Carnegie property owners would see a 6% increase to their property taxes next year under the borough’s proposed budget.

The borough’s millage rate under the budget would increase from 8 to 8.5 mills, according to a budget draft written by Carnegie Manager Steve Beuter.

A property at Carnegie’s median assessed value of $87,200 would pay $741 under the proposed budget, a $44 increase from this year.

“With the reduction in the common level ratio in Allegheny County over the last three years and the resulting real estate tax appeals plus other economic factors, Carnegie has experienced a less than 1% growth in total assessed value,” Beuter wrote.

The proposed budget totals $11.6 million.

It includes an 8.7% increase for police services. The police department will forgo a new vehicle replacement next year because of the late delivery of this year’s purchase and outfitting timeline. The department anticipates nine tasers being replaced at a projected cost of $25,000, including training costs.

On fire protection, the borough plans to replace the aerial and pumper truck sold this year using the proceeds from the sale, and the savings from payment deferment, with a partial prepayment next year of about $414,000. The remaining payments will resume in 2027.

Fire protection also covers fire hydrant services, a $110,000 contribution to the Carnegie Fire and Rescue Bureau, and the state fire relief disbursement.

Public works plans a $280,000 paving program next year, according to the draft. Other capital improvement projects planned include a new generator, repairing the Main Street Bridge, replacing decorative light poles on Main Street, and the Lexington Court wall replacement.

ALCOSAN is increasing its billing rate for wastewater treatment by 7% next year. Carnegie is proposing a 25-cent increase per 1,000 gallons of use in sewage treatment fees, or a 3.8% increase, according to the draft.

Adoption is scheduled at a council meeting Dec. 15.

“This budget reflects our continued commitment to fiscal responsibility while ensuring the borough remains a safe, vibrant and welcoming community for all,” Beuter wrote.

“While we face economic challenges, including rising costs, our goal remains practical resource management and avoiding a large tax or sewer fee increase from year to year. The budget prioritizes sustainability, allowing us to deliver excellent services while carefully managing our finances.”

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