Uintah council adopts FY2025–26 budget after debate over doubled tax rate

The Uintah City Council voted 5–0 on Aug. 5 to adopt the FY2025–26 budget and approve Ordinance 298-25, approving a proposed property tax-rate increase that council members said is intended to restore depleted savings and pay for rising operating costs.

Mayor Cutler, who presented the budget, said that the last property tax increase was in 2012 by 2% and that a combination of rising insurance costs, outsourced IT and legal services, and aging equipment has driven the need for revenue. "The last property tax increase was in 2012 by 2%," he told attendees during the Truth in Taxation presentation.

Council members described a range of pressures: reduced Class C road funds, lower grant awards and rising insurance, plus planned investments in parks and public works equipment. Council Member Bell said the city needs to rebuild reserves and maintain critical staff, including certified water operators. "100% is a lot and that is a minimum of what we need to make ourselves whole," Bell said, arguing for a cautious approach that avoids continual use of savings.

Council Member Combe moved to approve Ordinance 298-25; Council Member Roberts seconded. The motion passed with all members voting in favor: Combe, Bell, Roberts, Patterson and Mayor Cutler. The ordinance finalizes the fiscal year budget and authorizes the tax-rate adjustments described at the meeting.

The council and several residents acknowledged the burden on fixed-income households and urged transparency. Officials said budget details are reviewed monthly and invited residents to comment at hearings and council meetings. The council also discussed seeking grants and lease revenues to offset costs but noted those sources have declined.