Delaware County’s Shocking 23% Property Tax Hike: What You Need to Know!
Delaware County is on the brink of a significant change, as councilors gear up to vote on a proposed 23% property tax hike that could reshape the financial landscape for homeowners. With budget shortfalls looming large, officials find themselves in a tight spot, facing mounting pressure from residents grappling with rising living costs.
During spirited public meetings held earlier this week, county residents voiced their concerns, pushing back against the proposed increase with fervor. They argue that with inflation already pinching their wallets, the last thing they need is higher taxes. However, county leaders maintain that their options are limited if they want to keep essential services running amidst a financial crunch exacerbated by the end of federal COVID-19 relief funds.
“No entity can deal with inflationary costs and a flat income; the math just doesn’t add up,” asserted Councilman Kevin Madden. “For years, this county has failed to invest in its infrastructure. We’ve held out hope for a miracle, but now we’re left with stark realities.” The council is expected to finalize their decision on this hike, along with the overall budget for 2025, next week.
If approved, County Executive Director Barbara O’Malley indicates that the average homeowner could see an increase of about $185 annually, with one-third of homeowners facing hikes of less than $100. O’Malley explained that Delaware County’s revenues have lagged behind those of surrounding areas and inflation has outpaced growth, forcing the council to consider this dramatic step after a previous 5% tax increase last year.
“We knew this day would come; we can’t keep kicking the can down the road,” she added, emphasizing the need to balance the budget every year. Despite the rationale, the proposed tax increase ignited waves of frustration among residents, many of whom are already struggling under the weight of rising inflation.
“If we lose our housing, we wouldn’t even be able to afford an apartment,” lamented Helen Struckmann, a Media resident whose husband is disabled. Many voices echoed her sentiment, pointing to the tax hike as a symptom of financial mismanagement by the current Democratic administration. Residents called for budget cuts instead, urging the council to tighten its belt rather than burden the community further.
“The county needs to act like its citizens and find ways to cut costs,” insisted Todd Hall, a concerned Havertown resident. Council members, however, defended their approach, claiming that rising expenses are largely due to increases in wages for county workers, necessitated by the ongoing challenge of filling crucial positions.
Council Vice Chair Richard Womack suggested pausing the tax increase to form a commission to examine the budget more closely, stating, “Right now, we’re experiencing sticker shock.” Yet, a majority of the council appears to support the increase, attributing it to years of underfunding during the previous administration.
Madden pointed out the severe infrastructure issues and lack of investment the current council inherited, asserting that this tax increase is not made lightly but is essential to reinvest in public services. “We’ve been left with a legacy of disinvestment. This board is now in a position where we must raise revenues to ensure our government can properly serve our community,” Councilwoman Elaine Shafer noted.
While Shafer hinted that the hike could have been less steep, she remains on the fence about her vote. Other council members, including Chair Monica Taylor and Reuther, have indicated support for the increase, acknowledging that with inflation still rising, further increases could be on the horizon.
“I don’t take tax increases lightly, especially considering those on fixed incomes who are already struggling,” Taylor stated. “Yet, we must also ensure we are providing the services that our community needs and is mandated to receive.” The decision looms large over Delaware County, with residents left to contemplate the financial implications of their leaders’ choices.
