View and Reflect

Discussion Questions

Before you watch the recording, get ready by reading through these questions. You can also use these questions to discuss this topic with the library director or the library board.

• How do the changes introduced by Senate Bill 231 and 542 affect the distribution of property tax burdens across different types of property owners in Montana?

  • Consider the implications for primary homeowners, second-home owners, and commercial property owners.

• What are the pros and cons of transitioning from fixed mill levies to tying levies to 15-10-420, MCA (inflation-based growth)?

  • How might this decision impact long-term library funding and political stability?

• What steps should library boards take to ensure they make an informed and timely decision about their levy structure before the September deadline?

  • What role should collaboration with county commissioners and clerks play in this process?

• How might the changes in House Bill 117, particularly the shift to full inflation adjustments and the treatment of newly taxable property, benefit or challenge libraries in rural versus rapidly growing counties?

• Given the possibility that fixed mill levies may be phased out in future legislation, how should libraries prepare for sustainable funding models moving forward?

  • What strategies can libraries use to communicate these changes to their stakeholders and communities?

Discussion Questions generated by Microsoft Copilot from webinar transcript.