McKeesport budget calls for tax hike; funds earmarked for public safety

By Michael Richter
mrichter@yourmvi.com
As part of the city’s preliminary budget for 2024, McKeesport property owners will experience an increase in taxes, which will “solely” go towards investing more funds in public safety.
Mayor Michael Cherepko announced the tax increase during Wednesday’s city council meeting.
“One of the most significant factors of the city’s operation and its budget is public safety,” Cherepko said. “Law enforcement agencies across the country are operating in unprecedented times – often serving communities amid declining public opinion and increased risk.”
In McKeesport’s two-tier tax system, the city will maintain its 20.5 mills on land, but it will increase the current property tax rate from 8.26 to 11.26 mills on buildings in 2024, according to the preliminary budget.
The spending plan’s total is $24,828,946 – about $800,000 less than 2023’s budget.

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