Opposition Growing To Property Tax Reform Measure in North Dakota

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR/NORTH DAKOTA MONITOR) — A proposed statewide property tax reform measure would cost the state about $1.3 billion each fiscal year and the idea is already facing opposition.

The proposed measure would end property taxes based on assessed value and rely on the state to fund budgets for counties, cities and school districts.

A memo from the Legislative Council says it would amount to 40 percent of the general fund budget and nearly 13 percent of the overall state budget.

Former state legislator and U.S. House candidate Rick Becker is leading the sponsoring committee called “End Unfair Property Tax”.

The committee has a June 29 deadline to submit around 31,000 valid signatures to the Secretary of State’s Office for verification to get it on the November ballot.

A group called “Keep It Local North Dakota” plans a press conference on Thursday at Fargo Sports Center to speak out against the effort.

The group is a diverse coalition representing various community and political groups committed to preserving vital public services.