Yavapai County proposes flat property tax rates and budget overview for next year

On June 25, 2025, the Yavapai County Special Board of Supervisors convened to discuss the proposed property tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year, alongside a comprehensive overview of the county's budget and revenue sources. The meeting highlighted significant financial decisions that could impact residents and local services.

The proposed property tax rates for Yavapai County will remain unchanged at 1.6443, maintaining the same level as the previous year. However, the flood control district will see a slight decrease in its rate from 0.1674 to 0.1599, while the library district's rate will remain flat at 0.1346. This overall reduction in property tax rates reflects the county's commitment to managing fiscal responsibilities while addressing community needs.

During the meeting, officials provided a detailed breakdown of the county's revenue sources, emphasizing that intergovernmental revenue constitutes the majority of funding. This includes approximately $54.7 million from state share sales tax, alongside federal and state grants, which also hover around $54.6 million each. The county anticipates utilizing about $82 million in funding from previously received federal dollars, including those from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), in the next year's budget.

Expenditure discussions revealed that courts and public safety represent a significant portion of the budget, accounting for over half of the total investment. Other key areas of spending include general government, highways and streets, and health and welfare services. The board acknowledged the need for clearer financial reporting, with requests to separate the budget allocations for courts and public safety to enhance transparency and understanding.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide additional information and breakdowns of the budget in response to board members' requests. As Yavapai County prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, these discussions underscore the importance of fiscal prudence and community engagement in local governance. The board will continue to hold hearings to further discuss the implications of these proposed rates and budget allocations, ensuring that residents remain informed and involved in the decision-making process.