February 2013

County taxes are expected to go down in the coming year, at least the portion levied by Humboldt County. After several budget work sessions over the past month, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors have adopted a budget for fiscal 2013-14, the budget year that begins July 1. The general basic levy is expected to decrease by a nickel per $1,000 assessed valuation. Also the mental health fund levy is expected to be reduced by the same amount. The total levy is expected to decline from the current $10.12 per $1,000, to $10.02, under the new budget. The figures reflect overall numbers and are not broken down according to urban dwellers and rural residents. The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors met Feb. 13, and set a budget hearing for Monday, March 11, at 8:45 a.m., in the supervisor meeting room at the Humboldt County Courthouse. County Auditor Peggy Rice reports that the general basic budgeted expenses will decrease by $30,739, to just over $3 million.

The Humboldt and Twin Rivers Community school districts have announced school will dismiss three hours early on Thursday, Feb. 21, due to the impending snow storm.There will be no activities or parent-teacher conferences. The parent-teacher conferences scheduled that evening will be moved to Tuesday, Feb. 26, with the same time schedule. If you cannot make these times, you can call the school office to change your appointment.In addition, the Class 3A Boys District basketball game in Algona against Clear Lake on Feb. 21 has been moved to Friday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m.

For many, last Wednesday was the beginning of 40 days of change in their normal daily routine. The season of Lent brings a change of diet to some. Giving up meat on certain days or giving up favorite foods (maybe French fries) or groups of foods (for example deserts) can present difficulties in preparing menus that contain a variety of main dishes. This week’s cook column contains meatless recipes that will help provide variety, but still keep the preparation easy.7-Layer Meatless Tortilla Pie Recipeallrecipes.com(2) 15 ounce cans pinto beans, drained1 cup picante sauce1/4 teaspoon garlic powder2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro15 ounce can black beans, drained1 small tomato, chopped(7) 8 inch flour tortillas2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese Mash pinto beans. Stir in 3/4 cup picante sauce and garlic. Mix remaining picante sauce, cilantro, black beans and tomato. Place 1 tortilla on baking sheet. Spread 3/4 cup pinto bean mixture over tortilla to within 1/2-inch of edge.

Taft Park Humboldt