By Kris McBride
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College (EA) is proposing a total primary property tax levy of $9.2 million for the 2027 budget year. Excluding new construction, this represents a modest 2% increase, remaining below the current rate of inflation. The proposal will be considered by the Graham County Community College District Governing Board at its upcoming meeting on June 11, 2026, at 1 p.m. in the Eastern Arizona College Student Services Building Governing Board Room.
Over the past several years, EA has consistently kept the local tax levy as low as possible while maintaining high-quality education for its students. The recommended rate of $2.96 for 2027 will increase taxes on a $100,000 home by $5.80 per year. This modest increase helps preserve essential funding for student services, scholarships, and educational programs. EA also remains entirely debt-free, with no outstanding bonds, reflecting the College’s strong commitment to responsible financial management.
No Large Tax Increases for Local Residents
EA’s approach prioritizes stability while minimizing the burden on residents. The Arizona Legislature allows community college districts to increase the levy by 2% annually, a rate that remains below current inflation.
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 plays an important role in strengthening local communities through education, workforce development, and student opportunity,” said EA President Todd Haynie. “This recommendation helps preserve those opportunities while minimizing the impact on residents.”
Local tax revenue directly supports student scholarships, making higher education accessible for students and families. The tax levy will account for just under 14% of EA’s $67 million budget. The College also receives funding from various sources, including $31 million from the State of Arizona, $9.2 million from grants and contracts, $9.8 million from tuition, and $7.4 million from other income.
Truth in Taxation Notice and Public Input
The following truth in taxation notice will be published in the Eastern Arizona Courier on May 27, 2026, and again on June 3, 2026. Members of the public are encouraged to send comments to board@eac.edu or attend the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 1 p.m. in the Eastern Arizona College Student Services Building, Governing Board Room, EA Middle Campus, 615 N. Stadium Ave., Thatcher, Ariz.
Statutory Language for Truth in Taxation Notice
In compliance with section 15-1461.01, Arizona Revised Statutes, Graham County Community College District is notifying its property taxpayers of Graham County Community College District’s intention to raise its primary property taxes over last year’s level. The Graham County Community College District is proposing an increase in primary property taxes of $172,097 or 2%.
For example, the proposed tax increase will cause Graham County Community College District’s primary property taxes on a $100,000 home to be $296.07 (total proposed taxes including the tax increase). Without the proposed tax increase, the total taxes that would be owed on a $100,000 home would have been $290.27.
This proposed increase is exclusive of increased primary property taxes received from new construction. The increase is also exclusive of any changes that may occur from property tax levies for voter approved bonded indebtedness or budget and tax overrides.
All interested citizens are invited to attend the public hearing on the tax increase that is scheduled to be held June 11, 2026 at 1 p.m. at the Eastern Arizona College Student Services Building – Governing Board Room, EAC Middle Campus, 615 North Stadium Avenue, Thatcher, Arizona 85552-0769. The Graham County Community College District is in full compliance with Primary Tax Levy limitations and all applicable provisions of ARS§ 42-17051.
