EAGLE MOUNTAIN, Utah (July 2025) — As Eagle Mountain prepares to place a Recreation, Arts, and Parks (RAP) Tax proposal on the November 2025 ballot, city officials have clarified key details about how the proposed tax revenue would and would not be used. At the same time, questions have been raised about the city’s decision to fund a public relations campaign with taxpayer money.
RAP Tax Won’t Fund Recreation Center
In response to public speculation, City Manager Benjamin Reeves confirmed that a recreation center is not part of the city’s current RAP Tax proposal.
“A rec center may be something the public and council consider in the future, but it’s not something we’re pursuing now… We don’t want to lose the RAP Tax over a misunderstanding,” Reeves told the Daily Herald source.
The RAP Tax would enact a 0.1% local sales tax, equivalent to one cent for every $10 spent in Eagle Mountain, to fund projects like parks, trails, splash pads, arts programming, youth sports, and cultural events. According to state law and city materials, revenue from the RAP Tax cannot be used for general operations or large capital projects like a recreation center.
City Launches Informational Campaign—Using Taxpayer Funds
While the city emphasizes the educational nature of its RAP Tax outreach, an editorial published by The Cedar Valley Sentinel raised concerns over a $43,000 contract signed by Mayor Tom Westmoreland to hire a professional public relations firm to promote the tax proposal.
“Mayor Westmoreland authorized a $43,000 contract with a PR firm—paid with taxpayer money—to promote the proposed RAP Tax to voters,” the editorial states source.
The contract was awarded despite the city employing a full-time communications manager. Critics argue that using public funds to promote a ballot initiative walks a fine ethical line, especially as the city’s messaging, while labeled “educational,” may influence voter opinion.
City’s Position and Broader Context
Eagle Mountain Communications Manager Tyler Maffitt, in the city’s June press release, said:
“This is about giving residents a choice. As Eagle Mountain evolves, it’s important to plan following our values and allow our community to invest in the programs and outdoor spaces that make life better here. Our role is to make sure the public has access to accurate, transparent information before the vote.” source
City materials emphasize that the RAP Tax would provide a dedicated revenue stream for community-focused projects without diverting resources from essential services such as roads, water, and public safety. The proposal includes the formation of a resident advisory board to help guide funding recommendations, which would be reviewed by the City Council during the annual budget process.
Countywide Trend
If approved, Eagle Mountain would join over 16 Utah County cities that have already enacted similar 0.1% sales taxes to support recreation and arts, including Saratoga Springs, Lehi, American Fork, Springville, and Spanish Fork.
These voter-approved taxes typically last for 10 years before requiring reauthorization. The RAP Tax model is used across Utah as a way to fund quality-of-life improvements without increasing property taxes.
What’s Next
- In August 2025, Eagle Mountain City Council is expected to vote on placing the RAP Tax on the November ballot.
- In November 2025, Residents will vote on whether to approve the 0.1% sales tax for a 10-year term.
- If approved, Revenue would be allocated to parks, trails, arts programs, and eligible nonprofits, with oversight by a resident advisory board.
The city has launched an informational hub with FAQs and updates at:
👉 eaglemountain.gov/raptax
Sources:
- “Eagle Mountain says funds from proposed RAP tax won’t fund a recreation center” — Daily Herald, July 17, 2025
HeraldExtra.com article - “Editorial: Mayor Westmoreland Hires PR Firm Paid with Taxpayer Money to Market RAP Tax to Voters” — Cedar Valley Sentinel, July 2025
CedarValleySentinel.com article - “RAP Tax Ballot Proposal” — Eagle Mountain City Press Release, June 25, 2025
eaglemountain.gov/raptax
Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.