Lewistown PA 2025 Budget Proposes 5% Tax Increase Starting July 1
Lewistown PA Plans 5% Tax Increase in 2025 Budget
Big news is coming out of Lewistown, Pennsylvania. The town has shared its preliminary budget for 2025. That means local leaders have made a plan for how to spend and collect money for the coming year.
One major part of this budget is a 5% tax increase. This increase will affect taxes like real estate tax and amusement tax. The new rates are expected to start on July 1, 2025.
So, what does this mean for people living in Lewistown? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Preliminary Budget?
A preliminary budget is an early version of a spending plan. It’s not final yet, but it gives people an idea of what changes might be coming. Local government leaders will still talk about it, make changes, and then vote to approve the final budget.
In this case, Lewistown officials shared their plans ahead of time so that residents could ask questions, share opinions, or get ready for what might happen.
What Is in the 2025 Budget Plan?
The big news in the 2025 budget is the 5% tax increase. This means that some taxes people pay will go up by 5%. Two of the main taxes affected are:
- Real Estate Tax – This is the tax people pay when they own property like a house, land, or business.
- Amusement Tax – This is a tax on things like movie tickets, concerts, or fun activities people pay to enjoy.
The increase will start on July 1, 2025 if the budget is approved.
Why Is Lewistown Raising Taxes?
Taxes help pay for many important things in a town. This includes:
- Fixing roads and sidewalks
- Running police and fire departments
- Keeping parks clean and safe
- Paying town employees
- Improving schools and public buildings
- Providing health and safety services
The town says that costs are going up, and they need more money to keep things running. Just like prices go up at the store, it also costs more for the town to do its job.
Raising taxes is one way to make sure Lewistown has enough money to serve the community.
How Much More Will People Pay?
A 5% increase might sound like a lot, but let’s look at an example:
- If you currently pay $1,000 in real estate taxes each year, a 5% increase means you’ll now pay $1,050.
- If a movie ticket cost $10 and had no amusement tax before, and now there’s a 5% tax, your ticket would now cost $10.50.
So while the change is real, it won’t be a huge jump for most people. Still, families and businesses will need to adjust their budgets.
When Will This Start?
If the budget is approved, the new tax rates will begin on July 1, 2025. This gives residents and business owners a little time to prepare.
What Happens Next?
The town council will meet to discuss the budget. They may:
- Keep it the same
- Make changes
- Listen to the public
- Vote to approve it
If you live in Lewistown and want to share your thoughts, now is a good time to attend a meeting or contact your local leaders.
What Can Residents Do?
Here are a few things you can do if you live in Lewistown:
✔️ Learn More
Read the full budget online or pick up a copy from the borough office. Understanding where the money goes is a great first step.
✔️ Speak Up
Join town hall meetings or write to the mayor or council members. Your voice matters, and local leaders want to hear from you.
✔️ Plan Ahead
Think about how the tax change may affect your family or business. Adjust your personal budget if needed.
✔️ Use Community Services
Remember, your tax dollars go back into the community. Enjoy the parks, programs, and safety services you help pay for.
Why This Matters
Even a small tax change can make a big difference in a town like Lewistown. More money for public services means:
- Better roads and traffic safety
- More support for police and emergency workers
- Cleaner public spaces
- Help for families and seniors
- Health programs that protect everyone
The goal is to make Lewistown a better place to live for everyone.