In a recent public hearing, local officials discussed the proposed tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, revealing a significant change from earlier proposals. Initially, the county had suggested a tax rate of 0.42919, just below the voter-approved rate of 0.42920. However, following a budget workshop, the commissioners decided to maintain the current tax rate of 0.4058696, resulting in a decrease of approximately $700,000 in projected revenue compared to the original proposal.

The meeting highlighted the implications of property value increases, with new property revenue estimated at $878,603 and total revenue projected at $926,446 for fiscal year 2024-2025. This decision to keep the tax rate unchanged comes after a series of reductions over the past few years, where the tax rate has dropped significantly since 2019.

Public comments during the hearing reflected concerns about the county's growing general fund, which has increased from $2.5 million in 2019 to an estimated $12.4 million this year. One resident urged officials to consider lowering the tax rate further, arguing that taxpayers deserve relief given the rising property values and the substantial growth in county funds.

The hearing concluded without any additional public comments, and the officials will now proceed to finalize the budget and tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year.