City Council - August 20, 2024

Meeting Summary

The August 20 City Council meeting was centered on a Truth in Taxation public hearing on a proposed 6.25 percent property tax increase. Under Utah law, local governments that wish to collect revenues beyond the certified rate must advertise the proposed increase and hold a public hearing before the governing body can take a final vote. Lehi's proposed increase was not driven by an operating shortfall but was specifically earmarked to sustain and expand public safety services in a competitive regional labor market. City officials estimated the annual cost to a homeowner with a $564,000 residence at approximately $22.03 per year, with the increase on a commercial property of the same value totaling $40.04 annually. The proposed revenue would fund salary adjustments needed to retain and recruit police officers and firefighters, as well as add one park maintenance position. City officials emphasized that unlike neighboring municipalities raising taxes to cover deficits or finance new facilities, Lehi's request was narrowly scoped to maintaining existing service levels as the city's population continues to grow. The council accepted public testimony and concluded the hearing without taking a final vote, with formal adoption expected at a subsequent meeting.