Eastern Arizona College’s governing board unanimously approved a 2027 tax levy of $9.2 million for the 2027 budget year at their board meeting on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The board received one letter in opposition and one attendee at the board meeting spoke in favor of the levy.
The tax levy is the total amount of property tax revenue the college district is authorized to collect. State law establishes a levy limit based on a formula that allows for annual growth of up to 2%, plus adjustments for new construction. The governing board adopts the levy each year within those legal parameter
This adjustment will help secure nearly $31 million in state funding that supports affordable higher education opportunities for students in rural Arizona. Unlike many institutions, EA does not levy a secondary tax, maintaining a single tax structure that minimizes the burden on local property owners.
The College generates $342.4 million in annual economic impact, supports one out of every 12 local jobs, and prepares the workforce that powers our regional economy. While local property taxes account for 12% of the College’s funding, 88% comes from state appropriations, grants, tuition, and other sources, allowing EA to bring substantial outside resources into our region.
From 2021 through 2025, EA’s tax rate declined each year while the College’s levy increased from $7 million to $8 million. This was possible because growth in property values expanded the tax base, allowing the College to generate additional revenue while lowering its tax rate. In 2026 and 2027, the rate increased as EA sought additional revenue within its statutory levy authority to help offset rising costs and continue investing in student success, workforce development, and educational opportunities. While the 2027 levy includes a rate increase, it is below the current inflation rate. It supports an institution that generates $342 million in annual economic impact, supports one in every 12 local jobs, and brings significant outside funding into the region.
