S
tate College Borough is grappling with a contentious budget that proposes a 35 % hike in property taxes—an increase of roughly $8 million. Residents and council members voiced alarm during the Friday meeting, describing the rise as “sticker shock” and a threat to affordability. One councilor said the tax jump “doesn’t serve our residents” and would be hard to support.

    The borough received a $2.8 million transfer‑tax payment scheduled for Monday, which could offset part of the proposed hike. Additionally, officials plan to postpone capital‑project spending next year, a move that could further reduce the tax burden. Despite these measures, council members acknowledge a tough decision ahead: either cut services now or raise taxes later, risking a temporary fix for a deeper issue.

    Councilors have urged state lawmakers to consider new revenue options, such as a drink tax, to ease the fiscal strain. The final budget for the upcoming year is slated for adoption on December 15.