Allegheny County Board maintains property tax rate amid budget discussions

The Alleghany County Commissioners Meeting on May 15, 2025, focused on the county's budget and tax rate, with significant discussions surrounding the potential impact of maintaining the current tax rate and funding for local projects.

During the meeting, commissioners debated whether to keep the property tax rate at 59.7 cents per $100 of assessed value. One commissioner highlighted that maintaining this rate has allowed the county to navigate financial challenges over the past six years, including the economic impacts of COVID-19. The discussion revealed that while the tax rate is among the highest in the region, it has remained stable despite rising costs in various sectors.

A consensus emerged among the commissioners to retain the tax rate, with three members in favor of leaving it unchanged. However, one commissioner expressed a desire to reduce the rate by one cent, arguing that it could provide some relief to homeowners. Ultimately, the majority agreed to keep the rate steady, suggesting that any adjustments could be considered during future evaluations.

In addition to the tax rate discussion, the commissioners addressed funding allocations for local projects, particularly the transfer station and recreational facilities. There was a call for a portion of the budget to support the development of practice fields for youth sports, emphasizing the urgency of preparing these facilities for the upcoming season. The need for additional funding for the transfer station was also discussed, with hopes of securing state grants to assist with the project.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue pursuing state funding for the transfer station and to prioritize local recreational projects, reflecting the commissioners' focus on community needs and fiscal responsibility.