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Committee backs resolution urging state to shift real estate transfer fee split toward counties
Summary
The committee approved sending a resolution supporting a proposed change in how state collects and shares real estate transaction (transfer) fees — moving toward a greater county share and forwarding the item to the county board consent agenda.
Committee members reviewed a resolution that supports a proposal in the state biennial budget to alter real estate transaction (transfer) fee distribution between the state and counties.
Logan and other staff explained the current split and the proposal: the county currently keeps 20% of transfer fees while the state retains 80%; the budget proposal would phase the split toward approximately 50/50 by 2026, staff said. The packet also noted a proposed reduction in the per‑thousand rate, described in the state proposal as moving from 3 per $1,000 to 2 per $1,000 (as described in the budget materials). Staff cautioned that the fee change is in the state budget and the resolution is a county expression of support for the county share adjustment rather than a state rule change.
Committee members discussed how the distribution affects land information programs (aerial photography, lidar, mapping) and why some state retention supports equalization across counties. A member observed that returning a larger share to counties could help fund local land information activities.
The committee moved the resolution to the county board consent agenda; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.
