Will there be new taxes?
No. Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson’s budget does not call for any new tax increases.
Why is the budget more conservative than years past?
There has been a slowdown in tax revenues, increased inflation, a rise in health care costs and the end of a one-time federal pandemic relief fund. These have all led to a tighter budget, though it’s still $1.9 billion for 2024.
How does Wilson plan on saving money for the budget?
Wilson announced the county will institute a hiring freeze and will cut travel expenses by half. By slashing travel expenses, the county will be able to save about $1 million. The county will eliminate vacant positions and will pause all hiring. If a department wants to make a hire, the position would have to be reviewed by a committee.
What about current county employees?
Wilson said 90% of budget requests had to be denied in order to save enough money for employee raises and bonuses. Though Wilson said the amounts are far less than she would have liked, general employees will receive a 2.75% raise. The lowest-paid county employees will receive a one-time 2% bonus, middle-tier employees will get a 1.5% bonus and the highest-paid employees will receive a 1% bonus.
What else is in the budget?
Wilson proposed eliminating library late fees for children and making a $2 million investment to offer kids free access to county recreation centers.
