Delaware County’s Strategic Budget Proposal: Tackling Deficits and Ensuring Future Growth
In an effort to address financial deficits and plan for future development, Delaware County Council has unveiled its proposed budget for 2025. Released on December 3, the $396.5 million operating budget aims to reinvest in essential infrastructure and community services, while tackling longstanding financial issues.
The proposal includes a notable property tax rate increase to 3.873 mills, up 23% from the previous year’s 3.149 mills. This rise is necessary to fund long-overdue projects, modernize facilities, and enhance efficiency across operations.
“This budget represents a major step in addressing the deferred needs of our County while laying the groundwork for long-term financial stability,” stated Barbara O’Malley, Delaware County Executive Director. “We understand the impact this increase has on residents, and we are committed to transparent decision-making that prioritizes their needs and ensures value for every dollar spent.”
Focus on Reinvestment and Modernization
The proposed budget emphasizes reinvestment in infrastructure, community services, and operational improvements, including:
- Facilities and Buildings: An 83% funding increase to manage years of neglected maintenance, supporting 121 active and new projects.
- Technology Modernization: A 69% boost in IT funding to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
- Workforce Investments: Implementation of findings from a comprehensive compensation study to ensure fair and competitive pay for County employees.
Approach to Bridging the Budget Gap
The budget outlines strategies to address a $52 million shortfall, including:
- Utilizing a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to enhance efficiency and minimize waste.
- Conducting a detailed facilities assessment to prioritize needs and cut unnecessary costs.
- Advocating with the Commonwealth for increased funding and revenue-generation mechanisms related to inflation.
Impact on Residents
For the average homeowner with a property value of $289,700, the proposed millage increase would mean an additional $358 per year, or about $1 per day. Tax relief programs are available to assist those on fixed incomes.
“This budget represents a shared investment in the future of Delaware County,” said O’Malley. “By modernizing our infrastructure and aligning spending with strategic priorities, we are laying a foundation for growth, equity, and resilience.”
Encouraging Public Involvement
The County is inviting residents to engage in the budget process through several key meetings:
- Public Hearing: December 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.
- First Reading of Budget Ordinance: December 4, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.
- Final Vote: December 11, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.
These sessions will take place in the County Council Meeting Room, Government Center, 201 W. Front St., Media, PA, and will be livestreamed on the County’s website. Feedback can be contributed via email to [email protected].
For further details and access to the complete 2025 budget proposal, visit the Delaware County Budget Management web page at https://delcopa.gov/departments/budgetmanagement.html
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