Cambria County's Proposed Tax Increase Sparks Heated Debate

Cambria County officials are embroiled in a contentious debate over a proposed 6.75-mill property tax increase aimed at balancing the 2026 budget.

 

President Commissioner Scott Hunt emphasized the necessity of the hike, stating, "Even with all of the reductions we proposed, the gap remained." He highlighted that while the county has reduced taxes by 12% over the past nine years, inflation has surged by nearly 30%, creating an unsustainable financial gap.

 

To mitigate expenses, the county plans to leave approximately 25 positions unfilled, saving about $2 million. However, Hunt stressed that these measures alone are insufficient to bridge the $14 million deficit.

 

Commissioner Tom Chernisky voiced strong opposition, arguing that the proposed increase is excessive and burdensome for families already grappling with rising costs. He stated, "Cambria County is heading down a slippery slope, and this is bad business for the taxpayers and residents of Cambria County." Chernisky plans to vote against the budget, advocating for alternative solutions that control spending while protecting essential services.

 

Local realtor Doug Meagher noted that while the average homeowner might not feel a significant impact, those on fixed incomes or first-time homebuyers could be adversely affected. "For them, every dollar is significant," Meagher observed.

 

The tax increase proposal is slated for a vote at the commissioners' meeting later this month, with the community keenly awaiting the outcome.