PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) A new bill could help counties save money and address staffing shortages.
House Bill 1194, passed by the State House Tuesday, would allow counties to combine their Director of Equalization offices, which could improve efficiency and reduce costs.
These directors ensure property is properly assessed and placed on tax rolls. Rep. Drew Peterson, who sponsored the bill, called the position “thankless” with high turnover. He noted that this legislation was a product of a summer study this past year aimed at easing the state’s property tax burden.
The bill allows counties to voluntarily work together, with the goal of creating a more efficient process. Eric Erickson, lobbyist for the Association of County Commissioners, explained that rural counties have struggled to fill these positions.
The bill passed with strong support, 57-13. Governor Larry Rhoden has also introduced a separate proposal to address rising property taxes on homeowners, one of 26 bills tackling property taxes this session.