NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — Property owners in Northumberland County will see a higher tax bill in 2025. On Thursday, a judge approved a request from commissioners to increase the millage rate from 25 to 30 mills, above the state-allowed limit.
"The county has three taxes that we collect. Real estate, our general real estate, our debt fund, and our per capita, this is only a five mill increase on the general real estate tax," said Samuel Shiccatano, Northumberland County Commissioner chairman.
Northumberland County Commission chairman Samuel Schiccatano says homeowners will pay between $35 to $150 more. He says the increase is needed for county salaries, insurance, vehicle and property maintenance.
"We have held the taxes for 9 years pretty well with building a new prison, remodeling our courthouse, and a lot of other things we did, and I think we're cut barebone right now, but we're running fine, and we're doing great and we have great employees, and we hope to continue that," said Commissioner Schiccatano.
Some residents we spoke with said they understand why the hike is needed.
"We need the extra money to improve the county, and I don't have a problem with it. I'm sure some people will not agree with me, but I think it's for the good of the county. We need to make improvements, and if that's what we have to do, that's what we have to do," said Vickie Thomas of Sunbury.
Others say it's going to be even more of a burden for property owners.
"But at the same time, I don't know how people could continue to keep paying more and more and more, especially with the economy the way it is today. You look at the news every day, and it costs more for groceries and insurance and taxes, and things like that, and the average individual just can't afford it anymore," said Daniel Saxton of Sunbury.
"I think government spending is out of control, and I don't think they do enough to control the costs and expenses I understand there's fixed costs involved and healthcare and insurance and salaries," said Keith Llyod of Sunbury.