Jackson, WY — This November, voters across Teton County will consider a key ballot measure that could reshape local health‑care funding. The proposal seeks to raise the Hospital District’s mill levy from three mills to six mills, effectively doubling the property‑tax rate that supports St. John’s Health and related services.
What a mill means for your property tax
A mill is a tax unit equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. For a homeowner with a $1 million residence, the proposed increase would add roughly $285 per year to the tax bill, according to information posted on the St. John’s website. The hospital’s share currently represents about five percent of the overall countywide levy.
Why the increase is being proposed
St. John’s Health, which has operated under a three‑mill levy since 1976, argues that the additional funding is essential to maintain “essential services and to cover uncompensated care.” Uncompensated care includes charity care and treatment for patients who lack the ability to pay. Supporters, including the group Support Your Hometown Hospital, contend that a stable, locally funded levy helps recruit and retain the medical professionals needed to serve the community.
County assessor’s perspective
Teton County Assessor Mel Shinkle notes that many property owners focus on exemptions when reviewing their tax bills, but may not fully understand how mill levies work. “Unfortunately, I don’t know if many property owners understand who can assess mills, or how they affect their tax bills,” Shinkle said.
Shinkle advises voters to look closely at where the money goes. “I think most understand the schools — and they understand that the state is required to fund the schools no matter what,” she explained. “However, I’m not sure they understand that their taxes also pay for things such as their library, fair, pathways, rec center, animal shelters, fire trucks, parks, hospital.”
How the vote will be counted
The mill‑levy question will appear on the general election ballot on Nov. 3. Voters will select “Yes” to approve the increase or “No” to keep the levy at its current three‑mill level. The outcome will directly affect the hospital district’s budget and, by extension, the availability of services for residents who rely on St. John’s Health.
What residents can do now
Shinkle recommends that property owners review the county’s online tax‑payer portal, where they can see their current assessment, any applicable exemptions, and projected tax impacts under both levy scenarios. Community groups encouraging a “Yes” vote are hosting informational sessions at local venues and distributing pamphlets that outline the benefits of a higher levy.
Opponents of the increase argue that any tax hike should be scrutinized carefully, especially in a climate of rising living costs. They suggest that the hospital explore alternative funding mechanisms or cost‑saving measures before asking residents for more money.
Bottom line for voters
On Nov. 3, Jackson and Teton County residents will have a direct say in whether the Hospital District’s funding is doubled. The decision hinges on balancing the desire for robust health‑care services against concerns about higher property taxes. Voters are encouraged to review the facts, consider the statements from both supporters and critics, and cast an informed ballot.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
