Michelle Engarto of Lower Salford Township told commissioners she was disappointed by another proposed tax increase and provided figures she said show substantial long-term growth in county spending.

"It's now a certainty that every year at this time, we'll receive the bad news from our commissioners about increased spending by Montco and more taxes," Engarto said. She said her analysis found a $215,000,000 increase in spending since 2019 and projected an average annual rise of about $28,000,000 if current trends continue. She also said total wages and benefits rose by $33,000,000 in 2025 and now account for roughly 48% of county expenditures.

Engarto cited a Philadelphia Inquirer story alleging wrongdoing by a former county official and called on the commissioners to conduct independent audits to "find incorrect errors and improprieties" and restore taxpayer confidence. She asked the board to pursue a goal of a 0% tax increase over the next three years and to find savings while maintaining needed services.

Why this matters: The public comment highlights resident concern about fiscal management and transparency at a time of notable budget increases. The transcript records the request for audits and planning goals but does not record any county response or commitment to the specific audit actions cited.