Counties could raise sales tax for property tax relief under Gov. Rhoden's plan

Proposal enlists help from tourists to reduce homeowners’ tax bills

PIERRE – County governments would have the option to raise a half-cent sales tax to offset higher property taxes for homeowners under a plan proposed by Gov. Larry Rhoden Monday.

Calling it a “rifle shot” approach to dealing with escalating property taxes in several counties, Rhoden said his proposal will be taken to the Legislature’s Property Tax Relief task force that is meeting this summer to address the burden being felt most by residents in five counties.

The Sioux Falls area and the Black Hills have seen dramatic increases in property valuations since 2020 amid rising demand to live in those communities.

South Dakota senators uphold ballot measure status quo, Gov. Larry Rhoden’s veto