Taxes

Lincoln County residents showed up to a town hall to voice their disapproval on property tax increases. The issue is one much of the state is tackling right now.

TIF districts are a controversial use of tax dollars, especially when the public is opposed to what those dollars are funding. In Rapid City, strong opposition led to one major TIF being put to a special election.

Property taxes are one of the state’s biggest headlines heading into the next legislative session. With 19 recommendations from committee ranging from minor to radical, other lawmakers are beginning to weigh in.

A total of three ballot questions are approved for signature petitions this election cycle in South Dakota.

The day-long property tax committee hearing reflects the challenges of navigating the subject. As South Dakotans want relief, the state is already a low-tax haven.

The long-controversial Libertyland theme park will now have its fate in the hands of local voters.

The state's annual report on active TIF districts across South Dakota finds there were 264 of the often-controversial districts as of 2024.

As tax increment finance, or TIF, districts continue to be debated, they were an item of focus at the most recent meeting of the state comprehensive property tax task force. Some lawmakers still aren’t convinced of their effectiveness.

In the offseason, lawmakers are trying to figure out how to deliver promised property tax cuts while keeping government functioning.

The plans would utilize taxpayer dollars to develop areas that would surround or directly benefit new fast-food locations as a draw to expand into Rapid City.