Taxes

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.

While the state improved its national ranking for teacher pay during the 23-24 school year, it’s still in the bottom five. However, advocates say future solutions aren’t going to come easy as the Legislature looks to cut a major education funding source.

When it comes to discussion over how to address rising property taxes, a philosophical discussion at the heart of state politics came into play. Skepticism around economic development is creeping into South Dakota.

A legislative task force is looking to cut property taxes by almost $900 million. A tax shift might be on the table, but some lawmakers say it might not be a one-size-fits-all approach.

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken said the city is planning to reduce $8-10 million of funding in the city’s budget. He said the root cause is a property tax relief bill the state Legislature passed this year.