Frequently Asked Questions
What is a levy?
A levy is a tax or fee imposed to raise revenue for a specific purpose. The 2025 Boise Clean Water and Open Space Levy will uplift the Boise community through projects to provide clean drinking water and a clean Boise river to the residents of Boise. The levy will also work to preserve and expand open spaces and trail access to Boise residents, and residents in surrounding communities.
Why is this levy needed?
The previous Boise Open Space, Clean Water, and Pathways Levy was approved by voters in 2015 with a 74% approval. Since 2015, the City of Boise has utilized the funds from this levy to fund projects to increase access to parks and pathways, and invest in projects to keep Boise’s water clean. In 2025, there is less than $500,000 left from the previous levy. Boiseans want to continue investing in the protection of clean water and the reduction of wildfire risk.
How much will the levy cost me?
The estimated average annual cost to the taxpayer of the proposed levy based on the current date above is a tax of $9.89 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value per year, based on current conditions. For most Boiseans, this is less than $50 dollars a year.
How do I vote on the levy and when is the election?
The levy will be listed on the November 2025 ballot, and for many Boiseans, will feature next to a city council election. Below are Ada county voting resources:
Will the levy funds be used for costs other than the benefits explained?
All levy funds must be spent solely on the benefits listed in the levy language, not on administrative costs. The levy funds will also be subject to an annual independent audit. The levy will raise the amount of $5.5 million dollars each year for two years beginning October 1, 2026 and ending September 30, 2028.
To read the full levy text, click here.