- Eagle Mountain voters will decide on a proposed 0.1% local sales tax.
- The tax aims to fund parks, arts and recreation projects over 10 years.
- Expected revenue is $600,000 annually, with community input guiding fund allocation.
EAGLE MOUNTAIN — Eagle Mountain voters will decide this fall whether theirs will be the next city to have a local sales tax to fund recreation and cultural projects.
Dozens of cities in Utah already utilize a recreation, arts and parks tax, commonly called a RAP tax. Eagle Mountain is proposing to implement a 0.1% local sales tax, which will collect one cent for every $10 spent within city limits to support "community-focused projects and programs."
The tax proposal, which would be in effect for 10 years, will likely be on the November 2025 ballot for residents to decide. The City Council is expected to officially vote to place the tax proposal on the ballot by August.
"This is about giving residents a choice," said Tyler Maffitt, Eagle Mountain communications manager. "As Eagle Mountain evolves, it's important to plan following our values and allow our community to invest in the programs and outdoor spaces that make life better here. Our role is to make sure the public has access to accurate, transparent information before the vote."
The city created a webpage that details information on the tax proposal to educate citizens on the potential ballot measure. The revenue from the tax would be used to fund public recreation, arts and parks initiatives in Eagle Mountain, including trails, splash pads, youth sports programs, cultural events and city-approved grants for nonprofit partners, the city stated.
"It adds just a penny for every $10 spent, but those pennies go a long way," the city said.
The tax is expected to generate approximately $600,000 in its first year, resulting in funds of up to $6 million over the next decade to "efficiently" invest in city amenities while keeping the budget balanced and sustainable, according to a city statement.
"As our commercial areas grow, so will the benefits — helping to fund new parks, upgraded facilities and more local events — all without pulling from other essential city resources," the city said.
The Eagle Mountain City Council will make final decisions about how the tax funds are used, but those decisions will be guided by a committee made up of local residents who review proposals and recommend projects to the council, according tot he city's tax proposal webpage.
"This approach helps the city ensure that funding choices reflect community priorities," the city website says. "When we care for these shared spaces, we invest in the future of Eagle Mountain."
