The Roy City Council convened a Truth-in-Taxation hearing on Aug. 11, 2026, to address potential property tax increases, a process required by state law before any entity can adopt a tax rate above the certified amount. While the hearing marks a critical step in the city's fiscal planning, the final property tax rate for the area remains pending.
Legal Requirements for Tax Increases
The hearing held on Aug. 11, 2026, is part of a broader regulatory framework established by the Utah State Tax Commission. According to the Utah State Tax Commission, taxing entities must follow specific, date-sensitive steps to comply with truth-in-taxation requirements. These procedures include notifying the county, placing newspaper advertisements, sending parcel-specific notices to residents, and holding a public hearing before any rate increase can be adopted.
Understanding Entity and Area Rates
The legal necessity for such hearings is rooted in the distinction between entity and area tax rates. The Utah State Tax Commission explains that there are two types of tax rates: entity rates and area rates. A group of entity rates is combined to form the area rate, which is the final rate charged by counties against the assessed value of a specific property.
Council Meeting History
The current proceedings follow a period of administrative activity within the Roy City Council. In previous months, the council held several meetings to manage city business, including a meeting on July 21, 2026, and a meeting on July 7, 2026. The council also held a special work session on June 16, 2026, and a regular meeting on June 2, 2026. Notably, a meeting scheduled for Aug. 4, 2026, was canceled.
Roy City Governance Structure
The Roy City Council is composed of the Mayor and five council members. Mayor Ann Jackson serves a term from Jan. 2026 through Dec. 2029. The council members include Diane Wilson, Bryon Saxton, Janel Hulbert, Alexis Jackson, and Jason Sphar. The council members' terms are staggered, with two members and the Mayor elected at one time, and the remaining three members elected two years later. Members elected in November take office in January.
Long-Term Strategic Planning
The council's work is guided by long-term planning, such as the Roy City 5-Year Strategic Plan. Approved in 2023, this plan is intended to remain active until 2028. The plan focuses on several key areas of municipal execution, including community development, economic development and redevelopment, infrastructure, workforce, public transportation, and environmental stewardship.
Public Information and Contact
While the Aug. 11, 2026, hearing addresses the immediate need for tax rate transparency, the city continues to manage various municipal objectives. For more information regarding the council or specific agenda items, the City Recorder can be reached at 801-774-1020 or via email at admin@royutah.gov.
Historical Municipal Studies
The city also maintains records of approved documents and studies. For example, a 2019 market study was conducted to evaluate demand for a potential hotel in Roy, Utah, which suggested a select-service lodging facility associated with a national brand would be appropriate for the area.
