The property tax debate continues at the state capital with the Republican controlled House and Democrat controlled Senate having passed different pieces of legislation.

Republican District 10 State Senator Jake Chapman says taxes will inevitably continue to increase for the foreseeable future based on the current tax formula.

“Our residential property taxes are tied to agriculture so if agriculture productivity goes up,  property taxes go up. The agricutlure economy has been outstanding over the past few years, because of this it will absolutely lead to an increase in both ag and residential property taxes in the coming years” says Chapman.

Senate Republicans proposed an amendment to the property tax bill that would change the way the taxes are figured and avoid future increases, but it was blocked by Senate Democrats.

“Over the last decade, residential property taxes has risen by $100 million per year, that’s per year.  And our residential taxes are estimated to increase by $181 million dollars per year, every year through 2022.”

Chapman says the bill that was passed only addresses commercial property tax reform and not residential, so he voted against the bill.

“Frankly, it amazes me that they’re willing to turn their backs at homeowners who are facing such a staggering increase in taxes over the coming years’ says Chapman.

The passage of both this bill and one in the House means the issue will now to go conference committee and Governor Terry Branstad says he’s confident the issue could be resolved soon.