Blackhawk County announces fiscal 2026 budget with significant tax changes and assessments

The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors convened on April 1, 2025, for a special session focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 property tax levy hearing. The meeting highlighted key financial metrics and changes affecting the county's budget and tax structure.

During the session, officials reported that Black Hawk County's population has remained relatively stable, with minimal growth compared to other counties in Iowa. The county ranks fifth in both population and property value assessments among the state's largest counties. Notably, the county's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) valuation has increased significantly, positioning Black Hawk County fifth in TIF property values, with 10.5% of the total taxable value currently in TIF.

The discussion also addressed the impact of recent legislative changes on property taxes. For Fiscal Year 2025, the county experienced a 2.59% growth in taxable value, which did not trigger tax growth restrictions. However, for Fiscal Year 2026, the taxable growth was slightly higher at 3.17%, leading to a cap on the general basic levy rate. This cap adjustment resulted in a proposed countywide tax levy of approximately $5.64, with total property tax collections projected at nearly $36.9 million, marking an increase of about $1.8 million from the previous year.

The meeting detailed how the county plans to allocate its budget, with significant portions dedicated to salaries and benefits, operating expenses, and capital projects. Public safety remains the largest expenditure category, accounting for nearly one-third of the budget.

Taxpayers can expect slight increases in their property tax bills. For instance, a residential urban taxpayer with a home valued at $100,000 will see their county tax share rise from $256 to $267, reflecting a 4.3% increase. Rural residents and agricultural property owners will also experience similar increases in their tax obligations.

In conclusion, the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors emphasized the importance of adapting to legislative changes while managing the county's financial health. The proposed budget for FY26 aims to balance necessary services with the financial realities faced by residents. The board will continue to monitor property values and tax implications as they finalize the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.