Early voting begins in Idaho ahead of May 20 election

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — Early voting begins Monday across Idaho as voters prepare to weigh in on a range of critical local issues ahead of the May 20 election.

In Kootenai County, ballots will include proposals related to school district levies, public safety funding, and the election of key officials. Early voting runs weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through May 16.

Voters in Coeur d’Alene will decide on a proposed $16 million, 10-year general obligation bond aimed at improving fire and emergency services. The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department has reported a 35% increase in call volume since 2015, placing strain on outdated facilities and equipment.

Fire Chief Tom Greif said the department’s most pressing needs include a new fire station and updated fire trucks.

If passed, the bond would cost property owners about $16 annually per $100,000 of taxable assessed property value. For a home valued at $425,000, the estimated cost would be around $68 per year.

In Post Falls, voters will consider a replacement school levy to maintain funding for student programs and campus safety.

The measure would continue the existing $44 rate per $100,000 of assessed property value for two more years. The district said funds would support extracurricular activities, athletics, staff salaries, and security improvements not covered by state or federal sources.

The Lakeland School District is also seeking voter approval on a new and reduced levy, which officials say is necessary to avoid what they describe as a financial emergency. The district warned that, without the additional funding, it could face larger class sizes and significant budget cuts.

If approved, the levy would still require about $85,000 in cuts per high school, though officials say the shortfall would be greater if the measure fails. The estimated cost to taxpayers is $82 annually per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Absentee ballots must be returned by May 20, which is also Election Day.