News Details

Wednesday, July 11, 2007                                                              

For More Information:  Dean Fiihr, 515-281-0817

OLSON APPOINTED TO PROPERTY
TAX COMMITTEE

Des Moines, Iowa – State Representative Tyler Olson of Cedar Rapids has been appointed to the Legislative Property Tax Study Committee by Iowa House Speaker Pat Murphy of Dubuque.  The committee is established for the 2007 and 2008 legislative interims to perform a comprehensive review of the property tax system. 

“Iowans can trust Rep. Olson to study the facts and help craft a property tax plan that is fair to everyone.  After 30 years the system has become unbalanced.  We can’t fix the problem overnight, but I’m optimistic that we can find a long-term solution that is more equitable,” said Murphy.

The Legislative Property Tax Study Committee will be co-chaired by State Representative Phil Wise of Keokuk and State Senator Joe Bolkcom of Iowa City.  There are 10 members of the committee and it will likely begin meeting this fall.

"Iowa needs to take a long look at its tax structure and, in particular, property tax structure to make sure we can continue our strong business growth and economic development.   While Iowa's overall tax rate is average among Midwestern states, we need to deal with the commercial property tax rate and its effect on small business," concluded Olson.

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