Pointing to an increase in state funding, the Lewiston School District is reducing its supplemental levy rate.

The Lewiston Tribune reported Wednesday on the board’s decision.

The district’s current levy allowed Lewiston to collect $420 per $100,000 of taxable value. In March, voters approved a five-year levy renewal, starting in 2024, at a reduced rate $395 per $100,000 of taxable value.

However, trustees voted to reduce the levy rate a year ahead of schedule.

“The voters renewed the levy and did their part and supported the school,” said board President Brad Cuddy, according to the Tribune’s report. “We believe it’s time to do our part and not tax more than we need.”

State funding also factored into Lewiston’s decision. The district will receive $35.4 million from the state this year, a $3.7 million increase, the Tribune reported.

Lewiston’s levies are an anomaly in state law.

As a “charter” district, predating statehood, Lewiston retains unique taxing authority. Lewiston can collect a five-year supplemental levy, while most districts are limited to one- or two-year levies. And Lewiston can seek a levy at a set tax rate, based on taxable value.

More reading: Click here for EdNews’ in-depth series on supplemental tax levies.