The Davis County Commission met Tuesday, December 9, 2025, for its regularly scheduled meeting at the Davis County Administration Building in Farmington. All three commissioners were present.
The meeting included extensive discussion of the County’s 2026 operating and capital budgets, culminating in a divided vote on a proposed 14.9% property tax increase. Commissioners Lorene Kamalu and Bob Stevenson voted in favor of the increase, while Vice Chair John Crofts voted against it.
Public Input and Budget Context
Public comments reflected both civic engagement and economic concern. Speakers emphasized the importance of respectful discourse, accurate information, and awareness of the separation between County government and the School District. Others raised broader concerns about tax equity and affordability, particularly for families and residents on fixed incomes.
County Controller Scott Parke explained that even with the tax increase, the General Fund remains approximately $6.5 million short, requiring the County to draw down savings while working over the coming months to identify targeted budget reductions.
Crofts Explains “Nay” Vote
In closing remarks, Commissioner Crofts offered a detailed explanation for his vote against the tax increase, emphasizing extensive public outreach and the economic strain facing residents.
Crofts said he spoke with “hundreds and hundreds” of Davis County residents through voluntary open houses and direct conversations. He stated that the feedback he received was almost unanimous, with residents asking and, in many cases, imploring the Commission not to raise taxes.
He explained that his decision was shaped by both those conversations and his own experience with financial hardship. Crofts shared a formative lesson from his childhood, recalling a World War II-era neighbor who taught him about collective sacrifice during times of scarcity. Crofts said that many Davis County residents today—particularly seniors on fixed incomes and young families facing rising housing and food costs—are experiencing a similar sense of scarcity.
“I could not in good conscience vote for a tax increase while residents are telling us they are hurting and asking for relief,” Crofts said, acknowledging that the decision was difficult and that additional budget cuts will still be necessary.
Crofts also noted that he faced pressure to vote unanimously but felt his responsibility was to reflect the voices of the voters he spoke with rather than political convenience.
Differing Perspectives
Commissioner Kamalu offered a counterpoint, emphasizing rising operational costs and increased demand for County services. She noted that inflation has affected every sector, including local government, and stressed the challenge of balancing fiscal responsibility with service delivery.
Commissioner Stevenson questioned Crofts’ position during discussion, while also expressing the importance of maintaining qualified leadership through competitive compensation.
Additional Actions
Beyond the budget, the Commission approved numerous agreements related to economic development, environmental monitoring, tourism, public safety, senior services, and facility upgrades. The meeting adjourned at 11:10 a.m.