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One goal of SJATF is to protect some of San Juan County’s remaining mining heritage through the acquisition of scenic properties or claims. These sites draw tourists who photograph them season after season.
Photo © 1984 by P. Swonger Used by permission. |
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San Juan County, Colorado covers a total of 248,954 acres of which 86% is currently public lands. The intent of the project is to acquire approximately 1% or less of that total through San Juan Alpine Task Force (SJATF). Even this small of a transfer of lands will make a significant impact in ensuring the economic viability of our county by preserving key historic assets, recreational appeal and unsurpassed scenic vistas.
Compensating Factors For A Slight Reduction in Tax Base: Growing Property Tax Base—With reassessment occurring in 2005, San Juan County property tax base will dramatically rise in 2006, despite a small percentage of the backcountry becoming non-taxable in conjunction with this project. Also in 2005, $400,000 of County property was sold and added to the tax base. PILT (Payments In Lieu of Taxes)- Additional Federal payments for the slight increase in public lands would also help compensate for any reduction in the tax base. Reduction In the Financial Impact of Backcountry Home Development—Virtually all studies show that backcountry homes cost counties more to provide services (i.e. law enforcement, road work, etc.) than is generated through property tax.
By using a combination of economic techniques now, San Juan County will be better prepared to meet the challenges of the future. |
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San Juan Alpine Task Force P O Box 427 Silverton, CO 81433 |
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TO CONTACT US OR MAKE A DONATION: |
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E-mail: info@sjalpine.org |
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SJalpine.org
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San Juan Alpine Task Force |
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P O Box 427 Silverton, CO 81433 |