County leaders warn possible 3% cap and urge outreach to legislators as property‑tax debate heats up

Walsh County commissioners who attended a capital‑connections session in Bismarck reported Monday that state lawmakers are discussing a mix of property‑tax relief and reform measures that could affect county budgets, including a potential 3% cap on local levy increases.

Commissioner Paul and others summarized panel discussions with state legislative leaders about two broad approaches to tax relief: a homeowner tax credit (relief) and statutory limits on local rate or levy increases (reform). Commissioners said the governor’s proposal includes a larger homeowner property‑tax credit while some bills in the Legislature would impose a 3% cap on local budget increases.

Commissioners warned that a strict cap could sharply limit county revenue growth. A staff analysis cited at the meeting suggested that a 3% cap would allow Walsh County roughly $118,000 in additional general revenue under the county’s current tax base—an amount one commissioner noted would be insufficient to cover modest personnel cost increases the county had already considered.

The Board urged residents and municipal leaders to contact state senators and representatives to explain local budget pressures and said commissioners and staff will continue to monitor bills, including several still under consideration. Commissioners said the legislative process is fast‑moving and urged communication with state legislators to preserve county flexibility or secure alternative funding for critical infrastructure needs such as bridges and jails.

Ending: Commissioners said they will continue outreach to legislators and report back on bill progress and any impacts on the county budget.