Lackawanna County Budget Hearing (Dunmore) 10-29-25

This was a budget hearing for Lackawanna County held on October 29, 2025, focused on the tentative 2026 county budget totaling approximately $181 million. County officials discussed the progress made in addressing a prior $37 million structural deficit, including a 33% tax increase in 2025, elimination of positions, and structural reforms to healthcare and youth services. The budget presented is balanced without a real estate tax mill adjustment and includes cost savings, a tax lien sale, and healthcare refunds contributing to a projected surplus. Public comments and commissioner discussions addressed concerns about the business improvement grants, collection rates, fund balances, and the ongoing county property reassessment mandated by court order. Legal and consulting expenses, particularly payments to the law firm Meyers, Brier, and Kelly for election and youth services matters, were highlighted for further review. Transparency issues arose regarding the recent firing of the county communications director, who had developed a detailed digital budget book. Commissioners also debated political issues related to upcoming elections but maintained focus on budgetary matters. The meeting concluded with plans for continued budget analysis and a follow-up hearing.