Commissioners propose 12-month property tax payment plan to reduce homeowner disruption

Kootenai County officials are taking steps to address unexpected property tax bills that have caused confusion among homeowners. During the Board of Equalization meeting on June 2, 2025, commissioners discussed a plan to ease the financial burden on property owners who received bills reflecting significant increases in their property taxes.

Commissioner Batory highlighted the need for a solution that minimizes disruption for affected homeowners. He proposed a 12-month payment plan that would allow property owners to pay their taxes in installments without incurring interest or penalties. This approach aims to provide relief for those who may have been caught off guard by the sudden increase in their tax obligations.

The discussion revealed that some homeowners, particularly those with mortgages, may not have been fully aware of their tax responsibilities. While tax bills were issued, many were reported as $0, leading to misunderstandings about the actual amounts owed. The commissioners acknowledged that this situation could create financial strain, especially for those who had not anticipated such a bill.

The treasurer's office confirmed that while fees were included in the bills, the lack of property value assessments led to confusion for many homeowners. The proposed solution aims to clarify the situation and ensure that property owners can manage their payments more effectively.

As Kootenai County moves forward with this plan, officials are committed to working closely with the treasurer's office to implement a system that accommodates the needs of the community. This initiative reflects the county's dedication to supporting residents during a challenging financial period and ensuring that property tax obligations are met with understanding and flexibility.