UPDATE: Delaware County residents are expressing urgent concerns over a proposed 19% property tax increase included in the 2026 budget, which county officials outlined during a heated meeting. This new tax hike comes just one year after a 23% increase was enacted, raising the average property owner’s tax bill from $803.34 to $988.03.
During the County Council meeting on November 8, 2025, residents voiced their opposition to the proposed increase, which would add nearly $188 to the average tax bill based on last year’s rate. The budget is set for its first reading on December 3, with a final vote anticipated by December 10.
Officials, including County Executive Director Barbara O’Malley, explained that the tax increase is driven by a structural deficit and rising operational costs, particularly in public safety and health care. Michael Connolly, Delaware County Communications Director, cited the end of pandemic-related funding as a significant factor necessitating this increase.
Residents like Cynthia Sabatini of Upper Providence highlighted the financial strain many families are under, stating, “The proposed tax increase will push additional residents to the brink. Our citizens will have to decide whether to buy food and/or medicine or pay their taxes.” This sentiment resonates deeply as the community grapples with the economic fallout of recent events.
Critics of the proposal, including Michael Straw from Media, demanded cost-cutting measures instead of tax hikes, questioning the council’s fiscal responsibility. “We’ve seen our County Council raise salaries and create new departments while spending billions on unnecessary projects,” he stated, calling for prioritization of essential services over new initiatives.
Moreover, the ongoing costs associated with the George W. Hill Correctional Facility have raised eyebrows, particularly as the inmate population has decreased significantly. Kim Brown of Colwyn pointed out that despite a drop in inmates, the budget for the facility has ballooned to an anticipated $61 million for 2026.
“There is a disconnect between the number of inmates and the operating costs,” Brown said, stressing the need for a financial audit of the prison.
As the council prepares for the upcoming budget readings, the community’s response is growing louder. Many residents are calling for a freeze on the proposed tax increase, arguing that recurring hikes are not a sustainable solution. Selma, another resident, proclaimed, “We’re being crushed by the cost of simply existing. The county is only adding to it.”
As Delaware County grapples with these fiscal challenges, all eyes will be on the council’s decisions in early December. The proposed budget’s implications could have lasting effects on residents’ financial well-being, especially in these tumultuous economic times.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops in the coming weeks. Residents are urged to voice their concerns and participate in the upcoming meetings to ensure their voices are heard.
