St. George council adopts $524.2 million FY26 budget, keeps property tax rate revenue-neutral

The St. George City Council on June 10 unanimously adopted the fiscal year 2026 budget, approving staffrecommended amendments that increase the combined budget from $523.2 million to $524.2 million.

Assistant City Manager and Budget Director Robert Myers told the council the budget "does not propose a property tax increase." He said the plan funds critical utility and transportation infrastructure, nine new public safety positions and continued parks and trails investments tied to the city's 2023 voter-approved bond.

Myers outlined that the budget is guided by the city's first business plan and is designed to be balanced while meeting growth-driven needs such as water and sewer line replacements, the airport terminal expansion and continued funding for police and fire services. "This budget is not just a financial document, it's our action plan for delivering the high quality services that residents, businesses, and visitors expect," he said.

Council discussed fee adjustments earlier in the meeting; staff said fee changes were proposed to keep pace with service costs. Councilmember Danielle Larkin moved to adopt the FY26 budget including the amendments presented that night; the motion carried unanimously after a roll-call vote.

The council also adopted the certified property tax rate provided by the Washington County clerk/auditor. Staff explained the certified rate is intended to keep property tax revenue neutral for existing properties as assessed values change; "as property values go up, the certified tax rate goes down so we collect the same amount of money," a councilmember said during the discussion.

Whathappens next: The FY26 budget and tax rate take effect for the coming fiscal year; staff said the budget documents are posted on the city's website for public review.