The debate over how, and to what extent, to change the property tax system in Indiana has sparked quite a debate, in the General Assembly and among cities in Hamilton County.

Daniel Bradley of the Indianapolis Business Journal wrote a story posted Tuesday, quoting city officials from Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield and Greenwood (in Johnson County) on how much money the initial proposal from Governor Mike Braun would cost their respective cities (read the story at this link. but will likely need a subscription to access the story).

Carmel says it is holding off on hiring employees until state lawmakers settle the matter.  Noblesville says the original Braun plan would cost that city $30 million in revenue over 3 years.  Westfield says the financial hit would be significant.  Greenwood is putting hiring and other spending on hold.

After the City Council Finance Committee meeting Wednesday evening, I asked John Weingardt, Chairman of the panel, about the Braun property tax plan.  He did not offer up any numbers, but voiced his concern.

“We want to keep taxes low, but we also have to look out for our city and pay our employees,” Weingardt told LarryInFishers.  He believes the state would need to find a way to replace the lost revenue to Fishers.

“The city of Fishers does a whole lot with a whole lot less than other communities around us,” said Weingardt.  “We provide great service.”

The legislative session is just a bit over halfway-done, assuming the governor does not call a special session.  State lawmakers still have a lot of work to do before any decisions are made on Indiana property taxes.