To obtain a lien for work done to bring a property into compliance, with whom must the mayor file a statement of expense?

• A. County Clerk
• B. City Clerk
• C. Recorder of Deeds
• D. Treasurer

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how a city ensures a nuisance abatement expense becomes a real-property lien. To perfect that lien and attach it to the property, the city must file a statement of expense with the official who records real property liens and related instruments in the county. In Texas, that responsibility rests with the County Clerk, who maintains the public records for deeds, liens, and other property documents. Once filed, the lien runs with the land and is enforceable against the property, ensuring the city can recover the costs if the owner doesn’t pay.

The City Clerk handles internal city records, not the formal record of property liens. The Recorder of Deeds performs a similar function in some jurisdictions, but in Texas practice the applicable filing is with the County Clerk. The Treasurer handles financial affairs, not recording liens against property.