Blair County Projects $1.89 Million Shortfall

The Blair County commissioners introduced on Tuesday, Nov. 12, the proposed 2020 budget with a shortfall covered, in part, by a property tax increase.

The general fund projections include revenue of $54.89 million with expenses amounting to $56.78 million, leaving a budget deficit of $1.89 million. That shortfall will be offset by an increase in millage rates and the use of unassigned excess general fund money.

The real estate tax will increase from 3.925 mills to 4.074 mills for 2020. This means a person whose property is valued at $100,000 will pay $14.90 more next year, an increase from $39...