Keep It Local, a diverse coalition of community and political groups, announced on Thursday the launch of a campaign aimed at countering the proposed initiated ballot measure seeking to eliminate property tax in North Dakota.

Proponents of the measure have until June 29 to gather signatures for the measure’s inclusion on the November general election ballot.

If passed, the measure would significantly impact the ability of local governments to fund vital services through property tax revenue, according to Keep It Local. Instead of local officials listening to the concerns of their constituents and ensuring their annual budget fits the needs of the community, local government will need to go to the state Legislature to request funds for a new school, additional firefighters, a sewer system, a police station or roads, the coalition argues.

“Supporters of the measure claim that we can maintain excellent public services without paying property taxes,” said Josh Askvig, AARP ND state director. “They often claim that we can use the Legacy Fund to cover the funding gap. However, the specifics on this funding source are limited and come painfully short of addressing the deficit.”

If the measure were to pass, the Legislature would be tasked with providing annual property tax revenue replacement payments to political subdivisions, amounting to about $1.33 billion per year to cover the funding gap.

“This proposed measure is promising a quick fix, but the consequences would be dire for our communities,” said Traill County Sheriff Steve Hunt, president of the North Dakota Sheriffs and Deputies Association. “While no one enjoys paying taxes, property taxes are the lifeblood of our local services.”

The coalition includes the Lignite Energy Council, N.D. Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives, N.D. Farmers Union and other agricultural associations. It includes labor, Realtor and building contractor organizations, city chambers of commerce, firefighters, EMS and law enforcement organizations and numerous education associations.