Absentee levy ballots available

SANDPOINT — Absentee ballots for the Lake Pend Oreille School District’s supplemental levy election are available at the Bonner County Clerk’s Office.

The office is conducting the March 8 election on behalf of the school district because the state has consolidated its elections. The move is meant to bring uniformity in the administration of elections, according to Idaho Secretary of State Ben Ysursa.

The school district seeks voter approval of a $13.6 million replacement levy that would be spread over two years. It would pay for a third of the district’s staffing costs, in addition extracurricular activities and technological integration.

School district officials estimate school-related taxes will increase by $3.44 a month on a home valued at $250,000.

The clerk’s elections office is located on the third floor of the Bonner County Administration Building, located at the corner of U.S. Highway 2 and Division Avenue.

Those wishing to have an absentee ballot sent to them by mail have until Wednesday, March 2, to make that request in writing. Absentee ballot applications can be downloaded from the county or secretary of state’s website and faxed to the clerk’s office (255-2554).

Those who wish to vote absentee in person have until Friday, March 4, to cast their ballot at the clerk’s office.

As a result of the consolidation of elections, those who don’t wish to vote absentee will have to cast their ballots at the voting precinct they would utilize during general or primary elections.

The clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Written requests for ballots can be sent to the Bonner County Clerk’s Office, 1500 U.S. 2, Suite 307, Sandpoint, ID. 83864. The office’s phone number is 265-1437.

Online: www.co.bonner.id.us, www.idahovotes.gov