WILKES-BARRE, Pa. – Luzerne County residents are facing a tax hike in 2026, as County Manager Romilda Crocamo cited the ongoing Pennsylvania state budget impasse as the primary factor compelling local leaders to propose a $381.1 million budget for the coming year. This spending plan is $1.5 million higher than the previous year.
The proposed budget includes a 1.9% real estate tax increase, which county officials have described as "minimal," equating to less than $12 more per year on the median-assessed home.
Crocamo stressed that the lack of a finalized state budget heavily impacts mandated local services, particularly those administered by the Children, Youth & Families agency. Without state funding, she stated that the necessary resources are not available for providers to continue serving vulnerable residents who rely on basic social services, including mental health support, elder care, and drug and alcohol support.
The County Council will begin holding public meetings to discuss the budget starting October 28, with the deadline for budget adoption set for December 15.