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1. What is the lien collection program?

On June 6th the City began to notify all the citizens of Wichita Falls who own property upon which City liens have been filed. There are over 2,000 such property owners and over 6,000 liens. The City has hired a lien clerk who will send out 150 notification letters per week. All property owners wiht such liens will be notified within 90 days. Three temporary clerks have been hired to assist with processing the paperwork and answering phone correspondence.

2. What is a lien and why does the City have so many of them?

Whenever the City mows grass or demolishes a dangerous structure on private property, it does so using taxpayer money. The City is authorized to recoup the money by placing a lien on the property. The City has been abating nuisances and placing liens for 40 years.

3. What is the City doing to collect these liens?

We are notifying the owners of property upon which liens have been filed.

4. Why try to collect now?

The City only recently computerized its records and discovered the extent of the debt owed the City.

5. If I have a lien on my property why should I pay it off?

It is accruing at 10% interest and will cost less to pay off now rather than later. An outstanding lien may also hinder the property owner from selling the property, as title insurance cannot be obtained on a property encumbered by a lien.

6. How do I find out if my property has a lien on it?

Go to Departments on the home page of this website and click on Code Enforcement Liens, call 940-761-7463 to talk with one of the four lien clerks or check the records at the Wichita County Courthouse.

7. What if I can't pay the whole amount at once?

If you pay the principle the interest will cease to accrue. The City will also assist you in setting up a payment plan.