Luzerne County Council Proposes New Developer Tax Break Rules

The Luzerne County Council is considering a new ordinance that would establish strict eligibility requirements for developers seeking real estate tax breaks. The proposed rules require developers to submit detailed reports on projected wages, job creation, and overall economic returns to the county.

During preparations for the September 1 committee meeting, Council Chairman Jimmy Sabatino sought input from the development sector. John Augustine Hearst, President and CEO of Penn’s Northeast, expressed general support for the proposed requirements.

In separate administrative actions, County Manager Romilda Crocamo introduced a new budget planning procedure for 2027. This process includes bi-weekly status reports to the council to increase transparency leading up to the formal budget proposal on October 13.

The council also approved a bid for a $300,000 grant to improve the Huntsville Road Extension and entered a partnership with E-Collect PA LLC to audit short-term rentals for unpaid hotel taxes.