Wayne County commissioners adopt resolution opposing proposed limits on county property tax authority, warn of unfunded mandates

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners adopted Resolution 2026‑6 on April 21, opposing proposed constitutional and statutory changes that would limit county property tax authority.

Chairman Doy led off a lengthy discussion warning that caps or restrictions on county property taxing power could leave counties unable to meet rising costs and fulfill mandated services. "It's easy to take a position to limit property taxes. It's easy to take a stand for that. But with that stand comes consequences," the chairman said, urging caution and additional state support if limits are enacted.

Commissioners across the board raised similar concerns about unfunded state and federal mandates that increase county costs without providing matching revenue. At several points speakers emphasized the county’s responsibility for services such as EMS, the sheriff's office, social services and public health. One commissioner explained the practical effect: if mandates increase staffing needs — for example for SNAP eligibility re‑verification — counties must find the money through existing revenue sources unless the state provides funding.

During the debate commissioners noted specific pressures: rising insurance and utility costs, growing EMS call volume, and other state requirements that local governments must meet. The county manager and multiple commissioners asked residents to contact state legislators and ask how the state would propose to fund any reductions in local taxing authority.

The board voted to approve the resolution opposing restrictions on county property tax authority; the transcript records the measure passing by a 5‑to‑1 vote. The transcript does not include a detailed roll call with each commissioner’s recorded vote; the board counted the final tally aloud.

Outcome and next steps: The board asked staff to prepare a report on federal and state mandates and estimated costs for presentation at a future meeting and encouraged constituents to contact state legislators about funding and local control. The resolution is a formal, on‑record statement of the board’s position for use in state‑level advocacy.