Allegheny County Council Meeting - December 3, 2024

The Allegheny County Council convened on December 3, 2024, at 10:15 AM to address the 2025 county budget, including a contentious debate over a proposed millage increase. After over two hours of public testimony and extensive council discussion, the council passed a compromise 1.7 mill tax levy increase, along with the operating and capital budgets, by a 10-5 vote. The meeting also featured two proclamations and a late public comment on correctional officer working conditions.

Proclamations

• David Johnson Retirement (WPXI): Councilmember DeMarco sponsored a proclamation honoring David Johnson for 40 years at WPXI. Johnson, a longtime Pittsburgh news anchor, was recognized for his career and community service. He and his wife Nancy were present to accept the honor.
• Monroeville Public Library 60th Anniversary: Councilmember Nakaretti Chapkis presented a proclamation celebrating the library's 60th year, highlighting its history and community impact. Library representatives Nicole and Pamela accepted.

Public Comments & Testimony

Over 50 individuals signed up to speak, with most addressing the 2025 budget and Department of Human Services (DHS) funding. Due to the large number, council voted 10-4 to limit public comment to one minute per speaker.

• Opposition to tax increase: Benjamin Chizar, a disabled veteran, opposed any tax increase, calling the 1.7 mill compromise unjustified and suggesting cuts to other areas. He urged the council to vote no.
• Support for DHS funding and full state match: Multiple speakers from human service organizations, family centers, and unions (e.g., SEIU Local 668, AIU family centers, Latino Community Center, Kids Voice, Unity Recovery, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Just Harvest, National Council of Jewish Women, and others) thanked the council for reaching a compromise that fully funds DHS and leverages $17 million in state matching funds. They emphasized the critical nature of services for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, homeless individuals, and those in recovery. Many recognized the 1.7 mill increase as a balanced solution.
• Workers' perspective: County employees (911 dispatchers, medical examiner, elections, facilities) spoke in support of the budget, noting that previous underfunding led to layoffs and understaffing. They stressed the need for sustainable funding to maintain essential public services.
• Frustration with process: A few speakers, including Ken Regal (Just Harvest), expressed frustration over the 48-hour rule being waived for the budget amendment, arguing it disadvantaged taxpayers.
• Late public comment: John Kensowitz, a correctional officer, raised concerns about low life expectancy and high stress among jail officers, citing overtime and constant exposure to violence.

Discussion Items

Council members debated the proposed 1.7 mill amendment to the tax levy (Bill 13264-24) and the operating budget (Bill 13265-24). Key points:

• Amendment introduction: Councilmember Palmasina, Chair of Budget and Finance, introduced Amendment Palmasina 1, increasing the millage from 1.35 to 1.7 mills. The amendment was necessary to balance the operating budget by fully funding DHS, the DA's office, elections office, solicitor, and other county departments, avoiding layoffs and capturing $17 million in state matching funds.
• Support for 1.7 mills: Councilmembers Fatulas, Grisbeck, Hallam, Klein, Nakaretti Chapkis, Palmery, Palmasina, Pritzio, and Walton spoke in favor, citing the need to prevent cuts to essential services, the long-term structural deficit, and the responsibility to fund programs for children, seniors, and public safety. Executive Director Sara Innamorato’s administration was praised for a courageous proposal.
• Opposition to 1.7 mills: Councilmembers Bonarotti, DeMarco, Philiagi, Macy, and President Katina voted against. They argued that the increase was unnecessary, that the 1.35 mill compromise was sufficient, and that the administration cynically manipulated public fear. Bonarotti warned of cumulative tax burdens on residents and the risk of future Republican gains. DeMarco highlighted the DHS budget increase of 19% in one year ($1.549 billion) and accused the administration of lack of transparency. Philiagi cited constituent opposition and lack of sunset provisions.
• Historical context: Councilmember Hallam criticized the previous Fitzgerald administration for misrepresenting fiscal health, using one-time funds to balance budgets, and incurring a $74 million no-bid contract for Shuman Center. President Katina noted the challenge of balancing diverse district needs.

Key Outcomes

• Tax Levy (Bill 13264-24): Amendment Palmasina 1 (1.7 mills) passed 10-5. The bill as amended then passed 10-5.
• Operating Budget (Bill 13265-24): Amendment Palmasina 1 passed 11-4. The resolution as amended passed 10-5.
• Capital Budget (Bill 13266-24): Passed 12-3.
• Grants and Special Accounts Budget (Bill 13267-24): Passed 14-1.
• New Business: Councilmember Klein introduced a late-item ordinance to amend the County Code concerning the Human Relations Commission to comply with HUD regulations. The agenda was amended, and the bill was referred to the Housing Committee by a 13-1 vote.