Yet despite the high cost of borrowing, 55 bond proposals totaling more than $1.6 billion will be on the ballot for Iowa voters this November. Even more striking in this interest rate environment is that 18 local governments — 15 school districts, two counties, and one community college — are returning with repeat bond requests.
Across Iowa, local officials are asking voters to approve more than $1 billion in new bond debt this November — often with the soothing assurance that these projects “won’t raise your taxes.” But that promise deserves scrutiny. It’s like paying off your car loan, immediately financing the purchase of a new one, and insisting it doesn’t cost more — just because the monthly payment stayed the same. ...
Iowa taxpayers are being asked to carry more each year, with little say in how much heavier the load becomes. Rising property taxes are not the result of some mysterious formula—they stem from local government budgets that grow faster than family budgets.
Take a look at your school district's taxes, spending, and student achievement.
The proposed property tax levy and public hearing notice you received in the mail is confusing. As taxpayers, we simply want to know how much our property tax bill is increasing.Use our calculator to see how your tax bill will change.
Iowans expect quality public services at a reasonable cost. However, property taxes in Iowa are growing faster than they should. Use the information on this site to learn more about your community, share with your neighbors, and start a conversation with your city council, county supervisors, and school board.
Legislators, your constituents are crying out for real relief. The only way to deliver the results Iowans expect is to stand firm and tell local governments to limit their spending. The only thing growing faster than property tax bills is the anger over them. In 20 years, property taxes have grown 110 percent while inflation […]
Despite claims from some critics, this revenue drop is not a cause for concern. It’s proof that the tax cuts are doing exactly what they were meant to do. The Latest Forecast: What You Need to Know During the most recent Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) meeting in October, Director Paulsen, head of the Department of […]
Iowa has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past six years, largely driven by Governor Kim Reynolds’ bold and innovative tax reforms. Her leadership has not only put Iowa on the map for pro-growth policies but has earned her national recognition. The Tax Foundation honored her with the 2024 Distinguished Service Award, and she received […]