YERINGTON - Builders who plan on constructing homes, apartment units or developing lots for mobile homes in Lyon County will now have to budget for a $1,600 residential construction tax.
In the rapidly growing county, the tax could raise $30 million for schools.
After a public hearing where no objection was raised, Lyon County commissioners Thursday approved an ordinance allowing the tax.
The ordinance will now go to the state Department of Taxation for approval.
In September, a study provided by the school district finding a new tax would pose no significant negative impact to business, was accepted by the commissioners, clearing the way.
In May, the commissioners approved a similar tax, but the state Department of Taxation rejected it because a business impact study had not been done.
Funds from the tax will go to capital improvements for the Lyon County School District. Nat Lommori, Lyon County school superintendent, has said that if 2,000 building permits were issued it could raise more than $30 million for schools.
District Attorney Leon Aberasturi said the only change in the ordinance from the one proposed in the past was that if a developer donated land to the county for a school or other use, they would not be obligated to pay the tax.
He said developers were concerned the tax would take away from their ability to donate land.
- Contact reporter Karen Woodmansee at kwoodmansee@nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111 ext. 351.
