Pittsburgh Council appears ready to raise property taxes for the first time in 12 years, with one member calling for an increase of 30 percent.
Council members say there's no way to avoid it with a $30 million shortfall in the 2026 budget.
The city needs new vehicles, overtime costs are up, Downtown building assessments and tax revenues are down and the city's electric bill is rising.
The council's finance committee is also crafting a plan calling for a 5 percent across-the-board spending cut in all city departments.
Council will need to reach a consensus before the end of the month and there's a public hearing a few days before Christmas.
Mayor-Elect Corey O'Connor issued a statement to KDKA Radio. He says he's committed to leading a city that invests in core functions.... maintains fiscal responsibility and supports growth. O'Connor's statement says he will work with Council to assess all options that allow the city to maintain essential services and eliminate spending in areas the city cannot afford.