KINGSTON, PA — Luzerne County officials have proposed a 1.99% property tax increase as part of the county's preliminary 2027 budget, a move that would affect property owners throughout Kingston and surrounding West Side communities if approved.
The proposed increase, announced Tuesday, October 13, would raise the county's real estate tax rate from 6.4494 mills to 6.57743 mills.
For a property assessed at $100,000, annual county property taxes would increase from approximately $644.94 to $657.74, representing an additional $12.80 per year.
The increase would apply to the county portion of property tax bills and would be separate from taxes levied by local municipalities and school districts.
Why Is the County Proposing an Increase?
The proposed 2027 general fund budget totals approximately $180.8 million.
County officials have identified rising expenses, including employee compensation, court-related costs, and infrastructure needs, as factors contributing to the proposed increase.
The administration's budget proposal now heads to Luzerne County Council for review, where members will have the opportunity to examine spending priorities, consider changes, and determine whether the proposed tax increase is necessary.
What Does This Mean for Kingston Homeowners?
Residents of Kingston, Forty Fort, Edwardsville, Luzerne, Swoyersville, Larksville, and other West Side communities would be affected by the proposed countywide increase.
The actual dollar amount would depend on each property's assessed value, rather than its current market value.
For example, a property assessed at $200,000 would see its annual county property taxes increase by approximately $25.61 under the proposal.
While the proposed increase is relatively modest for individual households, it would add to the overall property tax obligations faced by local residents.
What Happens Next?
The proposal is not yet final.
Luzerne County Council is scheduled to hold its first budget work session on Tuesday, October 20, at 5 p.m., beginning the process of reviewing the administration's spending plan.
Council members may make changes to the proposed budget, including adjustments to spending and the proposed tax rate, before final adoption.
The county's budget adoption is currently scheduled for December 8.
Until council takes final action, the proposed 1.99% increase remains subject to change.
Residents interested in following the budget process can review upcoming meetings and agendas through Luzerne County's official website.