Politics & Government

House District 39: Property Taxes Top Candidates' Priorities

Incumbent Erik Helland takes on Jake Highfill in the Republican primary June 5.

Taxes are typically at the forefront of residents' minds, that's no different in Johnston.

So today in our coverage of the we ask candidates and about taxes.

Highfill believes capping tax increases can help lower the cost of government and let Iowans keep their hard-earned money.

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"We have the highest corporate tax rate in the country and one of the highest property tax burdens in the country that dissuade businesses from coming to Iowa and force local governments to pick winners and losers through providing TIF money," he said. "We need to reform our tax structure so that it creates a level playing field and gets government out of the way of businesses."

Helland believes years of irresponsible over-spending have resulted in dramatic deficits and soaring tax rates, according to his website.

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"I am dedicated to restoring discipline and fiscal responsibility to Iowa’s budget," he said. "I will continue to fight to limit spending, set priorities, and reduce taxes to allow taxpayers to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. I also support increasing transparency about government spending in order to make our government more accountable to the taxpayer."

Check out other House District 39 election coverage:


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