5 Key Takeaways: How a Utah City Grew 61% Growth, Hiking Up Property Taxes
Briefly

Ivins, UT, has seen significant population growth of 61% over the last 15 years without an increase in property tax rates due to the Truth in Taxation law. This has led to a $540,000 budget gap, prompting officials to propose a 34% property tax hike. This solution aims to fund vital services including police vehicles and park maintenance. A debate has emerged among residents whether to raise taxes immediately or wait for revenue from the upcoming $2 billion Black Desert Resort, while most residents seem supportive of addressing the financial challenges through a tax increase.
Despite a 61% increase in residents, Ivins has not benefited financially due to Utah's Truth in Taxation law, which limits property tax rate adjustments as property values rise.
The proposed 34% property tax increase aims to bridge a $540,000 budget gap and fund essential services like police vehicles, stormwater infrastructure, and park maintenance staff.
The debate centers around whether to raise taxes now or wait for revenue from the upcoming $2 billion Black Desert Resort, with some residents advocating for delaying the tax hike.
Despite the tax increase proposal, taxpayer advocates and residents largely support the hike, recognizing the need to address the city's financial challenges after 15 years without a tax rate adjustment.
Read at SFGATE
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