Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Highland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Alternatives to the tax increase
The council started the formal truth-in-taxation process for a 53.8% increase in the dedicated library tax — about $28.65 more per year on a million-dollar average home. The money would add a second full-time library staffer, fund the Libby e-book service, and keep senior programs going. The final vote isn't until August 11.
FY 2026-2027 interim budget
The tentative budget includes park improvements, a new police lieutenant, traffic-calming money, and staff additions, funded partly by a one-time $264,000 Lone Peak reimbursement. No fee or utility rate increases this year.
Library staffing and wages
Testimony revealed the library runs on one full-timer and eleven part-timers, with no merit raises in 18 years and wages lower than a teen's fast-food job. Councilmember Cortney flagged that salary growth is outpacing inflation and population combined — a sustainability concern he wants addressed.
Mayor and council compensation
Council pay raises now have to go through the same public hearing and notice process as executive raises — a 3-2 vote rejected a $3,000 citywide mailer but adopted the core ordinance.