Poll Supports Property Tax Relief But Not Taking Control Away from Locals

NACO and the League of Municipalities Hold Joint Press Conference The Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) and the League of Nebraska Municipalities held a joint news conference at 10:15 a.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the Capitol Rotunda in Lincoln. Among participants were and League President Deb VanMatre and Mark Schoenrock, Jefferson County Commissioner and NACO board member.The purpose of the conference was to present the results of a statewide poll commissioned by both organizations.While both organizations support Governor Jim Pillen's overall goal of providing additional property tax relief using state sources of revenue, they have raised concerns about some elements of the governor's tax packages.One major concern is maintaining local government control. The League notes that the poll results indicate strong opposition to a hard cap on municipalities ability to raise taxes. Over three fifths of Nebraska voters oppose the proposal to cap property taxes, including almost 40 percent who strongly oppose the proposal. When asked to choose between two statements, one of which sides with local spending flexibility and the other with a hard cap on local spending, the poll notes 80 percent side with providing spending flexibility to local governments.Local officials want to ensure property tax relief does not come at the expense of local services. Schoenrock explained the complex balancing act in his opening statement, “We are committed to work with Governor Pillen and the legislature to accomplish the objective of tax reform for all Nebraskans and to ensure that our local and county governments will continue to have the revenue needed to provide essential services to our fellow citizens.”

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