What is a Local Improvement District or LID in Idaho?

A Local Improvement District (LID) is a special assessment district in the state of Idaho that is created to finance the improvement or construction of public facilities and services within a defined area. These facilities and services can include roads, sidewalks, streetlights, water and sewer systems, and other community improvements.

The formation of a Local Improvement District is initiated by a petition from property owners within the proposed district. If a sufficient number of property owners sign the petition, the local government will hold a public hearing to consider the proposal. If the proposal is approved by the local government, the property owners within the district will be assessed a special fee to pay for the improvements.

One of the key benefits of a Local Improvement District is that it allows property owners to control and pay for the improvements they want in their community, rather than relying on the general fund or other sources of financing. This can result in more efficient and effective use of resources, as well as faster and more targeted improvements.

Another benefit of a Local Improvement District is that it can help to improve property values in the district. By investing in community improvements, property owners can create a more desirable and attractive place to live, which can increase property values and benefit the entire community.

In Idaho, Local Improvement Districts are governed by state law, which sets forth the rules and procedures for their formation and operation. Property owners within a Local Improvement District have the right to vote on proposals for improvements and to participate in the decision-making process.

Local Improvement District are a valuable tool for property owners in Idaho to finance and improve the public facilities and services in their community. By investing in their community, property owners can create a more desirable and attractive place to live, and increase the value of their property.

What should home buyers know about local improvement districts?

Home buyers in Idaho should be aware of Local Improvement Districts (LIDs) because they may impact the cost of owning a property and the value of the property. Here are some key things that home buyers should know about LIDs in Idaho:

1. Special Assessment: Home buyers should be aware that properties within an LID may be subject to a special assessment to pay for the improvement or construction of public facilities and services within the district. This special assessment is typically added to the property tax bill and may increase the cost of owning the property.
   
   
2. Community Improvements: LIDs can be used to finance various types of community improvements, such as roads, sidewalks, streetlights, water and sewer systems, and other public facilities and services. Home buyers should consider the benefits of these improvements when evaluating a property in an LID.
   
   
3. Property Value: Community improvements financed through an LID can increase property values in the district. Home buyers should be aware that properties within an LID may be more desirable and valuable than similar properties in a different area.
   
   
4. Formation: The formation of an LID is initiated by a petition from property owners within the proposed district. Home buyers should be aware that they may be required to sign a petition if they purchase a property in an area that is considering forming an LID.
   
   
5. Decision Making: Property owners within an LID have the right to vote on proposals for improvements and to participate in the decision-making process. Home buyers should be aware of their rights and responsibilities as a property owner in an LID.

Home buyers should be aware of Local Improvement Districts when evaluating properties in Idaho. LIDs can have a significant impact on the cost of owning a property and the value of the property, so home buyers should be informed about LIDs before making a purchase decision. Do not depend on anyone to identify or research an LID that may affect your purchase. You should always check with the city or county where you are considering buying to learn about LID's that may affect you.