ST. PAUL – Rep. Jerry Hertaus, R-Greenfield, invites area citizens to provide input regarding property taxes during a meeting 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at Wayzata City Hall.
Hertaus, who represents District 33A in the Minnesota Legislature, is a member of the House committee on property taxes. He said the meeting is categorized as a “listening session” where citizens are encouraged to express their concerns and ideas regarding property tax reform as the Legislature considers action during the current 2015 session.
“As members of the west metro community, studies indicate local residents pay a larger percentage of their incomes on property taxes than most other parts of the state,” Hertaus said. “While property taxes are driven by local units of government such as schools, cities and counties, commercial and industrial properties, and seasonal recreational are additionally taxed by the state government. All local units of government are concerned about increased burdens placed on them by unfunded state mandates and how that burden ultimately affects property taxpayers.”
Other legislators also are scheduled to attend the listening session. This includes Rep. Cindy Pugh, R-Chanhassen, of neighboring District 33B, along with House Property Tax and Local Government Finance Division Chairman Steve Drazkowski, R-Mazeppa.
“Our objective is to gather real-life examples of circumstances and situations local residents face in regard to property taxes,” Hertaus said. “We welcome ideas for reforms from people in this area.”
Wayzata City Hall is located at 600 Rice St. E.
-30-