DEADWOOD, S.D. – Lawrence County property owners will see a slight increase in their tax mill levy next year after the county approved its 2027 budget.
County officials say the mill levy will rise from 2.775 to 2.834. Auditor Brenda McGruder says property values are still increasing, but not at the pace seen in recent years, so the higher levy is needed to generate enough revenue to fund county operations.
The new levy is expected to generate about $16.5 million in property tax revenue as the county works with a total assessed property value of nearly $5.84 billion.
The county’s overall budget tops $35 million, with significant funding increases planned for public safety and public works. Officials say some of those costs are tied to the upcoming consolidation of the Lawrence County and Spearfish dispatch centers, which could require new equipment, technology upgrades, and additional personnel.
The budget also includes more than $950,000 in funding for local nonprofits and community organizations, including libraries, emergency medical services, behavioral health programs, youth programs and senior services.
County leaders say the budget is designed to meet growing service demands while preparing for future public safety and infrastructure needs.
