The rates are $1 per square foot for new structures for residential use and 50 cents per square foot of new structures or portions of structures for non-residential use.

Exemptions from the tax will be granted for affordable housing constructed by registered nonprofit groups established for the purpose of providing affordable housing and farm worker dwellings.

The tax was created by the 2007 Oregon Legislature and is the first time that school districts have been allowed to tax growth that creates facilities needs. The legislature limited the amount that can be collected under the tax to $25,000 per structure or building permit.

City and county governments that issue building permits have agreed to collect the tax for the school district.

“The tax is expected to generate up to $300,000 per year which will go a long way toward maintaining our school buildings,” said school district Business Manager Nick Hogan.

“We are grateful for the support of the City of Cascade Locks and the City and County of Hood River.”