Delaware County Proposes Budget to Address Historic Deficits and Build for the Future

Released: December 2, 2024

Delaware County Proposes Budget to Address Historic Deficits and Build for the Future

Delaware County Council released its proposed 2025 budget on Tuesday, December 3, outlining a strategic plan to reinvest in critical infrastructure and community services while addressing long-standing financial challenges. The proposed $396.5 million operating budget includes significant strategic investments aimed at improving core services and preparing the County for a more sustainable future.

The 2025 budget proposes a property tax rate of 3.873 mills—representing a 23% increase over last year’s 3.149 mills—driven by the need to fund essential projects deferred for decades, modernize facilities, and ensure operational efficiency.

“This budget represents a major step in addressing the deferred needs of our County while laying the groundwork for long-term financial stability,” said Barbara O’Malley, Delaware County Executive Director. “We understand the impact this increase has on residents, and we are committed to transparent decision-making that prioritizes their needs and ensures value for every dollar spent.”

A Plan to Reinvest and Modernize

The budget prioritizes reinvestment in County infrastructure, community services, and operational improvements:

• Facilities and Buildings:  A planned 83% increase in funding to address years of deferred maintenance, supporting 121 active and new projects.
• Technology Modernization: A 69% increase in IT funding to enhance efficiency and better serve residents.
• Workforce Investments: Continuing to implement findings from the comprehensive compensation study to ensure equitable and competitive pay for County employees.

Addressing the Budget Gap

The budget includes a $52 million shortfall, to be addressed through strategic initiatives:

• Leveraging the new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Conducting a thorough facilities assessment to prioritize needs and eliminate unnecessary expenditures.
• Continuing advocacy with the Commonwealth for increased funding and new revenue-generation mechanisms tied to inflation.

What This Means for Residents

The proposed millage increase would equate to an additional $358 annually for the average homeowner with a property value of $289,700, or approximately $1 a day. For residents on fixed incomes, tax relief programs are available to mitigate impacts.

“This budget represents a shared investment in the future of Delaware County,” said O’Malley. “By modernizing our infrastructure and aligning spending with strategic priorities, we are laying a foundation for growth, equity, and resilience.”

Transparency and Public Engagement

The County encourages residents to participate in the budget process:

• Public Hearing: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.
• First Reading of Budget Ordinance:  Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.
• Final Vote: Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.

All meetings will be held in the County Council Meeting Room, Government Center, 201 W. Front St., Media, PA, and livestreamed on the County’s website. Feedback can be submitted via email to DelcoPR@co.delaware.pa.us.

For more information and to view the full 2025 budget proposal, visit the Delaware County Budget Management web page at https://delcopa.gov/departments/budgetmanagement.html