Regine Newman reports on Shelby County's $43M tax analysis for 2024

In a recent meeting of the PILOT Ad Hoc Committee on August 21, 2025, Shelby County officials discussed the current status and financial implications of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements. Regine Newman, the County Trustee, clarified that while PILOTs do not categorize as lost revenue, they represent taxes foregone, indicating a strategic approach to attract businesses to the area.

As of now, there are 509 active PILOT agreements in Shelby County, with three additional agreements pending approval. The committee noted that a comprehensive financial analysis will not be conducted until the end of the tax year on December 31, 2025. The most recent financial report, covering the 2024 tax year, indicated that the county's expenditures amounted to approximately $43 million.

Newman emphasized the importance of understanding the financial impact of these agreements, particularly how they affect county revenue. However, the committee acknowledged a gap in data regarding taxes abated by municipalities, which could provide further insight into the overall fiscal landscape.

This meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts of Shelby County to balance economic development through PILOT agreements while ensuring transparency and accountability in financial reporting. As the county prepares for the upcoming tax year, the implications of these discussions will be crucial for stakeholders and residents alike.