Montco budget, with tax hike, approved

NORRISTOWN - Montgomery County commissioners passed a $390 million 2016 operating budget Thursday with a 9.8 percent tax increase.

The budget is "clearly honest and clearly fiscally responsible," said Josh Shapiro, chairman of the county commissioners. Officials have attributed the increase in taxes to rising costs of debt service, inmate health care, and an arbitration award for corrections officers at the county jail.

The tax rate for 2016 will be $3.45 for every $1,000 in assessed value. The tax increase will raise taxes about $52 next year for the typical homeowner.

The commissioners also passed a $76.2 million 2016 capital budget and a five-year capital plan. Upcoming capital investments include a new county emergency radio system, repairs to deficient bridges, and funding for the open space and trails program.

The budget and related items passed with unanimous votes.

- Laura McCrystal