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Nebraska cattle producers again call for lower property taxes in ’23

A Western Corn Belt state has one of the highest property tax rates in the US and a pair of cattle producers say time is running out for a solution.

Nebraska rancher Brenda Masek tells Brownfield the state’s funding mechanism is broken, hurting producers and describes it as a three-legged stool. “Property tax, sales tax and income tax – those are so out of balance.  These should be in balance with a third, a third and a third.  Right now about 60 percent of property taxes runs this state.”

Data from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln says the Cornhusker state has the 10the highest rate with ag producers paying the biggest share.

Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association President Steve Hanson says he’s been encouraged by progress and hopes it continues with a new administration. “Governor-elect Pillen is looking at it from a different angle and restructuring how schools are funded.  We’re anxious to work alongside him.”

Hanson says Governor Pete Ricketts made significant progress with a pair of relief packages during his second term.