Perry bill heads to Senate, gets Flathead GOP support
A flock of ravens fly over an industrial park eyed for a new SmartLam facility in Columbia Falls.
A bill introduced by Coram Democrat Zac Perry designed to encourage business growth both here and across the state passed the House last week on a 63-33 vote.
House Bill 226 would allow local governments the option of lower a new or expanding businesses property taxes up to 75 percent for the first five years. Taxes go up incrementally after that, until they’re 100 percent at year 10.
The bill was amended from its original version, allowing local governments the option of a 75 percent or 50 percent tax break.
Locally, the bill could help a business like SmartLam expand in Columbia Falls.
The bill is part of Gov. Steve Bullock’s Main Street Montana program, which looks to encourage new business development in the state.
The tax break isn’t automatic for a new business. It’s at the discretion of the taxing body — whether it’s a county or city, and the law requires a public hearing on the tax break.
The bill now goes on to the Senate finance committee for further consideration.
The bill received support from some Flathead Republicans, including lawmakers Derek Skees, Frank Garner, Randy Brodehl and Matt Regier.