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Willard holds Truth in Taxation hearing on proposed 45% property tax revenue increase
Summary
Willard City held a public hearing on Aug. 6 on a proposal that would raise property tax revenue by $130,999 (a 45.15% increase); residents raised affordability concerns, ambulance and hydrant repairs, water-line risks, and whether the increase should fund police staffing.
Willard Mayor Travis Mote opened a public hearing on a Truth in Taxation proposal that the city says would generate an additional $130,999 in property tax revenue, representing a 45.15% increase from last year. "The tax on a $515,000 residence (the average residence value in the city) would increase from $271.35 to $394.85," the mayor said, and he gave comparable figures for business property.
The mayor and staff said the council has reviewed the budget since April and trimmed some personnel and equipment spending but still faces rising costs. City Accountant Ryan Child told residents that "property taxes represent $305,000 of the city's $2.2 million general fund budget," and that population growth mainly increases sales tax rather than property tax. Child also said the proposed increase is tied to a specific personnel addition: the city estimates the total cost of one new police officer at $60,000 in wages, $30,000 in benefits and $14,000 in supplies and training.
Residents pressed the council on affordability and priorities. Evan Ciccinelli said his property value had fallen about $3,000 and calculated his tax would rise roughly 28% overall, asking "what value residents would receive for this increase." Other commenters, including Gaye Moniaque, said retirees on fixed incomes would be hurt if the city raised property taxes while also increasing utility rates. Several speakers urged the council to consider alternatives, including developer fees or a smaller increase; Jay Thackeray recommended "considering a smaller tax increase of 15% instead of 45%."
Council members did not take a final vote on the proposal at the hearing. The council opened and closed the hearing by unanimous procedural votes and encouraged residents to continue providing input at regular council meetings as officials finalize budget decisions.
