Last week, Thank LGA held a press conference in Richfield with homeowners who are concerned about their rising property taxes. Twin Cities channels KSMP Fox 9 News and KSTP TV both have stories.
As a result of reduced state aid, property taxpayers across the state have seen their taxes jump 65% over the past six years. During the same time period, local governments have actually spent LESS on city services such as police, fire protection, parks, and libraries. How can this be? Total city and town revenue, which includes property tax payments and state aid, has significantly decreased since 2002, in large part due to years of underfunding property tax relief programs like LGA. Even the large property tax increases haven’t been enough to recover lost LGA, and in the end, this means property taxpayers are paying more and getting less in return.
The state’s budget deficit is daunting, and cities are willing to play a part in the budget-balancing solution. However, deep cuts to LGA—such as those proposed by Governor Pawlenty—will weaken our communities and shift additional tax burden to property taxpayers. If affordable, safe, and strong communities are important to you, contact your legislators and the governor and tell them to support LGA.