Kalispell taxes would rise slightly

The Daily Inter Lake

A Kalispell homeowner's property taxes would increase slightly under the city's new general fund budget.

Prior to Monday's general fund workshop session, the council approved some other budget measures at its regular meeting.

One measure was setting a new mill levy for the city's property taxes by an 8-1 vote. Council member Tim Kluesner dissented.

The city tax bill on a home assessed at $100,000 would climb possibly $22 to roughly $512 - depending on numerous additional factors affecting the economy and individual property.

The tax bill on a $200,000 home would rise $44 to roughly $1,024.

The city expects to raise $5.07 million in property taxes for the general fund in 2008-09.

Also Monday, the council:

. Approved a $42.373 million budget for 2008-09 for all funds that are not part of the general fund. These funds have specific revenue sources and expenses that balance out - and don't include property taxes.

. Approved a fire-engine-response fee of $250 for every vehicle accident within city limits, and an ambulance-response fee of $200 for every out-of-town call.

Kalispell residents are exempt from these fees.

The resolution also allows the fire department to charge insurance companies for medical supplies when permitted by a patient's insurance.

This measure is expected to raise $50,000 in 2008-09 and roughly $100,000 annually in subsequent years - to be split between the general and ambulance funds.