Delaware County Council votes to raise property taxes despite resident concerns
The Delaware County Council voted Wednesday to increase property taxes by 23%.
According to councilmembers, the increase is not 23% more than the prior year's property tax but a smaller percentage.
Before the vote, councilmembers heard from residents, most of whom disagreed with the proposal.
At least one supporter did come forward to speak, saying he supported the increase and the county's programs.
Immediate reaction following the vote was characterized by anger and disappointment.
"I really think that this county council doesn't look at what the residents need, they just constantly spend," one attendee said.
The county said a third of residents will see an annual increase of less than $100, while Councilmember Kevin Madden said the average increase will be $185.
Officials said they have to raise taxes because revenue has remained flat for years while costs have continued to rise due to inflation.
