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Lawrence administration cites risk from state bills, introduces lobbyists to council as property tax debate proceeds
Summary
City administration and two retained lobbyists told the Lawrence Common Council on Feb. 3 that proposed state legislation cutting business personal property tax could sharply reduce local revenue and that the city is actively lobbying to protect its budget and local authority.
City administration and two outside lobbyists told the Lawrence Common Council on Feb. 3 that proposed state legislation to reduce business personal property taxes could sharply reduce the city’s revenue and that the city is actively lobbying to protect local authority.
Administration officials said House Bill 14-02 and Senate Bill 443 (as described in council remarks) could allow business personal property tax reductions over a multiyear period and potentially reduce local funding. The administration noted that about 43–45% of the city’s general fund revenue came from property taxes in 2024, and said changes would materially affect public safety, economic development and municipal services.
The council heard briefings from Angela Bender of Krige & DeVault and Scott Carr of Catalyst, the two firms the city has engaged. Scott Carr described one avenue under discussion: an interlocal agreement with the City of Indianapolis to give Lawrence greater zoning flexibility without waiting for statutory change; the firms and administration said they are simultaneously pursuing statutory amendments at the Indiana Statehouse and negotiations with Indianapolis. Lobbyists cautioned, however, that the legislative calendar and political dynamics make outcomes uncertain.
Councilors asked about prior work and contract terms. Administration staff said the city previously approved professional services contracts and that the current retention is being pursued with the intent to continue advocacy through the 2025 legislative session; the city will bring any contract exceeding the council’s $50,000 threshold back for council approval.
Administration and lobbyists also discussed other state-level matters including road funding and community-crossing grants and said the new state administration has many new officials and legislators who will require education about Marion County cities’ needs.
The council was urged to monitor the progress of the bills and the administration’s lobbying; no formal council action was taken on contracting Feb. 3.
