Senate Enrolled Act 1

Governor Mike Braun says he’s likely to extend the pause on gas taxes, but he also wants to expand grant funding for road projects.

The county council is set to vote Monday on a local income tax of 0.2 percent to be set aside for emergency medical services. That would bring LaPorte County’s total local income tax to 1.65 percent.

Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson and Common Council Member Aaron Mishler say most city drivers wouldn't pay more wheel tax under the proposal but some commercially registered vehicles could see increases.

“Unfortunately, to right the ship, to have a cost reduction, the option really is in wages and benefits,” said April Fitterling with Policy Analytics.

Elkhart County officials say the resignation of Concord Township’s assessor could lead to major cost savings, including salary cuts and a possible office downsizing.

St. Joseph County Assessor Mike Castellon says Senate Enrolled Act 1 will force a 35% reduction in the county's total assessed value for property taxes, thanks to new exemptions on business personal property.

Regional officials with Accelerating Indiana Municipalities planned an information meeting Monday at Mishawaka City Hall to talk about how the property tax cuts from Senate Enrolled Act 1 earlier this year will force hard choices on which services to provide.

As local governments wrap up a challenging budget cycle, some state lawmakers say they’re looking at revisiting property and income tax reform.

The total spending plan is just under $180 million. That’s a drop of more than $10 million from the advertised proposal, after county officials trimmed the General, Highway, Health, and Election and Registration funds.

Elkhart unveiled its proposed 2026 budget this week while city leaders say a state law change will shrink local revenue and force difficult choices in coming years.