In a special meeting of the Logan City Municipal Council, officials discussed a proposed property tax increase aimed at addressing inflationary pressures and funding essential services. The council is considering adopting a final certified property tax rate of 0.000965, which would result in a 4.21% overall increase in property taxes. This includes a 5% increase for the library, generating approximately $126,283, and a 3% increase for the general fund, amounting to $89,561.

Rich Anderson, a council member, explained that the additional funds would help cover inflationary costs across all departments and assist in paying off existing library building debt. For the average residential home valued at $505,000, this translates to an increase of about $10.56 annually, while businesses would see an increase of approximately $19.19.

The council emphasized that the proposed tax rate reflects a decrease from last year's levy of 0.00099, as property values have risen. Anderson noted that the truth in taxation law, established in the 1980s, mandates that municipalities receive the same dollar amount as the previous year, plus taxes from new residents, which complicates individual tax assessments.

During the public hearing segment, residents were invited to voice their opinions on the proposed increase. One resident, Josh Muller, expressed concerns about the concentration of financial power and its implications for community governance.

The council acknowledged that while the proposed increase is modest compared to other municipalities, it is essential for maintaining reliable city services. Anderson highlighted the need for incremental tax increases to ensure the city can adequately fund public safety, infrastructure, and other critical services moving forward.