TAXES: Taking personal toll

“It really matters this year.” At least they did not title it, “It’s for the Children.”

Lakeland School District is yet again asking for more money via another levy with the caveat that “It Really Matters This Time.” Yes, that is true, it does really matter.

Stop and think for a minute, we don’t really know what is going to happen with the radical Biden administration. So far, we can expect higher fuel, food and energy prices, housing, property, income, state and payroll taxes. Now is not the time to stick us with another levy or a “replacement” levy.

Our tax for Lakeland schools and North Idaho College in 2007 was 604.46. It was manageable for retirement even with a bit of an increase. In 2020, our tax to Lakeland alone was more than 2 1/2 times the amount in 2007, in addition to just under $500 to the library and college.

The levies and bonds are out of control. Every year it’s something new. Where is all the revenue from new property owners? Can they not manage the millions they already get?

As seniors, we are being taxed out of the home we chose to retire. With a whopping 1.3% cost of living increase in Social Security accompanied with a raise in Medicare, I get an increase of $10 a month. We planned for our retirement; we did not plan to be taxed out of our home. My vote is a huge NO. There must be a limit somewhere.

STEPHANIE GOSSARD

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