Berks County commissioners warn state budget impasse and 9-1-1 surcharge decision could shift costs to local taxes

During commissioner comments Thursday, county leaders warned that the extended Pennsylvania state budget impasse is already stressing local finances and could lead to higher county costs or borrowing.

Commissioner Michael Rivera said county elected officials and the County Commissioners Association have been contacting state leaders to press for a budget because, he said, "we are not getting reimbursed" for services. Rivera cited a July figure for Berks County services of $3.1 million that he said had not been reimbursed by the state and warned that if the impasse continues, counties without reserves may have to borrow and pay interest or raise property taxes to cover expenses.

Rivera also flagged a 9-1-1 funding issue. "The 9-1-1 surcharge currently now is a dollar 95," he said, and the County Commissioners Association estimates a per-line surcharge of $2.20 is needed to fully fund 9-1-1 costs. Rivera said a Senate proposal to keep the surcharge at $1.95 would reduce the state's contribution to county 9-1-1 costs and shift the remaining burden to counties.

Commissioner Dante Santoni and Chair Christian Linebach echoed concern about the budget impasse and encouraged public engagement; Rivera said lack of public outcry and leadership have prolonged the stalemate. Commissioners urged residents to contact state and federal officials and noted that the board has been raising the issue with elected leaders.

The board did not take formal action on the state budget or the surcharge at the meeting; commissioners described outreach and advocacy steps already taken and asked staff and associations to continue communicating county impacts to state leaders.

The meeting agenda proceeded to routine business after the comments.