WILKES-BARRE, Pa. – Luzerne County's proposed 2026 budget has been formally introduced to County Council, initiating a period of review and public discussion before the final vote. The budget proposal, unveiled during last night’s meeting, includes a recommended 1.9% real estate tax increase.
The tax increase would amount to an additional $12 per year for a home with the median assessed value of $95,500. This increase is intended to address several key expenses, including the cost of a new county common pleas court judge, road and bridge maintenance, and rising healthcare costs, particularly at the county prison.
County departments are scheduled to present their budget requests and answer questions from the council during upcoming sessions on October 28, November 10, and November 25. The County Council has the authority to make changes to the budget before the final adoption deadline of December 15.
