BAY MINETTE — Baldwin County property tax bills became delinquent Tuesday, and Revenue Commissioner Phil Nix said $67 million — roughly one-third of taxes scheduled for collection — have been forwarded to municipalities, schools and other governmental entities.

Meanwhile, Al Thompson, chairman of the Baldwin County Board of Equalization, said the board met Tuesday to organize protest hearings for about 14,500 property owners who have appealed their tax bills.

Nix said checks are mailed twice a month as tax monies are processed. On Monday, about $19 million had been distributed.

“We should forward all monies within the next two cycles, or 30 days,” Nix said. Those funds will not include delinquent property bills or residents who appealed their taxes to the BOE.

Thompson said the state Department of Revenue  has allotted 180 days for the hearings which he expects to begin in late February or early March.

“Tuesday’s meeting was very informal and there was no agenda,” Thompson said. “We are trying to come up with plans, going over minor clerical things and trying to make the hearings as smooth and efficient as we can.”

Thompson said he did not expect the hearings to take 180 days. He said the BOE reviewed about 3,000 appeals a month last year.

Appealers will soon receive appointment letters setting up informal meetings between appraisers who reviewed the properties and the owners.

Property owners have the option of discussing their case over the phone, sending written documentation or meeting in person.

Following the informal hearing, an “approve” or “disapprove” letter will be mailed to property owners who will then have the option to present their evidence to the BOE for consideration.

Property owners who filed appeals do not have to pay taxes until the BOE makes a ruling.