Idaho officials say sharp increase in home values are affecting taxes
BOISE — A panel of lawmakers is examining property tax options amid complaints that taxes are going up with rising property values, while also hearing on Monday concerns from cities and counties that they’re operating on tight budgets.
The Property Tax Working Group took no action following a day of presentations, including from university and state financial experts.
“I think what today demonstrates is the complexity of the issue that we face,” said Republican Sen. Kelly Anthon of Burley.
Ultimately, though, the group aims to make recommendations and perhaps offer legislation to the Legislature in January. The group is planning to meet again Nov. 18.State officials said home values have increased sharply in recent years, though other factors are also involved in property taxes.
Officials also said that just under a third of property taxes go to schools, followed by counties and then cities each using about 26 percent.