UPDATE: Delaware County is facing intense backlash as residents react to a proposed 19% property tax hike included in the 2026 budget, presented by County Executive Director Barbara O’Malley. The proposal, which could raise the average property tax bill by nearly $188, was discussed during a heated County Council meeting earlier today, with many residents voicing their concerns.
The County Council plans to hold its first reading of the budget on December 3, 2025, with a final version expected to be adopted by December 10, 2025. This tax increase follows a staggering 23% hike enacted last year, which raised the average tax bill from $803.34 to $988.03. Residents are alarmed by the cumulative financial burden as they struggle with rising costs.
Community members like Cynthia Sabatini from Upper Providence articulated the struggle many face: “The proposed tax increase, on top of last year’s hike, will push additional residents to the brink. Our citizens will have to decide whether to buy food and/or medicine or pay their taxes.” As the cost of living continues to rise, many fear the implications of another substantial increase.
County Communications Director Michael Connolly explained that the reasons behind the tax hike include a structural deficit, increased costs associated with healthcare and public transportation, and the cessation of pandemic-related funding. Residents, however, are demanding transparency and accountability.
Critics like Michael Straw of Media challenged the council’s fiscal management, saying, “Why can’t Delaware County Council get its fiscal budget in order?” He highlighted the proposed spending increase of 6% from 2025 to 2026 and questioned the necessity of new departments and projects amidst rising taxes.
The discussion also turned towards the County’s spending on the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, with concerns raised about its projected $61 million budget. Residents noted that while the inmate population has declined, operational costs continue to soar. “How can that be?” asked Kim Brown of Colwyn, emphasizing the need for a financial audit of the facility.
The County Council’s Vice Chair, Richard Womack, who was the sole dissenter during last year’s tax increase, expressed the urgent need for a Budget Task Force to address these issues. The community is calling for a freeze on the proposed tax hike, with residents feeling the weight of “financial suffocation” from rising taxes.
As tensions mount, the council faces mounting pressure to justify the proposed tax increases and demonstrate a commitment to fiscal responsibility. The implications of this decision are significant, as many residents fear it could exacerbate the financial strain they are already experiencing.
The council is expected to revisit these discussions in the upcoming meetings, with residents watching closely to see if their voices are heard. Those affected by the proposed tax increases are urged to stay engaged as the budget process unfolds.
With just days until the first reading of the budget, the community’s response will likely shape the council’s final decision. As Delaware County grapples with these urgent financial decisions, the outcome will resonate across the community for years to come.
