FARMINGTON, Utah — Davis County residents could see a significant increase in their property taxes next year, as county commissioners propose a property tax hike of up to 29.97% for 2026 — the first such increase in nearly a decade.
If fully approved, the plan would generate approximately $12.68 million in new revenue, bringing the county’s total property tax collections from $42.29 million in 2025 to $54.97 million in 2026, according to Davis County Controller Scott Parke.
Why the Hike Is Being Considered
County officials say the increase is necessary to maintain current levels of service amid rising inflation, higher operating costs, and increased demand for public services.
“If we don’t get some new revenue, we’re not going to be able to provide the existing level of service that we’re already providing,” Parke said. “We’d have to start cutting back on what we already offer.”
Inflation has risen roughly 32% since 2017, the last time the county went through the truth-in-taxation process, which took effect in 2017. Meanwhile, wages and costs in key departments — particularly public safety — have also grown significantly.
Wages in the Davis County Sheriff’s Office, for example, increased from just under $30 million in 2020 to nearly $37 million today, a rise of more than 20%, as the county works to stay competitive and prevent employee turnover.
Impact on Homeowners
For an average Davis County home valued at $600,000, the proposed 29.97% hike would increase the county portion of the property tax bill by about $100, from $335.28 to $435.76.
County Commissioner Bob Stevenson stressed that the 30% figure represents the maximum possible increase and that the final decision could result in a smaller percentage.
“Please realize that the 29.97% is a maximum,” Stevenson said. “That does not mean that’s what it’s going to be.”
Public Meetings and Hearings
County leaders plan to hold three open houses in November to gather feedback before the final vote:
- Nov. 6: Layton Library
- Nov. 12: Centerville Library
- Nov. 18: Syracuse Library
Each open house begins at 6 p.m.
A formal truth-in-taxation public hearing is scheduled for Dec. 2 at 6 p.m. at the Davis County Administration Building in Farmington, where residents can share their opinions before the commission’s final decision.
Efforts to Save and Context for Residents
Officials note that the county has already implemented several cost-cutting measures, including the elimination of 15 positions, primarily in public safety. A Utah Taxpayers Association report also found that Davis County has the seventh-lowest taxes per capita among Utah’s 29 counties.
Parke acknowledged that no one enjoys a tax increase but emphasized the need to address inflation and rising service costs. “Nobody likes a tax increase — I don’t either,” he said. “But we need to hear from residents about what they’re willing to pay for and what they’re willing to cut.”
Residents can find more information about the proposal and submit feedback at daviscountyutah.gov/truth-in-taxation.
