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Ephraim council unveils tentative FY2027 budget, proposes 16.03% property-tax increase
Summary
EphraimCity staff presented a tentative FY2027 budget that includes a proposed 16.03% property-tax increase expected to generate about $59,000 for city services and capital needs; the council also reviewed utility-rate proposals and a new water/sewer assistance plan.
Ephraim City officials on May 6 presented a tentative fiscal-year 2027 budget that includes a proposed property-tax increase above the certified rate and a suite of utility and personnel items slated for further public review.
The Budget Officer told the City Council the tentative budget "includes a proposed property tax increase," a declaration that triggers the Truth in Taxation process under Utah Code Section 59-2-919. The proposal would raise approximately $59,000 in additional property-tax revenue, an increase of about 16.03% over estimated certified-rate revenue.
City staff said the increase would be allocated across city services and capital needs, including roughly $25,000 for fire equipment (a positive-pressure ventilation fan, a thermal-imaging camera, and two sets of turnout gear), $15,000 for recreation maintenance, and $19,000 to renew surfacing and improve drainage at parks. Staff estimated the impact at about $26.70 per year for a primary residence with an assessed value of $415,000; a business property of the same value would see about a $59.35 annual increase.
The tentative budget also includes proposed water and sewer rate increases that are scheduled for a public hearing on May 20, and a new Utility Assistance Program intended to provide up to a $20 monthly credit to qualifying households currently enrolled in the HEAT program; staff estimate the assistance could reach roughly 55 families. Electric utility assistance remains available through the HEAT program.
Other budget items presented included a proposed 2.75% cost-of-living adjustment for city employees and updated insurance premium estimates. Staff said the tentative budget will be available online and at City Hall for public inspection prior to the scheduled public hearings and final adoption.
Next steps: staff will publish the tentative budget for public review and coordinate Truth in Taxation hearings with the county; the budget and the related utility-rate proposals will return to the council for public hearing and final action.
