Woodbury County legislators express concerns over property tax reform impacts on local services

Concerns over local governance and funding challenges dominated the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 20, 2025. Supervisors expressed frustration over state-level decisions that threaten local authority and financial stability, particularly impacting rural communities.

One supervisor highlighted the disconnect between state legislators and local needs, stating, "They can sit, you know, 180 miles away and take away the authority and the power from the duly elected local officials." This sentiment underscored worries that rural residents would bear the brunt of budget cuts and service reductions due to new state restrictions.

The discussion also touched on the implications of pending legislation, including a proposed 2% revenue growth allowance, which many supervisors believe does not adequately reflect the rising costs faced by local departments. "We can't fund this through reserves," one supervisor noted, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these financial constraints.

Despite efforts to engage with state legislators, supervisors reported a lack of responsiveness to their concerns. "None of them were... concerned about what the supervisors have said," one supervisor remarked, indicating a troubling trend of diminishing local control.

As the board navigates these challenges, they are also grappling with budget requests from essential services like paramedics and law enforcement. The need for adequate funding is critical, yet the board acknowledged that they may have to delay many requests due to financial limitations.

The meeting concluded with a call for public engagement, urging residents to voice their concerns to state representatives. "If that doesn't sit well with them, pick up the phone or send an email to your representative," a supervisor advised, reinforcing the importance of local advocacy in the face of looming legislative changes. The board's next steps will be crucial as they seek to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of their community.