Fairfield looking at town status

FAIRFIELD, Utah County — Residents of the community of Fairfield remain determined to turn the rural area into the county's 24th town, even though a feasibility study shows they would likely have to pay higher property taxes once they incorporate.

"We're united because we're focusing on one thing, taking control of our destiny," said area resident Frances Burch.

"I was for it (incorporation) when I came in, and I'm for it now," said Mace McKinney after two dozen residents met with Utah County commissioners and those who conducted the feasibility study on incorporation for two hours last week in the old Fairfield School. "I'm for our own control."

"We've had it pretty good up 'til now, but outside forces are forcing this. I just want what's best for the community," said Wayne Taylor. "I don't have any problem with the way life's been. If we don't incorporate, the changes will happen without our input, without our say."

Civil engineer Rod Brocious told the residents the town will start out with an $11,510 shortfall between revenues and costs, a deficit that will grow to $19,290 over the next five years.

The costs of providing police protection, fire protection, animal control, legal services, administration and roads would come to about $75,540 a year, Brocious said.

Sales taxes, property taxes, business licenses and road taxes would bring in $64,030.

Brocious said the town could use zoning changes to increase the amount of property taxes coming in or focus on increasing either the population growth or commercial growth to augment the tax base. City officials — once elected — could also opt to raise the property tax levy to bring in additional money.

Brocious said he's also been told that the owners of an area landfill that would become part of the town are willing to seek an adjustment on their permit, allowing the acceptance of municipal waste. That would allow the town to charge a tipping fee that would boost city revenues.

That is one option that residents attending the meeting said they oppose. They were adamant about keeping the landfill limited to construction and demolition waste.

"They could do that (seek a permit change) without us if we don't incorporate," Taylor said.

Whatever means the town uses to raise money, the property tax cost for living in Fairfield would go up — between 38 and 51 percent compared to the property tax levy currently imposed by the county, said Brocious.

Commissioner Jerry Grover said commissioners have no opposition to the incorporation, noting residents can certainly do what they wish and will absolutely have more control as a township.

"It's up to you how you want to make up that deficit," he said.