Restructuring and Equalization Task Force Completes First Phase

This summer, the Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force traveled across the state to eight different locations on a listening tour to hear directly from Utahns about the state’s tax code. Hundreds of individuals made significant efforts to attend, engage, comment and share their insights, ideas and perspectives with members of the task force.

"We have witnessed individuals working together to find solutions that will meet the unique needs of each city, county, person and organization," said Sen. Lyle Hillyard, co-chair of the Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force. "This is another prime example of the ‘Utah way.’ Everyone's participation is playing a critical role in this process. The concerns and ideas shared will help us explore solutions and ensure Utah remains the best-managed state in the nation."

An estimated 1,500 people attended the town halls and the task force received approximately

• 198 comments submitted online thus far
• 150 comment cards were filled out at the town halls
• 200 provided public input at the town halls

“This is an incredibly complex topic and one of the most challenging issues the state has undertaken,” said Rep. Francis Gibson, co-chair of the Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force. “But time and time again, Utahns have shown a willingness to face weighty issues head on. This is no exception. Together, we’ll create the best policy.”

Many individuals assisted with the town halls to make it a success, and their support is much appreciated. The co-chairs of the task force recognize and thank Pat Jones, Greg Bell and Greg Todd for moderating the town halls and fostering a respectful dialogue; law enforcement officers for helping ensure the town halls remained peaceful and courteous; the public for providing their input and keeping the conversation civil and constructive; the Utah League of Cities and Towns for helping coordinate local official engagement; chambers of commerce, city and county elected officials for helping coordinate the facilities to accommodate outstanding attendance of citizens; Penna Powers for their expertise in helping enhance the public involvement process; media for covering the town halls, airing PSA's and helping inform Utahns about the meetings; plus the many more who contributed.

The co-chairs have begun working with legislative staff to review the comments, ideas, feedback and suggestions as well as layout a blueprint for phase two, the study phase, of the task force. During the study phase, the task force will verify the challenge, review possible options and solutions and analyze opportunities to address the structural imbalance our state budget is facing. The public is welcome to attend or live stream the study meetings that will be held at the Capitol.

The first meeting of the study phase is tentatively scheduled for the third week in August. Additional details will be made available in the coming weeks.

The co-chairs encourage continued engagement in the process by attending meetings and submitting comments at StrongerFutures.utah.gov.