UPDATE: The Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority has officially announced that levee protection fees will not increase for the upcoming year. During a meeting on October 21, Executive Director Christopher Belleman confirmed that the authority is moving forward with a proposed budget for 2026 that includes significant operational and capital expenditures.
This decision impacts more than 14,200 properties protected by the extensive 16-mile levee system along the Susquehanna River, serving communities such as Wilkes-Barre, Hanover Township, Kingston, and Forty Fort. The annual fees for residential properties will remain at $63.43 for properties valued under $100,000, and $126.87 for higher-valued homes. For commercial properties, fees will also stay unchanged, ranging from $126.87 to as much as $1,213.08 based on property value.
The authority’s budget outlines $2.4 million for operational expenses and $1.2 million for capital projects. Notably, $375,000 is earmarked for urgent repairs to address sloughing near the Riverside Drive floodwall in Wilkes-Barre. Sloughing, a process where soil and debris slide away, poses a risk to the levee’s integrity.
In a bid to ensure the levee system’s durability, the authority has contracted with Verdantas LLC for $24,670 to conduct surveys and recommend necessary repairs. Belleman emphasized the importance of these measures for the ongoing safety and protection of local residents.
The decision to maintain current fee levels comes as a relief to property owners in the area, who have not seen an increase since 2017. As the authority prepares to implement its budget, residents and local businesses can expect continued support for flood protection without the added financial burden of increased fees.
As preparations for the 2026 budget continue, the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority remains committed to ensuring the safety of its communities. Stakeholders are urged to stay informed about any future developments regarding flood management and infrastructure improvements.
