August 4, 2003

To: All Members in Weber School District

Re: Proposed Tax Increase

Weber School District is proposing a 2.7% increase in the school district’s total tax rate. If approved, the tax increase would generate $520,000 additional revenue for the school district. The tax impact on residential and business properties is as follows:

1. Utah is currently experiencing severe economic problems. Utah’s per capita bankruptcy rate is highest in the nation and is twice the national average. Unemployment is still at historic highs. Increased taxes only exacerbate these problems.

2. In order to stimulate the economy, the federal government has significantly reduced taxes. However, much of this economic stimulus is being reduced by state and local tax increases, such as Weber School District’s increase.

3. Utah’s total state and local tax and fee burden as a percent of personal income is 10th highest in the nation and is 12.5% higher than the national average. Higher tax burdens lead to lower long term economic growth. A tax increase at this time is not appropriate.

Weber School District will be conducting a Truth-in-Taxation hearing on Wednesday, September 3rd at 6:00 p.m. at the school district office at 5320 S. Adams Avenue in Ogden.