The Kaysville City Council unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and a new certified property tax rate during a Truth in Taxation meeting on August 6, 2026. The approved measures include a proposed property tax rate increase that is expected to generate an additional $802,910 in annual revenue, representing a 14.12% increase over current certified property tax revenue.
During the meeting, Mayor Tamara Tran stated that the additional revenue is intended to address prior-year funding needs and support ongoing operations. Specifically, the funds are aimed at maintaining service levels for police and fire operations and staffing, funding technology improvements such as a faster network and an ADA-compliant City website, maintaining parks equipment, and meeting financial commitments for the Kaysville Fieldhouse partnership with the Davis County School District.
Finance Director Maryn Nelson reported that increased costs for City operations and maintenance, particularly inflationary increases within the General Fund, were primary drivers for the proposed tax increase. Nelson estimated the combined impact of proposed property tax and utility rate increases at approximately $16.60 per month for an average resident. She noted that Kaysville's property tax rate remains within the lower third of rates among other Davis County municipalities.
Public comments during the hearing included concerns regarding the City's use of fund balance and long-term financial projections. Resident Val Starkey expressed concern regarding the City's ability to respond to significant emergencies, such as an earthquake, and encouraged the rebuilding of the rainy-day fund. Another resident, Laurene Starkey, inquired about long-term property tax projections and requested more clarity regarding the specific uses of the proposed tax increase.
Council Member Mike Blackham noted that the proposed tax increase was reduced from approximately 34% earlier in the budget process to about 14% through spending reductions and adjustments. He stated that rising public safety and operational costs have increased pressure on the General Fund. Council Member Abbigayle Hunt added that the budget resulted from months of work involving spending reductions and alternative funding sources.
The Council's approval included the resolution adopting the certified tax rate consistent with the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The motion to approve the budget and the tax rate passed unanimously.
