WEST CHESTER — The Chester County Commissioners Thursday unveiled the preliminary 2016 county budget. The proposed budget does not increase taxes for county property owners — which would mark the fourth straight year without a tax increase.
Presenting the preliminary budget to the Commissioners at Thursday’s Sunshine meeting, Mark Rupsis, County Chief Operating Officer noted that the county continues to find new efficiencies.
“We continue to produce results and implement programs that support our strategic priorities, while decreasing spending,” he said.
The commissioners noted that the flat tax rate is part of their continuing efforts to keep spending under control and have an open budgeting process.
“This budget reflects our focus on delivering high quality services in a fiscally responsible way, and our budget process demonstrates the importance we place on transparency and accountability,” Commissioners’ Chair Terence Farrell said. “This is all achieved through the diligent teamwork of our senior staff, department heads, their staff and our finance department.”
The preliminary 2016 budget calls for $439 million in operating expenses and $87 million for its capital budget.
Even without a tax increase, the commissioners said it still allows the county to embrace its core values and invest prudently in the county.
“Our 2016 proposed budget is led by our strategic plan priorities and goals, and includes initiatives that address urban development, the preservation of open space and workforce programs,”Commissioner Kathi Cozzone said. “I’m grateful to our employees who continue to provide services critical to our citizens, at a reasonable cost to our taxpayers.”
The budget also provides for long-term planning and vision, they said.
“The 2016 proposed budget includes funding to begin the process of updating our County comprehensive plan, Landscapes2, and continuing projects that support our 10-year economic development strategy, VISTA 2025,” Commissioner Michelle Kichline added. “We have achieved a budget that maintains the programs and services our citizens deserve and want, but at no additional cost to taxpayers.”
Chester County’s tax rate is one of the lowest in southeast Pennsylvania. The 2015 Median Assessed Value of a home in Chester County is $166,410 and the proposed county tax bill for that value is $692.76.
Chester County’s 2016 preliminary budget will be presented at a public hearing on November 10, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room, 6th floor, 313 W. Market Street in West Chester.
