Property tax measure is an ‘amazing’ opportunity for North Dakota

The property tax measure is an amazing opportunity for North Dakota. Unfortunately, misinformation is being repeated by lobbyists and politicians. The measure requires the state to replace all property taxes levied in 2024, in that amount, every year. Additional needs will be met, not by levying property tax, but by implementing fees that are completely determined by your local officials. We local citizens have far more input and control with these types of fees than with property tax.

The legislature will use a portion of what they’re overspending to give significant, permanent relief to the citizens, and we still maintain local control by having cities and counties 100% in charge of their budget and raising revenue. You’ll forever keep what you currently pay in property tax, only paying for new increases by more transparent means.

The lobbyists and officials completely misrepresent the measure, whether intentional or not. Their intent is to scare you into opposing the measure. It worked in 2012, and that’s their plan again. The president of the teacher’s union says we won’t be able to hire more teachers. The director of League of Cities claims a new fire truck won’t be affordable. The president of the Association of Counties says they will have to get in line at the legislature to beg for money. Even Governor Burgum is making completely false statements. What do all these people have in common? They have not even asked the sponsors about the measure, and they refuse to debate it with me publicly. They believe if they say it often enough without being challenged, you will believe them.

This measure is the most significant opportunity for real tax relief that you, your kids and your grandchildren will ever have. Please don’t let lobbyists and politicians scare you out of doing what’s best.

Becker resides in Bismarck.