For the first time in six years, city of Erie residents are facing a potential tax increase.
In 2026, residents can also expect to pay more in garbage and sewer fees.
On Wednesday, Mayor Joe Schember presented his last budget proposal and five-year financial forecast at Erie City Hall.
The $101 million budget calls for a proposed 1 mill tax increase for property owners in both 2026 and 2027.
According to Mayor Schember, the increase would cost the average homeowner and extra $100.00 a year, for a property assessed at $100,000.
It’s expected to generate $2.9 million dollars.
“We projected out the next five years and what a mill tax increase versus no tax increase would be doing for the next five years,” said City of Erie Director of Finance Lisa Gomersall. “Next year, we would end up needing 3 mill tax increase if we don’t do anything this year.”
Refuse fees are also expected to increase by five percent, costing the average customer an extra $16.00 a year.
Sewer fees are slated to increase by seven percent, which translates to an extra $24.00 a year.
Erie City Council will now have five study sessions to meet with all of the department heads.
They are expected to pass a final budget by mid-December.