Referendum questions for certain referenda that affect property taxes. (FE)
Impact
If enacted, AB60 would introduce new requirements for referenda processes related to property taxes, including detailed disclosures about the estimated financial implications of a tax increase. This means that voters would have more comprehensive information available to them when deciding on tax-related matters. Proponents of the bill argue that informing voters of the specific financial impact on median-value homes would lead to more informed decision-making in local elections regarding tax increases.
Summary
Assembly Bill 60 aims to modify the procedures for referenda concerning property taxes in the state of Wisconsin. Under current law, various local governmental units, including counties, cities, and school districts, can exceed their property tax levy limits if voters approve such increases through a referendum. This bill intends to enhance transparency by requiring that the ballots for these referenda not only state the dollar amount of the increase but also include a good faith estimate of the resultant impact on property taxes for a median-valued single-family home within the district or municipality involved.
Contention
While there is support for this bill based on the premise of increased transparency, it may face opposition from local governmental bodies that argue the additional requirements could complicate the referendum process. Critics might claim that these new regulations could deter voters from approving necessary tax increases due to an overwhelming focus on potential costs, ultimately affecting funding for essential services. Therefore, the bill could spark debates regarding the balance between voter empowerment and the practicality of executing referenda.
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)