With more on the line than other counties, Porter County faces the greatest tax threat among the four counties.  In addition to the proposed 0.25% income tax increase, property taxes could increase. The legislation calls for the expanded bus service between Porter and Lake Counties. According to Commissioner Harper, the current V-Line bus system in Valparaiso is funded to $700,000 annually, with revenues of just $30,000.  Porter County residents -- from all corners of the county -- would be subject to an expanded bus service and similar operating success. 

     Sec. 8. A transfer of powers under section 6 or 7 of this chapter to the bus service       division authorizes the bus service division to impose a property tax, including a property tax pledged before January 1, 2010, to pay for bonds, loans, other obligations, or lease rentals related to a public transportation system in Lake County or Porter County (if the county is a member county). The property tax may be imposed only in the area in which the property tax could have been imposed for property taxes first due and payable in 2010.

The lack of accountability is a key concern, as well.  According to Harper, "the board that can pass the tax will be made up of elected officials from various counties. Because members on the board are from several counties, people will not be able to clearly retaliate at the polls if taxes are passed again and again. It will be hard to show your displeasure at election time."

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