The Mudflats

Tiptoeing Through the Muck of Alaskan Politics

Sarah Palin – Tax Cheat? Contents of Mysterious Envelope Revealed. (UPDATED)

It was a few weeks ago, and it was  a day like most days.  I was having my first cup of coffee, settling in at my desk, and my eye landed on a stack of mail.  On top of the stack was an envelope, and on the envelope was my name, hand written.  I didn’t see a return address in the corner, so I flipped the envelope over to see who had sent it.  Nothing.   Two stamps, and a Juneau postmark.  That was it.  Curious.

Before I tell you what was in the envelope, a little background is needed.  First, we’ll need to wind the clock back to 2006.  Sarah Palin is running for governor of the state of Alaska.  She’s running against former governor Tony Knowles, a Democrat.  So the DNC, unlike John McCain or the Republican party, decided that it would be to their advantage to vet this unknown Republican candidate for governor.  Nobody knew much about her.  She’d been mayor of Wasilla, and ran an unsuccessful campaign for Lt. Governor, but they wanted to know more.   When the McCain campaign “vetted” Palin they ended up with a couple Google articles, and a YouTube video.  When the Democrats were finished with her, they had a 63-page document.  There were lots of interesting things in the document, including this.

Pg. 48/63   Palin Declined to Appear in Ads for A Candidate Because He Had Not Paid His Property Taxes.

In 2004, it came to light that Republican Rep. Vic Kohring owed the borough $2,277 in unpaid property taxes on property he owns off Knik-Goose Bay Road, according to borough records. “That bothered former Wasilla Mayor Sarah Palin enough that she declined a campaign request to do a pro-Kohring TV commercial. As a former mayor, Palin said, it made her uncomfortable to back someone with unpaid taxes when the city relies on property taxes.” [Anchorage Daily News (Alaska), 10/28/04]

It was things like this that really made Sarah Palin stand out as a gubernatorial candidate.  Republicans in the state were sick of the corruption that was running rampant in their own party, and they wanted change.  They wanted a “fresh face” who had new ideas and ethical standards.  They wanted someone who was actually bothered by a public official who would cheat his community by passing his personal tax burden on to others.

Recently, Sarah Palin gave an interview to Bill O’Reilly and said her favorite vacation spot was “The middle of nowhere at our cabin in Petersville,” Alaska.

And now we get to the envelope.  Inside the envelope was an unsigned letter which read:

Todd and Sarah are now millionaires, but they shirk their responsibility to pay local property taxes.

Attached are printed copies of Matanuska-Susitna Borough tax assessments from the public website (address shown at the bottom) regarding two lake frontage properties the Palins own in the Petersville Hills.  Safari Lake is a gorgeous location, with stunning views of Mt. McKinley and the surrounding terrain.

Please note that two parcels total almost 20 acres and are assessed for a total value of $30,000.  Also, there is a $0 value regarding any buildings on the property.

Any photos or visual inspection of the properties would clearly reveal that there are two large “cabins” on the property that are well built, and include thousands of dollars worth of improvements and amenities.  The buildings are clearly nicer than many people’s homes.

Also on the property is a large shop for snowmachines and four-wheelers.

These buildings have been on the property for years now – yet the Palins have done nothing to correct the assessment.

The letter was followed by two copies of Matanuska-Susitna Borough tax assessments for the parcels of land in question showing records for the years 2007, 2008, and 2009.  You can see the documents online HERE and HERE.

This photo, recently obtained, shows one of the buildings on the property.  It was taken about two years ago.

palincabin

There was another reference to property taxes in that vetting document from 2006. It talked about an inner struggle Palin had with whether or not to support a property tax cap. She talked to the Anchorage Daily News.

Pg. 15/63 Palin Called Herself “Such a Weasel” For Not Having a Firm Stand on the Property Tax Cap.

Palin said she has declined requests by Tax Cap Yes to speak in favor of the initiative. Yet, she said, she doesn’t object to her name’s continuing to be listed on the group’s Web site among 10 current or former government officials — half from Mat-Su — in support of the initiative. Palin acknowledged that she was sounding quite the politician. ‘I am so sorry I’m such a weasel,’ she said.”
[Anchorage Daily News, 10/8/00]

Maybe Palin finally figured out how to solve her dilemma of indecision – pay the taxes on the land, but cap the taxes on improvements at zero.  Brilliant!

weasel

Update: Thanks to the folks at PalinGates for catching my appearance on The Shannyn Moore Show.

UPDATE:

This story has now been picked up by the Associated Press – HERE

Also, on NBC affiliate KTUU-Channel 2 in Anchorage – HERE

[This story is cross-posted at The Huffington Post]

336 to “Sarah Palin – Tax Cheat? Contents of Mysterious Envelope Revealed. (UPDATED)”


  1. 1
    pvazwindyNo Gravatar says:

    Postman just delivered the mail

  2. 2

    Ooohhhhh SNAP!

    Hello Feds?

  3. 4
    EyeOnYouNo Gravatar says:

    WOW! Just WOW!

  4. 5
    Martha Unalaska Yard SignNo Gravatar says:

    I like that envelope full of relevant information on just how ethical Palin is NOT. I love it! Damm, she’ll have to pay those taxes now! And an assessment is in order. This is perfect for linking to all those idiots out there who defend the granny vampiress.

  5. 6
    amyNo Gravatar says:

    Another WOW! Just WOW from here.

  6. 7
    AshleyNo Gravatar says:

    Wow!!

  7. 8
    twain12No Gravatar says:

    OOPS…BUSTED

  8. 9
    ClassOf81No Gravatar says:

    Great story! I wish I could have two nice homes and a big shop and not pay property taxes… This stinks to high heaven. Why am I not surprised? The PAC will probably decide these parcels and improvements are the PACs new headquarters, and the PAC will pay the taxes. DOH! Why did I give them that idea.

    Really enjoying hearing you break this news on Shannyn’s show :-)

  9. 10
    InJuneauNo Gravatar says:

    Fabulous!

  10. 11
    trish in S'W FLNo Gravatar says:

    WOW is right!

  11. 12
    IrishgirlNo Gravatar says:

    Hehe! :)

  12. 13
    sjk from the belly of the planeNo Gravatar says:

    Tax evader???
    Also, too, who built that “cabin” that looks like a chalet?

  13. 14
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    I can see her in her Wal Mart PJs, checking out this much hated Alaskan blog, foaming and fuming and sending curses upon you from the great Reverand Mothie, as her finger hits delete 10,000 time with no result. God, she’s just like Job, isn’t she ;-)

  14. 15
    antiAntiNo Gravatar says:

    Shannyn playing “The Taxman”

  15. 16
    7retfarcNo Gravatar says:

    So Sister Sarah is just another tax cheating hypocrit. How long do they let you not pay the land taxes is Alaska before they sell the land for unpaid taxes???

  16. 17
    MoonNo Gravatar says:

    Wow, This AND the SarahPac money laundering??

  17. 18
    anon bloggerNo Gravatar says:

    Great job, AKM and Shannyn, too!!

  18. 19
    trish in S'W FLNo Gravatar says:

    CAN the PAC claim it as HQ? buildings that have been there a couple years?

  19. 20
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    Sarah? A hypocrite? I’m shocked! :-)

  20. 21
    meedeNo Gravatar says:

    This is a Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow story!!!!!

    Please, Please!!!

  21. 22
    Susan in MDNo Gravatar says:

    Nice! You all sound great on the show all the way over here…lol :)

    I can’t wait to hear the fallout over this. She is getting slaughtered daily. Karma is a b**ch.

  22. 23
    SSNo Gravatar says:

    Do you think the windows look familiar to other Palin construction?

  23. 24
    1smartcanericanNo Gravatar says:

    Wow! Way to go anonymous provider of great information -and to AKM for opening this can of worms via the written word and over the airwaves!

    Goody goody goody – maybe this will help get her convicted of something.

  24. 25
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    Well now, this is going to be highly embarrassing isn’t it? Couldn’t happen to a more deserving person. Saint Sarah is a tax cheat! Bwaaaahahahahaha!

  25. 26
    Seagull Junker PalinNo Gravatar says:

    Lovely. Tax cheat Palin.

    Thanks AKM!!

  26. 27
    antiAntiNo Gravatar says:

    Caller says it’s 11 miles from the road. Says the houses look more than 30K.

  27. 28
    michiganderNo Gravatar says:

    Bahahahaha! Thanks AKM, it was Worth the Wait (o:

    pvazwindy – so glad Buf didn’t eat it hee-hee!

  28. 29
    anadventurerNo Gravatar says:

    W F S batman, good on yah!

  29. 30
    antiAntiNo Gravatar says:

    I’m celebrating with chocolate.

  30. 31
    twain12No Gravatar says:

    19 meede Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 12:23 PM
    This is a Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow story!!!!!

    Please, Please!!!
    ____________________
    Keith would have a field day :)

  31. 32
    TeriseNo Gravatar says:

    Who is Scott Richter? Since he is listed as owner as well.

    Doesn’t change the basic fact that the property has not be properly appraised and they haven’t been paying the proper taxes, but still, I’d like to know who he is?

  32. 33
    Rob in CaNo Gravatar says:

    Just wondering…why did you sit on this so long, AKM?

  33. 34
    trish in S'W FLNo Gravatar says:

    AKM says it will be going up on Huff Po :)

  34. 35
    mattieNo Gravatar says:

    Doesn’t matter, she will get a way with it somehow. Where I come from you cannot build buildings without building permits, that is how they know to raise your taxes.

  35. 36
    daisydemNo Gravatar says:

    That “chalet” as appropriately labelled by sjk loves bears a resemblance also too to the primary residence, yes? Wonder where the materials to build the “chalet” came from? Wonder if an assessment of the cabin/chalet would reveal very similiar building materials. When was the cabin built? When was the primary residence built?

  36. 37
    pvazwindyNo Gravatar says:

    February 3rd, 2010 at 12:26 PM
    Bahahahaha! Thanks AKM, it was Worth the Wait (o:

    pvazwindy – so glad Buf didn’t eat it hee-hee!

    **************************

    Me Too/ where are you in Michigan?

  37. 38
    meedeNo Gravatar says:

    Has the new house and the buildings attached in the back in Wasilla been assessed yet?

    The fact of running a machine shop — does he run them on both properties??

    Part of the properties being used for businesses — does that make a difference in the assessments?? In addition she is also now using the property in Wasilla to be a Fox talking head

  38. 39

    My first thought was that it looks suspiciously like her compound houses in Wasilla.

    Oh man, I hope she gets investigated. And I think that Richter guy’s name has come up in the past with the Palins.

  39. 40
    ManxMammaNo Gravatar says:

    Very interesting. The house is actually quite beautiful — unlike their main residences. And are taxes different for vacation homes?

  40. 41
    jc in coNo Gravatar says:

    hahahaha, good job AKM. Well worth the wait. Your timing is impeccable, just when lady blah blah is trying so hard to run interference on all the other crap being flung at her! The pettiness of the rahm rant, the $$$-grab from the teabaggers, supporting mcgrumpy instead of the teabagger. Ah, the hypocrisy of it all. She’s a grifter & a crook. It will be up at huffpo soon . Keith & Rachel will have a field day with this. She’s such a good Christian, not.

  41. 42
    gingerNo Gravatar says:

    Uh oh, more hair falling out, call Beehive Emergency! Quick!

  42. 43
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    @ mattie: They don’t need no steenkin’ building permits in Alaska!

  43. 44
    daisydemNo Gravatar says:

    Oops, just looked at some pics again and the cabin and house are not exactly the same, but the windows did look similiar.

  44. 45
    PJNo Gravatar says:

    It wouldn’t matter if Sarah was caught on camera coming out of the Holiday Inn with John Edwards waving a videotape. Her fanbase would find some excuse to let her off the hook. They are convinced that this stuff is made up and that the press is out to get her.

    But I am sure that there is more to come about the Scamming Palins. She may be dumb but not dumb enough to take advantage of anything that would enrich her clan. This is how Sarah rolls.

  45. 46
    1smartcanericanNo Gravatar says:

    Sure would like to know coordinates for Google Earth :) I want to see what it looks like.

    Tax cheat….he he he

  46. 47
    TeriseNo Gravatar says:

    Answered my own question :P He was Todd’s partner :) the land was initially deeded to both couples and later Scott’s wife quitclaimed her interest to Scott.

  47. 48
    benlomond2No Gravatar says:

    hhhmm.. guess there won’t be any more comments about Obama’s advisors not paying income taxes…

  48. 49
    LisaBNo Gravatar says:

    Well, I would imagine regardless of how the land is being used, improvements would be a part of the assessment.

    How on earth do you build all that and NOT have it wind up in the assessment? Is the tax assessor a dear friend?

    I’m sure she’ll claim it’s not their fault. “Who pays attention to those little statements you get annually from your tax office?”

    Just everyone who *pays* taxes, that’s all. I guess folks who don’t can ignore at will.

  49. 50
    pvazwindyNo Gravatar says:

    Isn’t Scott the other in the huntress alleged affair?

  50. 51
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    @ Terise: Todd’s business partner shared ownership of the property? Is that the business partner that Sarah is rumored to have had an affair with? Oh this gets deeper and better.

  51. 52
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    at that mill rate, assuming an updated assessment of $200,000 on the improvements, it’s about $6 -8,000 for the last three years

  52. 53
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    NOW can we have Daschle as our Secretary of Health? And all the OTHER nominees rejected for tax evasion, also, too!?

    The only potential problem I see with this is that her fans will think she was a hero because many, OK ALL, of her fans hate taxes. They may all decide to follow her lead. ;)

    Is the reason for waiting because you needed confirmation? Or were you getting yourself protected so she can’t hurt you? I hope this makes BIG NEWS and you stay safe. Thank you for sharing.

    Jennifer

  53. 54
    sauerkrautNo Gravatar says:

    This is not the only example of the Palin’s not paying taxes is it? Isn’t there also that almost-hidden case of… what was it, a car wash?… wherein they paid no taxes and closed it rather than pay their fair share?

    Any of their businesses have employees? Were the appropriate payroll/unemployment/SSI taxes paid for them? Or were those employees paid under the table?

    This is great stuff… almost like having meat on the table for dinner.

  54. 55

    I just planted a couple of seeds at the Huffpo, sending people to come and look at this article.

    Nyah Nyah, Mrs. Palin… I bet this isn’t going to look good to all those Teabaggers that are forced to pay their taxes….

  55. 56
    Sarah in SCNo Gravatar says:

    I thought the affair was with the Brad guy? Or is there more than one? I am, sadly, way behind on my reading about the Mad Hatter at the Tea Party.

  56. 57
    trish in S'W FLNo Gravatar says:

    just lost my feed.gotta go try getting it back!

  57. 58
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    Info on Scott Richter, Todd’s business partner, co-owner of the property:

    http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/5/04851/95453/373/587455

  58. 59
    aview999No Gravatar says:

    R’ipley in CT Says:

    I just planted a couple of seeds at the Huffpo, sending people to come and look at this article.

    I planted a seed at the USA Today article!

    Go Mudflatters!!

  59. 60
    SallynGarland,TXNo Gravatar says:

    MS Smart Mouth is quite crooked!! I hope it gets picked up and reported.

  60. 61
    ScorpieNo Gravatar says:

    Oh wow~~oh wow
    Brava to you and Shanny and the anonymoose tipster. This should really freak her out.

  61. 62
    Enjay in E MTNo Gravatar says:

    Now that is interesting —
    I recall hearing she banned those “pesty building permits” while she was mayor of Wasilla – roughly the same time Todd & a few buds built their house, which is why there isn’t a public “paper trail” of materials that were bought or who did the work. Actually I am still surprised that they have property insurance coverage due to lack of permits.

    This is just a bit more icing on the cake – another structure or two that just miraculously appears without permits. One of the issues with building permits is the city / county etc. know to re-assess the property within a year or two of permit date, so they can collect additional funds for the property value.

    Hmmm – could this be considered “Tax evasion”?

  62. 63
    BooBooBearNo Gravatar says:

    TAX EVASION! Yup, that’s our Swinderella! She doesn’t pay for her skinny mochas, her hairdresser in Utah and now….. her luxury cabins on Safari Lake!
    GRIFTER!!!!!! This woman is despicable! A LIAR!

  63. 64
    MoniqueNo Gravatar says:

    Thank you to whoever sent you the envelope!!!!!
    I sure would like to see recent pics of the property………
    Wonder how her camp of minions will spin this one?
    Nice work!!!

  64. 65
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    Google Earth shows only 8 lots improved around Safari Lake, can’t tell which is the parcel(s) in question — as mountain cabins go, it’s not that remote, about a 3-hour drive from Wasilla

  65. 66

    I just tipped off Wonkette.

    Let’s stay out of the discussions about who Palin had affairs with… that is unimportant. It’s about the money!

    Follow the money.

  66. 67
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    The very best part of the whole thing is that our delicate flower, Sister Sarah, wrinkled up her nose and would not appear with Vic Kohring because he had not paid his PROPERTY TAXES. It’s just so rich.

    I believe she and Toad file their taxes jointly and ignorance of the law is no excuse.

    I’m so enjoying my popcorn.

  67. 68
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Maybe this is why she said she won’t have any financial gain from the teabagger party- cause she’ll be using the money to pay back taxes, rather than stuffing it into her bra or plastic face!

  68. 69
    pvazwindyNo Gravatar says:

    This is not the only example of the Palin’s not paying taxes is it? Isn’t there also that almost-hidden case of… what was it, a car wash?… wherein they paid no taxes and closed it rather than pay their fair share?

    Any of their businesses have employees? Were the appropriate payroll/unemployment/SSI taxes paid for them? Or were those employees paid under the table?

    This is great stuff… almost like having meat on the table for dinner.

    ********************************************haha

    right next to the mashed potato

  69. 70

    LMAO @ Swinderella!!! Priceless!

    I have to go out… I’ll have to catch up later… I’m so glad that Shannyn did this in the first minute of the show… thanks Shannyn and AKM… you are both lovely women and could end up being ground zero for the undoing. Thank GOD!

  70. 71
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    It’s just going to KILL her to have to pay back taxes.

  71. 72
    InJuneauNo Gravatar says:

    Scott Richter is Toad’s BFF; his ex-wife and CW’s ex-leg director are now married (that’s why he’s the ex-leg director). Scott is not the business partner from the disbanded snowmachine business; that was Brad Hansen/Hanson.

    NOT all places in AK let you get away without building permits. However, CW got rid of them in Wasilla when she was mayor; I don’t know if the “cabins” fall within Wasilla’s boundaries, but I’d be the MatSu Borough may not require then either.

  72. 73
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    Hope there are more fish here than poor dead Lake Lucille
    http://www.fishingworks.com/lakes/alaska/matanuska-susitna/talkeetna-b-2/safari-lake/

  73. 74
    SallynGarland,TXNo Gravatar says:

    BooBooBear,

    Love “Swinderella”.—

  74. 75
    jc in coNo Gravatar says:

    ok, I’ll hold my nose & go put it up on greta’s cesspool.

  75. 77
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Permit or no permit, doen’t these towns run on tax revenue? Especially a place like Wasilla, where a silly ex mayor left them millions in debt… I’d think they’d need the money.

  76. 78
    lilybartNo Gravatar says:

    I sure hope everyone did their diligence before announcing this so she has no wiggle room.

    Ignorance is never an excuse for tax problems, but she might say she was sure that SCOTT took care of this, she had nothing to do with it.

    Or she could use it as an excuse to divorce the tax-evading exfirst dude.

  77. 79
    EyeOnYouNo Gravatar says:

    The best part is that she admitted on television that it is her cabin, which is her favorite place to vacation at. Now there is no way for her to try to put this off onto Scott Richter as being his cabin that she didn’t know anything about. This is all on her and Todd baby!

  78. 80
    pvazwindyNo Gravatar says:

    Another nail in McCain’s vetting

  79. 81
    InJuneauNo Gravatar says:

    oops, I’d “bet that the MatSu Borough…”

  80. 82
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    She can’t go and blame Toad, after all, it would be his duty as a secessionist to be a tax evader. Wouldn’t it? Patriot that he is…

  81. 83
    boodogNo Gravatar says:

    I know I’ve heard her bring up the ‘cabin’ before, but somehow that is not what I’d pictured..

  82. 84
    maryNo Gravatar says:

    lilybart said: I sure hope everyone did their diligence before announcing this so she has no wiggle room.

    Maybe why AKM waited quite awhile to post? Hoping so!

  83. 85
    1smartcanericanNo Gravatar says:

    This is up at HuffPo – go and comment to bring it forward :)

  84. 86
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    mary Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 12:56 PM
    lilybart said: I sure hope everyone did their diligence before announcing this so she has no wiggle room.

    Maybe why AKM waited quite awhile to post? Hoping so!
    ——
    My assumption, too. Check facts, cover a$$, work with SM so they can both go POW at the same time.

  85. 87
    boodogNo Gravatar says:

    Mary@79, Of course! :)

  86. 88
    cinquifoilNo Gravatar says:

    The property (with improvements) can be seen on Google Earth at 62 27′ 21″N, 150 34′ 37″W.

  87. 89
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Don’t see it on HP

    LInk???

  88. 90
    sjk from the belly of the planeNo Gravatar says:

    chalet paylin? Wanna bet this “cabin” was built when $arah ran stevens PAC?

  89. 91
    lilybartNo Gravatar says:

    Even if there is no building permit, they still have buildings that increase the value of the property.

  90. 92
    krbmjb05No Gravatar says:

    It just popped into my head that TURD (Todd) probably has more to do with this than Sarah. I believe TURD’s association with the AIP and all those involved would do ANYTHING from letting the government take their money.

    TURD looks and SOUNDS dumb…or should I dare say *Retarded*, but he also has that psycho, “what’s mine is mine” darkness in his eyes!

  91. 93
    mattieNo Gravatar says:

    Where did they get the materials for these buildings? Why is she not investigated, she will get away with it somehow, she always does.

  92. 94
    TumbleweedNo Gravatar says:

    Long time lurker from Lawrence, KS here. First, there are few lakes in Kansas and most of them are man made. If you’re lucky enough to have a “cabin” on a lake here, it is usually the size of a two car garage, often without utilities (that’s what the lake is for). Looking at the picture of Sarah’s cabin, I cannot believe the size of it and that she pays $0 taxes on the improvements. Obviously, I need to pack up and move to Alaska. Oh wait ……. Sarah’s there.
    Kansas…..Home Sweet Home. (Although we’re about to blessed by her presence in Salina and now Wichita too.)

  93. 95
    mattieNo Gravatar says:

    Where did they get the materials for these buildings. Shouldn’t the feds be investigating?

  94. 96
    lilybartNo Gravatar says:

    This is PERFECT for TEABAGGER day!! She goes Rogue, refuses to pay taxes just like the Revolutionaries!!

    They will love her more for this, just watch.

  95. 97
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    I just read the taxes in Mat-Su run around 15 mills.

  96. 98
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Oh, and all the communities from which the teabaggers refuse to pay their taxes will lover her for it, also, too.

  97. 99
    maryNo Gravatar says:

    Paula 91 said: Oh, and all the communities from which the teabaggers refuse to pay their taxes will lover her for it, also, too.

    Maybe so, but no way in hellz can she run for ANYTHING if she’s a tax evader. Well, except for cell block leader.

  98. 100
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    The teabaggers will love her, but the GOP won’t like it one bit.

  99. 101
    lastfrontierNo Gravatar says:

    What do you bet that half gov teflon quitter blames Richter….or he covers up for her saying that it’s all his fault. Google Richter….he’s the alleged other party in the affair rumors during the campaign.

  100. 102
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    How can we officially alert the proper tax authorities? I want this handled.

  101. 103
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    MEMO to Shannyn…

    I hope you have Keith and Rachel on speeddial so that AKM might appear on Tonights show. Rachel after all is a Mudpup herself… and you have already met.

    And How can you ‘ spin ‘ this story just two days before talking to the people in Nashville who don’t want to PAY TAXES either.

    At least SHE finally is speaking on a subject she knows something about.
    Who has a link to CNN… Rick Sanchez is on the air for another hour.
    Or how about Jack with Wolf Blitzer…?
    Ask the public a question Jack.

  102. 104
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    I still cannot find it on HP, even after checking the SP page. I did notice on the SP page that in all the current photos her eyes look so weird and her new mouth makes her look buck toothed. Wasn’t looking for it, but there it was.

  103. 105
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Queen of the cell block. That’s a Palin house I’d wanna see a virtual tour of!

  104. 106
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    The Palin/Richter real estate holdings and some tax payments were noted in August 08 http://64.233.169.104/search?q=cache:haUwIgOgL1oJ:www.milwaukeeworld.com/blog/2008/08/gov-palin-and-husband-own-5-properties.html+%22Scott+Richter%22+sarah+palin+todd+palin&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=7&gl=us
    Wonder if the Trapper Creek parcel is still undeveloped?

    RE: the Richter/Palin relationship
    Don’t forget $P’s vengeful comments in GR about John Bitney – they stem from Todd’s anger on Scott’s behalf when Bitney married Scott’s ex Debbie (who was $P’s campaign treasurer) see this for background
    http://www.andrewhalcro.com/shadow_governor#comment-3663

  105. 108
    TinaNo Gravatar says:

    Saw this link over at HP. I noticed that Palin’s cabin is in Matanuska-Susitna Borough. A quick search tells me that Palin should have applied for a building permit (which any ole liberal blogger in pajamas that happens to live near there, should be able to get access too) if the the cabin was over 480 sq ft., which it looks like hers is. From their website:

    “• When constructing or placement of any building 480 square feet, or an addition to an existing structure greater than 10 percent of the existing square footage; requires a Mandatory Land Use Permit. A Borough Code Officer will review the application and determine compliance with Setbacks, Zoning, Flood Plain Development standards, Conditional Uses and other related ordinances.”
    http://www.matsugov.us/Planning/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=111&Itemid=20127

  106. 109
    1smartcanericanNo Gravatar says:

    Thanks #83 cinquifoil for the coordinates – now I just need to figure out how to use Google Earth :)

    Sorry for lack of link for HP – http://www.huffingtonpost.com/akmuckraker/sarah-palin—tax-cheat-c_b_448137.html

  107. 111
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Thanks for the link…now to figure out google earth. UGH.

  108. 112
    LisaBNo Gravatar says:

    It appears the Matanuska-Susitna borough has no building code. If I’m reading their website correctly, it was repealed in 94.

  109. 113
    KVCNo Gravatar says:

    She will undoubtly blame it on a “data entry error” (how many times has she used that excuse?)

  110. 115
    karenNo Gravatar says:

    I am astounded that McCain’s people didn’t turn this up before they asked her to be VP. One would think it would have disqualified her if she wasn’t able to produce documents to prove everything was above the table. Talk about a PR bombshell that could have sunk the election at the last minute! (Well, entirely aside from Sarah’s vapidity, which was doing a bang-up job drilling holes in the GOP boat all along).

  111. 116
    DianeNo Gravatar says:

    Please tell me how sarah is suppose to be just like us? I don’t have multiple houses nor do I have two sources of money I can tap into to pay the bills(sarah pac and Alaska trust fund) plus a job that pays me well, just because I’m ‘me’ Fox news….

    Do these poor people that are hand her money and depriving themselves and their families see this? Do they not have a problem with sending money to her?
    What are they thinking?
    I did not see $500,000.00 dollars worth of lawyer bills on that pac return.
    I saw greed and more greed. She used so many out of state providers, she did not even employ many Alaskans.
    Tell me again, how she is helping Alaska by quitting?

  112. 117
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    I’ve been surfing frantically and the story is spreading like wildfire. First HP, surely Olbermann will tackle it… oh what a wonderful Wednesday!

  113. 118
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    @111paula and 109 1smartcanerican
    you can just type in “safari lake alaska” and get the same map — not as cool as “flying over” in Google Earth, but there is not a high level of detail in either

  114. 119
    winkwinkNo Gravatar says:

    Paula- just type in Petersville Alaska, it’s cloud covered right now so can’t see much.

  115. 120
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    Whoever mentioned TED STEVENS and his CABIN — I have always wondered about those two. She flipped on that guy so fast (as she does with everyone) that I wondered if he had something he’d want to share someday. This is HIGHLY interesting.

  116. 121
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    type “safari lake” into the google box I meant

  117. 122
    LeeNo Gravatar says:

    Very nice job!

  118. 123
    the norwegian blueNo Gravatar says:

    and then click on MAPS in blue, upper left, then “satellite” on the top of the map

  119. 124
    LeeNo Gravatar says:

    By the way, Palin’s coming to Texas to campaign, where she apparently is comfortable with “retarded” – http://bit.ly/d2K7R3

  120. 125
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Can’t they do those 3D things where they show all sides with those maps? That would be fun to watch on Olbermann or Maddow, 3D images of the “cabins” swirling at all angles, while the discuss the building value(s) claimed as $0.

  121. 126
    Mrs GunkaNo Gravatar says:

    Now our painting has a beuatiful cabin in the middle of the forest! Takes so many strokes by talented artists to complete a masterpeice. Don’t think it’s ready for the signature yet. GREAT job all you painters!

  122. 127
    UK LadyNo Gravatar says:

    Just done a story for this and linked to Mudflats, on daily Kos

    http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/2/3/155259/7135?new=true

    Lets get it out :)

  123. 128
    MoNo Gravatar says:

    So-o-o-o-o…are those other property owners at Safari Lake now pissed because the slackmeister in charge of the assessor’s office will now be forced to focus some attention upon them?

    Question: local assessor’s office – dumb? lazy? crooked? overworked?

  124. 129
    BHTNo Gravatar says:

    To play devil’s advocate for a moment…

    Are the Palins (or anyone in the Mat-Su borough) required to notify the assessor as soon as improvements are built on a piece of property? I realize that it’s the “right” thing to do, but is it actually illegal not to? I’m not sure what the relevant laws are, but it wouldn’t surprise me if not much notification is required, and she hasn’t been in violation of any laws.

    Many people have assessments that seem inconsistent with what they view as the value of their property, and I think it’s a bit of a stretch to be ready to throw them in jail for not going down to the assessor’s office to point out the discrepancy. I realize there’s a difference between not pointing out that a $200,000 assessment should really be for $225,000, and letting a tax assessment remain at $0 when it should be $200,000, but I’m not sure of the LEGAL distinction.

  125. 130
    learningcurveNo Gravatar says:

    Where in the world did they get the money to build these getaways? This all happened before she hit payola..

  126. 131
    nswfmNo Gravatar says:

    I don’t think she’ll be able to get away with saying it was the partner’s fault. The tax needs to be paid, period. She was getting paid by the taxpayers for her salary and didn’t get the connection between paying her taxes and her income?

    From Wonkette:
    thatonegirlsays says at 1:50 pm, February 3rd, 2010

    Sarah Palin is retarded. Trig has down syndrome. There is a huge difference.

  127. 132
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    I live on a waterfront property with NO zoning, but you can be damned sure if I built an addition they’d know about it. And I bet Peckerville is a smaller town than where I lve!

  128. 133
    boodogNo Gravatar says:

    Paula, some cities have that feature. You will know if you click on the figure button. It will also show with lines over the roads where they have taken a car with a camera on top and driven up and down the streets. It’s pretty cool!

  129. 134
    pacos_galNo Gravatar says:

    Wasn’t there a problem found with Palin not paying taxes on more than $60,000. in travel reimbursements?

    Seems someone doesn’t like paying taxes after all.

    Then there is that whole snow mobile thing and she didn’t want to disclose that, then the numbers looked a little iffy when she did put something down on the forms.
    Yea..no wonder at all that the SarahPAC looks more like a best friend trust fund than a political entity.

    There are problem more occurances, but lets face it, if you cheat at one thing, the question has to be what else are you cheating at.

  130. 135
    sjk from the belly of the planeNo Gravatar says:

    Jennifer, twas I that is speculating on the chalet timeframe and her work for stevens…..

  131. 136
    sjk from the belly of the planeNo Gravatar says:

    learningcurve, my first question was” who built the chalet?”

  132. 137
    in exile (SC version)No Gravatar says:

    (lmao @PJ way back at 46…)

  133. 138
    DianeNo Gravatar says:

    Does she have to pay taxes on her sarah pac money if she does not use it on candidates or charities?
    Does she pay any tax on the money she gets from others?
    Or is this a way around the employer tax etc that others pay when they have employee’s? Does sheprovide health care for her employee’s like stapleton?

    Anybody know????

  134. 139
    txindygirlNo Gravatar says:

    $arah had the affair with Brad Hanson.

  135. 140
    Jodie ClarkeNo Gravatar says:

    What ties do you think Palin still has w/Mat Su Borough people where she can pressure them to say this information is not correct indicating it to be the Borough’s fault and not the Palins and pay up immediately as to the increased assessed value of the property? They somehow ALWAYS manage to slip out of any proven negatives against them….especially in the Valley!

  136. 141
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    From Google Earth it looks like another huge Palin compound:

    coordinates (thanks cinquefoil) 62 27′ 21″N, 150 34′ 37″W

  137. 142
    daisydemNo Gravatar says:

    This was gonna be show and tell at the Teaparty this weekend and how she “almost got away with it” well, except for that AKMuckraker person! Darn.

  138. 143
    MO InkslingerNo Gravatar says:

    For those interested the Palins indicate an appraised value of $116,700 on the vacant lot they purchased in July and have constructed the three-story airplane hangar, apartment and recording studio. There are no indications of any appraisal of the building. Here is the link:
    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1054B01L004

    “Todd, get down off the roof and notify the taxing authorities of these improvements.”

  139. 144
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    Looks like the Richters have two lots of their own. I am still trying to figure out who has lot #11.

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Choice=subdiv&searchParm=2357

  140. 145
    MoonNo Gravatar says:

    BHT @ 1:30, I don’t know what Alaska laws are, but where I live, ignorance of a law does not get you a pass. My neighbors built a large barn and never had their property re-assessed. Another neighbor wasn’t pleased that the barn was built so close to their property line and sent an anon letter to the county assessor. My neighbors said they did not know they needed a new property assessment. Didn’t matter, Not only did my neighbors have to pay back taxes, they had to pay penalties, too. Plus, they were fined for building without a permit.

  141. 146
    PepperzMom (GA)No Gravatar says:

    63 Enjay in E MT Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 12:46 PM

    Now that is interesting —
    I recall hearing she banned those “pesty building permits” while she was mayor of Wasilla – roughly the same time Todd & a few buds built their house, which is why there isn’t a public “paper trail” of materials that were bought or who did the work. Actually I am still surprised that they have property insurance coverage due to lack of permits.

    Well, that insurance coverage will kill ‘em in tax court. It will set the date for the completed improvement to the land. Add in as some have stated that S’error said this on TV (YouTube anyone 4ever!!!), and well, t’aint a pretty sight for S’error nor the partner.

    Come to think of it, wasn’t there some screeching from S’error about the Stimulus about having to update building codes to get Stimulus?

    SO here’s a question for AK residents:
    Even though there is no apparent need for a building permit, is there a need for a “certificate of occupancy” to be issued to prove compliance with any building codes in place?

    That CO will also kill ‘em twenty times over…unless S’error bought ‘em off…

  142. 147
    daisydemNo Gravatar says:

    And on Dailykos, the poll is running away with “she will lie and the fans will believe her.” We have to do something; even Teflon coatings flake (pun intended) after a while.

  143. 148
    Lori in Los AngelesNo Gravatar says:

    The only people who will cheer this cheating scoundrel are the teabaggers. SP, IF she decides to run for office, will have to go 3rd Party aka Tea Party. This will further divide the 20% of Republicans who are still standing.
    DARN. (lol)
    I do not see this “oversight” resulting in anything more than a slap on the wrist and an order to PAY UP , with interest, all back taxes owed (since structures were built). Just like the per diem and kid’s travel “mistakes.”
    What a GRIFTER – no better word for her.
    RAM has still another shameful story to spin into a saintly light.

  144. 149
    PepperzMom (GA)No Gravatar says:

    CRITICALLY IMPORTANT TO FIND OUT

    Anyone with access to the Palin tax returns for the last 7 years (I know there were links here and there on the innertubuies for them), should check them to see if they claimed any sort of tax deduction or these properties (likely if they itemized for fed returns).

    If they did and failed to pay appropriate taxes…can you say “Hello, I’m from the IRS and my partner’s from the Treasury Dept. We’re here to audit you for false filing of tax returns. Where are your records”

  145. 150
    LaineyNo Gravatar says:

    so when are you AK’s going to turn her in, on her silver platter with the silver spoon in her mouth??? (foot tapping)

  146. 151
    txindygirlNo Gravatar says:

    hate to be a wet blanket, but it is doubtful this will have any effect on her army of zombies. halcro has it right: those folks don’t care that palin has zero substance and they don’t care what she says so long as she says it. for crying out loud, after hearing the details of her wild birthing ride (clearly reckless) and her bilking the taxpayers to “work” at home (ie watching daytime tv and eating taco bell crunch wrap supreme tacos) they still love to claim she is a good conservative christian woman. barf.

    moreover, the relevant “adults” in alaska have shown themselves to be (1) too personally loyal to her, (2) lacking in backbone and (3) lacking in political will to do anything about palin’s many ethical lapses.

    the best we can expect is that little by little, the great majority in the nation will grow weary of her nonsense and she’ll just be part of the background noise like the rest of the cast of characters on fox.

  147. 152
    sauerkrautNo Gravatar says:

    thatonegirlsays says at 1:50 pm, February 3rd, 2010

    Sarah Palin is retarded. Trig has down syndrome. There is a huge difference.
    ——-

    I just spit so much coffee thru my nose that I may never recover! bwaaahahahahaa. …

  148. 153
    PepperzMom (GA)No Gravatar says:

    141 MO Inkslinger Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 1:37 PM

    For those interested the Palins indicate an appraised value of $116,700 on the vacant lot they purchased in July and have constructed the three-story airplane hangar, apartment and recording studio. There are no indications of any appraisal of the building. Here is the link:
    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1054B01L004

    A critical FYI for everyone re: when tax values should increase due to improvement

    When improvements are made, once the improvement is complete an appraisal is to be done on the improvements. It is the following that shows the full improved valuation as the starting point for taxes. Some jurisdictions will do a partial year appraisal, reflecting a weighted average value for the property (time/value of improved property and the time/improved value).

  149. 154
    sauerkrautNo Gravatar says:

    btw – just saw a story on http://www.masslive.com that s’error will be visiting Boston. I sure hope they give her a tea party.

  150. 155
    terpsichoreNo Gravatar says:

    To the brave and smart person who got those documents into AKM’s hands, I say a big Thank You!!!

    To AKM for taking time to do some research and then writing an informative and yet entertaining post, I say Thank You!!!

    To all the Mudpups who are spreading this news far and wide, I say Thank You!!!

    And to you, Sarah Palin, I give you what you deserve; a big fat spittle-filled raspberry right in the face that covers the skull that holds the brain of someone who has demonstrated time and again how completely unfit and unprepared she would be to hold the office of President of the United States, and yet has the unmitigated hubris to not only say to Bill O’Reilly on his multi-million viewership program that she is prepared to be president, but continues to dupe Americans into donating money into her PAC which is mostly spent on administrative costs, including those that pay for her to have private jet or first-class commercial flights for her (and sometimes members of her family) as well as other questionable tax issues, in a disingenuous attempt to keep money flowing in by dangling the carrot of her possible run for president in 2012, which she has no intension of doing.

    Mr. Hill in 11th grade English would have battered me for that run-on sentence, and rightly so, but imagine Keith Olbermann saying it.

  151. 156
    amyNo Gravatar says:

    A quick Thank You to the person who mailed the letter to AKM. Well Done.
    (even if nothing comes of this except paying bk taxes)
    I hope more residents of Alaska tell what they know.

  152. 157
    terpsichoreNo Gravatar says:

    Ah! Need to append my run-on sentence@153:

    “…in a disingenuous attempt to keep money flowing in by dangling the carrot of her possible run for president in 2012, which she has no intension of doing, because to do so would mean she would have to disclose her tax returns.

  153. 158
    Cassie Jeep Pike PalinNo Gravatar says:

    Technically, the county (or borough, or town, or township) assessor is responsible for making sure that the property tax records are current and accurate and that they reflect any improvements made to the property.

    That said, any HONEST person who received a tax bill that failed to show improvements, FOR A THREE YEAR PERIOD, would pick up the phone and advise that assessor that records needed to be updated.

    I checked out the locale on Google Earth, and it’s not as if there is a development going on up there resulting in 60 or 70 cabins being completed each month that are in need of assessment creating a backlog. There are only about 7 structures anywhere along Lake Safari! Please!

    Sarah, how would you explain this little oversight to Jesus? Especially since, as a former mayor, you know how desperately municipalities need funds?

    Shame on you!

  154. 159
    MJNo Gravatar says:

    That lady is such a grifter. She is a typical televangelist with a roving tent revival collecting money “for the cause” from some of the neediest and most anxious and desperate people in our country. Its not all her fault though. The people who are propping her up for their own and her own aggregation of money and power are truly to blame.

  155. 160
    nswfmNo Gravatar says:

    #150 and # 152 sauerkraut Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 1:53 PM

    btw – just saw a story on http://www.masslive.com that s’error will be visiting Boston. I sure hope they give her a tea party.
    ——-
    I’m so sorry about your nose. That had to hurt!

    I’m hoping Boston throws her into the water, if indeed she does show.

  156. 161
    BoNo Gravatar says:

    This will roll off her back. She’s even more Teflon-coated than Ronnie RayGun was. Here’s the money quote from Sarah Palin: The Untold Story on magazines stands now –

    “Palin has ‘what any politician out there would kill for,’ said Andrew Halcro, who competed against Palin as an independent gubernatorial candidate in 2006 and is challenging U.S. Rep. Don Young in the Republican primary this year. ‘And that is the ability to make substance irrelevant.’”

    Failin’ Palin is blessed with a fan base who like to hear her talk . . . but don’t pay any attention to substance (or more accurately, the total lack of substance)

  157. 162
    MissSunshineNo Gravatar says:

    I second Terpsichore#153 with a big Thank You! to the daring person who got this envelope of information to our dear AKM.

    Granny O’Palin can be caught in countless lies and and have a “so what?” attitude, but I bet she’s using her “Pout” expression (if her face can still move that much) when she has to hand over a dollar of her ill-gotten money to support the common good.

    I can see Geoffrey Dunn now, calling his publisher saying “Stop the Presses! I’ve got another chapter on the way!”

  158. 163
    ewain12No Gravatar says:

    somebody over at Gryphen says that none of the other cabins on neighboring properties are listed either. Are they required to report the buildings ?

  159. 164
    twain12No Gravatar says:

    somebody over at Gryphen says that none of the other cabins on neighboring properties are listed either. Are they required to report the buildings ?

  160. 165
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    Whoa! Excellent investigation and reporting, AKM! Sarah’s calling herself a weasel is priceless!

    Can’t wait to hear how Meg will respond. I suppose she could blame Todd and give Sarah a reason to divorce him.

  161. 166
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    #160 twain12 – “none of the other cabins…are listed”

    Not true. I found several properties with building improvements. Here’s the subdivision listing:

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Choice=subdiv&searchParm=2357

  162. 167
    PepperzMom (GA)No Gravatar says:

    OT…but I found this mirth-ily-icious (hey…I can make up words if SP can!) re: Faux…

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/02/03/fox-news-shuns-obama-qa_n_447537.html

    President Obama this morning took his 2010 Question-And-Answer Tour to the Senate Democratic Caucus, a few days after his foray to the House GOP Retreat in Baltimore turned into must-see TV.

    Last time, Fox News was criticized for cutting away from the Q&A early, presumably because it was inadvertently televising one of those rare occurrences where the president was just straight up kicking the ass of his political opponents. Or, as Jon Stewart quipped, “We’re going to cut away because this is against the narrative we present.”

    Well, score one for consistency, I guess? Because today, while Obama was meeting with Democrats, CNN carried the session live, MSNBC carried the session live (breaking away for a few minutes to comment on Obama’s call for Democrats to stop watching the cable news, more on that later), and Fox…well they tended to other matters:

  163. 168
    hdtracyNo Gravatar says:

    Would it be wrong to assume these so-called “cabins” (far from being cabins if you ask me) were being constructed at the same time as the Wasilla complex (not sure if the dates coincide)?

  164. 169
    Baker's DozenNo Gravatar says:

    to the tune of “Sittin’ on top of the world”
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pucYbonzQM

    I’m griftin’ on top, top of the world
    Just griftin’ along, just me and my Todd
    I’m quittin’ Juneau, youbetcha, world
    Just grifitn’ along, not payin’ a sod.
    Just like a Carnie barker, twitter makes my call.
    Just like Humpty Dumpty, I’m ready to fall
    “Cause I’m griftin’ on top, top of the world
    Hidin’ houses and all, while AKM blogs
    Yes, grifin’ along, the Feds knockin’ and all.

  165. 170
    Moose PuckyNo Gravatar says:

    Good on you, AKM, for this post. Reforming is only good if one is reforming “others” apparently. “Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who is it that needs reforming?”

  166. 171
    twain12No Gravatar says:

    #
    162
    curiouser Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 4:24 PM

    #160 twain12 – “none of the other cabins…are listed”

    Not true. I found several properties with building improvements. Here’s the subdivision listing:

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Choice=subdiv&searchParm=2357
    ______________
    thanks…didn’t make sense to me either. They made it sound like that if the property is in the middle of nowhere you could put whatever you want up and nobody cared.

  167. 172
    1smartcanericanNo Gravatar says:

    #160 attwain 12 – I believe that the poster was talking about the property at Trapper Lake which is not the property/ies being discussed here on Safari Lake.

    Maybe there is more to come with the third property?

  168. 173
    leenie17No Gravatar says:

    learningcurve @128 –
    Where in the world did they get the money to build these getaways? This all happened before she hit payola..
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Great question! Do her tax returns for that time period show income substantial enough for that kind of construction? If so, why hasn’t anyone questioned where all that money went since it clearly didn’t go into the bank?

    There are sooo many money and tax questions piling up I can’t imagine that SOME local, state or federal agency (IRS, are you listening?) isn’t in the midst of an investigation. She might get away with keeping her wardrobe from the RNC or even the suspected funny business with her PAC, but tax evasion is a lot more dicey, especially when you’ve become a national celebrity who’s made a name for herself being ‘transparent’ and ‘fighting corruption’ (pardon me for a moment while I choke).

    A flash of leg and a saucy wink generally do not inspire tax auditors to say, “Oh, never mind!”, especially if they’re employed by the IRS!

  169. 174
    StarNo Gravatar says:

    bwahahahahah..took me 2 hrs. to get here…worth the wait…wtg AKM…

  170. 175
    michiganderNo Gravatar says:

    I encourage more people to speak up (or send envelopes!). It is sad to know that Alaskans fear Palin so much that they allow her to damage not only their state, but threaten our country. The truth about this shrew’s character must be told.

    Bravo to the sender of the envelope and please, other citizens, don’t give Sarah Palin that power anymore. The majority of the country is behind you!

    Thanks for all the great links everyone (o:

  171. 176
    trishaNo Gravatar says:

    What’s sad is that her cult following will ignore the fact that this woman is uber rich and owns more property and homes than most of them will ever see in their lifetime, but they will send her more of their hard earned money. Gee, maybe if her fans pay off her legal debt, she can buy more property and build even more homes. Come on C4P, get to work donating. Mamma needs some more property paid for by a bunch of suckers.

    She is a crook and a grifter. Remember the hardworking hairstylist she stiffed in Salt Lake City? Seems like Palin steals from “real American’s” to feed her lust for the good life.

  172. 177
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    Woot woot! Thanks to “Juneau Deepthroat” for the tip sent to AKM, and great job to AKM and Shannyn for breaking the news.

  173. 178
    IrishgirlNo Gravatar says:

    seattlefan says:
    Woot woot! Thanks to “Juneau Deepthroat” for the tip sent to AKM, and great job to AKM and Shannyn for breaking the news.
    ————————————————————–
    Yes, you deserve a medal!

  174. 179

    Not sure if this is posted yet, but the ex Mrs. Richter is now married to John “oops you got something on your tie” Bitney. I read this elsewhere and assume it to be true…. makes sense now why Mrs. Palin was so harsh on Bitney in her “book”.

  175. 180
    BillSNo Gravatar says:

    Are the cabins finished?

    A common dodge is to *almost* finish a structure, for instance everything except the exterior siding, then live in it. If it isn’t “finished”, then it might not count as an improvement.

  176. 181
    petepetaNo Gravatar says:

    Richter is the Todd friend with the rumored affair with sarah?

  177. 182
    LisanTxNo Gravatar says:

    the Palins co-own a third tract at Safari Lake with Scott Richter that appears to be lake front property very near the two tracts mentioned above: http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1142000T00H
    In addition, the Palins have a cabin on Alexander creek co-owned with the Hansons:
    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1231000T00E

  178. 183
    leenie17No Gravatar says:

    If Faux decides that the liability of an employee who has some nice folks with badges a’ knockin’ at her door outweighs the publicity that crazies like Palin, Beck and Rush attract, there’s another job just made to order for our favorite beauty queen. She can get a job doing those Progressive Insurance commercials. She might not like the name of the company, but she’s already got the bumpits!

    (And those are the weird, random thoughts that can occur while watching television after taking cough medicine with hydrocodone in it!)

  179. 184
    SoapydogNo Gravatar says:

    To Ginger @ 43 –
    Thank you! I really needed that snarf tonight! That was great.

    You be goin’ down, Miss Pee! Down!!

  180. 185
    InJuneauNo Gravatar says:

    R’ipley–it is true. The ex-Mrs. Richter is now Mrs. Bitney.

  181. 186
    InJuneauNo Gravatar says:

    petepeta–no, that was Brad Hanson.

  182. 187
    tallimatNo Gravatar says:

    Don’t Panic !
    I repeat…
    Don’t Panic

    (cough, cough …)

    This is Palins way of being good for Alaskans. Specifically, to her high school friend-Attorney General now Mat Su Borough Mayor Talis Colberg (cough, cough)

    On a much lighter note. Bend over Tennesse! Palins heading your way!

  183. 188
    DebrapNo Gravatar says:

    She is an authentic member of the Tea Party movement. Not only: no taxes…but DO NOT PAY THE TAXES THAT YOU OWE! Live off the backs of other Americans that pay their taxes. The “TRUTH” behind the Tea Party Movement. You betcha!

  184. 189
    michiganderNo Gravatar says:

    petepeta @ 175, no, that is Hanson. See the comment above yours from R’ipley re: Richter.

    LisaTX – am wondering just how much property (and taxes!) are yet unknown!!!

  185. 190
    winkwinkNo Gravatar says:

    These are the propertys at Safari Lake
    2357BO4LO10-1
    No building assessments or appr. –Land assessed at $12,000-15 acres
    2357BO4LO12-I
    No building assessments or appr.– Land assessed at $$18000 9.99 acres
    7 land owners have assessments on buildings Branche-Beck-Turner-Oberly-Thamm-Ericson-Mullican
    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Choice=subdiv&searchParm=2357

  186. 191
    peter dNo Gravatar says:

    Id sure likes to know what the definition of a cabin is.

    I always thought it was smaller than the building in the picture. Like one room, and one story high. I have never seen a cabin with such grand windows. I grew up in the country, so it must be that I’ve just been in the city for many years now to know.

  187. 192
    peter dNo Gravatar says:

    Id sure likes to know what the definition of a cabin is.
    I always thought it was smaller than the building in the picture. Like one room, and one story high. I have never seen a cabin with such grand windows. I grew up in the country, so it must be that I’ve just been in the city for many years now to know.

  188. 193
    maryNo Gravatar says:

    leenie17, but Flo (the Progressive lady) is so pleasant. Sarah is so…. not pleasant.

    That being said, “Flo” annoys the bejesus out of my husband, so maybe you’re on the right track!!

  189. 194
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    Maybe we should all call Gov. Lite Parnell or email him..?
    He is a close friend of the Palins ( personally ) and is the Gov. so what does he think of the former Gov. not following the Law..?

    I would love to hear his response ‘ on the record ‘..?
    Need to look up his email address…. if someone has it, post it.

  190. 195
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    No Peter, a cabin is a cabin, a house is a house. Practically speaking, you know ‘em when you see ‘em, and that there ain’t no cabin. Not in the country nor the city.

    Grifter will add the tax folks to her pac payroll and go on… uh, maybe as PACabin keepers for 50k a year?

  191. 196
    Lee323No Gravatar says:

    Great work, AKM!

    As usual, the Alaskan bloggers are putting to shame the ADN and other worthless “investigative news” departments up there.

    So, Palin is a hypocrite, liar…..and a cheating tax weasel. Sounds about right.

    When you consider the size of the Palin brood, it really adds insult to injury for the honest taxpayers who are footing the bill to educate the Palin’s “quiver full of arrows.” Some little old lady in a shoebox of a house had to buy beans and rice in December in order to pay her property taxes so Trip, Trap, Truck, and Piper can get a “free” public education. True patriot, my ass.

  192. 197
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Come now, Lee 323, you totally exagerate, you and I both know NONE of the Palins is edumacated.

  193. 198
    7retfarcNo Gravatar says:

    honestyingov,

    Maybe Gov. Parnell could also be asked if he has been to the cabin. Perhaps keeping her secrets pays really well in AK.

  194. 199
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    176LisanTx Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 5:19 PM

    In addition, the Palins have a cabin on Alexander creek co-owned with the Hansons:
    ——————-
    I believe Todd Palin is the sole owner of this property per the documents shown by the Recorders Office.

    The tax record does show Todd Palin, Tod Richards, Ron Richards and Carolyn Hanson as owners but also shows 2 quitclaim records (links at the bottom of the form). There are actually 3 quitclaim deeds on the property, per the Recorders Office records, which turn the property over completely to Todd Palin. Neither Sarah Palin nor Brad Hanson are shown as ever having an interest in the property.

    Interesting considering Sarah’s financial disclosure forms saying the property was jointly owned by both families.

    (Another deed, recorded in 2004, looks like Todd may not even legally own the place. Wish someone in AK could investigate.)

    http://dnr.alaska.gov/ssd/recoff/sag/PlatDocs.cfm?SelectedPlat=79-2&SelectedLot=&SelectedBlock=&SelectedTract=%20%20%20E&SelectedApt=&District=301

  195. 200
    califpatNo Gravatar says:

    I agree Paula! LOL!

  196. 201
    strangeletNo Gravatar says:

    @BHT: I cannot speak with certainty about the MatSu Borough, but every property-taxing governmental unit that I’ve ever had contact with has a law or ordinance that requires property owners to report improvements as soon as they are completed.

  197. 202
    sjk from the belly of the planeNo Gravatar says:

    Baker’s Dozen, I LOVE that song.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sitting_on_Top_of_the_World

  198. 203
    nswfmNo Gravatar says:

    184 leenie17 Says: February 3rd, 2010 at 5:26 PM If Faux decides that the liability of an employee who has some nice folks with badges a’ knockin’ at her door outweighs the publicity that crazies like Palin, Beck and Rush attract, there’s another job just made to order for our favorite beauty queen. She can get a job doing those Progressive Insurance commercials. She might not like the name of the company, but she’s already got the bumpits!
    —–
    NOT. GONNA. HAPPEN. The people at Progressive are progressive, not retarded.

  199. 204
    WakeUpAmericaNo Gravatar says:

    That weasel is much cuter than Sarah-the-Weasel Palin. Just sayin’

  200. 205
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    Quitclaim…wouldn’t that mean buying someone out? So, one 150K a year (ish) they own a 500K house and 3 vacation “cabins”, lakefront “cabin”? Yeah right!

  201. 206
    leenie17No Gravatar says:

    mary @194
    That being said, “Flo” annoys the bejesus out of my husband, so maybe you’re on the right track!!

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Gotta side with your husband on this one…thank goodness for mute buttons!

  202. 207
    SSNo Gravatar says:

    Lot of cash incentives they were given along the years may have helped with all the “cabins” Oil companies, commercials, favors here and there…etc

  203. 208
    jimzmumNo Gravatar says:

    Wow! I am coming late, but could not get in till now. Thank you again and again and again. I hope to see you soon! And, for those who chat, AKM’s present FINALLY got here. Took six weeks! Sheesh.

  204. 209
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    LOL-> I have read the word RETARD
    (retard – cause to move more slowly or operate at a slower rate; “This drug will retard your heart rate”
    retard – be delayed)
    in it’s other sense more in the last few days than in the past 20 years. Looks like Palin brought the word OUT of the politically INCORRECT closet!
    Doit!

  205. 210
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    SS Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 6:22 PM
    Lot of cash incentives they were given along the years may have helped with all the “cabins” Oil companies, commercials, favors here and there…etc
    ————-
    A window here,
    some deck boards there,
    a few bucks to the tax guy
    and I just don’t care.
    No taxes for me,
    but what a view,
    a new TV
    and a big deck, too.

    Yeah, sounds like Palin.

  206. 211
    PaulaNo Gravatar says:

    And in the bad news section: Rep. John Murtha is in stable condition at a Virginia hospital, where he’s been in intensive care stemming from complications related to gallbladder surgery.

    Yikes, from gallbladder surgery?

  207. 212
    LanceNo Gravatar says:

    I wonder if you can see Russia from that cabin.

  208. 213
    bubblesNo Gravatar says:

    WakeUpAmerica Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 6:17 PM

    That weasel is much cuter than Sarah-the-Weasel Palin. Just sayin’
    ***********************************************************************
    love the weasel. cute little thing.

  209. 214
    PennLawyerNo Gravatar says:

    When your property taxes are delinquent in my community – even one month, you have to pay interest on the amount, and if you go more than a year beyond the payment due date, you are likely to get hit with penalties as well.

    The way the feds finally nailed Al Capone was for tax evasion. Couldn’t happen to a more deserving grifter than Sarah.

    The point to keep hammering, over and over, until maybe it penetrates the thick skulls of her low IQ supporters, is that when the Palins (or anyone) cheat on paying their taxes, it’s the rest of the taxpayers who are penalized by having to pick up the slack.

    Great news!

  210. 215
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    So, will there be any repercussions from this? Is this a Federal or State mishap? I hope someone in the media is investigating this and I hope the appropriate agencies will take action and possibly investigate further.

  211. 216
    MarnieNo Gravatar says:

    Have been unable to get the site to either open,stay open or stay in line.

    But I did want to ask, We now have four houses for the Palins. Two on Lake Lucile and two on Safari Lake? And a private plane, and a boat, and a shead full of multi thousand dollar snowmobiles. Their own TV studio and star dressing room. At least half a dozen consultants. A law firm. At least 5 ghost writers, one-book, one-dinner speech, two to three for Facebook and Twattle.
    A PAC to buy her book and pay her legal bills.

    I am sure there is something I’m leaving out.

    Sounds like a pretty princessly kingdom for somebody who says their just a Josephine six pac, and ordinary hockey mom.

  212. 217
    jojobo1No Gravatar says:

    I would think maybe thats why she wanted the laws about building permits changed so no one knew what they were up to.

  213. 218
    leu2500No Gravatar says:

    Here’s a link to her schedule A from 2007. http://www.slate.com/id/2201650/entry/2201653/. Joint return. $166,000 in income. Just over $10K in mortgage interest.

    I know what interest I pay on my 15 year mortgage that’s half paid off. I got a great low rate in 2003. My house is worth 1/4 to 1/3 of the value of Palin’s house in Wasilla. I know that you can deduct interest on 2 houses (I think there’s a $1 million limit on the combined mortgages). My interest is 40% of what the Palin’s claimed.

    $10K in interest probably only covers a loan value of 200K to 250K. Where the heck did the Palin’s get the money to pay off almost all of their MULTIPLE houses?

  214. 219
    Lee323No Gravatar says:

    # 198 Paula

    LOL. They may not be taking advantage of the free “edumacation” but it’s available…..PAID FOR BY HONEST TAXPAYERS (aka Real Americans).

  215. 220
    mxmNo Gravatar says:

    They could have a blemish in their credit rating which would cause them to pay higher rates for the home mortgage. And they may have a jumbo mortgage which is typically at a higher interest rate. Also, at upper income levels, you can not deduct your full mortgage interest. There is a proration formula that is applied. Don’t know what the cut off is, but 166K would not likely be eligible for a full deduction.

  216. 221
    LaurieNo Gravatar says:

    Just how many houses does this regular American own? Is this 4 or 5?
    Plus the one they are renting.

  217. 222
    Bam Bam PalinNo Gravatar says:

    Wow! This one has legs. Can’t be ignored, not even by the so-called mainstreet media. Now, THIS is investigative journalism, and no phone-tapping in the process!!!

    Kudos, Mudflats!

  218. 223
    DLBinPDXNo Gravatar says:

    Wow, just wow. Incredibly good investigative journalism. No wonder mudflats wins awards! Thank you, AKmuckraker!

  219. 224
    Lee323No Gravatar says:

    “Your cheatin’ heart,
    Will make you weep,
    You’ll cry and cry,
    And try to sleep,
    But sleep won’t come,
    The whole night through,
    Your cheatin heart, will tell on you…”

    With thanks to Hank Williams….for his most excellent channeling of the Caribou Cheater Tweeter

  220. 225
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    AKM, could Dennis Zaki get out there to take photos? Maybe reconnect with his people at CNN? Nice bit of investigative journalism? The Palins have property all over the place.

  221. 226
    in exile (SC version)No Gravatar says:

    You can go to Palingates to hear clips of the show with AKM and Shannyn – find Palingates in the Blogroll to the right. When you get there, scroll all the way down to find the clips.
    (I posted the link but it sent my comment into moderation)

  222. 227
    tamaraNo Gravatar says:

    For those who are Earth googling Lake Safari, you can try to locate the property with the map provided by matsugov.us. Click at top right where indicated map. The Tract is # H

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1142000T00H

    This link hereunder gives you the listing of Palins’ properties

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Cho

    When I took a look, I can see :

    2 properties in the name of T & S Palin (the Lake Lucille compound) 532.5k and 116.7k respectiv.
    1 propertie in names of Richter and Palins (Safari lakeside) 17.3k
    2 properties in names of Richter and Palins (Near Safari lake) 18.0k each
    1 property in names of Palins and Richards (Alexander Creek) 5 acres with building eval. at 54’000$

    So that’s around 700k $ before the second mansion was buildt.

    That’s blue collar life style for you

  223. 228
    SnoskredNo Gravatar says:

    Due to the breaking news on The Mudflats today, we’ve experienced high load on the server.

    This is quite normal when a lot of people are trying to access a website all at the same time.

    Probably the best way to explain it is to imagine The Mudflats forum and blog like a swimming pool. There is enough room in the water for XX people – if people arrive and there is no space for them in the water, they have to wait till someone else gets out so they can get in.

    Nothing has crashed, nothing has “gone down”, the server is working exactly as it is supposed to – if you can find space in the water. ;)

    If you cannot read the story on the flats, you can see it here on huffpo – it is a good idea to comment on huffpo to get the story higher up on the page also too, that way more people will see it..

    If you just want to chat with fellow mudpups, head off to the live chat –

    http://www.mibbit.com/chat/

    put your mudpuppy name in where it says Nick

    put in #themudflats where it says channel

    click on go

    You might want to bookmark that page and hang onto those instructions for future times of breaking news.

    That way more people can get in the pool to read the breaking news. ;)

  224. 229
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    Can we expect another fire in the not-too-distant future?

    Thanks AKM for the the due diligence in preserving the integrity of the story….and the timing is apropos.

    And a very special H/T to the courageous soul who had the fortitude & conviction to come forth with critical information. I hope that your boldness will encourage others who know the truths about $P to do what is RIGHT by our nation.

    Thank you again.

  225. 230
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    P.S.>>>>

    Why are the cross-posts at Huffpo are so heavily moderated?

  226. 231
    Jane in NCNo Gravatar says:

    Here’s a new one, comparing Palin to John Edwards:

    February 3, 2010, 9:30 PM
    Grifters’ Tale
    By TIMOTHY EGAN

    http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/03/grifters-tale/

  227. 232
    NOLANo Gravatar says:

    I’m curious about something I didn’t see mentioned in the comments… I remember reading that there was a period of time after she quit the governorship where ethics complaints could still be filed. Could someone still file a complaint on this one, since she was governor AFTER “cabin” was built?

  228. 233
    NOLANo Gravatar says:

    oops… *that* cabin

  229. 234
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    Cynamen Winter #230…..I would like to know that too. Every comment I have made there is moderated. Highly unusual. They finally get through but it makes you wonder why some threads are a free for all and this one is so closely watched.

  230. 235
    benlomond2No Gravatar says:

    …looks like Sarah has the same memory loss as Mccain… oh TAWD!! How many houses do we have ?????

  231. 236
    phoebeNo Gravatar says:

    AKM
    It is fitting that you should break the story & hopefully this will be the beginning of the end of Paylin’s political career.

    Onward through the storm as they say.

  232. 237
    MO InkslingerNo Gravatar says:

    Folks, there are more interesting real estate deals to come on the Palins.

  233. 238
    Alaska PiNo Gravatar says:

    see titles 3, 8, and 17

    17 may be too new to have affected whether the ‘cabin’ had to be permitted and would therefore appear on Borough records

    but 3 would seem to indicate that the assessor has a duty to get around and see WHAT is in the area…
    8 simply addresses what codes the Borough has adopted for safety…

    SP and/or assessor are asleep at the switch or worse.
    Wonder how much revenue Mat-Su Borough loses to this kind of stuff?

    http://nt5.scbbs.com/cgi-bin/om_isapi.dll?clientID=356342872&depth=2&infobase=matsubor.nfo&softpage=PL_tocframe

    Matanuska-Susitna Borough Code

    TITLE 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS
    TITLE 2: ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL
    TITLE 3: REVENUE AND FINANCE
    TITLE 4: BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
    TITLE 5: SERVICE AREAS
    TITLE 6: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
    TITLE 7: ANIMALS
    TITLE 8: HEALTH AND WELFARE
    TITLE 9: PUBLIC PEACE, SAFETY AND MORALS
    TITLE 10: VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC
    TITLE 11: ROADS, STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND TRAILS
    TITLE 12: PUBLIC PROPERTY
    TITLE 13: PROPERTY ACQUISITION, CONTROL AND DISPOSAL
    TITLE 14: BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION
    TITLE 15: PLANNING
    TITLE 16: SUBDIVISIONS
    TITLE 17: ZONING

  234. 239
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    Yep seattlefan…

    I’ve also noticed that they generally don’t generate the same amount of “traffic” when in that mod-mode. It’s the same thing when Shannon cross-posts…. and I wondered if it were at the discretion of the author or the blog itself?

    Just a curious observation…

  235. 240
    Duct Idaho PalinNo Gravatar says:

    If that “land use permit” stuff is good law (someone said the borough hasn’t had building permit laws since 1994) then if Mrs. Palin tries to say that the assessor had the duty to find out about the building, the assessor can come back with “YOU had the duty to file for the land use permit.” That would have given the assessor knowledge that a building was going up. Without it, I don’t see how Sarah can claim the lack of assessment was the assessor’s fault rather than hers.

  236. 241
    Alaska PiNo Gravatar says:

    oh and for those with a sense of humor- check 17.125 for Borough’s definition of a cabin… :-)

  237. 242
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    Cynamen Winter #239:

    Discretion of the author occurred to me as well. I don’t know how HP works but that could be the case. The “free for alls” usually are authored by HP staff and there is little or no moderation. Case in point, any “Main” on a weekend night.

  238. 243
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    Good night all. It’s been quite a couple of days hasn’t it? Can’t wait for tomorrow.

    Kudos to the brave soul who sent the envelope. It was certainly worth the wait. I sincerely hope there will be more brave souls out there who know they have a safe haven here at the Mudflats if there are things needing to be brought into the light of day.

    Sunshine is the best disinfectant.

    Namaste

  239. 244
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    The comments are so many to see them all and I had been on the Huffpo with comments.
    I know Andree McLeod has been on the threads here in the past.

    Since Andree knows the Alaskan Law, it sure would be nice to hear her opinion or perspective. As long as it didn’t affect that other case she is working on.

  240. 245
    Alaska PiNo Gravatar says:

    @240 Duct Idaho Palin Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 7:53 PM
    If that “land use permit” stuff is good law …
    ————————————-
    The Borough’s mandatory land use provision appears to be from 2007 and excludes 3 cities within the Borough.

    CHAPTER 17.02: MANDATORY LAND USE PERMIT

    Section 17.02.010Intent and applicability
    17.02.020Land use permit

    17.02.010INTENT AND APPLICABILITY.

    (A)It is the intent of this chapter to improve the level of compliance with existing borough code by establishing a mandatory land use review process and directly providing regulatory information to persons proposing development within the borough outside of the cities of Houston, Palmer, and Wasilla.
    (B)This chapter is applicable within all areas of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough outside of the cities of Houston, Palmer, and Wasilla.

    (C)There are federal, state, and local requirements governing land use. It is the responsibility of the individual land owners to obtain a determination whether such requirements apply to the development of their land. Any land within the boundaries of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is subject to land use and development regulations. It is not the intent of this chapter to replace or supersede regulations of other chapters within this title. Additional information and permits, such as flood damage prevention, mobile home park ordinance, conditional uses, and regulation of alcoholic beverages may be required in accordance with the borough code. This title will be amended and updated as necessary when new MSB Title 17 regulations are adopted.
    (D)A land use permit is not required where commencement of construction or placement, as defined in MSB 17.125, occurred before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.

    (Ord. 07-121, § 2, 2007; Ord. 06-192(AM), § 3 (part), 2007)

    17.02.020LAND USE PERMIT.
    (A)The land owner or authorized agent shall obtain a land use permit from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Department prior to the commencement of:
    (1)the construction or placement of any building whose gross floor area is 480 square feet or greater;
    (2)any addition exceeding 10 percent of a building’s gross floor area and that results in a total gross floor area of 480 square feet or greater;…
    etc, etc

  241. 246
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    Oops…sorry “Shannyn.”

    Agreed seattlefan….like last weekend, when the President “took on” the GOP! That thread was zooming by ~ but it’s just a matter of time before this too will make the MAIN…(I suppose).

    I think I’ve really become more cognizant of how the MSM craftily manipulates the stories that they choose to highlight/spin ~ while giving credence to most of the ‘vomit’ dripping from sarah’s lips, or the ghostwriter’s tips….

    It never ceases to amaze—because no one else could ever get away with a fraction of the “stuff” she pulls of…almost daring someone to challenge it! Well, today…I think that the “sunlight” is shining brightly in the upper 49th.

    ;)

  242. 247
    jojobo1No Gravatar says:

    I would think this was a state matter for the assessments but also could be a federal if she filed false Tax forms

  243. 248
    gingerNo Gravatar says:

    Left several comments on C4P, don’t know if they are still there. But, I just stuck to facts, wasn’t rude or anything, but they weren’t very nice to me. They didn’t debate what I said, just called me names. Funny!

  244. 249
    KateinCanadaNo Gravatar says:

    If there’s no road, how do residents haul in building materials? Helicopter? Will there be a drilled well? just wondering about oil comany help…

  245. 250
    I Do Not QuitNo Gravatar says:

    Ya betcha I don’t pay taxes. I avoid all of them, any of them, that have been in front of me all these years. I’m the Adored Annointed Victim, I can do whatever I want until the courts tell me I can’t. Too. Also.

  246. 251
    bubblesNo Gravatar says:

    I have been quiet because i have been thinking.
    It has dawned on me that we pups need ourselves a PAC !!!
    We need a PAC so we can donate to politicians of our choice and so we can buy ourselves some property in Alaska, write a book and get rich.

  247. 252
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    bubbles #250:

    Lol! I love they way you think. I was wondering when you would pop in here.

    We need a PAC and some property out in the middle of nowhere where we can hope the taxman won’t see it…also…too. :)

  248. 253
    BooBooBearNo Gravatar says:

    AKM….Thank you for taking the time to gather only the FACTS and photos! And a huge thank you to our anonymous letter writer from Juneau. I could take a guess at who it is , but there are SO many people under the big Yellow Swinderella Bus from Juneau . It would be one of hundreds. Thank you secret Santa! And thank you AKM for all you do!

  249. 254
    mlaiuppaNo Gravatar says:

    Isn’t this consistent with her manipulating the local codes so she doesn’t have to have building permits?

    No permit, no record of improvement to property, no increase in property value, no increase in property tax.

    So she’s a hypocrite. She’ll find a way to explain away her avoiding her responsibilities as a tax payer. Seems the more money you have the more ways you find to avoid your obligations and paying your fair share.

    Too big to pay?

  250. 255
    Enjay in E MTNo Gravatar says:

    Wow AKM — wonderful investigative work & reporting

    I listened to you and Shannyn from the BreePalin site, well done
    and as of “this moment” you have over 350 comments on HuffPo.
    (and I miss the yellow boots next to your by-line
    - even tho the pic is quite nice.)

    Thank you Sno for telling us the pool was full – not closed. lol
    Was getting concerned with all the links & traffic that the server
    was taking a snooze.

    Another thank you to the anon tipster.

  251. 256
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    Were her tax records as Gov made public? That would certainly speak to intent to conceal….if she failed to document the chalets.

  252. 257
    winkwinkNo Gravatar says:

    Lots of bush pilots up there, how about a fly over with a zoom lens..boots on the ground so to speak.

  253. 258
    AKPetMomNo Gravatar says:

    Won’t her people just send in more dollars to the Fund Trust to pay these back taxes? I don’t believe there’s any penalty for non payment of back Mat-Su Borough Property Tax.

  254. 259
    mlaiuppaNo Gravatar says:

    I still think she’s played funny business with her Federal tax return and eventually the IRS will get her.

    I doubt someone like Sarah would cheat on local taxes and be pristinely honest on her Federal ones.

  255. 260
    Cynamen WinterNo Gravatar says:

    Actually, the new house in Wasilla and the Chalet were probably built by the same contractors (or Tawd’s buddies)…as in a side-by-side comparison, the framing in quite similar; as are the windows.

    http://www.themudflats.net/2009/12/09/palins-new-house-photos/

    Did they bother to update that property assessment… one wonders?

  256. 261

    Jeanne, please check your email.

    Thanks!

    Great post, I hear a ceiling cracking, and it’s not the one Hillary was talking about either! (wink)

  257. 262
    just watchingNo Gravatar says:

    If you bring up the map on the Mat Su Assessment for Lot 10-1(click on PV20 in red, next to Map Help on upper right side of the form) and enlarge the scale, then open Google Earth so Safari Lake is approximately the same size, comparing the two, it looks as if there is a good sized building on Lot 10-1 imagery dated August 6, 2006. Found Tract H, the lake side lot, was purchased 11/15/2003. http://dnr.alaska.gov/ssd/recoff/sag/DocDisplay.cfm?SelectedDoc=20030018880&District=321 Looks like Lot 12-1 had no buildings in 2006. Other cabins on the Lake Safari have an assessed value. And, no assessed value on the new home at Lake Lucille in Wasilla http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=2357B04L010-1

  258. 263
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    #260
    mlaiuppa Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 9:53 PM
    I still think she’s played funny business with her Federal tax return and eventually the IRS will get her.
    I doubt someone like Sarah would cheat on local taxes and be pristinely honest on her Federal ones.
    ————————
    THAT was my thought exactly !! If you cheated on your ‘ local ones’ and thought you could get away with it… why would you suddenly become ‘ honest ‘ when it came down to the Federal ones.

    And remember those APOC disclosures about Artic Cat..? Sarah filled those out personally in her own handwriting ( as bad as it was ) and it was NOT done by an Accountant or Agent for her.
    Probably because she not not trust anyone else… or afraid they might ask legitimate questions. And she was the Gov. then.
    Time to pull those returns going back to 2001 or so.

  259. 264
    Duct Idaho PalinNo Gravatar says:

    I haven’t been able to find any cases specifically about the Mat-Su borough but an Anchorage case held that the assessor could retroactively assess a warehouse addition as “escaped property” even though the assessor had assessed the other buildings but missed the addition. (Anchorage v. Alaska Distribs. Co., 725 P.2d 692 ).

    The court held “AS 29.45.110(a) and AS 29.45.180(a) also support our holding. AS 29.45.110(a) requires the assessor to assess property at its full and true value. AS 29.45.180(a) requires the taxpayer who receives an assessment notice to advise the assessor of errors or omissions in the assessment of property. These statutes emphasize the legislature’s policy of fairness to all taxpayers by insuring payment by each taxpayer of its fair share of taxes and by disallowing windfalls due to the tax [**10] assessor’s errors. ”

    So in that case the assessor had made the error but it was still the fault of the owner for not correcting it. And Mrs. Palin doesn’t even have this property owner’s excuse.

    The boough would be setting pretty bad precedent for itself if it let this go.

  260. 265
    Duct Idaho PalinNo Gravatar says:

    oops borough

  261. 266
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    Shannyn’s Show this afternoon played it first, so credit goes to Her show..

    S’error’s “Official Song” when she makes Her entrance to the Tea Party Saturday.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzLry3ABpV

  262. 267
    joNo Gravatar says:

    Leona Helmsley comes to mind “Queen of Mean” , “Only the little people pay taxes”. This must be $P’s mentor.

  263. 268
    MaeveNo Gravatar says:

    Here’s a link to a photo of the view out at Safari Lake from one owner’s property:

    http://www.panoramio.com/photo/21254701

    Lovely.

  264. 269
    MaeveNo Gravatar says:

    And here’s the Mat-Su Borough’s map of the properties around Safari Lake. Block 4, lots 10 and 11 are the Palin’s, should have a terrific view of Denali:

    http://gis.matsugov.us/parcelslite/viewer.htm?ActiveLayer=10&Query=ACCOUNT%3D%272357B04L010-1%27&QueryZoom=Yes

  265. 270
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    I was looking for a 800 number to call CNN to see if they would report AKM’s story. I didn’t find one but I used their email contact ‘ Tip Line ‘.

    If 20 or so people emailed… maybe it would wake them up. They seem to think the Rahm R-word story was the story to report today.

    http://www.cnn.com/feedback/tips/index.html

    You can also post on Rick Sanchez’s FaceBook or Twitter also.
    http://ricksanchez.blogs.cnn.com/

  266. 271
    OMGNo Gravatar says:

    It seems that, once again, Palin escapes the scrutiny of the MSM. How is it that any person that Obama proposed for a cabinet position was held accountable for not paying taxes? Palin, who her fans want to see in the WH, is not held to the same standards. Is it possible that by playing the victim card so often that the media would not report her if she was holding the smoking gun and had blood on her hands? I am, as always, disgusted by the MSM’s lack of journalistic integrity to hold this woman to the same standards as every other political figure. And, as always (regarding the media), I hope that I am wrong.

  267. 272
    havepulseNo Gravatar says:

    Do you need a building permit in Alaska? I’d be interested in when these buildings were constructed and were they inspected?

  268. 273
    MO InkslingerNo Gravatar says:

    Bubbles- 100% correct. We all ought to establish our own PAC. Then we can paint our RV, travel around the US, buy some books and deduct it all. We can send out letters solicitating donations for candidates and use 6% of the donations for campaigns and use the 94% for ourselves.

  269. 274
    lillyNo Gravatar says:

    So the Alaskan bloggers do get notification of tawdry stories of The Palins, their children and relations, but are not about to make them public. Commendable….

    The apples didn’t fall far from the tree. These children are like their parents and they all feel a cut above everyone else, and like Diana Palin when she was caught by a homeowner after breaking in to his house twice, that they are entitled. Very, very sad, and very, very old story. Power corrupts.

    Only the little people are held to account.

  270. 275
    RickNo Gravatar says:

    #266 honestyinGov, The link didn’t work for me but as fate would have it, while trying to find the song you were posting, I came across this……… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwbAKG46VUw&feature=related . I was cracking up watching it, then realized, this woman might have the key to understanding Sarah Speak. This woman seems to have a series on YouTube called hotforwords. Sarah Palin might learn a thing or two from this woman, but I think we might all learn a thing or two about Sarah’s twisted speaking, also, therefore, too.

  271. 276
    OMGNo Gravatar says:

    AKM…is the local tax authority going to investigate? Perhaps the media will pick up the story if there is the acknowledgment that an investigation is underway.

  272. 277
    7retfarcNo Gravatar says:

    Is it just me or is Sarah a busybody? Always telling people what they can and can’t say and do.. I think we’ve all worked with someone like this or had a relative like this. They aren’t very popular and have no real friends just like Sarah.

    What is even worse than that is a tax cheat. When you don’t pay your fair share of taxes the tax rate goes up for everyone else.

    There are no acceptable excuses for her tax cheating, lying, or stealing from Alaska with her per diems and charges for family to accompany her during her half term as Governor. She also cheated on her husband as reported by The Enquirer and she nor Todd have taken the matter up legally so therefore it must be true. JMO

  273. 278
    maribelleNo Gravatar says:

    Just watchin’–that is a STUNNING find:

    >And, no assessed value on the new home at Lake Lucille in Wasilla >http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=2357B04L010-1

    CHECK OUT THAT LINK. Sarah and Todd’s gorgeous Lake Lucille property is valued for tax purposes at 12,000 (why so low?) but more importantly, there are the assessed building value is ZERO.

    That gorgeous, amazing, showstopping house. Valued at ZERO. How is this possible? How did they get away with this?

    Paging CNN, MSNBC. Come on, guys, do your jobs.

    (~and a tip of the hat to Ms. Mudflats–I rarely comment but I deeply appreciate your work.)

  274. 279
    IrishgirlNo Gravatar says:

    I’m hoping that this will start to appear in the MSM during the next few days. They are not going to run with this story as fast as the blogs do. Remember back to the campaign, we always had the scoop days and sometimes weeks before the MSM.

  275. 280
    pearlNo Gravatar says:

    Where I live, if you make improvements to your house and do not report them, but later get caught; not only are you responsible for back taxes and interest, but you are also fined.

    I hate to even think this, but the Palins are going to put all the blame on Richter. I can hear the story now…” you paid Scott and thought he was talking care of this for us. As a result of our faith in Scott, we never bothered to look at the tax assessment. If you had been aware of this, we would have handled it.”

    To 276 (7retfarc) – Sarah is only demonstrating what a good repub she is. The repubs always want to tell people how to live, how to think, who to love…

    I like the idea of starting a Mudflats PAC, we were discussing this very idea in the treehouse just the other night. I’ll volunteer to drive the bus as long as we go in a straight line…no mtns, curves, or right hand turns.

  276. 281
    bubblesNo Gravatar says:

    MO Inkslinger Says:
    February 4th, 2010 at 6:26 AM

    Bubbles- 100% correct. We all ought to establish our own PAC. Then we can paint our RV, travel around the US, buy some books and deduct it all. We can send out letters solicitating donations for candidates and use 6% of the donations for campaigns and use the 94% for ourselves.
    **********************************************************************
    my mother used to say ” Pay attention. you can learn something even from a fool”. if it’s legal for her and McCain and all the rest, well, we can do too. also. you betcha.

  277. 282
    BahstinBoyoNo Gravatar says:

    Irishgirl… It’s Thursday. The MSM won’t work that fast, unfortunately. They are a bit gun-shy when it comes to breaking news about her ‘ness. Besides, you are, I’m sure, familliar with the ‘routine’… Friday afternoon she will do something to take the binoculars off the tax issue to redirect to something else. Cover fire and withdraw.

    SQUIRREL ! ! !

    (Not YOU, of course! The DISTRACTION ! )

  278. 283
    mxmNo Gravatar says:

    Thanks to those posting photos and the site maps. It sure looks like AK could use some stimulus dollars to build roads throughout this area. If it is unimproved and the in and out must be made on a snowmachine, a few million could make all the difference. Just saying.

  279. 284
    BooBooBearNo Gravatar says:

    I find it shocking that MSM has not picked this story up. It is BIG. It shows deliberate deception and should be out there. Is there some huge pact amongst all news stations that they will not OUT Palin? It is strange.

  280. 285
    maribelleNo Gravatar says:

    RE: the House in Wasilla on Lake Lucille–

    The correct links are below for the Wasilla house tax assessments. The Palins own two adjoining lots on Lake Wasilla, 1120 and 1140 W. Parks Hwy.

    #1120 lists land value at 27,000 and bldg at 27,500
    #1140 lists land value at 116,000 and bldg at zero

    How is this possible? What you seen their Lake Lucille house? It’s a stunner. How could the building be valued at only 27,500? (and why has it decreased in value in the last two years from 29,800?

    Something is very rotten in the state of Alaska.

    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1231000T00E
    http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/detail.aspx?taxID=1054B01L004

  281. 286
    BahstinBoyoNo Gravatar says:

    maribelle… you know our girl… it will be the tax offices fault. Someone there should have notified them that their appraisal was ridiculous. Someone else… someone else… someone else. We’re gonna have to start calling her ‘The
    Teflon Don-’ness! Nothing sticks!

  282. 287
    RickNo Gravatar says:

    I sent a “tip” to CNN.

    Here’s the form reply.

    Thank you for contacting CNN. This email is to notify you that your news tip has been received and will be reviewed in a timely manner. You will be contacted if the news tip is valid and we need further information and verification.

    We appreciate your news tip and thank you for choosing CNN as your breaking news source.

    Sincerely,

    CNN Viewer Communications Management
    “CNN, The Most Trusted Name In News”

  283. 288
    Say No to Palin in PoliticsNo Gravatar says:

    I thought they paid over $200,000.00 for the new lot on Lake Lucille.

    And how can 10 acre lots only cost 12,000.00, and not go up in value year after year?

    Also too, from looking at the plot map it seems to me they have access to their property, a dang fricken road runs right along it. and another one looks to be shared along lot 10 and 9.

    These lots are not out in the boonies, it’s a development, with roads, according to the map. they may not have put an official gravel road in, but they had to have cleared a way to the house location, if clearing was even necessary, from the one neighbor pic the area looks fairly open. I don’t know why I was imagining wooded pine trees, lol.

    Also too, they can’t blame Richter, this is their responsibility as land owners, and they can’t claim ignorance. If I was a land owner paying taxes on my property, I’d be looking and finding those who don’t and turning them in. It’s the law, we are required to pay taxes owed. It’s not okay for some to obey the law and others ignore it. Bust those law breakers! If they can’t afford the taxes, they can’t afford the property. Easy as that.

    I also too, agree with those saying if they cheat at the State level, they cheat at the Federal level, and on everything else.

    Would a law abiding honest Christian do this? NO

  284. 289
    barracuda78No Gravatar says:

    I’m in for a MUDFLATS PAC. . . . . .nice job AKM and everyone else. . . .

  285. 290
    michiganderNo Gravatar says:

    Hmmmm…. bubbles et al. : We could really do this if we feel so inclined! Click here: http://www.ehow.com/how_2077352_create-political-action-committee.html

    I am talking a legal PAC of course, not scamming like Lil Miss Scary! Notice at the bottom where it states that a PAC is closely regulated by the FEC…

    Waving at the FEC…ever heard of SarahPac? Just like me, she wants to be Close to You. I think we should send them a music video (o:

  286. 291
    futurexpat?No Gravatar says:

    Great reporting, AKM!

    And a huge thank you to the whistle blower, too.

  287. 292
    honestyinGovNo Gravatar says:

    290 Rick Says:
    February 4th, 2010 at 12:00 PM
    I sent a “tip” to CNN.
    Here’s the form reply.
    Thank you for contacting CNN. This email is to notify you that your news tip has been received and will be reviewed in a timely manner. You will be contacted if the news tip is valid and we need further information and verification.
    ——————–
    I sent in a Tip to them last night under my nickname and then once again today with my full name.
    I got the exact same response. It’s computer generated, so no idea if anybody will ever read it. It can’t hurt though. Rick Sanchez uses FaceBook and and Twitter as part of his program. Post a message to his FaceBook if you can.

  288. 293
    Blue IdahoNo Gravatar says:

    I still don’t see how the Palins built 3 houses and snow machine shop on their pre book income. The Palins are very tax savy and knew exactly what they were doing.

    http://www.unbossed.com/index.php?itemid=2325

  289. 294
    Blue IdahoNo Gravatar says:

    The story I linked above shows that Todd’s net income was only around 5,000. Mabie he deducted the cost of building the cabin’s and shop as a bussiness expense.

  290. 295
    KateinCanadaNo Gravatar says:

    Here’s Gawker’s 2008 report on the McCain campaign release of Sarah’s income tax- the title sounds familiar and she declared a very high income.
    http://gawker.com/5059012/sarah-palin-tax-cheat

  291. 296
    michiganderNo Gravatar says:

    Blue Idaho, I think you answered your own question with the ‘knew exactly what they were doing.’ They know how the system works, figured they could get away with it. Buying up some property in such a vast state several years back who is gonna pay attention to developements? Surely the x-Gov would report changes for the ‘good of Alaska’, it’s pretty much an honor system (It’s okay Tawd, they honor ME!)

    What sucks is they will get away with it by throwing someone under the bus. But it’s another notch.

    Loving and respecting all efforts, bit by bit the b@tch is getting whittled down (not just the plastic surgery)

  292. 297
    Lee323No Gravatar says:

    The irony is that Palin’s fans have to wrestle with the two explanations for her tax evasion and neither explanation is flattering:

    1) Palin is a tax cheat. Not flattering.

    OR

    2) Palin didn’t know she was supposed to report buildings to the assessor. Really?? This is a woman who her fans think has the brains and experience to run a town, state, or nation……and yet she appears to be an incompetent schlep about her own property tax laws? Not flattering.

    I own a large property on which I built a house after buying the land 15 years earlier. Yes, I reported it to the assessor upon building. Now my property taxes are ten times higher because of the house. Gives you an idea how much taxes can go up with “buildings”…. and why the Palins seemed to have conveniently overlooked reporting their “buildings.”

  293. 298
    laingirlNo Gravatar says:

    This story has now hit AP! Yeah, and apparently the assessor will be checking on it.

  294. 299
    WinskiNo Gravatar says:

    I think Al Capone was also busted for TAX EVASION…..tee..hee…

  295. 300
    smoochNo Gravatar says:

    My thought about the Palins’ Lake Lucille property is that since it is on a paved road with easy access for the Assessor, something may be afoot with the Assessor’s office. Yes, it is SP’s duty to apprise them of errors, but someone with easy access (the Assessor) needs to be keeping the “honest” folk honest. It is not like no one knows about the building going on in Sarahville.

  296. 301
    NOLANo Gravatar says:

    The HuffPo report says that the assessor did an aerial survey of the property. They should have photos of it, and will be able to have square footage estimates and such from that. And of course, her attorney is saying its the assessor’s fault for not knowing it was there. No way was it Sistah Sarah’s fault.
    This is getting interesting! The train-wreck that keeps on giving (sorry for the mixed metaphor, but it’s how I think of her!).

  297. 302
    seattlefanNo Gravatar says:

    This will probably hit the tee vee tomorrow. I can’t wait for her FB Ghostwritten response/excuse/lame explanation.

  298. 303
    MonaLisa (inCT)No Gravatar says:

    I’m quite p!ssed that the AP story is on HuffPo’s ‘front page’, not AKM. Anybody wanna help me get those AP-readin’ people the truth?

  299. 304
    DLBinPDXNo Gravatar says:

    I’m so pleased a bunch of us mudflats fans posting AKM’s posting links on HuffPo. We need to keep it up – the AP article is far too short and lacking details, pictures, and the great research AKM did to break this fantastic story.

  300. 305
    LiladyNYNo Gravatar says:

    #247 @ Alaska Pi Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 8:04 PM

    @240 Duct Idaho Palin Says:
    February 3rd, 2010 at 7:53 PM
    If that “land use permit” stuff is good law …

    (D)A land use permit is not required where commencement of construction or placement, as defined in MSB 17.125, occurred before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Soooo, if. . .land use permit is NOT required where commencement of construction or placement occurred before the effective date of the ordinance, which apparently is 2007, then. . .documents would have to be provided to the effect that they were done BEFORE said date – No? So they would need documentation – invoices, receipts for materials, and suchlike – nails, windows, um, plywood, etc. And if these documents cannot be provided for one reason or another, then how do they (Palins and Richter) prove the prove when these “cabins” were built and if they’re legal?

  301. 306
    JukesgrrlNo Gravatar says:

    Where I come from, there’s a reason why one doesn’t have to report buildings added to formerly empty, but taxable, property. It’s because when one adds buildings, one acquires appropriate building permits. Those permits are forwarded to the taxing body and a tax assessor looks at the buildings to assess value before an occupancy permit is granted. Tax assessments usually also play a part in how an insurer writes a property insurance policy. Don’t you folks in Alaska have requirements like that? If you do, then she should also be fined for breaking three or four other laws.

    Congrats to the AK Muckraker for breaking another story — and many thanks to the sender of the mystery envelope!

  302. 307
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    I still have not figured out who owns lot 11. Why do they own lots 10 and 12 but not 11? No one owns 11? However, at some point there was a document called a Patent signed from 2004 on lots 10 and 11 together that says the lot’s grantee was a woman named Janet Henkel from Wasilla and the grantor was the State of Alaska. Then in 2007 is the quitclaim deed removing Richter’s wife.

    I can’t figure out when the property went from Henkel to Richter and where on earth lot 11 went.

  303. 308
    ocguyNo Gravatar says:

    I didn’t see a direct post of the link for Google maps, so here it is:

    http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=safari+lake+ak&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=34.808514,56.337891&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Safari+Lake&ll=62.456075,-150.577208&spn=0.002481,0.006877&t=h&z=17

    You can toggle between satellite view and map view to see the building versus the lot. This one is lot 10. I looked on lot 12 but could not see any buildings there.

    Anyway, there were lots of stories about a flyover to “verify the buildings” seems to me that google maps is a lot simpler, although maybe they got close enough on the flyover to actually try and asses the value :-)

  304. 309
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    1,500 comments on the HuffPo site!

    (ds55) <<=== big numbers impress me

  305. 310
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    Jennifer – Here’s a link for the sale, recorded 3/5/04, from Janet Henkel to the Palins and Richters.

    http://dnr.alaska.gov/ssd/recoff/sag/DocDisplay.cfm?SelectedDoc=20040003590&District=321

  306. 311
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    @ curioser: They bought two lots for a total of ten dollars? What the… ?

  307. 312
    RickNo Gravatar says:

    I wouldn’t be surprised if Kristin Cole were involved in this as an “advisor”. As a real estate person, she knows all the ins and outs of getting around things. This is from someone who bought a house from her.

  308. 313
    A fan from CANo Gravatar says:

    Regarding the new house in Wasilla, the Assessor is probably doing the new appraisals since it was only built late last year. Usually the appraisal is the value as of Jan 1. A lag time is not unusual.

    I noticed AKM’s diary on the front page this morning in the left column. AP must have gotten the idea from that unless they are reading the flats, also too? Anyways glad to see this go viral since it is real news.

  309. 314
    RickNo Gravatar says:

    Glad this story is getting legs.

  310. 315
    ds55No Gravatar says:

    From the HuffPo/AP story:

    “This is another blatant attempt to manufacture a story about the Palins following more defamatory swipes,” Palin’s spokeswoman Meghan Stapleton said in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

    She’s baaaack!

  311. 316
    MarthaNo Gravatar says:

    Congratulations AKM!!

    Whilst I listened to the first part of the radio interview with SM I heard you say that the envelope was given to you and the newspaper records had $P’s quote, so there wasn’t much work involved………something like that.

    It is much more than that……you should take a bow, accept some praise!

    We readers realize how humbling It must be to be the person trusted with “the envelope”.

    Alaska, as you have said “is a small town”.

    People trusted you to do your well-known due diligence with this story.

    You should feel comforted to know that you do such a good job, folks have that kind of faith in you.

    The bloggers in Alaska have a great synergy, while maintaining uniquely talented and interesting “offerings” .

    It is just wonderful that Ms. Moore has her radio program up and running!!

    I hope she and her guests are appreciated. I think of her as Maddow North.

    It is amazing however small a radio station or program may be……..it helps take a good story to a national level.

    Congrats again as I picture you taking a much deserved bow………………..

  312. 317
    SphincterkaosNo Gravatar says:

    Henkel purchased lots 10 & 11 for $12k in October 2001.

    http://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/appraise/detail.cfm?auc=411&par=120

  313. 318
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    Correction for my #201 comment about the Alexander Creek property – Using a different browser I was able to look at the actual quitclaim deeds. The deeds show that Todd was given a PARTIAL interest in the property and NOT 100% as I suspected. I don’t know whether Brad Hanson has an interest or not. I’m so sorry if I sent anyone off down a wrong street.

  314. 319
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    #313 ds55 – They likely paid a bunch more than $10. There would also be a purchase or sales agreement with the total sales amount that is not a public document and not recorded. The $10 is just what shows on the deed…$10 and other valuable consideration. Common practice.

  315. 320

    Yay, AKM!!! I see that you are mentioned on the msnbc story as the source of this latest information about Ms. Palin. Made me smile and giggle. Cool. I’m glad she’s finally being called to account for her sneaky-snake-in-the-grass behavior.

  316. 321
    MarthaNo Gravatar says:

    I posted this on Huff Po on Rachel D’oro’s “ditty”.

    She really , as the English say……………… gets on my tits!!

    We shall see if it makes it past the moderator.

    Congratulations on taking this story from Jeanne Devon AKM Mudflats and the AP to make it “your own”.

    Jeanne Devon broke this story yesterday……..

    Funny how you qualify the Mudflats blog as “critical” of Palin, (it is about so much more than SP) and Palin as writing a “best selling memoir” and recently signed on “FOX news, (you actually refer to FOX as news, even when Rupert denies it!) commentator.

    So we have the person who broke this story as a “critical blogger” and Palin, your subject matter as some type of success.

    I suppose when the best you can do is regurgitate day old news, you must be dismissive of the the original author whilst elevating the controversial (to say the least) person the story is about.

    Link to yesterday’s breaking news from Jeanne’s post here at Huffington:

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/akmuckraker/sarah-palin—tax-cheat-c_b_448137.html

  317. 322
    MarthaNo Gravatar says:

    Congratulations on taking this story from Jeanne Devon AKM Mudflats and the AP to make it “your own”.

    Jeanne Devon broke this story yesterday……..

    Funny how you qualify the Mudflats blog as “critical” of Palin, (it is about so much more than SP) and Palin as writing a “best selling memoir” and recently signed on “FOX news, (you actually refer to FOX as news, even when Rupert denies it!) commentator.

    So we have the person who broke this story as a “critical blogger” and Palin, your subject matter as some type of success.

    I suppose when the best you can do is regurgitate day old news, you must be dismissive of the the original author whilst elevating the controversial (to say the least) person the story is about.

    Link to yesterday’s breaking news from Jeanne’s post here at Huffington:

  318. 323
    EthanNo Gravatar says:

    This is a very significant scoop!

  319. 324
    SphincterkaosNo Gravatar says:

    @ 323 curiouser Says:
    February 4th, 2010 at 11:07 PM
    #313 ds55 – They likely paid a bunch more than $10. There would also be a purchase or sales agreement with the total sales amount that is not a public document and not recorded. The $10 is just what shows on the deed…$10 and other valuable consideration. Common practice.

    +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

    Janet Henkel purchased lots 10 & 11 for $12k in October 2001.

    http://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/appraise/detail.cfm?auc=411&par=120

    Laast I knew, husband Tom runs T & J Gravel Products in Palmer.

  320. 325
    IrishgirlNo Gravatar says:

    Just hearing the news. Haven’t been to huffpo yet. Congrats AKM – I hope you get the credit for this.

  321. 326
    OkladNo Gravatar says:

    @323 Martha..

    Your post at HuffPo made it through the moderators.. Good job…:)
    .

  322. 327
    heidi1No Gravatar says:

    Hi Mudflats! Just found your blog by reading the BIG AP STORY about Sarah Palin’s “cabin(s)”. Folks, this is huge news, and congratulations for breaking the story.

    I live in Southern California, and this type of tax-assessment problem/non-payment on improved property would land someone in jail in a heartbeat. Here, any building you do, even a patio, has to be signed off by the City’s engineering and building departments, all building inspections done on a timely and rigorous basis, etc. Quite complicated, but easy enough if you follow the rules. OF COURSE, all of this construction information is instantly sent to the county tax assessor’s office. Ta-Da…you now owe property taxes on the improved lot according to square footage of home, as well it should be.

    Here’s my latest worry: Now that the Palins are “millionaires” (don’t get me started on that), won’t they just pay the delinquent taxes, and the problem will vanish? Or, will “intent to deceive” need to be proven, since it doesn’t seem apparent that any attempt was made to inform the assessor’s office that the buildings were signed off for habitation? Or even existed at all?

    I reiterate: This is huge news, and congratulations, Alaskans, for bringing this new outrage to light. The entire USA is now watching the story…yes, this story definitely has “legs”.

  323. 328
    ANo Gravatar says:

    Don’t you need a building permit in Alaska? Were these ‘cabins’ built legally?

  324. 329
    sachetNo Gravatar says:

    The Palins are crooks.

  325. 330
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    Thanks curioser. I am now really confused, though, because everything else implies that the Palins and Richter don’t own lot 11 anymore. I can’t find lot 11 on http://www.matsugov.us/myproperty/list.aspx?Choice=subdiv&searchParm=2357. Did lot 11 become PART of lot 10 or 12 or both? If so, would that have needed a new deed of some sort?

    Also, I just think it’s WEIRD that they would share ownership of two (plus) lots. Why not each family own their own lot? So they all own a lot and all own two houses on one lot and nothing is built on the other lots? That doesn’t make sense. I also wonder who is there when they aren’t there? It would be interesting if they rent it out and don’t report a profit… TOTAL speculation on my part, of course.

    Does ANYONE still have their tax returns? Every link I have tried goes to McCain’s campaign site and it’s now his Senate re-election site. I’d really like to see how many properties they have on there for deductions.

  326. 331
    BBHoundsNo Gravatar says:

    I think this earns AKM a spot on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart!

  327. 332
    curiouserNo Gravatar says:

    Jennifer – Confusing, indeed! For some reason the tax assessment doesn’t show all the lots detailed in the deeds. Lot 10&11 were deeded together to the Palins and the Richters. What shows as lot 12 on the tax assessment includes lots 12, 13 & 14 on the deed.

    Links for the tax returns are in a comment about 1/2 way down this page.

    http://palingates.blogspot.com/2010/02/breaking-news-jeanne-devon-mudflats.html#dsq-comments

  328. 333
    SyrinNo Gravatar says:

    FYI… I can’t find my comment
    …..to let you know that the largest building ‘cabin’ on Safari Lake for over 15 years has a name… The Todd Mahal

  329. 334
    JenniferNo Gravatar says:

    I found this in the “emails” released today. This really shoots down VanFlein’s first attempt of blaming someone else:

    http://www.crivellawest.net/pdf/970.pdf

    From: gov.sarah@yahoo.com
    To: Todd ; Mason, Janice L (GOV); Perry, Kristina Y (GOV)
    Sent: Mon Mar 10 04:12:22 2008
    Subject: APOC
    I’m going to sumbit my APOC disclosure forms asap, they’re due in a few days, so I’ll need the
    camapign-recived gift list that discloses those items worth (whatever the amount it)… I believe it’s
    held in both the Anchorage and Juneau offices?
    Also, Todd- what’s the # for SmithBarney so I can get a list of all your 401 K plan holdings. And did
    Bristol and Willow get paid for comm fishing in ’07? How much? And who were the fish buyers last
    season? And no changes in properties bought/sold last year, correct? The buying/selling took place
    in ’06, 1 believe? And legally Deb Richter’s name is off the cabin property, correct?

  330. 335
    ANo Gravatar says:

    Can someone please search those e-mails for the word ‘retarded’…

  331. 336
    HannahNo Gravatar says:

    If you get on GoogleEarth and search on Safari Lake Alaska, the resolution isn’t as good as on Google Earth that was supplied in #311above (thanks!), but if you zoom in there are photos (marked by blue boxes) from two properties nearby that show how stunning the views of Mt. McKinley are from that area.

    That said, Sarah is a tax cheat, a liar, and a fraud (but we already knew that) – and she’s afraid of the drug junkie (Limbaugh). Every day, in every way, people are learning what a fraud she is.

    Keep it going, AKM!!!


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