A statewide taxpayer watchdog is calling out Draper City for proposing property tax increases three years running, placing it among a small group of Utah governments that keep coming back for more.

The Utah Taxpayers Association reported Aug. 4 that Draper is one of just nine taxing entities holding a Truth-in-Taxation hearing for the third consecutive year. Only 11 entities statewide have done it four years straight. Across Utah, 67 entities are proposing a combined $93.6 million in new property tax revenue this budget cycle.

Draper's hearing is Wednesday, Aug. 12, at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 1020 E. Pioneer Rd.

What's on the table

Mayor Troy Walker is proposing a 25% increase in Draper's property tax rate for fiscal year 2026-27. For the average homeowner with an $807,000 home, that means $8.66 more per month on the city portion of the tax bill. Businesses valued at $1 million would pay an additional $19.50 per month.

The city frames the increase as part of a multi-year strategy to fund police and fire services without a single large spike. According to the city's tax proposal page, property taxes currently cover less than half of Draper's public safety costs, and drawing from fund balances to cover the gap is unsustainable.

Draper's current rate of 0.000936 remains among the lowest in Salt Lake County, according to city records. The city implemented its first rate increase in 17 years in 2024, as we reported in July.

The 'repeat offender' context

Utah Taxpayers Association president Billy Hesterman said in the Aug. 4 report that entities returning for a third or fourth consecutive year owe taxpayers a clear explanation for why they need more revenue again.

"Government should not need to ask residents for additional revenue year after year without presenting a credible long-term plan to control spending," Hesterman said.

Draper's neighbors on the repeat list include Canyons School District, whose board approved its own tax increase on Aug. 5, and Clearfield. The 11 entities in their fourth straight year include West Jordan, West Valley City, Midvale and Salt Lake City.

How to weigh in

The Aug. 12 hearing is open to in-person attendance and virtual participation via Zoom (Meeting ID: 894 6642 4795, Passcode: 413389). The City Council is scheduled to vote on final budget adoption, including the tax rate, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 7 p.m.