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

“We understand the need for the difficult decisions made to mitigate and slow the

health impacts of COVID-19,” the letter stated. “As a result, many businesses have been required to shutter their doors or have seen a tremendous drop in their revenue.”

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 15 payment. A delay 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. 

“Businesses in virtually every industry, all sizes and throughout Minnesota have been negatively

impacted,” the letter stated. “We recommend action be taken by the governor and commissioner of revenue so there is uniformity across the state versus a county-by-county approach.”

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, said the organizations had not yet received a response to the letter.