As communities grow and adapt, local decision-making on taxes is critical to meeting unique needs. Measure 4, however, proposes to take away local control over property tax decisions—a move that could reshape funding for essential services like schools, infrastructure and public safety across our community.

When local entities—such as city commissions or school boards—control property tax decisions, they can ensure funding aligns with the specific needs of our neighborhoods, schools and safety services. Without this control, funding for these essential services could become inconsistent, insufficient or even detached from actual local demands.

Schools: Quality Education at Risk

Our schools depend heavily on property tax revenue to support teachers, maintain facilities, provide student resources and adapt programs for evolving educational needs. If Measure 4 passes, the ability to fund these essentials could be jeopardized, forcing schools to make difficult choices. Reduced funding might result in larger class sizes, fewer extracurricular opportunities and delays in technology upgrades—ultimately affecting the quality of education.  

Additionally, local boards know best how to allocate resources to address the specific needs of our students and community. When local control is removed, there’s a risk that funding priorities might not reflect the unique educational landscape here, impacting students, parents and educators alike. 

Infrastructure: The Foundation of a Thriving Community

Safe, well-maintained roads, bridges and public spaces are essential to keeping our community thriving and connected. Property tax revenue plays a significant role in financing these infrastructure projects. If Measure 4 passes, funding for these projects could be stalled or minimized, potentially leading to delays in necessary repairs and construction. For a community that values safe and efficient transportation and public spaces, diminished control over property taxes could mean deteriorating infrastructure and a rise in costs over time. 

Local control allows officials to prioritize pressing infrastructure needs, adapt to changing circumstances and secure timely improvements for residents. With Measure 4, however, the power to respond effectively to these infrastructure demands could be lost.

Public Safety: Protecting Our Community

Police, fire departments, emergency medical services—each of these critical areas of public safety relies on funding to ensure a swift and effective response to emergencies. Without adequate property tax revenue, our first responders may face cuts that could limit personnel, restrict access to vital equipment, and delay response times.  

The ability of our police and fire departments to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies is directly tied to locally managed budgets. By removing local control, Measure 4 puts our community’s safety at risk by potentially reducing funds allocated to emergency response. 

Why Local Control Matters

Local control over property tax decisions allows communities to make informed choices that reflect their own values, challenges and priorities. When decision-making is centralized, as proposed by Measure 4, the unique needs of our community may no longer be a priority, and services that are the backbone of our daily lives—schools, infrastructure and public safety—could see the effects. 

The debate on Measure 4 goes beyond property tax. It’s about ensuring our community’s voice is preserved in decisions that affect essential services. The potential for decreased funding in schools, infrastructure and public safety is significant, and the effects would be felt by everyone who calls this community home. 

With Measure 4 on the table, it’s crucial to consider what’s at stake. Keeping decisions local ensures that our community remains in control of our future. VOTE NO on North Dakota Measure 4!