Residents of Delaware County rallied on Monday, voicing fierce opposition to a proposed 19% property tax increase slated for the 2026 budget. The county council is set to vote on the measure during a Wednesday meeting on December 10, following a 23% rise in 2025.
The Proposed Increase
The latest proposal targets only the county portion of property tax bills, translating to roughly $16 more per month for the average property in Delaware County. County officials argue that a larger increase for another year is essential to keep the budget balanced.
“We don’t have any more time to get it done. We have to do it this year,” said Michael Connolly, the director of communications for Delaware County. Connolly emphasized that the county’s financial deficit, the depletion of federal COVID relief funds, and inflation are key drivers behind the proposed hike.
Resident Reactions
Glen Griffin, a frustrated resident, expressed his concerns: “I would hope that they would take the economy, what’s going on Washington, people are hurting. They are going through food situations, housing situations.” Griffin’s comments echo the broader anxiety among residents about the impact of higher taxes on everyday living.
Karen McGuigon, another Delco resident, highlighted the strain on retirees: “We are retired. I mean, our income isn’t going up that much so it’s getting worse and worse.” Her statement underscores the difficulty many Delaware County households face in balancing rising costs with stagnant wages.
County Officials’ Position
Despite the backlash, county officials maintain that the increase is unavoidable. They claim that the current financial shortfall, combined with the exhaustion of federal COVID relief funds and persistent inflation, leaves no alternative but to raise taxes for an additional year.
To mitigate fears, officials have assured residents that the proposed hike will not be followed by another increase in the near future once it is approved. They frame the measure as a necessary step to stabilize the county’s finances.
The Bigger Picture
The 19% proposal follows a 23% increase that took effect for the 2025 budget. This back-to-back escalation has raised questions about the long-term sustainability of Delaware County’s fiscal strategy. Residents are wary of repeated tax hikes, especially amid economic uncertainty and rising living costs.
The council’s upcoming vote on December 10 will determine whether the county can secure the additional revenue needed to cover its obligations. The decision will also signal how the county balances public services with taxpayer burdens.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware County proposes a 19% property tax increase for the 2026 budget, to be voted on December 10.
- The hike would add about $16 per month to the county portion of average property taxes.
- Residents, including retirees, fear the impact on food and housing affordability.
- County officials cite a financial deficit, depleted federal COVID relief funds, and inflation as reasons for the increase.
- Officials assure residents that no further immediate hikes will follow once approved.
The debate over the proposed tax increase highlights the tension between fiscal responsibility and community well-being in Delaware County. The outcome of the council’s vote will shape the county’s financial trajectory and residents’ daily lives for years to come.
