Gervais School District is excited to introduce the Bond Tax Assistance Grant (BTAG) — a unique opportunity for property owners and renters in the district to receive financial relief related to the 2024 bond measure.

This grant program is funded by rental fees collected from district facilities and aims to help ease the burden of increased property taxes or rent caused by the new bond.

Mission & Vision

Mission:
Within our growing, diverse community, we sow the seeds of opportunities to raise prepared, resilient students.

Vision:
Graduating resilient, responsible students whose learning extends to the global community beyond Gervais.

Background: Why This Grant Exists

In May 2022, a proposed bond measure was rejected by voters, many citing financial concerns and the inability to afford increased property taxes.

In May 2024, a new bond passed. While it brings needed improvements to school facilities, the Gervais School District recognizes the financial strain this could cause and is offering this grant to provide relief.

“Out of the Box” Thinking: How It’s Funded

• The school board, with legal guidance, created a first-of-its-kind grant program using facility rental income.

• Events like a traveling circus or dog training classes rent district spaces.

• Rental income (~$10,000/year) will be placed in a dedicated fund capped at $10,000 annually to support the BTAG program.

What the Grant Covers

This program provides up to $200 per year in assistance for eligible households to offset:

• Increases in property taxes

• Rental increases directly tied to those property taxes

Eligibility Guidelines

To qualify:

• Must meet low income guidelines (based on Oregon DHS poverty levels for the January prior to the tax due date).

• Must provide:

  • Financial documentation

  • A lease or property tax statement in the applicant’s name

• Landlords must verify that rent increases are directly tied to property tax increases.

• Property taxes must be paid in full.

• Only one application per residence per year will be accepted.

• Annual re-application is required.

Example:
January 2025’s DHS poverty level will be used to assess eligibility for the November 2025 tax cycle.

Application Process & Deadlines

• Applications are available every April

• Completed applications are:

  • Date and time stamped

  • Reviewed and funded in the order received

• Grants are awarded up to the $10,000 cap

• Final decisions communicated by the second Friday in May

• Receiving a grant one year does not guarantee assistance in future years

Protecting Your Privacy

• No names or addresses will be given to the selection committee.

• All personal information will be redacted.

• Committee members only confirm whether the application meets the criteria.

Who Serves on the Grant Committee?

The Bond Tax Assistance Grant Committee includes:

• Superintendent

• Local business owner

• City staff member

• Parent

• District business manager

• Legal counsel (non-voting advisor)

Need Help or Have Questions?

Applications are available online or at the District Office.

Call 503-792-3803 for support.