October 1, 2026 Special Called Milliage Rate Public Hearing- 10 am

Fayette County Board of Commissioners special-called millage-rate public hearing, October 1, 2026: Staff presented the proposed 2026 rates, which would remain unchanged: county M&O at 3.763 mills, fire at 2.82, EMS at 1.00, and 911 at 0.21. The discussion focused on the unusually large increase in the tax digest attributed to data-center personal property and uncertainty about future state legislation and depreciation of that property. Officials said approximately $7.7–$7.8 million in data-center-related revenue had been set aside for capital projects, with another $2.8 million placed in fund balance; they described the revenue as uncertain and said the county was taking a wait-and-see approach. No contract awards, purchases, or specific capital projects were presented for approval.

Commissioners discussed whether to retain locally generated data-center revenue, the possibility of payment-in-lieu-of-taxes arrangements, and a proposed floating homestead exemption that voters would consider in November. Staff said the county was consulting its attorney and other jurisdictions about PILOT arrangements. The board approved the agenda and adjourned; no vote on the proposed millage rates was taken at this hearing. Additional hearings were scheduled, including a final hearing noted for October 15.