KINGS BEACH, Calif. — In a recent utility district survey, North Tahoe residents made it clear they're against higher taxes when it comes to funding public recreation area improvements.

The survey, organized by the North Tahoe Public Utility District and presented at its board meeting last Tuesday,

revolved around Community Facilities District Act 94-1, the current district-wide $82.20 tax per land parcel.

The questionnaires asked residents how willing they are to accept a $100, $150 or $180 increase to that tax. Numbers showed residents were against all increases. In the poll, 53 percent said they were opposed to the $100 increase, with 43 percent in favor and 4 percent undecided.

As dollar amounts increased, resident opposition grew. A whopping 67 percent opposed the $150 increase, with only 28 percent in favor and 5 percent undecided. At the $180 increase level, the opposition was similar at 68 percent against, 28 percent in favor and 4 percent undecided.

“We really wanted to survey the public to see what they thought, and basically they said that we should live within our means,” said Curtis Aaron, district general manager.

Aaron said that the district wanted to explore the option for greater funding - not for day-to-day maintenance costs - but for replacement, upgrades and special projects like buying playground equipment or repaving parking lots.

After looking at the results, Pam Lefrancoif, PUD executive assistant, said the board decided “not to go in that direction” and would continue to pursue grants for funding.

“Right now, I don't think there is the stomach for (increased taxes) because of the economic environment,” Aaron said.

One of the district's goals is to increase communication with the community, Aaron said, so if it does become necessary to raise taxes, residents will have a better understanding of district decisions.

NTPUD serves residents in Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista, Brockway, Carnelian Bay, Cedar Flat and Agate Bay.