Marshall County conducts first MUST meeting

Wednesday, Marshall County had its first meeting of a new mandated body, the Municipal Unit Strategic Task Force.

County Council President Tim Harman chaired the meeting that included the clerk-treasurers from the city and towns in the county.

Indiana's local income tax structure was governed by a system in which county income tax rates and their distribution were largely determined by county councils, with limited formal input from municipal entities. Significant reforms have been introduced to increase local flexibility and formalize the negotiation process.

Beginning March 1, 2026, counties may establish a Municipal Unit Strategic Taskforce (MUST) comprising representatives from county councils and fiscal officers, clerk-treasurers for the most part, from all cities and towns within the county. Other taxing units such as fire, EMS, library, and school corporations are also encouraged to be part of the process.

This task force creates a formal forum for local governments to collaboratively address income tax distribution decisions.

The various taxing units voiced their concerns. Plymouth Mayor Robert Listenberger stated Plymouth's concerns on tax distribution in the uncertain climate...saying that for his part the city of Plymouth wants to be part of any future discussions.

Bremen School Corporation Business Manager Stephanie Pittman said that while schools aren't directly affected by the new legislation, they would like to be part of the discussions since decisions regarding tax distribution affect them as well.