During the Coos County Board of Commissioners meeting on January 7, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding a new tax imposed by the Bandon School District, which has raised concerns among residents. The tax, set at $1.63 per square foot, is being implemented without a direct vote from the community, leading to frustration among county officials and residents alike.

Commissioner sentiments were clear: there is a strong reluctance to accept additional taxation, especially given the historical context of community opposition to tax increases. The commissioner expressed that the imposition of this tax feels unjust, as it is being enforced without local input. They emphasized that the county board has no power to oppose this tax, stating, “We are powerless as a county and as a board of commissioners, powerless to do anything to oppose this.”

Despite their strong opposition to the tax, the commissioner indicated they would vote in favor of an intergovernmental agreement related to the tax, acknowledging that any attempt to contest it would likely lead to a legal battle that the county would not win. This decision reflects a pragmatic approach to a situation where local governance feels constrained by state legislation.

The commissioner urged residents who are unhappy with the tax to reach out to the Bandon School District and its superintendent, Shauna Schmerer, who has welcomed community feedback. This call to action highlights the importance of public engagement in local governance, even when officials feel limited in their ability to effect change.

As the community grapples with the implications of this tax, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing educational funding needs with the financial burdens placed on residents. The board's discussions serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in local taxation and the need for continued dialogue between officials and the community.