Keep It Local Idaho
Keep It Local Idaho was created in partnership with the Idaho Association of Counties, the Association of Idaho Cities, the Idaho Association of Highway Districts and the Idaho School Boards Association.
The mission of Keep It Local Idaho is to educate Idahoans about local issues and the importance of keeping government control closest to the people.
From The Blog
Public Schools and Property Taxes: the Two go Hand in Hand
The process for funding Idaho schools is complex. Each year, the Idaho Legislature decides how much state money public schools will receive. The funding formula for Idaho’s public schools is based on several factors, like the number of students enrolled adjusted for attendance, teacher salaries, teacher benefits, busing and transportation costs, and a slew of other funding categories for specific items that schools might access.
Investing in Idaho’s Transportation System Saves Money Down the Road
An extensive study of Idaho’s transportation system conducted by the Idaho Policy Institute in 2020 found that Idaho needs $241.8 million in revenue to restore and maintain current roads and bridges, each year. The study concludes, if such funding is not available and maintenance is deferred, then the figure compounds – making the funding requirements significantly larger in the future.
Housing Issues Prompt Creative Solutions from Idaho School Districts
The Blaine County school district launched a two-year pilot program for affordable housing to help certified and classified staff pay soaring rents in the region. The $1 million rental assistance program provides a subsidy for eligible staff members who spend 30% or more of their adjusted gross income on rent, utilities, and other relevant housing costs.
Idaho Transportation Funding for State and Local Highway Systems
Each year Idaho’s cities, counties, and highway districts levy about $150 million in property taxes for maintenance of roads and bridges. Increasing state revenue for local roads and bridges is one way state policymakers could reduce local government reliance on property taxes and provide property tax relief to Idaho businesses and homeowners.