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EXHIBIT A <br />Why are there significant differences in the levies between <br />counties? <br />The method of calculating levies considers "ability to pay" as <br />determined by using equalized taxable net tax capacity. Counties <br />with higher net tax capacities are authorized to levy a higher ad <br />valorem tax. <br />Is there a cap to this levy? <br />Yes, the levy cannot exceed the estimated annual cost of <br />implementing the approved comprehensive local water plan(s) or the <br />levy amount as provided by the Department of Revenue, whichever is <br />less. <br />What are eligible plan expenditures? <br />Implementation items in approved comprehensive local water plans. <br />The BWSR received authorization and funding in the 1989 <br />"groundwater bill" to provide grants to counties for implementing <br />comprehensive local water plans. How does this levy relate to <br />those grants? <br />The total of levies collected statewide represents the county <br />"match" to a portion of the BWSR grants. The BWSR will award two <br />types of grants, "base grants" which are non - competitive and <br />"challenge grants" which are competitive. The is currently <br />promulgating a rule dealing with the application and local <br />administration of these grants. To be eligible for either grant. <br />What is the future of the levy and BWSR water plan implementation <br />grants? <br />Subject to legislative approval, the BWSR intends to support the <br />continuation of activities, such as annual grants and special <br />levies, necessary to implement comprehensive local water plans. <br />Is the amount of a county levy affected by the number of counties <br />implementing the levy? <br />No <br />Must a county levy the total eligible amount to qualify for a BWSR <br />water plan implementation grant? <br />Yes <br />Some counties have approved comprehensive local water plans such as <br />11 509" and "watershed district overall plans" covering less than the <br />entire land area of the county. Are they eligible to implement a <br />levy? <br />Yes, but there are limitations. The special water planning levy is <br />an ad valorem tax levied and collected countywide. However, <br />proceeds from the levy (and BWSR water plan implementation grants) <br />can only be spent in those areas covered by approved plans. For <br />example, let's say a county has an approved watershed district <br />overall plan covering 20 percent of the county. The special water <br />plan levy could be implemented but its proceeds and BWSR grants <br />could only be spent in the area covered by the watershed district. <br />