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City Council adopts interim FY2027 budget after debate over firefighter funding and proposed property tax increase
Summary
The Council adopted an interim fiscal year 2027 budget to preserve city services starting July 1 while reserving final decisions (including any property tax increase) for a Truth in Taxation hearing in August. Members debated whether additional firefighter positions should be prioritized regardless of the tax outcome.
The American Fork City Council voted to adopt an interim budget for fiscal year 2027 on June 23, approving Resolution No. 2026-06-26R to ensure continuity of services beginning July 1. Finance Director Anna Montoya told the Council the interim budget includes a proposed property tax increase and that a separate Truth in Taxation hearing is scheduled for Aug. 11 before the final budget is adopted.
Council Member Tim Holley urged the Council to prioritize hiring additional firefighters over other discretionary expenditures if the tax increase is not approved, arguing the City should 'prioritize funding the firefighter positions regardless of the outcome of the Truth in Taxation process.' Council Member Carroll countered that the proposed firefighter positions represent a service expansion tied properly to proposed revenue, and several members emphasized the interim budget's purpose is to preserve flexibility until the final budget is set. "The interim budget is a temporary, evolving document," City Administrator David Bunker said, noting that tax revenues tied to the proposal will be segregated until after the public hearing.
The Council discussed timing for hiring and agreed staff could proceed with finalization of recruiting timelines after necessary facilities and schedule considerations are resolved. The vote to adopt the interim budget passed unanimously. Council members stressed the final budget and any tax rate will be adopted before August 31 and may be amended following the Truth in Taxation process.
