During a recent public hearing, the council discussed proposed modifications to local income tax rates, which have been published in Fairy County News as of July 15. The changes, set to take effect in 2024, include an increase in the public safety tax rate from 0.3220% to 0.3520% and the introduction of new rates for correctional rehabilitation facilities and emergency medical services, both set at 0.1%. The overall tax rate will remain unchanged at 1.4%.

The hearing provided a platform for community members to voice their concerns regarding the proposed changes. Jody French, representing Perry Central Community Schools, expressed significant apprehension about the impact of reducing funding for economic development. French argued that the council's rationale for reallocating resources to public safety overlooks the unique financial challenges faced by Perry County, where over two-thirds of land is federally owned, limiting taxable properties.

French emphasized the importance of economic development for sustaining local schools and attracting businesses, highlighting that the county has made strides in retaining talent and creating job opportunities. She warned that cutting economic development funding could jeopardize these efforts and urged the council to reconsider the proposed tax rate changes, advocating for solutions that would not adversely affect the community's future.

The council is expected to deliberate further on the proposed modifications, taking into account the feedback from the public hearing.