ITR Foundation

Got a property tax notice? It won’t clearly tell you what you’ll actually pay. So we built a simple calculator to estimate your bill. Here is how to use it. itrlocal.org/index.php/2026…

Austin voters rejected a property tax increase. By a wide margin. Even in that progressive city, the message was clear: Taxpayers want accountability—not higher bills.

At its core, the property tax debate is about priorities. Local governments are required to fund essential services like public safety and infrastructure. But not all spending is mandated. Limiting tax growth doesn’t eliminate services—it encourages a focus on core responsibilities. itrfoundation.org/who-controls-p…

In Iowa, local governments do not have unlimited authority over property taxes. They can: • Levy taxes only as authorized by the state • Operate within state law Home Rule provides flexibility—but the legislature retains ultimate control, especially over taxation.

At the Rockwell City event, attendees explored tools designed to help Iowans better understand their local tax system: • Property Tax Calculator • ITR Local • ITR Report Card When people have access to clear data, they ask better questions—and get more involved. itrfoundation.org/itr-brings-pro…

“Local control” has limits. Local governments aren’t sovereign—the state is. As Iowa Supreme Court Justice John Dillon wrote way back in 1868, local governments “derive their powers…wholly from the legislature,” a principle later affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court. This is worth remembering when local governments complain about the Legislature standing up for taxpayers.

Both Iowa and Texas are exploring similar approaches to property tax reform. The goal is the same: Align spending growth with economic realities to make property taxes more affordable and predictable. itrfoundation.org/spending-contr…

Property tax reform would still allow local revenues to grow — just at a slower pace. What matters more to you?

Lower tax rates don’t always mean lower taxes. Local governments can reduce rates while still collecting more in total property tax revenue. Understanding total dollars levied—not just rates—is essential.

In response to global threats, Iowa leaders have taken steps to strengthen security and reduce vulnerabilities: • Annual risk assessments of critical infrastructure • Restrictions on foreign land ownership • Limits on certain foreign technology and investments The goal: remain globally engaged while protecting Iowa’s economy and systems. itrfoundation.org/china-influenc…

At the center of the property tax debate is a simple relationship: When local government spending grows quickly, property tax collections follow. That’s why many proposals focus not just on taxes—but on spending growth itself.

A strong turnout in Rockwell City last week for a conversation on property taxes. Residents, local officials, and community members came together to better understand how the system works—and how to engage in local budget decisions. Clear information leads to better conversations.

If a family’s income is still increasing — just more slowly — they don’t call it a crisis. They adjust their spending. Property tax reform works the same way. Growth continues. It’s just more responsible.

China isn’t just a global issue for Iowa—it’s an economic reality. • A major export market for agriculture • A key player in global supply chains • Past trade disputes that directly impacted Iowa farmers Global policy decisions can have immediate local consequences.

Property taxes have been rising faster than the taxpayer's ability to pay. In both Iowa and Texas, collections have grown well beyond inflation and population growth. That’s creating increasing pressure on homeowners and businesses.

When spending restraint is proposed, we often hear: “Police and fire will be cut.” But local governments also spend on: • Development incentives • Marketing campaigns • Speculative projects If budgets need to tighten, why aren’t those the first places to look?

Six years after COVID, one lesson is clear: Global risks are no longer distant—they reach directly into states like Iowa. From supply chains to agriculture to cybersecurity, international dynamics now shape local outcomes.

Public assistance program integrity is about protecting the system — not restricting it. When benefits go to those who don’t qualify: • Resources are diverted • Public trust erodes • Costs increase for taxpayers Strong oversight helps ensure the safety net remains sustainable for those who need it most.