Taxes paid by Westmoreland County homeowners are monies we entrust to our commissioners to spend wisely. County commissioners are stewards of our money. Unfortunately, commissioners Sean Kertes, Doug Chew and Ted Kopas have not done their jobs. They have, along with previous commissioners, squandered our money and now are bailing themselves out with a 32% tax increase — 32%!
The average household, not individual, income in Westmoreland County last year was $75,076, while Kertes is paid $98,942, and Chew and Kopas each are paid $95,418, according to the article “Westmoreland commissioner criticizes 3.5% raises for elected county officials” (Dec. 14, TribLive). They can easily afford a 32% tax increase while the average homeowner struggles to pay.
Folks, don’t get mad, seek responsible citizens to lead the county. At the next commissioner election throw Kertes, Chew and Kopas out. Vote for commissioners who will be responsible stewards of our money.
Kenneth Powell
New Kensington