The Lycoming County Commissioners have spent years making difficult decisions, cutting where they could and protecting what they must. Scott Metzger, Marc Sortman, and Mark Mussina stood firm through eight consecutive years without raising property taxes, trimming budgets, and eliminating vacant positions to keep the county running without asking residents for more. That era of careful stewardship delivered results, but it also revealed limits that could no longer be ignored.
Earlier this year, the commissioners made a significant decision as they adopted the 2026 budget, implementing the first property tax increase since 2018. The 0.50 mill increase raised the county rate from 6.5 to 7 mills, a change designed to offset rising operational costs and revenue constraints while maintaining a balanced budget without touching the county’s fund balance. This decision came with purpose and a clear vision for the future.
The 2026 budget of $123.3 million actually reflects a 4.24 percent decrease from the 2025 spending plan, proof that the tax adjustment works alongside continued fiscal discipline rather than replacing it. The commissioners cut 31 vacant positions and reduced spending by $28 million over the last two fiscal years, demonstrating their commitment to efficiency before asking taxpayers to contribute more. These measures minimized the tax impact while positioning the county to address critical needs that have been deferred too long.
Infrastructure stands at the center of the county’s vision moving forward. The commissioners are pursuing a new General Obligation Bond this year to fund vital projects, most notably the construction of a permanent Coroner’s facility on Wahoo Drive. This facility addresses genuine operational needs and provides proper space for essential county services. Additional infrastructure improvements across Lycoming County will also receive funding through this bond, tackling projects that ensure the county’s physical foundations remain sound for decades to come.
A new initiative, the commissioners call “radical transparency,” has emerged as a cornerstone of their approach to fiscal management. Every agenda item now includes detailed information showing exactly which budget line-item funds specific services, whether that money comes from grants or operating expenses. This level of detail educates taxpayers on the origin and destination of every dollar the county spends, removing mystery from the budget process and inviting public understanding of how government actually works.
The most significant long-term project involves something that touches every property owner in Lycoming County. For the first time since 2004, the county is moving forward with a full property reassessment to ensure taxes reflect current market values rather than data from over two decades ago. This massive undertaking will create fairness in the tax system by basing assessments on reality rather than outdated figures that no longer represent what properties are actually worth.
The commissioners continue supporting regional development projects that strengthen communities throughout the county. The Hughesville area housing project continues to receive support as it addresses critical housing needs in a growing region. The county also allocated a $346,511 grant for the Central Forensics Facility Equipment Project, investing in public safety infrastructure that serves the entire region.
Lycoming County stands at a pivotal moment between careful stewardship of the past and necessary investment in the future. Moving from pure budget cuts to strategic fiscal adjustments reflects changing realities and new opportunities. The commissioners balance these competing demands while maintaining transparency and inviting public participation in the decisions that shape how county government serves its people.
Public meetings take place every Thursday at 10 a.m. in the Lycoming County Board of Commissioners room at 33 West Third Street in Williamsport. These meetings offer residents the chance to witness county government in action, ask questions, and understand the reasoning behind decisions that affect their daily lives. The commissioners welcome public attendance and engagement, recognizing that informed citizens strengthen democracy.
The months ahead promise continued progress on significant initiatives for Lycoming County. From infrastructure investments to property reassessment to ongoing budget discipline, the county moves forward with clear priorities and measured steps. The commissioners have set a course that balances fiscal responsibility with needed growth, implementing modest increases while delivering transparency and long-term value. What unfolds through the rest of 2026 will shape Lycoming County for years to come.
