Burleigh County has agreed to repay approximately $900,000 to the city of Bismarck and other local tax districts following a significant property tax error. This financial miscalculation, which occurred in 2025, according to county records, cost these local entities a combined sum of about $900,000. The county's commitment to reimburse the affected districts was a focal point of discussions during a recent Burleigh County Commission meeting.
The decision to address the shortfall was made during the Burleigh County Commission meeting held on March 3. This critical session took place in the Tom Baker Meeting Room, located within the City/County Building in downtown Bismarck, providing the formal setting for the commission's proceedings. The topic of the property tax error and the subsequent repayment plan highlighted the county's fiscal responsibilities to its constituent bodies.
Key officials were present as the commission deliberated on this matter. Burleigh County Auditor Mark Splonskowski was noted to be listening to the proceedings, indicating the auditor's office's involvement in understanding and rectifying the tax discrepancy. Also seated and actively participating in the meeting were Brian Bitner, who chairs the Burleigh County Commission, and Steve Bakken, serving as the vice chair. Their presence underscores the importance the commission placed on resolving this substantial financial issue impacting local government revenues.
The property tax error, specifically attributed to Burleigh County operations in 2025, resulted in the city of Bismarck and other unnamed local tax districts receiving less revenue than they were due. The combined loss of approximately $900,000 represents a notable impact on the budgets of these local services and operations. By agreeing to pay back the funds, Burleigh County is taking responsibility for the error and aiming to restore the financial balances of the impacted governmental bodies. This repayment action is intended to correct the shortfall that stemmed from the original miscalculation, ensuring that the city of Bismarck and other local tax districts eventually receive the full amount of tax revenue they were entitled to, as was discussed and agreed upon during the March 3 meeting in downtown Bismarck. The county's move to rectify this error ensures proper financial accountability within its jurisdiction, addressing the financial burden placed on local services due to the tax discrepancy. The process of the commission meeting on March 3, with Auditor Splonskowski, Chairman Bitner, and Vice Chair Bakken present, centered on establishing this pathway for repayment and financial correction for Burleigh County’s local tax districts.
