Serving as a mayor both in my 20s and now in my 60s has given me a unique perspective. Like the rest of Utah County, our community has changed substantially over the past four decades. We have grown from a small rural town of hundreds of mainly farmers and ranchers to nearly 18,000 residents now. This unprecedented growth has brought opportunities and challenges, including the need to fund critical emergency services for more people.

That is why our city council is currently considering a proposed property tax increase. Santaquin City has not raised property taxes since 2013. During that same time, the number of homes in our community has more than doubled while our property tax rate has actually decreased. It is estimated that  the proposed increase would cost an average household about $10 per month and would add about $595,000 to the city budget annually.

We would use this revenue to purchase needed police vehicles and maintain the recent compensation increases for firefighters and police officers. I believe that one of our city’s fundamental responsibilities is to ensure the safety and security of our citizens. Our firefighters and police officers heroically save lives in our community and we need to ensure they have the resources to do their jobs and that they are compensated appropriately.

I am a fiscal conservative who does not like the prospect of raising taxes. After years of diligent financial discipline, the city has grown its budget reserves from less than 5% in 2009 to 35% today, which is the maximum amount allowed by state law. We have worked hard to earn a AA+ credit rating from S & P Global, an independent, third-party credit rating agency. This AA+ credit rating ultimately saves residents tens of thousands of dollars in lower interest rates over time.

Isaac Hale, Daily Herald file photo

For the past 18 months, we have thoroughly reviewed the budget to reduce spending and increase revenues wherever possible. To cut spending, we have reduced staffing levels, halted building repairs and delayed equipment purchases. To increase revenues, we have actively engaged federal and state partners, and pursued grants and other funding opportunities.

Unfortunately, these efforts are not enough. As responsible stewards of taxpayer resources, we must consider a property tax increase to fund the services our residents critically need. This investment in our community will directly benefit our residents now and into the future.

Dan Olson is the Mayor of Santaquin City.