South Davis Recreation District proposes 5% tax increase; Bountiful council holds public hearing, offers comments

The South Davis Recreation District’s board presented a proposed 5% property‑tax increase during an informational public hearing on Nov. 25. Tyson Beck explained the statutory requirement to place the district’s tax increase on the agenda and summarized the district’s Truth in Taxation hearing held Nov. 17. Staff estimated the levy would raise about $86,200 per year district‑wide and cost an average Bountiful taxable home ($623,000) about $2.11 annually.

Councilwoman Mary Bradshaw, who serves on the district board, outlined cost pressures (insurance, employee costs, pool chemicals), steps the board has taken (three years of fee increases, program reductions and a staffing reduction) and ongoing negotiations with the school district over swim‑team usage fees. She said the board is using multiple levers — fees, cuts and tax increases — to stabilize operations.

Public commenters offered opposing views: resident Ron Mortensen urged the council to oppose the increase, calling the recreation district a “nice to have” and noting multiple recent tax increases across entities; resident Lane Pappenfuss spoke in favor, describing health and community benefits (pool programs and senior exercise) and encouraging support for a well‑maintained facility. Council did not take a vote, and staff made clear Bountiful cannot bind the independent recreation district; council members will convey the public sentiment to the rec district board.