Salt Lake City seniors rally against Senator McKay's property tax relief bill

The Salt Lake County Council meeting on February 11, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding proposed legislation affecting senior citizens and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

A primary focus was on Senate Bill 197, introduced by Senator Dan McKay, which aims to eliminate financial assistance for low-income seniors regarding property taxes after five years. A concerned resident highlighted that this bill could strip over 10,000 seniors in Salt Lake County of vital financial support, as the county has a notably high participation rate in existing property tax relief programs. The resident urged the council to issue a strong statement opposing SB 197 and to support Senate Bill 224, which seeks to enhance these programs. The fiscal implications were stark, with SB 197 projected to save taxpayers only $4.55 annually while potentially costing seniors up to $930 in lost relief.

In addition to the discussion on senior assistance, Elizabeth Fulmer, a Sandy resident, addressed the council regarding ordinance 1915.140, which currently prohibits two electrical meters on a single parcel. Fulmer, who recently built an ADU for her aging mother, reported facing an estimated $80,000 bill due to a misunderstanding of the ordinance and utility installation guidance. She advocated for a revision to allow separate metering for ADUs, arguing that it would not compromise zoning or safety standards and would align with practices in other jurisdictions.

The council's response to these issues could significantly impact the lives of seniors and homeowners in Salt Lake County, as they consider the implications of the proposed legislation and potential ordinance revisions.