Seniors demand cap on rising property taxes

During a recent government meeting, several residents voiced their concerns regarding rising property taxes and the financial burdens faced by senior citizens in Utah County. Marilyn, a local resident, highlighted the significant increase in living costs, including homeowners' fees and insurance, which rose by 25% last year. She urged the commission to consider providing assistance to seniors struggling with these expenses.

Olive Haupt, a long-time homeowner, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a cap on property taxes for seniors. She expressed concern over how many seniors might lose their homes due to unaffordable tax increases, emphasizing that their fixed incomes do not keep pace with rising costs. Haupt also inquired about the process for initiating a petition to support this cause.

Her husband, James Haupt, contributed to the discussion by criticizing the logic behind increasing taxes despite a growing population. He argued that more residents should lead to lower individual costs, drawing on his experience as a self-employed contractor to illustrate his point.

Greg Durden, another resident, presented a petition with over a hundred signatures opposing a proposed 47.9% property tax increase for 2025. He criticized the county's budget management, pointing out that while the county faces a significant deficit, elected officials have received annual pay raises. Durden called for a suspension of these raises until the budget is balanced, urging the commissioners to prioritize fiscal responsibility.

The meeting underscored the growing frustration among residents regarding financial pressures and the need for the county to address these issues effectively.