•August 23, 2017•

The recent sale of the 35,000 sq. ft. Shopko building in Sullivan to The Vineyard Church could eventually have consequences for the county’s taxes.

According to the Moultrie County treasurer’s office, the Shopko tax bill for Tax Year 2016 payable in 2017 was $59,808.18.

Supervisor of Assessments Lori Barringer explained the  Moultrie County Assessment Office assessed the former Shopko property in Tax Year 2016 with an assessed value of $604,270. That is 33-1/3% of the Fair Market Value.

After receiving several inquiries concerning the future of this facility, the office has completed a field review of the property in July of 2017, during which a reduction in the assessed value of the property was found to be warranted based on the building being vacant for the past four years and the overall deterioration of the building and parking lot.

According to the Illinois Property Tax Code, any religious, charitable organization, orphanage or school must complete an application, containing thorough documentation, with the assessment office on property that they purchase to be reviewed by Board of Review.

Once approved at the local level, the Illinois Department of Revenue has final determination if the actual use of the property qualifies for exempt status, (35 ILCS 200/15-40).

After the Vineyard Church determines the future use of the property, the Moultrie County Assessment office will assist their organization in completing this necessary application and submitting the proper paperwork needed to determine what the future assessment will be and whether the use further qualifies for exempt status.