No Tax Hike In 2017 Delaware County Budget

For three years in a row now, Delaware County has maintained no tax increases for county residents in its budget.

The county recently passed its 2017 budget, which stands at $351 million, and contains no tax increase. The last year residents saw taxes go up was 2014.

"A great deal of effort is put forth to ensure that the lowest responsible budget is presented," Delaware County Council Chairman Mario Civera Jr said. "Based on preliminary figures, prepared by the executive director with the budget director, we are happy to announce that there will be no tax hike for 2017."

According to a county press release, the county is maintain a strong economic rating from Standard and Poors Rating Service and Moody's Investor Services, scoring AA and Aa1 on the rating systems, respectively.

Delaware County Home Rule Charter Executive Director Marianne Grace told the council the two main cost drivers for the budget are the county's skilled car facility Fair Acres and 9-1-1 services.

Grace also said despite an increase in court proceedings, the county was able to drop the court budget by $1.3 million thanks to the effort in the county's Juvenile Court to utilize alternative services for juveniles designed to rehabilitate them while keeping them at home.

Another cost saving measure that has allowed the 2017 millage rate to stay flat is the county's employee wellness program, which Grace said has saved the count money in health costs due to better employee health.

Grace said thanks to "diligent" management, the county's employee retirement system fund is 100 percent funded as of January 1, 2016.

"Like every county in the Commonwealth, Delaware County faces challenges. But we fully recognize the financial pressures that our residents face," Civera said. "And we are committed to serving all residents, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, returning servicemen and women, and others who need assistance to maintain their quality of life."

A public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Dec. 7 in the County Council public meeting room at the Government Center.

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