Public-health director says Jefferson County assessment will rise about $3,205 under FY27 plan

James Corbett, identified as Eastern Iowa Public Health director, presented Eastern Public Health’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget and told the Jefferson County Board that the district is not requesting an overall increase in county assessments but that individual county shares can shift under the statutory formula. “For Jefferson County this upcoming year, it actually increases $3,205 or about a 1% change from your last year's,” Corbett said during his presentation.

Corbett explained the statutory assessment formula — 70% population and 30% taxable market value — and walked commissioners through tables showing per-capita figures and trending budget lines. He emphasized efforts to hold costs and noted the district’s proposed per-capita budget is about $37.04 while the county-funded portion would be roughly $8.59 per individual (not adjusted for inflation). Commissioners asked about specific fee lines such as sewer and septic permitting and Corbett said those costs have fluctuated with workload and staffing; he recommended additional vendor or staffing evaluations if permit activity increases.

The presentation included a summary of budget history going back to the early 2000s and an explanation of why food-license fees do not fully cover inspection costs. Commissioners posed follow-up questions on permit-fee drivers and staffing levels; Corbett said the health district will return with clarifications if commissioners request further detail.