Lackawanna County Property Tax Reassessment: What You Need to Know

Homeowners in Lackawanna County can now understand their tax obligations for the upcoming year thanks to a comprehensive property tax reassessment that took three years to complete.

New Millage Rate Announced

LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — A pivotal figure for residents has finally been revealed: the new millage rate following the reassessment stands at 5.7-9. This change has been met with both anticipation and concern among homeowners.

Words of Caution from the Assessment Office

“I would say to everyone, don’t panic. Let’s wait until your tax bill arrives in late February or early March,” advised Patrick Tobin, the director of the county’s assessment office.

Significant Drop in Millage Rates

Tobin emphasized the dramatic decrease in millage rates, predicting a future rate of 89.98 in 2025. “This is a substantial drop, reflecting our transition from outdated 1968 property values to those assessed in 2026,” he explained.

Background of the Reassessment

The catalyst for this reassessment came after a group of residents filed a lawsuit claiming the county had not executed a reassessment in decades. A judge subsequently mandated that Lackawanna County complete this by New Year’s Day 2026.

Understanding Your New Tax Obligations

Homeowners looking to calculate their new county tax can simply multiply their property’s assessed value by 0.00579. It’s important to note that state law prohibits the county from generating extra tax revenue through this reassessment; it merely adjusts the amounts owed in accordance with updated property valuations.

Aiming for Fairness Amid Discontent

“This process was fundamentally about fairness,” Tobin remarked. While some may see slight increases in their taxes as unfair, those benefiting from reductions will likely view it differently. However, Tobin acknowledges that not everyone will be satisfied, with approximately 300 lawsuits already filed by individuals unhappy with their new assessments.

Looking Ahead for Lackawanna County

Tobin Rounds off with a positive outlook: “In this position, it’s challenging to please everyone, but I believe this reassessment will ultimately benefit Lackawanna County and help us progress.” As residents wait for their new tax bills, engaging with the assessment office remains crucial for addressing concerns and understanding the changes.