2026-08-18 Council Business Session (4PM)

The Cottonwood Heights City Council held a business session on August 18, 2026, primarily focused on discussing and voting on the 2026-27 fiscal year tax levy and budget. The council considered an ordinance to adopt a reduced final tax levy reflecting a 25% property tax increase, down from a previously proposed 42% increase. The discussion included detailed budget adjustments, such as reductions in IT costs, training, police vehicle cameras, and building maintenance, as well as the impact of vehicle purchases financed through loans with payments starting in July 2027. Council members debated the long-term fiscal implications, including potential future tax increases and the need for a multi-year budget plan. The police chief emphasized the importance of maintaining funding for training and vehicle cameras for community safety and accountability. Ultimately, the council voted on the tax increase ordinance, resulting in a split decision with two votes in favor and three against, leading to the ordinance not passing. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.