North Dakota’s Measure 4: What You Need to Know Before the November Election

As we approach November 5, North Dakota voters will be heading to the polls to make critical decisions at the local, state, and national levels. One of the most talked-about topics on the state ballot is Measure 4, a proposal that could significantly impact how property taxes are handled in North Dakota. With a lot at stake, it’s important for voters to stay informed on both sides of the issue.

What is Measure 4?

Measure 4 is designed to change how local and state governments in North Dakota can tax the value of homes. Specifically, if passed, the measure would prohibit the state and local governments from levying taxes on the assessed value of a home. However, it’s important to note that taxes could still be levied on other factors related to a home, such as square footage or special assessments like water and sewer services.

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One of the most significant parts of Measure 4 is the limitation it would place on the amount of debt that political subdivisions, such as counties and cities, can take on. Currently, cities, counties, and school districts can take on debt through bonds and other means that are paid off using property tax revenue. Under Measure 4, the debt limit for political subdivisions would be capped at 2.5% of the value of real property. However, cities could raise this cap to 4% with a two-thirds majority vote, while school districts could raise it to 5% with a simple majority.

Additionally, cities could become indebted by an extra 2% specifically for water and sewer projects. Another key element of the measure is that, starting January 1, 2025, political subdivisions would no longer be able to issue general obligation bonds that are repaid using property taxes.

What Does This Mean for Property Owners?

If Measure 4 is passed, property owners in North Dakota could see a reduction in the amount of taxes they pay based on the assessed value of their homes. This could ease the tax burden for homeowners, but local governments would also need to find new ways to fund services and projects that are traditionally supported by property tax revenue.

The state government would be required to replace the property tax revenue lost by local governments in an amount equal to what they levied on personal property as of 2024. This is a key point for voters to consider, as it raises questions about how the state will find the funds to make up for this loss in revenue.

Get Informed: Public Forum on Measure 4

To help the public better understand Measure 4, a forum will be held on September 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the Raymond Center in Williston, North Dakota. This event will feature presentations from Rick Becker, Rod Backman, and Robert Harms, who will present arguments both in support of and in opposition to the measure.

The forum will provide an opportunity for residents to hear from experts on both sides of the issue and ask questions in a casual, open setting. Whether you’re for or against Measure 4, attending this forum is a great way to stay informed and engage in the democratic process.

With a measure that could potentially change the landscape of property taxes in North Dakota, it’s important for voters to carefully consider the impact of their decision on November 5. Measure 4 could reduce the property tax burden for homeowners, but it also raises questions about how local governments will fund essential services. To learn more, make sure to attend the public forum or research both sides of the issue to ensure you cast an informed vote.