Black Hawk County outlines property tax changes and budget allocations for fiscal 2025

The recent Black Hawk County budget hearing revealed a modest increase in property tax collections, with a total increase of 3.7% for the upcoming fiscal year. This translates to approximately $32.3 million in property tax revenue, which is below the 4% threshold that many residents have been concerned about. The hearing, held on April 21, 2025, highlighted how these changes will affect various property types, with urban residential properties seeing a tax increase of 2.91%, while commercial properties will experience a 1.6% rise.

County officials noted that no new positions were added to the sheriff's department, reflecting a cautious approach to budgeting amid rising costs. Health premiums are expected to decrease by 5%, which may provide some relief to county employees. The budget also includes a general countywide tax levy set at $5.57, with a rural levy of $3.71, indicating a slight adjustment in the financial landscape for residents.

The meeting also addressed the county's ranking in terms of property tax collections compared to other counties in Iowa. Black Hawk County remains the fifth largest in population but has dropped to eighth in terms of tax collections among the top ten counties. This shift is attributed to a commitment to managing excess reserves and a focus on maintaining fiscal responsibility.

In terms of expenditures, the budget allocates significant funds to public safety and legal services, which account for 32.8% of the total budget. The county is also planning to sell $5 million in bonds to fund capital projects, with expectations of a 4% interest rate. This funding will support various initiatives, including road construction and maintenance, which are crucial for the community's infrastructure.

Overall, the budget hearing underscored the county's efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of its residents, aiming to keep tax increases manageable while addressing essential services and infrastructure improvements. As the county moves forward, officials will continue to monitor property values and tax rates to ensure they align with community needs and expectations.