Pocono News Section

2009 W-B Budget Contains Sizeable Tax Increase

2009 W-B Budget Contains Sizeable Tax Increase - Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at 4:22PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Wednesday, Oct 15, 2008 @ 04:22pm EST
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY- Wilkes-Barre homeowners will end up paying more in property taxes next year under a proposed budget. Mayor Tom Leighton unveiled his 2009 tentative city spending plan Wednesday.

The nearly 41-million dollar budget calls for a 23-mill increase. Based on average property values, homeowners would hand over $70 more in taxes.

Also, garbage fees would increase 30-cents per large bag and recycling fees would jump $15. The Earned Income Tax rate would increase from 2.85% to 3%.

The mayor blames the hike on health care costs and a million-dollar firefighters’ arbitration award. "By no means am I happy or proud of this budget, but it's legitimate numbers, it's legitimate expenses," said Leighton.

Many taxpayers we spoke with are not happy about the increase, especially with the current state of the economy.

The budget will take effect in mid-December unless city council comes up with an alternate spending plan. The city will hold public hearings within the coming weeks.