Pennsylvania Cities Propose 2027 Property Tax Hikes

Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk proposed a $257.3 million 2027 budget with a 3.81% property tax increase, which he says would cost the average taxpayer about $1.75 more per month. The plan prioritizes public safety, allocating 56% of tax dollars to police, fire and EMS, while imposing 10% budget reductions that include cuts to public works fuel and police staffing; City Council will review the proposal. Separately, Lehigh County commissioners approved the first reading of a 2027 budget with a roughly 17% property tax increase, trimming the administration’s original proposal through about $1.4 million in amendments; a second reading is scheduled for Oct. 28. Luzerne County’s administration proposed a 1.99% real estate tax increase for 2027, citing wage commitments, court costs and infrastructure needs, with County Council able to amend the proposal before a planned Dec. 8 adoption.