Salt Lake County residents are already dealing with record inflation, skyrocketing housing costs, and wage stagnation. Now, county leaders are proposing a nearly 20% property tax hike, adding even more pressure to families just trying to stay afloat.

Mayor Jenny Wilson has proposed the increase to cover rising operational costs and debt payments on projects like the new Midvale government campus and Salt Palace Convention Center renovations. But working families shouldn’t be expected to foot the bill for government overspending and unfunded state mandates.

If passed, this hike would raise nearly $49 million, with a significant portion going toward items that weren’t approved directly by voters—such as structural budget gaps and IT expansion. That’s not public safety. That’s not schools. That’s not roads. That’s bureaucracy.

Yes, the average monthly cost might seem small on paper, $7.28, but for many of us, every dollar counts. And when local government normalizes “just a few dollars more” every year, it adds up to real hardship over time.

This petition calls on the Salt Lake County Council to reject this 20% tax hike and find alternative solutions that do not place the burden squarely on the backs of working families. Budget responsibly. Prioritize essential services. Stop using taxpayers as a fallback plan for poor financial planning.

The final budget will be reviewed in November, and the public hearing is set for Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. This is our chance to speak up.

Add your name to demand that Salt Lake County leaders vote NO on this tax hike—and stand up for everyday residents.

Photo: Brookings