No headline

Yard signs, bumper stickers and pamphlets in the mail remind us that there are issues and elections needing our attention. Regarding the LPOSD school levy, I urge all county residents to pay careful attention to the proposed tax increase. “Our taxes will double” is not an accurate description of levy impact on Bonner County residents. For example, if your 2015 tax bill was $1,200, it will not be $2,400 if the levy is approved.

Please look at your 2016 tax assessment notice and 2015 property tax statement. You will notice a listing of assessed value of property, deductions for homeowners exemption, and 11 other line items for county fees. The only basis for the proposed tax increase will be the “net taxable property value.” The fees for the 11 other county taxes do not figure into the dollar amount used to calculate a levy tax. With passage of the levy, there will simply be another line item added to the property tax statement, specifically reflecting the levy fee based on net taxable property value. The bottom line tax bill will show an increase, but will not be doubled.

The recent school district levy information mailed to Bonner County residents has a chart illustrating tax impacts. Further information can also be obtained from the LPOSD website. This levy request will bring Bonner County in line with taxation utilized by most Idaho school districts for facility improvements or bonds.

Investment in our schools is an investment in the future of Bonner County. Quality schools and educational programs draw new businesses to this region and increase the vitality of our communities.

Please vote on Aug. 30 at your regular polling place or vote, in person, at the County Elections Office between Aug. 8-26.

MARY TOLAND

Sagle