Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Valerie Gaydos of Allegheny County has voiced her opposition to a proposed property tax increase put forward by County Executive Sara Innamorato. The proposal suggests a 46.5% hike, which would be the largest in recent memory for the area.

In a statement, Gaydos expressed strong disapproval: "No more tax increases! This is an outrageous burden on Allegheny County residents and businesses. In the middle of high inflation when families are already struggling to make ends meet, raising property taxes by nearly 50% is unacceptable."

She argued that the proposed increase would adversely affect homeowners, particularly seniors on fixed incomes and families with young children. According to Gaydos, "This tax hike punishes homeowners... A property tax increase will drive even more families and businesses out of the county."

Gaydos urged the Allegheny County Council to reject the proposal from Innamorato and instead seek solutions that do not involve increasing taxes on property owners. She emphasized her commitment to finding alternative solutions focused on improving efficiency, cutting waste, and creating policies that attract people and businesses to the region rather than driving them away.

"We can and should focus on lowering the tax burden and promoting economic growth without sacrificing essential services," Gaydos stated.