Schuylkill County approves budget with no tax hike

During a meeting Wednesday, the Schuylkill County Commissioners approved the budget for 2020, with no tax increase, holding millage at 15.98. Revenue for the county’s general fund are projected at $57.9 million, with expenditures estimated at $66 million. Officials will use $8.3 million from the unassigned fund balance, which is part of the general fund, to cover the deficit.

Director of Finance Paul Buber detailed the elements of the budget as an ongoing challenge. On the revenue side, the bulk of the money — $38.3 million — comes from real estate taxes. Hotel tax ($520,000), Per Capita Tax ($353,600), charges for services ($4.7 million) and federal and state grants ($2.7 million) contribute to the revenue.

Expenditures come from operating expenses ($17.1 million) and compensation and benefits ($49.1 million).

Buber suggested that the county consider making savings in its recycling program. Since 2016, the change in assessed valuation for properties has risen by about 12 percent, to $2.6 billion. That gain was offset by a 14% increase in compensation and benefits during the same period, to $49.1 million.

The county’s recycling program, which in past years had been “self-sustaining” between revenue and expenses, is now operating about $400,000 in the red.

“The market for recyclables has declined,” Buber said. “Also we have an aged vehicle fleet (recycling equipment), some as old as 2004 and most in need of major repairs.”

Buber said that a new vehicle to handle pickups at the county’s 16 recycling centers would cost about $200,000.

“We had a one-time influx of state grant revenue in 2016, but nothing since then,” Buber said. “I advise looking into that as we move forward.”

Commissioners Chairman George Halcovage praised Buber and the finance team, which included County Administrator Gary Bender and Financial Analyst Chris Kerns. Commissioner Frank Staudenmeier said that county heads had a challenge every year to keep the budget in line.

“It’s always nice to present a budget that has no tax increase,” he said. “We’re seeing growth in the county and we need to continue to see that growth.”

Commissioner Gary Hess said that people are moving into Schuylkill County, finding a good quality of life.

“We have an educational system that is second to none, and colleges,” Hess said. “Working together can create success.”