SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson on Tuesday proposed a nearly 20% property tax increase for next year, saying it’s needed to keep up with rising costs and maintain the county’s sterling bond rating.

The county last raised property taxes in 2019. Now, with inflation rising in the intervening years and an end to pandemic-era federal funding, Wilson said there is “no responsible alternative” for the county.

“During that time, county leaders have worked hard to absorb growing expenses and rising demand for services within their operations,” she told the Salt Lake County Council. “However, after exhausting every other option, a property tax increase of 19.63% is necessary this year.”

The increase would add $48.9 million to the county’s revenue at an average cost of about

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