# State of the County - Hosted by the Dallas Chamber

The Polk County Board of Commissioners held a State of the County meeting on July 16, 2026, hosted by the Dallas Chamber. The discussion focused heavily on fiscal challenges facing the county, particularly related to property tax limitations imposed by measures 5, 47, and 50, which restrict growth in assessed values and complicate funding for county services. Commissioners highlighted the difficulty in balancing labor costs, including union contracts and PERS liabilities, with limited revenue growth. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the need for a new fairgrounds levy on the November ballot, proposing a 12-cent per thousand assessed value tax to maintain and upgrade the county fairgrounds infrastructure, which is critical for community events and emergency response. The commissioners emphasized that the fairgrounds cannot be self-sustaining and require supplemental funding. Additionally, updates were provided on broadband expansion projects and major transportation infrastructure improvements, including road realignments and bridge work, with some projects awaiting funding approval. The meeting also covered behavioral health services expansion and community partnerships to address social needs. Commissioners encouraged public engagement in budget discussions and levy support, noting the importance of voter-approved taxes for county operations and services.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Public Safety
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** July 16, 2026

### Sources
- [State of the County - Hosted by the Dallas Chamber](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7jE8baE000) - Polk County Board of Commissioners