The MNGOP is upset that some cities and counties have raised their local levies to compensate for the millions of dollars the GOP took away from them. And doggone it, they’re going to do something about it! That’s why Rep. Greg Davids (R-Preston) is sponsoring the Stay Down, Cities! Act of 2012*:

Local units of government could find their ability to raise levies curtailed….

Last year the Legislature re-crafted the market value homestead credit, leaving some communities with less state aid. Davids said while most local governments “acted responsibly” and did not raise their levy, approximately $413 million was raised by others who “went overboard.”…

The bill, which has no Senate companion, would allow a local government’s levy limit to grow by 1.9 percent annually.

Quite a racket they’ve got going, huh? First, they take away millions of dollars from cities and counties. Then, they express their outrage that local governments increased their levies to make up the difference. Finally, they gallantly propose to put a stop to property taxes by legislative fiat.

If the GOP wants to do something about rising property taxes, they should look in the mirror. Stop slashing aid to local governments. Stop taking from the poor and giving to the rich. Stop trying to dismantle our state government and force its responsibilities on our cities and counties. Instead of trying to mandate the impossible, just stop demanding more from local governments while simultaneously cutting their funding.

*No, that’s not currently the official name. Maybe Rep. Davids would like to consider it, though?