School levy voting picking up in Post Falls

By BRIAN WALKER

Staff writer

Voting on the Post Falls supplemental school levy today is starting to pick up after a slow morning, election workers report.

As of 11 a.m., 35 people had cast their vote at the precinct in the National Guard Armory. The county elections office said it was one of the busiest precincts so far.

The polls typically get busier during the lunch hour and after work, election workers said.

Voters are being asked to consider a levy amount of $2.615 million per year for two years today.

The funding, which will supplement the state's appropriation, will increase taxes by $12 per year for the owner of a $184,000 home.

Dave Peterson said he supported the proposal.

"We need to support the schools," he said. "I have grandchildren who attend so it's important for me to get funding for education. I think (the school district) has tried its best to tighten its belt."

But Bill Hummel said he believes there should be a more equitable way to raise funds than make those who don't have children or relatives in the district pay.

"Maybe it should be through the sales tax," he said. "I also think that (the school district) needs to go further to cut administrative costs. Taxpayers just can't keep paying more and more. There has to be some end."

Gene Hyde said he supported the levy because he believes $12 a year is reasonable and not gouging taxpayers.

"Education is one of the most important things we have, and $12 a year is nothing," Hyde said. "I just paid $30 for an x-ray on a tooth. People will spend $4 or $5 at the coffee stand."

Still, Hyde scratches his head in some areas.

"I don't think schools need all these assistants (in sports and in the classroom)," he said. "We had Elmer Jordan in Coeur d'Alene and an assistant. But he coached baseball, basketball and track. You look at some of these football teams and it seems like they have 12 coaches. That's ridiculous."

A dozen voters declined to comment or commented, but declined to be identified.

The polls will be open until 8 tonight. Voting is held at regular precincts, not at the schools.

A vote of at least 50 percent is needed for the proposal to pass.

If you're unsure of where to vote, visit www.sd273.com or www.kcgov.us (click on "elections") or call 446-1030.