damaged by a fortuitous happening beyond the control of the owner, the owner may apply for an abatement of the real estate tax due thereon. Application for such abatement shall be made on a form provided by the city assessor and made to the city assessor within six months of the date such building was razed, damaged or destroyed.
(Code 1985 § 12-206; Ord. 8-23-90; Ord. 3-14-91 § B)
Upon receipt of an application for abatement under this chapter, the city assessor shall ascertain the extent of the diminution of the value by reason of such fortuitous happening. If the damage or destruction decreases the tax-assessed valuation of the building by less than $500.00, no abatement shall be allowed. Also, no abatement shall be allowed unless the destruction or damage renders the building unfit for use and occupancy for 30 days or more during the calendar year. The tax on such razed, destroyed or damaged building shall be computed according to the ratio which the portion of the year the building was fit for use, occupancy and enjoyment bears to the entire year.
(Code 1985 § 12-207; Ord. 8-23-90; Ord. 3-14-91 § B; Ord. 6-13-00)
Whenever the city assessor determines that real estate taxes should be abated hereunder, said assessor shall notify the city treasurer accordingly.
(Code 1985 § 12-208; Ord. 8-23-90; Ord. 3-14-91 § B)