If you’ve recently received a letter from your city, county, or school district about a proposed property tax increase, you’re not alone. Across Utah, many residents are getting the same notices, and many are wondering why.
Public meetings have been packed. Tempers have flared. Headlines highlight the drama: “Tooele Residents Voice Outrage,” “Canyons School District’s board votes for a property tax increase,” and more. You’d be forgiven for feeling like there’s a coordinated wave of tax increases targeting your wallet.
But there’s a reason this is all happening now—and it’s not a conspiracy.
It’s Called “Truth in Taxation”
Utah law requires that when a local government—like a city, county, or school district—wants to collect more property tax revenue than it did the year before, it must notify you by mail and hold a public hearing.
This is called the Truth in Taxation process. It creates a specific window each year when governments can propose and explain tax increases. That’s why so many notices hit Utahns’ mailboxes, and that’s why all these public meetings are happening now.
Without this law, local governments could simply raise taxes at almost any public meeting, and then post notices on a website with no additional fanfare. However, instead they must hold a specific meeting to discuss the proposed increase, and let you have a say.
Growth, Inflation, and Spending Pressure
As Utah communities grow, so does the need for public services like schools, roads, and utilities. But growth doesn’t always mean higher taxes. In fact, a growing population can expand the tax base, allowing some local governments to maintain or even lower tax rates while still funding services. That said, inflation and rising operational costs—especially in areas like education and public safety—can still create financial pressure even in growing areas.
In Tooele, for example, the school district says it needs more funding to avoid layoffs and keep teacher pay competitive. In the Canyons District, officials cite rising insurance, supply, and utility costs. Whether or not these realities justify a tax increase, at the amounts being proposed, requires engagement and accountability.
Of course, many residents are understandably frustrated. Some question whether money is being spent wisely or feel they’re being asked to pay more without seeing better results. That’s fair. Accountability is key.
The good news? This process is designed to include you.
If you oppose a proposed increase—or support it—show up to the public hearing! Or better yet, start attending such meetings regularly and make connections with your elected officials. These meetings aren’t a formality. They’re your chance to weigh in and influence how your tax dollars are spent.
Libertas Institute’s Stance
We support the Truth in Taxation process because it promotes transparency and citizen involvement. Local governments must be accountable, and tax increases should always come with clear justifications and measurable goals.
Growth doesn’t always lead to higher taxes. It expands the tax base and often helps keep rates lower than otherwise. In fact, many Utah cities have gone many years without raising taxes by relying on growth-driven revenue.
But inflation and potential mismanagement can put real pressure on budgets. As the cost of living rises and federal spending fuels inflation, public employees like teachers and first responders need pay increases to keep up. Even in areas with a strong tax base, it’s possible that local governments may need to adjust taxes to maintain certain services. It may also be worth examining cost-saving strategies, such as privatization or other efficiency-focused alternatives for specific services.
This isn’t about hiding the ball. It’s about giving you the opportunity to make your voice heard.
