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Commissioners say Home Rule could change taxes, zoning and county operations
Summary
Commissioners argued at a May 14 special session that Home Rule could alter taxation and zoning authority, allow county staffing practices modeled on private business, and help recruit candidates; they tied these points to concerns about recent state property tax rules and funding shortfalls.
Commission Chair Kurt Elliott and fellow commissioners laid out a case for Home Rule during a May 14 special meeting. They told the public the proposed charter could affect a range of local authorities, including taxation and zoning, and could permit county staff to operate with more private-sector practices intended to improve efficiency and accountability.
The minutes record commissioners saying those governance changes could help attract qualified candidates to county office. Commissioners also linked their support to recent state actions on property tax regulations, arguing that state-imposed requirements following a 2024 ballot measure defeat have complicated the county’s financial picture and operations. The minutes do not cite specific statutes or provide dollar amounts for the funding shortfalls the commissioners described.
Michelle Mooney, the Traill County tax assessor, reiterated her support for Home Rule during the public Q&A and referenced similar comments she made at a May 12 meeting. The record shows recurring public concern and continued discussion ahead of the June 9 ballot.
