West Haven is keeping its long-running streak of no city property tax alive, but it is doing it by charging more for power. The city council narrowly approved a 6% municipal energy sales and use tax in its 2026-27 budget, opting to raise revenue through utility bills instead of a property tax. The levy, which will apply to electricity and natural gas accounts, is scheduled to start Oct. 1, 2026. City leaders say the move will help cover rising public safety, parks, and staffing costs. Officials estimate the change will bring in roughly $905,000 in the coming fiscal year and about $1.2 million annually after that.
What The Council Approved
The measure revives an ordinance first adopted in 1998 that the city never actually put into collection. Before the tax can kick in, the city still has to complete administrative steps with the Utah State Tax Commission. As outlined on Utah.gov, the city's budget materials project roughly $905,000 in revenue for fiscal 2026-27 and about $1.2 million in a full year.
Vote, Costs And Coverage
The council signed off on the levy in a tight 3-2 vote. Mayor Rob Vanderwood told reporters the tax reaches both renters and homeowners and is meant to avoid starting a municipal property tax, according to KSL. KSL also reported that the average household will see about an $11 monthly increase, roughly $132 a year, and that two council members had pushed for a 4% rate instead of 6%.
Ordinance Revived After Decades
The energy tax was placed on the books back in 1998, but was never implemented as West Haven grew. The council held a public hearing on June 17 before adopting the final budget. As reported by FOX13, city officials said population growth over three decades has increased demand for services and left leaders weighing options other than property levies.
Why Leaders Say It Is Needed
City budget documents point to several pressures that pushed leaders toward the energy tax, including an estimated $309,000 annual increase in fees paid to the Weber County Sheriff's Office for policing, higher park maintenance costs and planned pay raises for city staff. The FY2027 materials available on Utah.gov describe the municipal energy tax as a steadier revenue source that can be collected through utilities instead of raising property assessments.
How This Fits With County Moves And A New Walmart
West Haven's change comes as Weber County approved a 0.2% countywide sales tax increase that will take effect Oct. 1 and could generate an estimated $8 million to $12 million a year, according to KSL. KSL also noted that a new Walmart under construction in West Haven, the city's first full grocery anchor, could boost sales tax receipts but may also increase police calls, which officials say could offset some of the extra revenue.
What Residents Should Expect
The energy tax will be collected through utility bills for electricity and natural gas customers, so households should see the new line item on their statements after Oct. 1. For a closer look at the council's discussions and public hearing details, residents can check local reporting and the city's notices, including coverage by FOX13 and the city's public postings.
