The Lackawanna County government, in collaboration with Public Financial Management (PFM) and the Department of Community and Economic Development, presented a comprehensive 5-year strategic financial management plan aimed at stabilizing the county's finances and avoiding further double-digit tax increases. The plan addresses critical issues such as cash flow crises, budgetary stability, and structural deficits that have accumulated over several years. Key recommendations include improving financial management processes like bank reconciliations and operating transfers, enhancing budget accuracy and transparency, controlling workforce costs through collective bargaining and position control, and addressing criminal justice expenses, particularly the high costs associated with the county prison. The county has already implemented some measures, including hiring freezes and debt restructuring, and is committed to ongoing disciplined, collaborative efforts to implement the 47 recommendations outlined in the plan. The presentation emphasized the need for urgent yet sustained action to ensure long-term fiscal health and maintain quality public services without resorting to drastic tax hikes.

Lackawanna County PFM Presentation 3-6-25