In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed 2024 tax rate for the county, which is set to increase to approximately 0.8497¢ per $100 of assessed value (EAV), up from 0.8228¢ in 2023. This adjustment is attributed to a significant rise in new property, with an assessed value totaling $45 million.

The proposed tax levy allocation includes substantial funding for various departments, notably corporate highway, county highway, county bridge, tuberculosis services, federal aid highway, county health, and veteran assistance programs. A detailed breakdown revealed that a significant portion of the levy will be directed towards sheriff and state's attorney salaries and benefits, alongside funding for insurance premiums, education programming, and senior citizen services.

County officials noted that due to being a Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL) county, the tax increase is capped at either 5% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This year, the CPI is recorded at 3.4%, which will be applied to the existing tax base. The 7.7% increase mentioned pertains solely to new construction.

During the meeting, community member Demerius expressed opposition to the tax increase, highlighting concerns over multiple tax hikes in recent years. The discussion underscored the ongoing tension between funding essential services and the financial burden on residents. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further public input on the proposed changes.