Gov. Lamont relents to pressure from CT farmers to stave off tax hike – ctmirror.org

Report on Connecticut Governor’s Decision to Halt Agricultural Land Valuations

Introduction

Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut has ordered a suspension of new valuations for agricultural land, responding to concerns raised by farmers about potential tax increases that could jeopardize family-owned farms. This decision aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focusing on sustainable agriculture, economic growth, and community resilience.

Background and Context

The proposed reassessments, which in some cases would have doubled the taxable value of farmland, were based on data collection efforts intended to reflect the current market value of Connecticut’s diminishing farmland. However, an unforeseen lack of reliable data led to the cancellation of these assessments, maintaining the land values last updated in 2020.

Actions Taken by the Governor

1. Halted the issuance of new agricultural land valuations.
2. Established a working group comprising farmers, municipal leaders, assessors, and Department of Agriculture officials to reform data collection and assessment processes.

These measures aim to prevent abrupt tax increases and support the preservation of farmland, contributing to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Significance of Family Farms

Governor Lamont emphasized the vital role of family farms in Connecticut’s economy and heritage, highlighting the importance of sustaining agricultural lands not only for economic reasons but also for preserving a way of life intrinsic to the state’s identity. This supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Stakeholder Responses

• Farmers: Expressed relief at the decision, though concerns remain about long-term impacts. Paul Larson, President of the Connecticut Farm Bureau, acknowledged the short-term reprieve but stressed the need for sustainable solutions.
• Legislators: Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding praised the decision, noting the political and social pressures from the farming community.
• Department of Agriculture: Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt acknowledged survey flaws and reaffirmed commitment to supporting farmers through expanded grant funding and improved communication.

Challenges in Data Collection

The assessment process relied on a survey conducted in partnership with the University of Connecticut, which faced low response rates and incomplete data. Key issues included:

• Limited engagement with farmers, many of whom are older and less likely to use digital tools such as QR codes.
• Only 145 rental or lease agreements were reported out of an estimated 5,000 farms.
• Prevalence of non-cash agreements such as bartering, complicating valuation efforts.

These challenges highlight the need for innovative and inclusive data collection methods, aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Economic Impact on Farmers

Initial assessments showed dramatic increases in land values, for example:

• Tillable A farmland value increased by 72%, from $1,880 to $3,250 per acre.
• Land with rocky outcroppings and creeks (“ledge”) increased from $40 to $970 per acre.

Such increases threatened the financial viability of farms like Kim Grijalva’s 100-acre cattle farm, potentially forcing them to cease operations, which would undermine SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Future Directions and Recommendations

1. The working group is expected to take up to two years to develop recommendations for improving the farmland assessment process.
2. Potential legislative action may be required to codify reforms.
3. Greater involvement of active farmers is advocated to ensure fair and timely outcomes.
4. Development of alternative data collection mechanisms beyond traditional surveys is necessary.

These steps aim to create a more sustainable and equitable agricultural sector, supporting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Conclusion

The Governor’s decision to pause new agricultural land valuations demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development by protecting family farms, promoting economic stability, and encouraging collaborative governance. Continued efforts to refine assessment methodologies and strengthen farmer-government partnerships will be essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to agriculture, economic growth, and community well-being.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article focuses on preserving farmland and supporting family farms, which are essential for sustainable agriculture and food production.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • It highlights the economic challenges faced by farmers, including tax hikes that threaten their livelihoods and the need for sustainable economic policies.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Preserving farmland and preventing its conversion to non-agricultural uses supports sustainable land use and community heritage.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • The article discusses efforts to preserve agricultural land and open spaces, which contributes to sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.4: By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.3: By 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, including land affected by desertification, drought, and floods, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 2.4
   • Proportion of agricultural area under productive and sustainable agriculture — implied by the focus on farmland valuation and preservation efforts.
2. Indicator for SDG 8.3
   • Number of small-scale food producers, particularly family farms, supported through policies — implied by the discussion on tax policies affecting family farms.
3. Indicator for SDG 11.3
   • Proportion of land that is preserved as agricultural or open space versus developed land — implied by the emphasis on preserving farmland and preventing land value spikes that could lead to sales for development.
4. Indicator for SDG 15.3
   • Area of land under sustainable management — implied by the efforts to maintain farmland and avoid its degradation or conversion.
5. Additional Implied Indicators
   • Number of family farms remaining operational (implied by concerns about tax hikes forcing sales).
   • Farmer participation rates in surveys and data collection efforts (implied by the challenges in collecting accurate data for land valuation).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: ctmirror.org