Iowa local governments and business groups say they generally support getting rid of the state’s complicated property tax rollback system, but continue to explore the fiscal toll they would face from statehouse Republican’s proposed “reboot” and overhaul the state’s property tax system.
Dozens of stakeholders representing Iowa businesses, pork producers, builders and local taxing entities — from cites, counties and schools to hospitals and regional transit services — said they remain “undecided” on the 52-page proposal as they continue to study and analyze potential impacts from the myriad changes proposed.
Property owners across Johnson County have received letters detailing expected property tax rates as required by state law, but county and city officials are warning that the letters are not reflective of what taxpayers can expect to pay.
The legislation would phase out the rollback and cap the revenue that local governments are allowed to collect.
Past property tax legislation may lead to future financial pressures, North Liberty City Manager Ryan Heiar says.
Iowa City City Manager Geoff Fruin called this year’s city budget “the most difficult” since he joined the city in 2016. The city is projecting a deficit of $2.8 million in its general fund, which it will cover using general fund reserves.
Iowa cities, counties and school districts would be prohibited from using taxpayer funding to pay statehouse lobbyists under legislation considered in the Iowa Senate.
Property tax cuts, changes to Iowa’s higher education system and a statewide policy over cellphone use in schools are among the priorities state lawmakers intend to tackle when the Iowa Legislature convenes Monday for the 2025 session.
Republican leadership in both the Iowa House and Senate said Iowans should expect to see further action to limit property tax collections by cities, counties, school districts and others during the upcoming legislative session.
Williamsburg Mayor Adam Grier and Judd Lawler of Oxford will face off in a primary for Iowa House District 91, which covers Iowa County and western and northern Johnson County
Critics argue accelerated cuts hurt schools, public services
Iowa libraries and museums warn of financial losses as a result of property tax changes signed into law last year.
Cedar, Benton, Ida and Shelby voters OK tax for improved ambulance service.
A look back at the top news stories from the week of May 22
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