Brigham City proposes 10.3% property tax increase for fleet fund financing

In a recent work session held on June 2, 2025, Brigham City officials discussed the implications of a proposed property tax increase for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on the impact of inflation adjustments and the need for additional funding to support essential city services, particularly for the fleet fund, which covers vehicle leases.

City officials highlighted that the budget for 2026 would require a property tax increase of approximately 10.3% to meet financial needs. This increase is primarily driven by the necessity to maintain revenue levels from the previous year, adjusted for inflation and new growth. The discussion revealed that Brigham City is entitled to collect the same amount of property tax revenue as last year, based on the assessed values of properties, which are still pending finalization from the county.

To illustrate the financial calculations, officials presented a scenario where the city would need to collect around $3.3 million in property taxes. This figure includes a projected $75,000 from new growth, leaving a shortfall of $330,000 that would need to be covered by the proposed tax increase. For homeowners, this translates to an average increase of about $39 annually, or roughly $3.27 per month, based on a typical home value of $405,000.

The council's discussions underscored the importance of understanding the broader implications of property tax adjustments, particularly in light of rising costs and the need for sustainable funding for city operations. As the city awaits finalized property tax values from the county, officials emphasized the need for clarity on new growth figures, which will play a crucial role in determining the final budget and tax rates.

Looking ahead, the council will need to weigh the necessity of the proposed tax increase against community concerns about affordability and the overall economic climate. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact Brigham City's financial health and its ability to provide essential services to residents.