Lt. Governor Smith visits Worthington to urge support for Lewis & Clark Water Project and tax cuts for Minnesota farmers
Jobs Bill would provide $11.5 million to finish the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System.
Tax Bill would provide agricultural property tax relief to 74,000 Minnesota farmers across the state.
Lt. Governor Tina Smith visited Worthington to urge the Minnesota Legislature to pass agricultural land property tax relief for Minnesota farmers and a robust bonding bill that includes $11.5 million for the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System project.
Minnesota farmers are struggling with the perfect storm of rising land values, falling commodity prices, and aging schools. Overall, property taxes for Minnesota farmers have increased by 114 percent in the last decade. To reduce the burden, Governor Dayton and Lt. Governor Smith have proposed an Ag Property Tax Credit that would save 74,000 Minnesota farmers approximately $34 million.
“Right now, the cost of much-needed school improvements in greater Minnesota communities disproportionately falls on farmers,” said Lt. Governor Smith. “Our agricultural property tax relief will keep more money in the pockets of Minnesota farmers, while supporting strong schools, so all Minnesota students have the opportunity to learn.”
Governor Dayton and Lt. Governor Smith also have proposed an $11.5 million investment in their Jobs Bill to complete the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System. Upon completion, it would deliver water to more than 20,000 people in southwest Minnesota.
“Worthington families and businesses need access to clean, plentiful water to support a strong community and growing economy,” said Lt. Governor Smith. “Our Jobs Bill would finally connect Worthington to the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System, providing the reliable water access necessary to expand opportunities for Worthington businesses and families.”
This past year, the Phase 2 section of the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System began construction to extend the pipeline from Luverne, through Magnolia and to Adrian. That project is currently under budget and ahead of schedule. This additional $11.5 million investment would allow construction to continue from Adrian to Worthington.
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