Some veterans can get tax discounts

Many readers have expressed frustration at the increase in government services taxes on their vehicle registration notices. Some motorists can receive some relief from them so today we'll lead off with a question about who is eligible.

Jeff wants a break: Is it true that if you are a veteran you receive a discount on registering your car? If this is true why didn't they at least ask me that when I moved here and registered my car at the DMV? And how can I rectify this? I suppose I would have to go back and wait hours again at DMV?

The answer to this is yes and no, Jeff. Some military veterans are offered discounts on the government services tax -- the part of the fees when registering that increased most significantly this year -- but the break isn't through the Department of Motor Vehicles. To apply for the tax relief, you must visit The county assessor's office and show them paperwork documenting your time in the service. The assessor will give veterans a certificate that can be presented to the DMV clerk, who will provide the discount.

Those eligible include veterans with wartime service, disabled veterans and their surviving spouses, and active duty military members who are residents of another state but stationed in Nevada.

Native American tribal members who reside on tribal lands and the blind are also eligible for the tax breaks. For additional information, check out the specific state statute covering these tax breaks -- NRS Chapter 371.

Charissa misses her shortcut: I live in the Weston Hills community in Henderson near Tuscany. I was wondering if you could get any information on why Galleria Drive is closed between Mohawk Drive and Dave Wood Drive. I love to take my children to Tuscany park and opening this part of Galleria would give us a direct route. Any idea when it might open?

Charissa, that portion of Galleria is in the hands of a private developer. According to the city of Henderson, the contractor still needs to run power to the adjacent development and install the landscaping. Until that work is done, the road will remain closed. Although the city folks have no control over the developer's schedule, they said they expect Galleria to reopen by the end of the year.

Mark feels the need, well, to figure out the speed: From the Highway 95 south entering the Interstate 15 going south, there is no speed limit sign until you get to the Sahara Avenue on-ramp. What is the speed limit on this stretch of freeway? Is it 55 mph or 65 mph?

According to the Nevada Highway Patrol, the speed limit remains what it was last posted until you see a new sign. In Mark's case, it looks as though Highway 95 is 65 mph until you reach the ramp leading to the interstate, at which time the ramp itself is a 45 mph zone and then it picks back up to 65 mph once you enter Interstate 15.

If you have a question, tip or tirade, call Adrienne Packer at (702) 387-2904, or send an e-mail to roadwarrior@reviewjournal.com. Include your phone number.