Pocono News Section

County, City Tax Increases Upset Hazleton Homeowners

County, City Tax Increases Upset Hazleton Homeowners - Saturday, January 2, 2010 at 3:23PM EST

Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Saturday, Jan 2, 2010 @ 03:23pm EST

HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY -- Property owners in Luzerne County face a 10% tax hike, after commissioners voted this week to accept the budget. On top of that, people living in Hazleton will see an increase in property taxes, earned income taxes, and garbage collection fees. Residents tell us, 2010 is off to a rough start.

"I'm very unhappy with it," said Melissa Bart of Hazleton, who fears the tough economy coupled with tax increases will add up to trouble.

People in Hazleton will see an increase in real estate taxes, earned income taxes, and garbage collection fees. We first told you last month about the city trying to collect more than $500,000 in overdue trash pick-up payments. Some who live here think that's to blame for a $32 increase in garbage collection fees.

"I think they should go after the dead beats and put liens on their houses until they pay their garbage, and we wouldn't have this porblem," said Joe Corradini of Hazleton, who also has concerns that corruption at the courthouse has caused budget problems and led to tax increases. "People are going to feel the pinch, but I think if they straighten up the courthouse, I don't think we'd have to [raise taxes] either."

Both say costs are rising, but finding a way to cut spending is key.

"Sometimes, yes, cutting back on spending certainly can help," said Bart. "But the prices just seem to be astronomical on things, even for the average person."

The average person in Hazleton can expect an extra $250 in taxes and fees in 2010, on top of extra county costs.