The debate over property tax reassessments in Lackawanna County is intensifying as a deadline approaches. With new property values slated for implementation at the start of the new year, a legal battle looms over whether or not to delay this process.
Attorney Marielle Macher, representing taxpayers who have sued for reassessment, is firmly against any postponement of the new values, set to be certified by November 15, 2025. “We do not consent to delaying implementation of the reassessed values, and we expect the reassessed values to be certified by Nov. 15, 2025,” Macher stated in correspondence with attorney John Dean.
The Reassessment Conflict
Originally initiated by a lawsuit in 2018, the reassessment aims to correct imbalances in property tax contributions across the county. The lawsuit argued that owners of lower-valued properties were unfairly taxed compared to those with higher-valued properties due to outdated assessments.
Despite an agreement reached in 2022 mandating reassessment, recent developments have sparked controversy, particularly with the entry of new county commissioners and a request from Dean to delay the process.
Commissioners’ Concerns
Commissioner Chris Chermak has been a vocal proponent of postponing the new values, citing inaccuracies in assessments made by Tyler Technologies and concerns expressed by taxpayers. Brenda Sacco, newly sworn in as commissioner, has yet to take a firm stance, though her involvement adds complexity to the board’s dynamics.
The county’s request for delay centers on notifications sent to taxpayers lacking existing value comparisons, potentially breaching state law requirements. Dean argues that this oversight necessitates a delay.
Legal and Financial Implications
Macher has countered that any defects in notices do not warrant a postponement, stressing the accuracy of the new assessments. She emphasized the need for timely implementation to alleviate tax burdens on owners of lower-valued properties. Tyler Technologies, compensated $5.1 million for their work, supports the precision of the new assessments.
Failure to meet the reassessment deadline could have significant repercussions. Commissioner Bill Gaughan has warned of a potential $2.5 million cost to the county if the process is delayed. Macher has also indicated the possibility of legal action to enforce the settlement agreement.
With the January 1 deadline approaching, the county faces mounting pressure from various stakeholders. Attempts to reach Commissioners Sacco, Chermak, and assessment director Patrick Tobin have so far been unsuccessful.
