Reform seems to be the name of the game when it comes to this year's state legislative session.
Whether it's education, commercial property tax or mental health funding reform, all seem to be on the agenda of legislators this year.
All were talked about Friday during the Marshalltown Chamber forum at the Fisher Community Center featuring Rep. Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown, Sen. Steve Sodders, D-State Center, and Rep. Annette Sweeney, R-Alden.
Education reform took up the most discussion time Friday as all agreed something must be done to get Iowa back to among the leaders in the nation in student achievement.
"I think we all agree that it needs to happen," Sweeney said.
Paul Gregoire, of Fisher Controls, wanted to let the legislators know that he believes in improving education but he said the business climate must also improve to keep these educated people in the state. He said this can be done by reform in commercial and industrial property taxes to make Iowa more competitive in keeping and attracting businesses.
"Let's fix the environment here for business and industry," Gregoire said.
One big issue with the state is its crumbling infrastructure and lawmakers are discussing whether to increase the fuel tax to pay for repairs. Smith said the issue of how to fund repairs is still up in the air but he feels something must be done to improve roads in the state.
"It's very clear to anyone who has traveled the roads that we need to do something about infrastructure in the state," Smith said.
Sodders outlined his bill that he is bringing forth in the Senate on TIF reform. Sodders would like to get rid of the "Forever TIF" and put limits on them of 15 years with possible five-year extensions.
The bill also has restrictions to keep from using TIF to pay for public needs, such as a new fire truck. He believes TIF funds have been abused through the years and need some cleaning up.
"We are not trying to hurt TIF," Sodders said. "It's a great tool for economic development."
This was the first chamber forum since the Legislature went back in session in Des Moines on Jan. 9. The chamber has planned its next public legislative forum for noon on Feb. 10 at the Fisher Community Center.
