BCSD proposes $856K levy

BONNERS FERRY - Next March, Boundary County residents will be asked to continue supporting the school district through property taxes.

For two years, property taxes have generated $885,000. School officials are asking for continued support, but have reduced the amount to $865,000, said Superintendent Dr. Don Bartling. If a majority of the voters approve the request, property taxes would be reduced a little.

By approving what's known as a maintenance and operation levy, the school district will use the money for extracurricular student activities, personnel, text books, supplies, materials and testing.

School officials have already decided to eliminate three teaching jobs for next year.

"We announced we would like to do it through attrition, if anybody is going to retire," Bartling said.

If the levy does not go through, the district's budget would need to be cut by $865,000. Items that could be cut include $318,000 for extracurricular  activities and $283,000 for personnel. Textbooks and technology also could be cut.

Voting will take place March 24.

Presentations will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13, at Mt. Hall Elementary School, 3:15 and 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9, at Evergreen and Naples elementary schools, respectively, and 6 p.m. Monday, March 9, in Becker Auditorium at Bonners Ferry High School.