Every Ravalli County property owner should look closely at their property tax bill. If you do your blood will begin to boil, and for good reason. You’ll see a brand new tax called the “Judgement Levy–Big S.” “Big S” stands for Big Sky, as in the property developers that our fiscally imprudent county commissioners struck a sweetheart back room deal with–to the tune of almost $700,000. This was a settlement that we voting taxpayers had no say in or vote on.
The development was rejected for valid reasons by the previous commission. But our current commission, led by two lame ducks, have never seen a development they didn’t like. And why fight developers who are cronies of yours? Instead, give them a $700,000 early Christmas present.
Thanks a lot for the tax raise, commissioners! I hope fellow taxpayers will take notice and protest. I especially hope the new county commission will be more prudent and ethical government managers. We’re counting on you, Mr. Hawk, and you, Mr. Schallenberger, to change the tone and efficacy of the commission; to govern fairly and with transparency, and to represent all valley residents. That’s a change we need.
Stanley Schroeder
Hamilton