Bucks County Approves 8% Property Tax Increase for 2026 Budget

Bucks County commissioners voted 2-1 on Wednesday to approve a budget for 2026 that includes a significant 8% property tax increase aimed at addressing a projected operational budget deficit exceeding $16 million. This increase, which translates to a 2.2-mil increase, will result in an additional cost of approximately $1.38 per week for residential property owners, according to Jeannette Weaver, the county’s interim chief financial officer.

The approved budget will lead to an extra $6 per month for homeowners. Weaver noted that each mil generates roughly $8.247 million in additional revenue. Her initial recommendation included a 2-mil increase, which would have created a $78,000 surplus. However, Commissioner Bob Harvie advocated for the larger increase to provide the county with more flexibility in future budgeting amid ongoing inflationary pressures.

Harvie expressed concerns regarding the county’s deferred maintenance projects and the unpredictable state of the national economy. “One of the things that is sort of left out is there is a lot of deferred maintenance through projects we have here in the county, in addition to the very unsettled situation of our economy as a nation,” he said, emphasizing the need for a cautious approach in budgeting during uncertain times.

The current millage rate in Bucks County stands at 27.45 mils, with the last property tax increase occurring in 2024, which was also 2 mils. Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia supported the increase, stating it minimizes the impact on property owners while maximizing funding for essential county services. “It seems fair to me that we will be able to keep county residents safe,” she remarked. “We can continue to protect the elderly, we can continue to protect our children. We can try the best we can to respond to the mental health needs and treatment needs of the people in this county.”

The total budget expenditure is set to rise by 3.6%. Commissioner Gene DiGirolamo, the only Republican on the board, voted against the increase, citing concerns over the financial burden on residents.

In neighboring regions, property tax increases have varied significantly. Delaware County has approved a 19% increase for its 2026 budget, while Montgomery County is set to vote on a proposed 4% increase soon. In contrast, Chester County recently approved its budget without implementing any property tax increases.

As the Bucks County commissioners navigate these financial decisions, the impact on residents remains a primary concern, balancing the need for increased revenue against the economic realities faced by homeowners.