When do I need a Building Permit?
You need to obtain a Building Permit when you construct, add to, or alter a building. There are a few exceptions to this rule, however, we recommend that you first contact the Building Department before you trust the word of a friend or neighbor in regards to when a permit is required. A simple phone call can save a lot of time as well as expense.
How long does it take to get a Building Permit?
Typically, for a single-family residential or duplex project, it takes 10 working days to obtain a permit after plans have been submitted to this department for review.
The timeframes for commercial projects are typically longer as commercial projects are much more complicated to review and the plan requirements are more stringent. A commercial review will be completed and initial comments will be delivered to the customer within 20 working days.
When do I call for inspections?
Inspections are typically required to be requested by the owner or contractor prior to concealing any type of construction process from view, or just prior to putting a piece of equipment into use, such as an electrical panel. This process could be as simple as calling in the required footing inspection needed prior to the placement of concrete in a footing. In this inspection the footing depth, width, and reinforcement must be inspected before the concrete is place. Placing the concrete before the inspection would not allow the inspector to visually verify that all of the required components of this inspection have been installed as required. If you are uncertain whether an inspection is required please call in prior to covering anything up.
What inspections do I need?
This depends on the type of project you are constructing. Please refer to the Residential Building Permit Plan Requirements document found in the Online Documents/Building Dept. portion of this web-site.
Do I need an architect?
If your project includes a single or two family residential unit, or an addition or alteration to a single or two family residential unit, the answer is no. If your project is a commercial building and the building is at least 3000 square feet, or if the occupant load of the building is 20 or more, or if there is a structural member that is spanning at least 20' that is not part of an engineered system, a registered professional is required to design the building.
Do I need a permit to build a fence or retaining wall on property owned by me?
You do not need a Building Permit if the fence that you are planning to build is 6' or less in the rear of the property or 4' or less in the front of the property. We do, however, recommend that you consult with this department prior to constructing your fence to make sure that this fence will affect no Town Right of Way or easements. Retaining walls 4' or more in height, require that engineering be provided for the design of the wall and that a permit be issued prior to the start of construction.
Will you call me when the plans have been reviewed and are ready to be picked up?
Due to the complexities of commercial plan review, these are the only projects that typically receive a call when plans are ready for pick up. Residential projects are given a ten day, completion schedule and may be picked up at that time. If any problems arise on a residential plan review that could affect the turn around time a call is placed to the responsible party as soon as this is discovered.
How much is a Building Permit?
A building permit fee is generally based on the valuation of the project. For additions, garages, & remodels, see the Permit Cost Estimate Sheet for Additions-Remodels-Detached Garages for figuring valuation and permit costs. Fees are calculated differently for a new single-family residence. See Single Family Residential Permit Cost Estimate sheet for those fees. These cost estimate forms can be found in the Online Documents/Building Dept. portion of this web-site. For commercial estimates or any other questions regarding fees, please contact the building department.
What are the hours for construction work?
Town of Payson Ordinance #421 sets the construction start/stop times as follows:
From June 1 to September 1, inclusive, all such construction or repair work shall not begin prior to 5:00 A.M. and must stop by 10:00 P.M. each day. From September 2 to May 31, inclusive, all such construction or repair work shall not begin prior to 6:00 A.M. and must stop by 10:00 P.M. each day.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herin, such construction, repair, industrial, and manufacturing work shall not being prior to 6:00 A.M. and must stop by 10:00 P.M. on any Saturday, Sunday or State or Federal Holiday.
Are toilet facilities required on construction sites?
Town of Payson Ordinance #450 requires toilet facilities for the maintenance of public health, all worksites and construction sites within the Town of Payson for all workers and patrons.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Building Department with suggestions to improve this portion of our web-site.
How much is the business license?
NEW BUSINESS LICENSE FEES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2009
HOME BASED
INITIAL $40.00
RE-NEWAL $40.00
COMMERCIAL
INITIAL $70.00
RE-NEWAL $50.00
OUT OF TOWN
INITIAL $90.00
RE-NEWAL $70.00
PEDDLERS
INITIAL $90.00
RE-NEWAL $50.00
How do I know if I need a license?
If you are conducting business in Payson Town limits, you are required to have a business license.
How long does it take to receive a business license?
Out of Town licenses are issued the day the application is received, all others take about 5-7 working days to approve.
When does the license renew?
A business license is good one year from the time it is issued.
Who has to approve the license?
Zoning & Fire Departments must approve all in town licenses.
Do they have to inspect my building?
Commercial buildings are checked for fire extinguishers, home based licenses are usually not checked.
Do I need an AZ Tax ID number?
If you are selling items, yes, if you are just a service, most of the time no. You can call Arizona Department of Revenue for more information or you can find them on the web at www.revenue.state.az.us.
Is the license good for other Towns or Cities in Arizona?
No, the license is only good for the Town of Payson.
Do I have to license my dog?
A Town of Payson license is required on all dogs over four (4) months old that reside within the town limits.
How do I obtain a dog license?
You must come to Town Hall to obtain a dog license. Please verify that your dogs rabies vaccination is current. You will need to bring your rabies certificate signed by a veterinarian stating the owners name and address, giving the dogs description, date of vaccination, and expiration date of the vaccination.
When does my dog license expire?
A license will be issued for a period to run concurrently with the dogs current rabies vaccination, for a period of one (1), two (2), or three (3) years, but in no event shall the licensing period exceed the period of time for the revaccination.
How much does a dog license cost?
License fees are $7.00 per year for an altered dog and $21.00 per year for an unaltered dog. Service dogs are exempt from the fee, but still need to be licensed.
How can I get my smoke detectors checked?
Call the Fire Department at 474-5242 x300 to schedule an appointment. We'd be happy to come to your home and check your smoke detectors. You can also check your smoke detectors by pressing the button on the front until it activates. If it doesn't activate, your battery should be replaced. Smoke detectors have a limited life, if your smoke detector is more than ten years old it should probably be replaced.
What are the hours for the Fire Department office?
The Administrative Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.
We are closed during the lunch hour from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
If you have an emergency, call 911.
What are the operating hours and locations of the BRUSH PITS?
The Blattner Pit is located on Hwy. 260 at M.P. 259.7. It is open on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Pine Pit is located on Hwy. 87. Go East on the Control Rd. about 1/4 of a mile. This pit is open on Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
For any other information on the free brush pits, call 928-468-8694.
Can I get my car seat checked? How long does this take?
Call 928-474-5242 ext. 300 to make an appointment. It usually takes approximately one hour.
We have a certified Safety Seat Inspector at 400 W. Main St.
What is a Guardian Angel Unit and how do I get one?
What the Fire Department calles the Guardian Angel Unit is a small heart shaped pendant that a person wares around the neck. It can be worn even in the shower. A unit is hooked up to phone line. If you fall or need help, you can press the button on your pendant and it dials the preprogrammed phone number in it. That person can be anyone who can come to your house and help you. If you need medical help, they can call 911 for the Fire Department to respond. You can get one installed by calling the Fire Department at 474-5242 ext. 300.
What does the Housing Rehab program do?
The housing rehab program was created to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for low- to moderate-income families. The program addresses a variety of home improvement needs, such as heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical repairs. It also includes the replacement of some mobile or manufactured homes.
Who is eligible for the Housing Rehab program?
If you own your home, have lived there for at least 12 months, and your annual gross household income is within 80% of the Gila County median (see income chart) you may be eligible for assistance from the Town of Payson's housing rehabilitation program. Qualified applicants must provide verifiable income information, proof of homeowner's insurance and maintain a code-compliant property.
I have a mortgage on my home. Am I still eligible for the program?
Yes, as long as mortgage payments are current and the mortgage is held by an approved lender. The loan payment amount must also be within program guidelines.
Do I have to re-pay the money used to repair or replace my home?
The Town provides assistance in the form of no-interest, forgivable loans. A portion of the loan is forgiven each year until the entire amount is forgiven. If the homeowner sells or transfers the property before the loan is forgiven the balance must be re-paid to the Town.
How do I apply?
Please print the pre-screening questionnaire and return it to Bethany Beck at the Town of Payson Community Development Building, 303 N. Beeline Hwy., Payson, AZ 85541. A copy of the questionnaire and the application packet can also be picked up at the same address.
I still have questions. Who should I contact?
Please call Bethany Beck at (928) 474-5242, ext. 269 or contact her by email at bbeck@ci.payson.az.us.
What is the difference between the Town of Payson Attorney's Office and the Gila County Attorney's Office?
The Gila County Attorney's Office is a county department headed by an elected County Attorney.It engages in criminal prosecution of all felony matters in Gila County (such as murder, robbery, sexual assault) and prosecution of all criminal misdemeanors outside of the four incorporated cities in the county. It also represents the county as its attorney in all civil matters.
The Town Attorney's Office has both civil representation functions and criminal prosecution functions.The office is headed by the Town Attorney, Samuel Streichman, who is appointed by the Town Council. The Town Attorney represents the Town of Payson as its attorney and advises the Mayor and Town Council, Town Manager, Department Heads and Town related Council Advisory Committees on all legal matters that may affect the Town's interest(s).The Town Attorney's Office also has a criminal prosecution division, overseen by the Town Attorney and managed by the Deputy Town Attorney/Prosecutor, Tim Wright. The office prosecutes all State and Town Code misdemeanor offenses that occur within the Town limits and advises city enforcement personnel.
Where can I get a copy of an ordinance or provision of the Town Code?
The Town's Code is now available on-line or you may contact the Town Clerk's Office at 928-474-5242 x211.
Is the Town of Payson Attorney's Office "my lawyer" if I live in the Town?
No. The Town Attorney''s Office does not represent individuals in private legal matters. Attorneys in the office represent Town departments and agencies in the course of their "business" as Town entities, employees acting within the course of their employment, and the State of Arizona on criminal misdemeanor matters. Private legal matters must be handled by attorneys retained by the individual. For referral numbers, see the local phonebook for attorney ads or contact the State Bar of Arizona in Phoenix at (602)252-4804.You may also wish to check with Legal Aid at 1-800-852-9075.
If I receive a subpoena from the Town Prosecutor, do I have to go to court?
Yes, you do. Failure to appear in court in response to a subpoena is a violation of a court order. The court may send a law enforcement officer to arrest you if you do not appear. However, if your subpoena indicates that you may be placed on call, contact the witness coordinator at the number provided on the subpoena and provide a means of contact on the trial date. If you are called on the trial date, you then must appear promptly. You must also appear if summoned for jury duty.
Can I file a complaint against my neighbor with the Town Attorney's Office?
No. The Town Attorney's Office is not an investigative agency. Any violations of the law must be reported through the local law enforcement agency - usually the Payson Police Department at (928) 474-5177 or locally dial 911 for an emergency.If the complaint involves compliance with the Town's Unified Development Code, contact the Community Development Department at 928-474- 5252 x384.
How can I make a complaint against an employee or a Town Department?
The Town Attorney's Offices does not have supervisory authority over any other Town Departments or employees.All complaints about Town Departments should be directed to the Town Manager.
What rights do I have as a crime victim, and how can the Town Attorney's Office assist me?
Under Arizona law, crime victims have certain rights. The Town Prosecutor's Office can explain victim rights, how to exercise those rights and how the criminal justice system works as it relates to a misdemeanor crime victim.For more information, please call 474-5242 x277 or email the Town Prosecutor.
How can I get copies of current State Laws, or proposed State legislation?
Arizona Revised Statutes, as well as proposed State legislation can be found at www.azleg.gov.
What are the library hours?
Tuesday - Friday ~ 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday ~ 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
CLOSED on Sunday & Monday
Effective as of December 1, 2008.
Library Home Page
Is there a public pool in Payson?
Yes, Taylor Pool is the Town of Paysons seasonal aquatic center.
It is located at 504 N. McLane Rd.
The phone number is (928) 474-2774
What are the pool hours & what programs do you offer?
Public Swim is from 1pm-5pm daily.
We do offer adult lap swimming, swim team, morning and evening swim lessons and water aerobics.
Please see the seasonal aquatics brochure or call the pool for more information.
What is the pool season?
The pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Fall hours go into effect in early August.
How much does it cost to use the pool?
The admission fee is $2 for anyone entering the facility regardless of whether they are swimming or not.
Discounted pool passes are available at the pool or the Parks & Rec. office.
Does Taylor Pool have a snack bar?
Yes. All items are prepackaged and cost $1 or less.
Do you rent out the pool for private parties?
Yes. The fees vary depending on the number of people attending.
Contact Parks & Recreation at (928) 474-5242 x7 to make a reservation.
Are your lifeguards certified?
Town of Payson lifeguards are certified by the American Red Cross.
They earn their credentials by attending 36 hours of specialized training.
Each lifeguard is certified in Lifeguard Training, First Aid, CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Automated External Defibrillation.
They review their skills during weekly in-service trainings.
What types of special events does Parks and Recreation offer?
Summer Concert Series: Saturday nights in June & July
5K Runs: Turkey Trot, Walk a Hound, Monsoon Run
Sprint Triathlon: Swim, Run & Bike Summer.
Seasonal/Holiday: Trunk or Treat, Electric Light Parade, 4th of July
Fiddlers Festival: in September
Special Interest Classes: Dog Behavior, Pet CPR, etc.
Senior Recreation: Trips, Water Aerobics, etc.
Community Partnerships: Habitat for Humanity Half Marathon, Northern Gila County Fair, Rodeos, Western Heritage Festival
Can I pick my childs coach or team?
No, players are randomly assigned to teams and coaches by a computer software program and staff. Exceptions to this practice include special needs children, siblings or out-of-town commuters.
What do I need to know if Id like to coach my childs team?
You will need to come into the Parks and Recreation office and request a Head or Assistant Coaching Form. Please complete the form and return to us. Coaching is not guaranteed, as there are sometimes more coaches than teams available. Background checks will be conducted prior to approval to coach.
What do we do when there is bad weather on a game night?
If you are unsure whether games will be held due to inclement weather, please call the Parks and Recreation Office at (928) 474-5242 x 7 before 5pm, or (928) 474-5242 x 357 after 5pm. After 5pm, there will be a recording announcing if games have been cancelled or rescheduled.
Why do we need to sign a Parent Code of Conduct?
Parent Code of Conducts help to ensure that adults are aware of behavior expectations during all youth practices and games and that they are accountable for their actions.
What is PATS?
PATS stands for the Payson Area Trails System, which incorporates existing USFS roads and trails on the outskirts of Payson.
Where do I find information on PATS?
There is a conceptual PATS map linked to the Payson Tourism website: www.paysonrimcountry.com under Maps that shows all PATS routes, proposed and existing.
What do I do if I have concerns over proposed PATS routes?
For general questions, please contact Mary McMullen, Recreation Coordinator for Trails and Outdoor Recreation, at (928) 474-5242 x 358. To express more specific concerns over PATS routes that you feel may affect your neighborhood, there will be public opportunities and/or forums that will be provided prior to any trail construction that is within 300 feet of residential areas.
What is the timeline for PATS completion?
PATS is projected to be completed by 2017/18.
How do I know if I should dial 911 or the police non-emergency number?
If the situation is life threatening or there is a crime in progress call 911. If you want to report a crime that already occurred, report suspicious activity, have a non-emergency situation or have a question, call (928) 474-5177.
Where is the Payson Police Department located?
303 N. Beeline Hwy. Payson, AZ 85541, block east of Blockbuster off Malibu Drive.
What are the lobby hours of the police department?
Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. excluding holidays.
How can I obtain a copy of my police report, and what will it cost me?
You can request a copy of any police report Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the front desk of the Police Department, or requested by mail. A REPORT REQUEST FORM can be downloaded here. The request can be completed on the departments form, or in writing. It must include the name, address and phone number and signature of the requesting party, as well as any information that would assist in filling the request. Reports cost $5.00 each, up to 15 pages and .25 cents per additional page. It takes approximately 2 weeks to process the request.
Does the Payson Police Department do public fingerprinting?
The Payson Police Department provides fingerprints to the public Monday through Thursday, from 8:00 am to Noon, excluding holidays. The fee is $5.00 for the first card, and $3.00 for each additional fingerprint card, You must bring with you a valid Arizona picture identification card, provided by the Motor Vehicle Division, or a valid picture driver license, along with your print card.
Who would I contact for information regarding a Neighborhood Watch program in my area?
Detective Mike Varga at 928-474-5242 x271
Where can I get an Order of Protection or Injunction Against Harassment?
Payson Magistrate Court, 714 S. Beeline Hwy. Payson, AZ 85541.
How many police officers does the Payson Police Department have?
The Payson Police Department currently has 32 certified full time officers, but this number includes detectives and administrative personnel.
How can I obtain a police report number for my insurance company to replace my lost cell phone?
Contact Dispatch at 474-5177, x309, if the cell phone was lost within town limits, and Dispatch will obtain your personal information, as well as the cell phone description, including serial number and cell phone number, make, model, etc., and will issue a departmental report number to you.
What can I do about speeding on our street?
You can call the Payson Police Department at (928) 474-5177 and request the speed trailer, which will display the vehicle speeds and serves as a warning device. You can also find traffic calming strategy information here.
How do I find out about sex offenders living in my neighborhood?
Visit the Department of Public Safetys Sex Offender Info Center at www.azsexoffender.org. You will be able to search by zip code and/or name.
If I suspect drug activity, a drug house or methamphetamine lab in my neighborhood, who can I call?
You can call the Payson Police Department at (928) 474-5177.
Do you have cat traps to rent?
The police department has a limited number of traps which are loaned out to town citizens, on a first come-first served basis. The fee is $10 for a 5-day cat trap rental, and a $15 fee for a 5-day dog trap rental. There is an additional $35 refundable deposit required for a cat trap, and a $75 deposit required for a dog trap. Deposits are refunded via mail by the town finance department after the trap has been returned, undamaged, to Payson Animal Control (located at the police department).
What hours is Payson Animal Control available?
Normal business hours are Monday through Friday from about 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, although hours may vary slightly. For emergency needs, after hours, contact Payson Police Dispatch at 474-5177, x309.
Can you tell me how long the power will be out?
The police department is usually not notified of emergency power outages and must be reported to your power company, where they may be able to provide additional information.
How can I find out what highways are closed or have special requirements, due to weather or construction?
Dial 511 from any landline or 888-411-7623 from your cell phone for ADOT information.
What are the outside watering days for my address?
If your service address is an even number, your watering days are Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. If your service address is an odd number, your watering days are Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays.
During what time of day is outside watering allowed?
Before 9:00 am and after 6:00 pm
Is it OK to wash my car?
If you use a hose with a positive shut off nozzle and a bucket, it is OK to wash your vehicles on your assigned outside watering days.
What about car washes for fund raising?
All car washes for fund raising must be pre-approved by the Water Department.
Is it OK to construct/purchase a new pool?
Outdoor built in and above ground pools are prohibited. Indoor pools must be approved by the Water Department. Kiddie pools that are less than 100 gallons are allowed.
Is it OK to have a hot tub?
Hot tubs are allowed; however, if they are over 400 gallons in size an additional water development fee may be required. Under certain Water Level Restrictions, filling and/or refilling would be prohibited. For more information contact the Water Department.
Are there any other restrictions currently in force?
See Water Level I at a Glance or Resolution #2367 for more information about water waste, leaks, house washing, sidewalks and driveways, etc.
What are your office hours?
Monday through Thursday from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
What are the current water rates?
Monthly Consumption 0-2,000 gallons = $19.65 (plus applicable taxes)
Monthly Consumption 2,001-5,000 gallons = $2.65 Per 1,000 Gallons
Monthly Consumption 5,001-10,000 gallons = $3.50 Per 1,000 Gallons
Monthly Consumption 10,001-20,000 gallons = $4.00 Per 1,000 Gallons
Monthly Consumption 20,001 + above = $5.00 Per 1,000 Gallon
When will I receive my monthly water bill?
Water bills are mailed out the last business day of each month with payment due on the 15th of the following month.
Where can I make a payment?
A drop box (no stamps/envelopes needed) is located on Malibu Drive before entering the Town Hall complex. Paying with cash? Our office is located at 303A N. Beeline Highway in the southeast corner of the Town Hall Complex.
What are the accepted methods of payment?
AutoPay, Cash, Check, Money Order and Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard)
What is AutoPay?
Never worry about being late or missing a payment. The total amount of your bill will be automatically, electronically deducted from your checking account on or about the 15th of each month. An application and voided check are required to set up this service. Applications are available at the Water Department office or download the AutoPay Authorization here.
Can I make a payment over the phone?
Yes, by Visa or MasterCard, however, a $5.00 fee will be added.
Is it necessary to complete an application for water service?
Yes, the Application for Water Service needs to be completed in full and brought to the Water Department office along with an appropriate photo ID.
Are deposits required?
Refundable deposits are required to begin water service and you should contact our office at 474-5242, ext. 351 for the amounts.
How soon will my water be turned on after I complete the application and pay the deposit?
Within twenty four (24) hours excluding weekends for properties with existing public water service. For properties without existing public water service it may take approximately two weeks.
Im going on vacation; what can I do about my bill?
You can sign up for AutoPay and have your payment automatically deducted or you can prepay your account, based on your average monthly bill before you leave.
What should I do if Im having a water emergency inside my home?
If you have your own customer shut-off valve, turn your water off and call a plumber. If you do not have your own private shut-off valve call the Water Department at 474-5242 x4 and we will dispatch a service person to turn your water off.
Can I use the valve on the meter to turn my water on and off?
No, the valve on the meter should only be used by Water Department personnel. Every home should be equipped with a customer shut off valve, normally located on the customers property near the meter box. See Customer Shut-Off Valve Spec Sheet. If you do not have a customer shut-off valve we highly recommend that you have one installed.
My water usage is higher than I expected. What are the most common causes?
Check your toilet for leaks. This is an easy process using dye strips, which are provided free to our customers at the Water Department office. Drop dye strips into the toilet tank which will discolor the water. Let sit 15 20 minutes. If the colored water seeps into the bowl, your toilet will need to be repaired.
Check your outside irrigation system and timers. During summer months, this is the most common culprit for high usage. There are many reasons why timers malfunction and watering lines can become damaged or break underground. Check your irrigation system frequently.
How can I check to see if I have any leaks?
See our helpful brochures How to Read Your Water Meter and Stop Leaks Now.
What should I do if I find that I have a leak?
Per Resolution #235, homes constructed after 7/29/80 require a shut-off valve on the customer side of the Towns meter. Location of customer valves may vary. Proper installation places them within 1-2 ft of the Towns meter. These valves are for customers to shut off their water if a leak occurs. To prepare for home disasters, it is a good practice to locate your customer shut-off valve. If customer shut-off valve cannot be located, contact the Water Dept. to turn off the towns meter. If these situations occur after hours, a fee may be assessed to your account. For your future protection and convenience, please consider having a customer shut-off valve installed.
What is the sales tax rate for Payson?
Payson's sales tax rate is 8.72%, which includes 5.6% State Tax, 1% Gila County Tax, and 2.12% Town of Payson tax. Please see our tax code document for more information.
What is the rental tax rate for Payson?
If you own 3 or more residential rental units, the tax rate is 2.12%.
If you own less than 3 residential rental units, you are exempt from State tax. Please see Sec. 8A-445 of theArizona State tax code document for this information.
WHAT IS "HOME RULE"?
In 1980, Arizona voters approved a tax reform package that placed an expenditure limitation on cities and towns. However, this legislation also allows local voters to approve an exception to the state imposed expenditure limitation in their city or town, known as Home Rule. (Arizona State Constitution-Article IX, Section 20, subsection 9)
Under the state-imposed expenditure limitation, a city or town may only spend a certain amount of funds. Regardless of the city or town's revenue or individual needs, its budget is limited by the state-imposed ceiling. Under the Home Rule Option, the city or town may determine its own expenditures based on its budget.
HAVE OTHER CITIES AND TOWNS AUTHORIZED HOME RULE?
YES in 2006, 55 communities had adopted Home Rule. In 2009, Home rule and permanent adjustments have been voted on and approved in 75 Arizona Cities and Towns.
WHY IS HOME RULE ON THE PRIMARY ELECTION BALLOT?
The Town of Payson voters have approved the Home Rule Option every four years since 1980. To continue the Home Rule Option, it must be passed by the voters every four years. It was last passed in 2006.
WHAT HAPPENS IF HOME RULE IS NOT CONTINUED?
If Home Rule is not approved, the Town of Payson will operate under the existing state]imposed expenditure limit. Under this limit, the Town of Payson may not be able to budget, and therefore expend all the revenues it
collects to provide services such as Police, Fire, and Water to Town residents.
The current estimated state]imposed limitation for FY2010]2011 (next year) is $14,111,552. The current FY2009]10 budget is $57 million (includes approximately $17M in stimulus grants). The $14M is only an estimate and subject to changes in population figures and the % change in GDP deflators.
DOES APPROVAL OF HOME RULE GIVE THE CITY AUTHORITY TO IMPOSE NEW TAXES?
NO approval to continue Home Rule only allows the Town to spend the revenues it collects as approved in the annual budget.
Home Rule does not change the property tax or sales tax that the Town currently collects.
IF HOME RULE IS CONTINUED, WHAT WILL IT MEAN FOR TOWN RESIDENTS?
With Home Rule, town residents and the Mayor and Council will continue to decide what level of service is best for Payson.
Home Rule allows the Town to expend all the revenues it receives to provide services to residents.
Each year, the Town will set its expenditure limit after citizen input through the budget and public hearing process.
Because the Town is required to have a balanced budget, expenditures will be restricted by available revenues.
