Development News for Murray, Utah

Murray City Accepts $40,000 Grant for Jordan River Trail Lighting Project

Jeff Martin presented a resolution approving a cooperation agreement between Murray City and the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands for a $40,000 reimbursement grant. These funds are designated for a trail lighting project adjacent to the Jordan River, specifically along the stretch from Arrowhead to 5200 South. The project aims to enhance safety in the area, which has seen questionable activity after dark. The trail lighting project is nearing completion. The resolution accepting the grant funds was adopted.

Murray Theater Division Codified Within Parks and Recreation Department

Jeff Martin presented an ordinance to enact section 2.24.080 of the Murray City Municipal Code, establishing a theater division within the Parks and Recreation Department. This division was created when the Murray Theater was built and has been operating under the Parks and Recreation umbrella. The ordinance simply codifies this existing structure. There is no funding increase or additional personnel associated with this ordinance; it merely separates the theater's operations into its own division within the code. Bethany Tucker is currently the interim theater manager, and the city is seeking to fill the position permanently. The ordinance was adopted.

Proposed Property Tax Increase of 6.92% Explained for FY 2026-2027 Budget

The city presented information on the proposed property tax levy increase for fiscal year 2026-2027. Murray City is considering levying a tax rate exceeding its certified rate, estimating a need for $863,79 in new property tax revenue, representing a 6.92% increase in the city's certified tax levy from 2025. This increase is intended to fund an additional police officer, overtime for police and fire departments, pay range increases for officers and firefighters, and increased vehicle/firetruck maintenance. The increase is presented as a small monthly cost per household. The actual required revenue may change based on property tax growth figures from the county auditor. The library tax rate will remain unchanged. A subsequent public hearing is scheduled for August 11th to discuss the proposed tax rate increase.

Executive Municipal Officer Compensation Increases Approved Amidst Budget Deliberations

The council considered an ordinance approving compensation increases for executive municipal officers for fiscal year 2026-2027. This follows state law requiring discussion of raises for these positions. Murray City utilizes a step plan where employees receive annual increases based on performance, with ranges adjusted for cost of living and market comparisons. All employees discussed are receiving a 2% cost of living adjustment (COLA), appropriate step increases, and some received market adjustments. The step program aims to ensure pay equity, transparency, and predictability. Public comments raised concerns about the combined potential 7% increase (step + COLA) and its impact amid rising taxes and utility rates. The city compares salaries to similar-sized Utah cities to maintain competitiveness.