Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Governor-elect Culver Honors Campaign Pledge and Forms Tax Commission
New Task Force will Develop Potential Legislation to Provide Tax Relief for Commercial Property Owners
(Des Moines) Today, Governor-elect Chet Culver announced the formation of the Iowa Commercial Property Tax Commission of 2007 in remarks at the 71st Annual Meeting and Tax Symposium of the Iowa Taxpayers Association. The Governor-elect’s new commission will shape legislative proposals to provide tax relief for commercial property owners in Iowa.
“During the campaign, there was an issue that was raised at nearly every stop,” Culver said. “That issue is commercial property tax rates, and it’s a serious problem.”
According to a study conducted by the ITA in 2006, Iowa’s commercial property tax rates are among the top five highest among states in urban areas. Rural areas do not fare much better, with commercial rates in the top ten.
“The goal is that tax policy in this administration will be fair, equitable, and easy to understand,” Culver said. “Using those principles as a guide, the commission will seek out innovative ways to provide tax relief for Iowa small business owners.”
The development of the task force is the realization of a campaign pledge Culver made during his campaign for Governor.
“My word is my bond,” Culver said. “Months ago, I made a promise to Iowans to form a commission to investigate and recommend tax relief for commercial property owners. Today, that promise made will be a promise kept.”
The commission will hold its first public meeting on Wednesday, December 20. The findings of the commission will be made public on Tuesday, January 16.
Commercial Property Tax Commission Leadership
Co-Chairs
- Teri Goodmann – Dubuque Regional Airport Commission Chair; Dubuque Initiatives Board Member
- Mike King – Chairman of the Union County Board of Supervisors; Iowa State Association of Counties Board of Directors (2004-current)