M
ontgomery County Commissioners adopted a $610.9 million budget for fiscal year 2025, increasing property tax rates by raising the millage rate to 5.642 mills from last year's 5.178 mills. The budget passed in a 2-1 vote, with Chairwoman Jamila Winder and Vice Chairman Neil Makhija voting in favor, while Commissioner Tom DiBello was the sole dissenting voice.

    DiBello expressed concerns about the burden on area residents, echoing sentiments from some residents who spoke ahead of the vote. "As a taxpayer I have a heart for other people who are trying to make ends meet today," said Ambler resident David Morgan. Makhija countered by highlighting Chief Financial Officer Dean Dortone's cost-saving measures that saved around $4 million.

    The budget includes critical investments in infrastructure, trails, and everyday services like courts, public safety, and human services. Winder acknowledged the difficulties facing residents with tax increases but emphasized the need to deliver on promises made to the community. The county recorded $610.9 million in expenditures and nearly $595.2 million in revenues.

    Personnel costs accounted for a significant share of the budget deficit, with staggering figures including salary, benefits, and pension totaling over $291.2 million. DiBello cited these costs as a deciding factor in his no-vote, stating he wants to "really understand what we're doing and how this money's being spent." The county's main revenue drivers include real estate taxes at 54.1 percent, federal and state grants at 34.6 percent, and departmental earnings at 11.3 percent.

    Implementing the 9 percent real estate tax increase will generate around $28.8 million in new net real estate tax revenue to the general fund. Programs offering assistance to eligible residents on a fixed or low income include the county's Real Estate Tax Deferral Program and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue's Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.

    In addition to the budget, commissioners unanimously voted to authorize seven special revenue funds and a $244.4 million capital fund for 2025. Winder emphasized her fiduciary responsibility, stating "there's no luxury spending that's happening here in Montgomery County."