August is property‑tax‑increase season in Utah because this is when cities, school districts, and special service districts adopt their final budgets after holding truth‑in‑taxation hearings with their taxpayers.
These meetings give elected officials a chance to explain why a tax increase is needed and allow the public to share its feedback on the proposal. I have attended numerous truth‑in‑taxation meetings over the years, and they have been fascinating to observe. Some draw packed rooms of residents passionately sharing their views on the tax hike, while others are mostly empty, with officials noting that they must be doing things correctly because no one showed up.
Whether the proposed increase is only a few dollars a month or hundreds of dollars a year, we encourage you to attend these meetings. To help, here are a few tips for participating effectively.
Tip #1: Come prepared with facts
By this point, officials have held several budget meetings and have been briefed by staff on every detail. Showing up with “pitchforks and torches” may feel cathartic, but it will accomplish little if you lack factual arguments. Access the proposed budget on the entity’s website and arrive with concrete suggestions for trimming or cutting items to demonstrate what residents are willing to forgo to avoid a tax hike.
Tip #2: Know the rules
Like a board game or sport, public meetings have rules to keep things running smoothly. There is a set time for officials to speak and one for public comment. Speakers may face time limits, and remarks can be cut off if they violate decorum. Be respectful, professional, and concise—people tune out when comments run long.
Tip #3: There are options after the vote
Most truth‑in‑taxation meetings end with some form of tax increase. Even if the final amount is lower than advertised, it is still an increase. That does not mean you have no recourse. Citizens can pursue a referendum, but they must act quickly and reserve this option for truly egregious hikes. Elections are another avenue: if enough people are upset, they can vote out officials who supported the increase.
From the federal government down to our school districts and cities, we need officials who are fiscally responsible, innovative, and willing to challenge the status quo to deliver the best results for taxpayers.
In addition to attending truth‑in‑taxation meetings, please vote in this year’s municipal elections. Keeping taxes low starts with these elections. We need candidates who will make tough choices and serve as fiscal hawks in city halls statewide. Your engagement—in these meetings and at the ballot box—will help keep taxes low and fair for families and businesses in our great state.
And for additional information, here is a link to a pdf listing the 2025 property tax increases around Utah.