UPDATE: Tensions are rising in Delaware County as residents express outrage over a proposed 19% property tax increase unveiled during a County Council meeting earlier today. With the first reading of the county’s budget scheduled for December 3 and final adoption expected by December 10, taxpayers are demanding immediate clarity on the implications of this significant hike.
During the meeting, County Executive Director Barbara O’Malley presented her budget proposal for 2026, revealing that the increase follows a staggering 23% tax hike enacted last year. This meant an average homeowner in Delaware County, with a property assessed at $255,108, saw their tax bill rise from $803.34 to $988.03, a jump of $184.69. Should the new proposal pass, residents could face an additional burden of nearly $188.
Residents echoed their frustrations, highlighting the financial strain many are already under. Cynthia Sabatini of Upper Providence voiced her concerns, stating, “It’s obvious that people are hurting financially in Delaware County… The proposed 19% tax increase will push additional residents to the brink.” She warned that such increases could lead to a cycle of financial distress, domestic abuse, and crime.
County Communications Director Michael Connolly attributed the need for the tax increase to several factors: a structural deficit, dwindling budget reserves, the end of pandemic-related funding, and rising operational costs for services such as SEPTA. “These challenges require revenue enhancement,” Connolly explained.
The proposed budget also includes a controversial $61 million allocation for the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, which has seen a decline in inmate population but an increase in operating costs. Critics like Kim Brown of Colwyn questioned the facility’s rising expenses, highlighting that the average daily population had dropped significantly from previous years. “How can costs be up while the number of inmates is down?” she asked.
Residents are calling for budget transparency, with Michael Straw of Media urging the council to cut unnecessary expenditures. “We’ve seen our County Council raise salaries and create new departments while spending billions on extravagances we don’t need,” he stated. “Stop normalizing annual tax hikes as the only option.”
The council’s previous tax increases have already placed a heavy burden on constituents, and with many residents struggling to afford basic necessities, the proposed hike has triggered widespread concern. “We’re being crushed by the cost of simply existing,” said a resident who identified herself as Selma, emphasizing the need for immediate action against the proposed tax increase.
As the December meetings approach, all eyes will be on Delaware County Council to see how they respond to this growing discontent. Many residents are now left wondering: Will their voices make a difference in this critical budgetary decision?
