First public hearing held on proposed Lackawanna County tax hike

The Lackawanna County Commissioners heard from the public Tuesday at the first of four public hearings scheduled to discuss the proposal of a nearly 33% property tax increase. Concerns ranged from how the tax increase would affect small businesses, as well as new homeowners. Majority Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Matt McGloin say the increase is the only way the county will recover from past financial mistakes. Republican Minority Commissioner Chris Chermak did not attend the meeting but instead waited outside in the hall to express his disagreement. The next public hearing will be held on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Waverly Community House.