MERIDIAN - City leaders are inviting residents to participate in upcoming public meetings to learn more and provide input on a proposed permanent local option property tax levy that would support public safety services.

If approved by City Council, the proposal would place a ballot measure on the November 4, 2025 election ballot, asking voters to approve a permanent property tax levy to generate an estimated $5,018,125.71 annually. These funds would be dedicated to:

• Supporting 13 firefighter positions currently funded by the federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant following the exhaustion of grant funds,
• Increase sworn police officer wages to recruit and retain officers,
• Establish an in-house City Prosecutor’s unit to prosecute crimes.

If approved by voters, the levy would be assessed starting on October 1, 2026, and would continue each fiscal year.  The estimated annual cost to the taxpayer would be $20.11 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value per year, based on current estimates.

The City is currently exploring this funding solution to address rising costs and increasing demands on Meridian’s police, fire, and legal services. Declining revenues from new construction and increased costs of labor and equipment are placing additional strain on the City’s General Fund, which supports these essential services.

How to get involved

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in upcoming public hearings to share their thoughts or provide written comments to the City Clerk’s Office.

Public Meeting Schedule:

• June 24, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – Public Hearing #1
• July 8, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – Public Hearing #2 and potential City Council action
• November 4, 2025 – Election Day

All hearings will be held at Meridian City Hall, 33 E. Broadway Avenue, and will be livestreamed on the City’s YouTube channel. Details on how to attend or submit public testimony are available on our website.

Residents can share general public comments by emailing comment@meridiancity.org or by using the Mayor and City Council Contact Form on the City’s website.  All information provided will be available to the public.  For auditory, visual, or language accommodations, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (208) 888-4433 or cityclerk@meridiancity.org at least 48 hours prior to the public hearing. 

Learn More

Catch up on the conversation by watching the 2025 State of the City Address and two presentations at recent City Council meetings on YouTube.

• June 4, 2025 – Mayor’s 2025 State of the City Address (levy section begins at 53 minutes)
• June 10, 2025 – Staff presentation to Meridian City Council (discussion of levy begins at 13 minute mark)
• June 17, 2025 – Council Workshop Discussion (discussion of levy begins at 1 hour and 7 minutes)

To learn more about the proposal, view frequently asked questions, or contact City staff, visit the City of Meridian’s Public Safety Levy Information Page or email communications@meridiancity.org.