More than 50 Chambers of Commerce from around Minnesota request a 60-day extention of May 15th property tax payments

Chambers of commerce from around the state, including ones in Austin and Albert Lea are requesting Gov. Tim Walz to enact a 60-day extension of the May 15th property tax payments. 

In a letter to Walz earlier this month, Minnesota Chamber President Doug Loon, along with leaders from Hospitality Minnesota, Minnesota Retailers Association, Minnesota Shopping Center Association and other organizations, said employers have been doing all they can to ensure the health and safety of their employees and customers while also trying to maintain the viability of their businesses. 

It stated while the organizations appreciate the assistance available at the federal and state level for businesses, they said they think more can be done on a short-term basis to assist them.

The letter stated many businesses are experiencing cash flow issues and will not have the resources to make their May 15th payment. A delay, they stated in the letter would help businesses focus on retaining employees and on paying other fixed expenses. 

It would also allow businesses to access federal and state resources that they may be eligible for but may not be able to access immediately.  The letter was supported by more than 50 chambers of commerce from around the state. 

Jim Pumarlo, director of communications for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, stated that the organizations had not yet received a response to the letter.