Homeowners in Delaware County may see their property taxes climb again, as county officials unveiled a new budget proposal at a public meeting on December 3, 2025. The announcement came during a routine session where residents and council members gathered to discuss the fiscal direction of the county for the coming year.
Public Meeting Overview
The meeting, held at the county hall, served as the platform for introducing the latest budget. County officials presented the proposed figures and outlined how the adjustments would affect the overall tax structure. Attendees had the opportunity to listen to the council’s rationale and ask questions about the impact on their monthly bills.
Proposed 19% Increase
At the core of the proposal is a 19 percent hike in property taxes. This figure represents the percentage change relative to the previous tax rate. It is the figure that will be applied to each homeowner’s assessed property value when the new budget takes effect.
Monthly and Annual Impact
The 19 percent increase translates to an estimated $15 added to each homeowner’s monthly tax payment. Over the course of a year, that additional amount sums to roughly $188 more than the current annual tax bill. The figures are rounded estimates, but they give residents a clear picture of what to expect on their next tax statement.
Comparison to Last Year’s Increase
Last year, the county implemented a 23 percent tax rise. The current proposal, while still substantial, is slightly lower than the previous year’s adjustment. The difference between 23 percent and 19 percent is 4 percentage points, which is reflected in the smaller dollar amount added to each homeowner’s bill.
Second Year in a Row
County officials highlighted that this is the second consecutive year in which a significant property tax increase has been proposed. The repetition of such hikes has drawn attention from residents who are already experiencing higher payments. The council’s emphasis on continuity suggests that the county’s financial strategy remains consistent across both years.
Upcoming Council Vote
The budget, as presented, is slated for a vote by the county council next Wednesday. The council’s decision will determine whether the 19 percent increase is approved, modified, or rejected. Residents who attended the public meeting were reminded that the outcome will directly influence the tax rate that will be applied in the next fiscal period.
Homeowners’ Perspective
For homeowners, the proposed increase means an additional $15 each month. Over a typical year, that amounts to an extra $188 on top of the existing tax obligation. While the figures are presented as estimates, they are based on the current assessment values and the proposed percentage increase.
Financial Implications
The financial implications are straightforward: a higher percentage rate leads to higher monthly and yearly payments. Residents who rely on predictable budgeting will need to account for the additional $15 monthly when planning their finances for the upcoming year.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware County is proposing a 19% property tax increase.
- The hike adds about $15 per month and $188 per year for homeowners.
- Last year’s increase was 23%, making this year’s hike slightly smaller.
- The county council will vote on the proposal next Wednesday.
The announcement underscores the county’s ongoing adjustments to property tax rates and highlights the importance of the council’s upcoming vote in determining the final tax structure for homeowners in Delaware County.
