Actual property levies on this west-central Minnesota county fund important public companies akin to colleges, libraries, roads, and emergency companies. These levies are based mostly on the assessed worth of properties, together with residential houses, business buildings, and agricultural land. For instance, a home-owner’s annual fee is set by multiplying their property’s assessed worth by the relevant mill price set by the county.
Secure and predictable income generated by means of these assessments permits native governments to take care of and enhance infrastructure, present essential companies to residents, and foster financial progress throughout the group. The programs historic context is rooted within the states structure, which mandates native governments to boost income primarily by means of property taxation. This ensures native management over important companies and direct accountability to the group.
Understanding the evaluation course of, fee choices, and accessible exemptions is essential for property homeowners. The next sections will discover these subjects intimately, offering priceless assets and insights for navigating the native tax system.
1. Assessed Values
Assessed values kind the muse of property tax calculations in Pope County, Minnesota. The county assessor determines these values, representing a property’s estimated market value. This valuation course of considers numerous elements, together with property dimension, location, age, situation, and up to date gross sales information of comparable properties. A direct relationship exists between assessed worth and the tax burden: the next assessed worth ends in the next tax legal responsibility, whereas a decrease assessed worth results in a decrease tax legal responsibility. As an example, two similar properties positioned in several areas may need totally different assessed values as a consequence of variations in native market circumstances, influencing their respective tax burdens.
Understanding the evaluation course of is essential for property homeowners. Accuracy in assessments ensures equitable tax distribution. Property homeowners can problem assessments they deem inaccurate by means of a proper appeals course of. This course of permits for presenting proof supporting a special valuation. Efficiently interesting an inflated evaluation can considerably cut back property tax liabilities. For instance, if a property’s assessed worth is lowered by 10%, the corresponding tax legal responsibility can even lower proportionally. This highlights the sensible significance of understanding assessed values throughout the property tax system.
Correct and honest assessed values are important for a purposeful property tax system. They be certain that every property proprietor contributes proportionally to the funding of native companies based mostly on their property’s market value. By understanding the connection between assessed values and tax liabilities, property homeowners can have interaction extra successfully with the system, making certain honest illustration and contributing to the general fiscal well being of Pope County.
2. Mill Charges
Mill charges are a crucial element of property tax calculations in Pope County, Minnesota. Expressed as {dollars} per $1,000 of assessed worth, they signify the tax levied on properties. Native authorities our bodies, together with county commissioners, faculty boards, and metropolis councils, yearly set mill charges to fund their respective budgets. These charges straight affect the general property tax burden for landowners. For instance, a mill price of 10 mills means a property proprietor pays $10 for each $1,000 of their property’s assessed worth. Due to this fact, a property assessed at $200,000 would incur a tax legal responsibility of $2,000 yearly underneath a 10-mill price.
Mill charges replicate the monetary wants of native governments and the price of offering public companies. Components influencing mill price changes embrace modifications in property values, budgetary necessities for companies like training and public security, and native financial circumstances. If the whole assessed worth throughout the county will increase, the mill price might lower to generate the identical income. Conversely, if the county price range will increase, the mill price might must rise to cowl the extra bills. For instance, a considerable enhance in demand for public training may necessitate the next mill price to fund the elevated prices related to offering instructional companies. Inspecting historic mill price traits affords priceless perception into the county’s fiscal administration and the general tax burden on residents over time.
Understanding mill charges and their fluctuations empowers property homeowners to anticipate potential modifications of their tax liabilities. Analyzing the elements comprising the composite mill price, which incorporates levies from numerous taxing authorities (county, metropolis, faculty district, and many others.), permits for a extra granular understanding of how funds are allotted and utilized. This data facilitates knowledgeable participation in native authorities discussions regarding budgetary issues and tax coverage, contributing to a extra clear and accountable monetary ecosystem throughout the county.
3. Cost Deadlines
Adhering to fee deadlines is essential for property homeowners in Pope County, Minnesota, to keep away from penalties and keep good standing. These deadlines make sure the well timed assortment of income important for funding public companies and sustaining the county’s monetary stability. Lacking a deadline can lead to penalties akin to late fee charges, curiosity expenses, and potential liens on the property. Understanding the structured schedule and accessible fee choices helps property homeowners fulfill their tax obligations effectively.
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First Half Cost Deadline
Sometimes due in mid-Could, the primary half fee permits property homeowners to separate their annual tax legal responsibility into two installments. This affords flexibility in managing funds and reduces the rapid monetary burden. Failure to fulfill this deadline ends in penalties calculated on the excellent first-half quantity. For instance, a 1% penalty on a $2,000 first-half fee ends in a $20 penalty. Paying by the deadline avoids these further prices and retains the tax fee plan on monitor.
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Second Half Cost Deadline
Typically due in mid-October, the second half fee completes the annual tax obligation. Just like the primary half, lacking this deadline incurs penalties, however these are calculated on the whole remaining annual steadiness. This can lead to considerably larger penalties than lacking the first-half deadline. Planning for this fee nicely prematurely helps keep away from late charges and potential problems. For instance, setting reminders or automating funds can help in assembly the deadline and sustaining good standing.
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Penalty Calculation and Accrual
Penalties for missed funds are calculated as a proportion of the excellent quantity and accrue every day. The particular proportion and accrual price are decided by state and county rules. Understanding the precise calculation methodology helps estimate potential penalty prices and reinforces the significance of well timed funds. Staying knowledgeable about these calculations permits for higher monetary planning and reduces the chance of sudden bills.
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Cost Choices and Channels
Pope County affords numerous fee choices, together with on-line funds, mail-in checks, and in-person funds at designated places of work. Understanding these totally different channels and their respective processing instances is essential for making certain well timed funds. On-line funds supply rapid affirmation, whereas mailed funds require cautious consideration of postal supply instances. Selecting probably the most handy and dependable fee methodology based mostly on particular person circumstances ensures environment friendly and well timed tax fee.
By understanding and adhering to those fee deadlines and using the accessible fee choices, property homeowners in Pope County, Minnesota, contribute to the environment friendly functioning of native authorities and the availability of important companies. Accountable tax fee practices promote a steady fiscal atmosphere, benefiting each particular person property homeowners and the group as an entire. Furthermore, understanding the penalty construction and using accessible assets permits for proactive monetary administration and avoidance of pointless prices.
4. Exemptions
Property tax exemptions in Pope County, Minnesota, supply particular property homeowners potential reductions of their tax burden. These exemptions, established by state and native legal guidelines, goal to alleviate monetary pressure on sure teams or promote particular land makes use of. Understanding eligibility standards and software procedures for related exemptions is essential for maximizing tax advantages. Cautious consideration of those provisions can contribute considerably to particular person monetary planning.
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Homestead Exemption
The homestead exemption reduces the taxable worth of a main residence, offering tax aid for owner-occupied houses. Eligibility sometimes requires the property to be the proprietor’s main dwelling and meet particular residency necessities. As an example, a qualifying home-owner would possibly see a discount of their assessed worth, resulting in a decrease tax legal responsibility. This exemption goals to make homeownership extra reasonably priced and encourage steady communities.
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Agricultural Exemption
Agricultural land used for farming or different agricultural functions might qualify for lowered tax assessments. This exemption acknowledges the financial contribution of agriculture and encourages the preservation of farmland. A farmer actively working their land would possibly profit from a decrease tax price in comparison with a equally sized property used for residential or business functions. This incentivizes continued agricultural exercise throughout the county.
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Disabled Veterans Exemption
Sure disabled veterans might qualify for property tax exemptions, recognizing their service and sacrifices. Eligibility standards usually contain particular incapacity scores and residency necessities. This exemption affords monetary assist to those that have served the nation and should face challenges as a consequence of service-related disabilities.
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Senior Citizen Exemption
Senior residents assembly particular age and earnings necessities might qualify for property tax aid. This exemption goals to help older residents on fastened incomes in managing their property tax burden. The particular earnings thresholds and exemption quantities might fluctuate based mostly on state and native rules. This provision helps guarantee senior residents can stay of their houses regardless of potential monetary constraints.
Navigating the complexities of property tax exemptions requires cautious consideration to element and adherence to particular pointers. Accessing accessible assets offered by the Pope County Assessor’s workplace can help property homeowners in figuring out eligibility and finishing the applying course of. Using these exemptions successfully can considerably influence particular person property tax liabilities and contribute to total monetary well-being throughout the context of the broader property tax system in Pope County.
5. Appeals Course of
The appeals course of offers an important mechanism for property homeowners in Pope County, Minnesota, to problem assessed property values they imagine to be inaccurate or unfair. This course of performs an important function in making certain equitable taxation by providing a proper channel for contesting valuations and presenting supporting proof. Initiating an enchantment sometimes includes submitting a written discover with the county assessor inside a specified timeframe, outlining the grounds for the enchantment and offering documentation supporting a special valuation. As an example, a property proprietor would possibly current current gross sales information of comparable properties, proof of property injury impacting worth, or skilled value determinations to show the present evaluation’s inaccuracy.
A number of elements can justify initiating an enchantment. A big discrepancy between the assessed worth and the perceived market worth, errors in property information used within the evaluation, or modifications within the property’s situation affecting its worth can all warrant an enchantment. For instance, if a property’s assessed worth considerably exceeds current sale costs of comparable properties in the identical space, an enchantment could be warranted. Equally, if the evaluation incorrectly lists the property’s sq. footage or consists of enhancements that don’t exist, an enchantment can rectify these errors and doubtlessly result in a lowered evaluation. Understanding the potential penalties of an inaccurate evaluation, akin to inflated tax liabilities, underscores the sensible significance of the appeals course of. Efficiently interesting an evaluation can lead to substantial tax financial savings, notably for properties with important valuation discrepancies.
Efficiently navigating the appeals course of requires cautious preparation and presentation of compelling proof. Property homeowners ought to collect supporting documentation, together with value determinations, comparable gross sales information, and images, to bolster their case. Understanding the county’s particular procedures and deadlines is crucial for making certain the enchantment is processed successfully. Whereas the method affords a priceless avenue for redress, it additionally requires diligence and a transparent understanding of the related rules. Using accessible assets, akin to consulting with property tax professionals or accessing data from the county assessor’s workplace, can considerably enhance the probability of a profitable enchantment and contribute to a fairer property tax system inside Pope County.
6. Native Providers Funding
Property tax income kinds the cornerstone of native companies funding in Pope County, Minnesota. This income stream straight helps important public companies, together with training, public security, street upkeep, library companies, and parks and recreation. The direct connection between property taxes and the standard and availability of those companies underscores the significance of a steady and predictable property tax system. For instance, funding for native colleges depends closely on property taxes, impacting instructor salaries, instructional assets, and facility upkeep. Equally, property tax income helps regulation enforcement businesses, fireplace departments, and emergency medical companies, making certain public security throughout the group. Sufficient street upkeep, important for secure and environment friendly transportation, additionally depends considerably on property tax funding.
Analyzing the allocation of property tax income reveals the prioritization of various service areas throughout the county. A good portion sometimes helps training, reflecting the group’s dedication to investing in future generations. Public security companies additionally obtain substantial funding, demonstrating the significance positioned on sustaining a safe atmosphere for residents and companies. The remaining income helps numerous important companies, together with street upkeep, library operations, and parks and recreation, contributing to the general high quality of life inside Pope County. As an example, a major enhance in property values inside a particular space may result in elevated tax income allotted to the faculties serving that space, doubtlessly enabling enhancements in instructional packages and assets. Understanding this connection between property taxes and native companies empowers residents to have interaction extra successfully in native authorities decision-making processes regarding useful resource allocation and price range prioritization.
Efficient administration of property tax income is essential for making certain the continued provision of important companies. Challenges akin to fluctuating property values, altering budgetary wants, and financial downturns can influence the accessible assets. Accountable fiscal planning and clear communication concerning income allocation construct public belief and foster a powerful sense of group possession over the funding of native companies. Exploring various funding mechanisms and diversifying income sources can improve the long-term sustainability of native companies and mitigate the influence of potential financial fluctuations. In the end, the connection between property taxes and native companies highlights the significance of a well-functioning and equitable property tax system in sustaining the general well-being and prosperity of Pope County.
7. Funds Dedication
Funds dedication in Pope County, Minnesota, is inextricably linked to property tax income. The annual price range course of, carried out by numerous native authorities our bodies together with the county fee, faculty boards, and metropolis councils, straight influences the property tax charges levied on property homeowners. These governing our bodies undertaking their expenditure wants for the upcoming fiscal 12 months, contemplating elements akin to projected service prices, infrastructure tasks, and worker salaries. The distinction between projected expenditures and different income sources, akin to state and federal funding, determines the quantity of income that have to be generated by means of property taxes. This income requirement, mixed with the whole assessed worth of properties throughout the jurisdiction, dictates the mandatory mill price. As an example, if the county tasks a price range deficit and requires an extra $1 million in income, and the whole assessed property worth is $1 billion, the mill price would wish to extend by one mill to cowl the shortfall.
Public enter performs an important function within the price range dedication course of. Public hearings and alternatives for group suggestions enable residents to voice their opinions concerning price range priorities and proposed spending ranges. This participatory course of ensures transparency and accountability, permitting residents to affect how their tax {dollars} are allotted. For instance, if residents categorical robust assist for elevated funding for public libraries, the county commissioners would possibly prioritize library funding throughout the price range, doubtlessly necessitating changes in different areas or a slight enhance within the mill price. Conversely, if residents categorical considerations over rising property taxes, the governing our bodies would possibly discover cost-saving measures or search various funding sources to mitigate the tax burden. This dynamic interaction between price range dedication and public enter underscores the significance of citizen engagement in shaping native fiscal coverage.
Efficient price range dedication requires cautious balancing of group wants and accessible assets. Challenges akin to fluctuating property values, sudden financial downturns, and growing demand for public companies can complicate the method. Sound fiscal planning, coupled with prudent income forecasting and expenditure administration, are essential for sustaining a steady and sustainable fiscal atmosphere. Understanding the connection between price range dedication and property taxes empowers residents to take part meaningfully in shaping native priorities and making certain accountable stewardship of public funds. This energetic engagement contributes to a extra responsive and accountable native authorities, fostering a stronger sense of group possession over the allocation and utilization of tax income.
8. Taxpayer Sources
Navigating the complexities of property tax in Pope County, Minnesota, will be difficult. Entry to complete and available taxpayer assets is essential for property homeowners to know their obligations, train their rights, and have interaction successfully with the native tax system. These assets present important data, steerage, and assist, empowering property homeowners to make knowledgeable selections concerning their property taxes.
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Pope County Assessor’s Web site
The official web site of the Pope County Assessor’s workplace serves as a central hub for property tax data. It offers entry to property information, evaluation particulars, mill price data, exemption functions, and particulars in regards to the appeals course of. Property homeowners can use the web site to analysis their property’s assessed worth, perceive how their tax legal responsibility is calculated, and entry mandatory kinds for exemptions or appeals. For instance, a property proprietor can obtain the homestead exemption software kind straight from the web site, saving time and making certain entry to probably the most up-to-date model. This on-line useful resource considerably streamlines the method of gathering data and interacting with the assessor’s workplace.
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Tax Cost Portal
A web based tax fee portal affords handy and safe fee choices for property homeowners. This portal facilitates well timed funds, eliminating the necessity for mailing checks or visiting the county workplace in individual. Property homeowners can entry their tax statements on-line, view fee historical past, and schedule automated funds. This automated system reduces the chance of missed deadlines and related penalties, selling environment friendly tax administration. As an example, a property proprietor touring throughout a fee deadline can simply make a fee on-line, avoiding late charges and sustaining compliance.
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Property Tax Guides and FAQs
Informative guides and often requested questions (FAQs) present clear and concise explanations of assorted facets of the property tax system. These assets handle frequent taxpayer questions concerning assessments, exemptions, appeals, and fee procedures. They make clear complicated terminology and supply sensible examples to assist understanding. For instance, a information would possibly clarify the distinction between market worth and assessed worth, clarifying how these values are decided and their influence on tax legal responsibility. These simply accessible assets empower property homeowners to navigate the system with confidence.
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Buyer Service Representatives
Direct entry to customer support representatives on the assessor’s workplace or the county treasurer’s workplace affords personalised help to taxpayers. Property homeowners can contact these representatives by cellphone or e-mail to handle particular questions, resolve points, or search clarification concerning their tax obligations. For instance, a property proprietor uncertain about their eligibility for a particular exemption can contact a consultant to debate their scenario and obtain steerage. This personalised assist ensures that property homeowners obtain the mandatory help to navigate the often-complex property tax system successfully.
Efficient utilization of those taxpayer assets is essential for navigating the property tax system in Pope County. These assets empower property homeowners to know their rights and tasks, making certain correct assessments, maximizing eligible exemptions, and making knowledgeable selections concerning their property taxes. Entry to those assets promotes transparency, accountability, and a extra equitable property tax system throughout the county, benefiting each particular person property homeowners and the group as an entire. By proactively using these assets, property homeowners contribute to a smoother, extra environment friendly, and fairer property tax course of in Pope County.
9. Property Classifications
Property classifications in Pope County, Minnesota, play a elementary function in figuring out how actual property is assessed and taxed. Totally different classifications, assigned based mostly on the property’s main use, result in various evaluation ratios and tax burdens. These classifications replicate the various vary of land makes use of throughout the county, together with residential, business, agricultural, industrial, and seasonal leisure properties. The classification system ensures that properties are taxed pretty based mostly on their meant objective and financial contribution. For instance, a residential property, labeled as residential homestead, may need a special evaluation ratio and relevant exemptions in comparison with a business property used for retail functions. This distinction acknowledges the differing financial actions related to every property kind and goals to create a extra equitable tax construction. Understanding these classifications is essential for property homeowners to precisely anticipate their tax liabilities and guarantee compliance with native rules.
The sensible implications of property classifications prolong past tax assessments. Classifications affect zoning rules, land use planning, and improvement insurance policies throughout the county. As an example, agricultural land designated for agricultural use may need restrictions on improvement to protect farmland and encourage agricultural exercise. Equally, commercially zoned properties adhere to particular constructing codes and utilization rules distinct from residential zones. This interconnectedness between property classifications and land use planning ensures accountable improvement and the preservation of the county’s character. Moreover, understanding property classifications will be instrumental in property valuation and funding selections. The classification of a property offers priceless perception into its potential makes use of, restrictions, and future improvement prospects, informing funding methods and contributing to knowledgeable decision-making.
Correct and constant software of property classifications is crucial for sustaining a good and environment friendly property tax system in Pope County. Challenges akin to evolving land use patterns, altering property values, and the necessity for periodic updates to the classification system require ongoing consideration. Common assessment and refinement of the classification system guarantee it stays related and precisely displays present land use practices. This ongoing course of contributes to a extra equitable and clear property tax system, supporting the sustainable improvement and financial well-being of Pope County. In the end, understanding property classifications empowers property homeowners, builders, and policymakers to make knowledgeable selections that form the way forward for the county’s panorama and financial well being.
Continuously Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the property tax system in Pope County, Minnesota. Understanding these key facets helps property homeowners navigate the system successfully and handle their tax obligations effectively.
Query 1: How is property tax calculated in Pope County?
The tax is calculated by multiplying the assessed property worth by the relevant mill price. The mill price, set yearly by native governing our bodies, represents the tax levied per $1,000 of assessed worth.
Query 2: What are the fee deadlines for property taxes?
Funds are sometimes due in two installments: the primary half in mid-Could and the second half in mid-October. Particular deadlines can be found on the Pope County web site and tax statements.
Query 3: What occurs if a property tax fee is missed?
Late funds incur penalties, together with curiosity expenses and potential liens on the property. The particular penalty calculation is on the market by means of the County Treasurer’s workplace.
Query 4: What exemptions can be found to scale back property tax legal responsibility?
A number of exemptions, together with homestead, agricultural, disabled veteran, and senior citizen exemptions, might cut back tax burdens. Eligibility necessities and software procedures can be found by means of the County Assessor’s workplace.
Query 5: How can assessed property values be challenged?
Property homeowners can problem assessments by means of a proper appeals course of by submitting a written discover to the County Assessor throughout the specified timeframe. Supporting documentation, akin to comparable gross sales information or value determinations, strengthens the enchantment.
Query 6: How are property tax revenues utilized inside Pope County?
Revenues fund important native companies, together with training, public security, street upkeep, library companies, and parks and recreation. The allocation of funds displays native price range priorities decided by governing our bodies.
Understanding these often requested questions offers a foundational understanding of the property tax system in Pope County. Additional inquiries will be directed to the County Assessor’s or Treasurer’s workplace for personalised help.
For extra data and assets, please seek the advice of the Pope County web site or contact the related county places of work straight.
Ideas for Navigating Pope County, MN Property Taxes
Managing property taxes successfully requires understanding key facets of the native system. The next suggestions present priceless insights for property homeowners in Pope County, Minnesota.
Tip 1: Perceive Property Valuation: Commonly assessment property assessments to make sure accuracy. Components influencing valuation embrace property dimension, location, age, situation, and up to date gross sales information of comparable properties. Consciousness of those elements permits for proactive evaluation monitoring and potential appeals if discrepancies come up.
Tip 2: Discover Obtainable Exemptions: Analysis and make the most of relevant exemptions, akin to homestead, agricultural, veteran, or senior citizen exemptions, to doubtlessly cut back tax liabilities. Eligibility necessities and software procedures can be found by means of the County Assessor’s workplace.
Tip 3: Monitor Mill Price Adjustments: Keep knowledgeable about annual mill price changes set by native governing our bodies. Understanding mill price fluctuations helps anticipate potential modifications in tax liabilities and permits for knowledgeable price range planning.
Tip 4: Adhere to Cost Deadlines: Well timed funds forestall penalties and keep good standing. Make the most of accessible fee choices, together with on-line funds, mail-in checks, or in-person funds, and select probably the most handy and dependable methodology. Setting reminders or automating funds ensures adherence to deadlines.
Tip 5: Make the most of Obtainable Sources: Leverage assets accessible by means of the County Assessor’s web site, akin to property tax guides, FAQs, and on-line fee portals. These assets supply priceless data, steerage, and handy entry to important companies.
Tip 6: Have interaction in Native Authorities: Take part in public hearings and price range discussions to voice opinions concerning tax insurance policies and native companies funding. Energetic engagement promotes transparency and accountability throughout the native authorities’s fiscal decision-making processes.
Tip 7: Preserve Correct Information: Maintain thorough information of property assessments, tax funds, and exemption functions. Organized documentation simplifies the appeals course of if mandatory and facilitates correct tax reporting.
By implementing the following tips, property homeowners can navigate the complexities of the Pope County property tax system successfully. Proactive engagement and knowledgeable decision-making contribute to environment friendly tax administration and guarantee honest illustration inside the local people.
Understanding and actively managing property taxes contributes to a wholesome monetary outlook and helps important native companies inside Pope County. These proactive measures profit particular person property homeowners and the general monetary well-being of the group.
Understanding Property Taxes in Pope County, MN
Cautious examination of the property tax system in Pope County, Minnesota, reveals its multifaceted nature, encompassing assessed values, mill charges, fee deadlines, exemptions, appeals processes, native service funding, price range dedication, accessible taxpayer assets, and property classifications. Every element performs an important function in shaping the general tax burden and making certain equitable distribution of assets for important public companies. Understanding these interconnected parts empowers property homeowners to navigate the system successfully and handle their tax obligations effectively.
Efficient stewardship of property tax income stays essential for sustaining the monetary well being of Pope County and making certain the continued provision of important companies. Knowledgeable engagement by property homeowners, coupled with clear and accountable governance, fosters a sustainable fiscal atmosphere, contributing to the general well-being and prosperity of the group. Continued exploration of those points and energetic participation in native authorities processes are very important for shaping a strong and equitable property tax system that serves the most effective pursuits of Pope County residents.
