2019 Outlook: Lowes, Wal-Mart Property Tax Loophole Under Scrutiny in Wisconsin

Wisconsin municipalities are suiting up for a legislative battle with big box retailers including Lowe’s and Wal-Mart next year, hoping to close “dark store” tax loopholes with the help of a receptive new governor.

Wisconsin towns and counties will take another run at legislation that would limit retailers’ ability to appeal their local property assessments by arguing their stores must be valued as if vacant, or “dark,” and available for sale to a future property buyer. The municipalities argue such challenges have slashed assessments on profitable retail stores, resulting in a tax shift from retailers to homeowners.

Several national chains, ...