Sen. Steve Jarvis Selected for All-Republican Senate Property Tax Working Group
By Davidson Local Staff
State Senator Steve Jarvis has been selected to serve on an all-Republican working group in the North Carolina Senate tasked with examining potential reforms to property tax policy across the state.
Sen. Jarvis, R-Davidson County, was appointed by Senate Leader Phil Berger to join the group, which will study ways to reduce the burden of local property taxes while ensuring local governments can continue funding essential services.
“There’s no difference to taxpayers whether a tax is paid to the state or to a local government; it’s all money coming out of their pockets,” Berger said in a statement announcing the appointments. “These members will examine ways to provide relief from local taxes while ensuring that local revenue is used responsibly to fund the services our constituents rely on.”
In a weekly newsletter, Jarvis said he looks forward to participating in the discussions and bringing a practical perspective to the issue.
“I’m honored to be chosen to serve on this select group and contribute to meaningful conversations about property tax reform,” Jarvis said. “This work is about listening, asking the right questions and applying common sense measures. I look forward to helping identify solutions that truly benefit the people back home.”
The working group includes Appropriations Chairs Sens. Brent Jackson of Sampson County and Michael Lee of New Hanover County, Finance Chairs Sens. Dave Craven of Randolph County and Tom McInnis of Moore County, along with Sens. Lisa Barnes of Nash County, Jim Burgin of Harnett County, Chris Measmer of Cabarrus County, Tim Moffitt of Henderson County, and Benton Sawrey of Johnston County.
According to Senate leadership, the group will consider policy proposals aimed at what they describe as “runaway property tax practices” in parts of North Carolina. Specific recommendations have not yet been announced.
Senate Republicans have pointed to previous tax changes as a framework for the effort. Since 2011, the General Assembly has reduced the personal income tax rate from 7.75% to 3.99% and expanded the zero-tax bracket from $6,000 to $25,500, changes lawmakers say were made possible through responsible state-level budgeting.
The working group is expected to begin its review in the coming weeks. Any proposed reforms would require approval by the full General Assembly before becoming law.
