Lackawanna County explains tax increase and reassessment timeline to homeowners

In a recent meeting held by Lackawanna County officials, residents expressed concerns regarding the ongoing property reassessment process and its implications for their tax bills. The reassessment, which has not been conducted since 1968, is set to take effect in 2026, yet many homeowners are already facing significant increases in their tax bills for 2025.

One resident raised a critical question about receiving a tax bill that reflected a 33% increase, despite the reassessment not being finalized. Officials clarified that the current tax bill is unrelated to the reassessment process. Instead, it is based on a separate decision made by the County Commissioners to adjust taxes in response to budgetary needs. This distinction is crucial for residents to understand, as it highlights that the reassessment will not affect their taxes until the 2026 tax year.

The meeting also addressed the confusion surrounding property assessments. Homeowners who built or purchased homes in recent years were informed that their property values had not changed since their initial assessments. This has led to frustrations, particularly for those who believe their property details, such as square footage and amenities, are inaccurately recorded.

Officials emphasized that the reassessment process is focused on ensuring accurate property valuations, which will ultimately inform future tax bills. They reassured residents that the reassessment aims to be revenue neutral, meaning that while individual property taxes may vary, the overall budget for taxing bodies cannot increase due to the reassessment.

As the meeting concluded, officials encouraged residents to direct specific questions about their current assessments to the Lackawanna County Assessment Office. This guidance is essential for homeowners seeking clarity on their tax obligations and the reassessment process.

In summary, the meeting underscored the importance of understanding the separation between current tax bills and the upcoming reassessment. As Lackawanna County prepares for this significant change, residents are urged to stay informed and engaged with local officials to navigate the complexities of property taxation.