Mayor Matt Tuerk introduced the City of Allentown’s proposed 2027 budget, outlining a $257.3 million spending plan to maintain essential services, strengthen public safety, invest in neighborhoods and manage taxpayer dollars responsibly.
The proposed budget includes a 3.81% property tax increase while keeping the City’s trash fee unchanged. This proposed increase will cost the majority of Allentown taxpayers $1.75 per month. The increase is needed as the City balances rising costs with the need to deliver reliable services while continuing to responsibly invest in the city.
Residents can use the City’s interactive property tax lookup tool to find their property and view an estimate of how the proposed tax increase could impact them. The tool is available at allentownpa.gov/budget or directly through the Property Tax Impact Lookup.
The proposed budget continues to prioritize public safety, including investments in fire and emergency medical services. It also builds on efforts to improve neighborhood safety and quality of life, with the Police Department reporting a 13.6% decrease in violent crime.
The proposed budget also supports improvements to neighborhood streets and traffic safety. Public Works has 18 traffic projects planned for 2027, focusing on traffic signal modernization and upgrades, corridor improvements and intersection enhancements. The City also plans to paint 320 crosswalks at 80 intersections in 2027 to improve visibility for pedestrians. In addition, we will continue evaluating traffic-calming measures, including permanent speed cushions at several locations and temporary roundabouts to assess their effectiveness in improving neighborhood safety.
“Our responsibility is to make thoughtful decisions with taxpayer dollars while continuing to deliver the services our residents depend on,” said Mayor Tuerk. “This proposed budget focuses on my administration’s priorities to improve public safety, increase community engagement and expand economic opportunities for Allentown residents and takes important steps toward long-term financial stability.”
The proposed 2027 budget will move through the City’s budget review and adoption process, giving City Council and residents an opportunity to review the plan before final approval.
The schedule for Council's departmental budget review meetings is as follows:
Wednesday, October 28
Wednesday, November 4
Wednesday, November 11
Wednesday, November 18
Wednesday, December 2
Wednesday, December 9
Additional meetings may be scheduled at the request of four Council members or by the President.