Dem trifecta could help Pittsburgh budget, O'Connor says
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The city may have hope of filling its budget shortfall thanks to Democrats' massive midterm victory, Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor said Monday.
Why it matters: The city's financial problems are carrying into 2027 despite this year's property tax increase, forcing the city to cut pension funding, freeze other spending and tap its rainy day fund.
Driving the news: O'Connor said 2027's proposed $872 million budget — $727 million in operating funds and $145 million in capital spending — won't raise taxes. His comments came during a budget address in city council chambers Monday.
What they're saying: Democrats' new control in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., gives O'Connor confidence that more money will be available for housing and infrastructure in Pittsburgh.
- "It will allow us to do things in this city we have not done in over 30 years, working with Harrisburg and D.C. to secure investment, opportunity, and lasting change."
- Democrats have not held a trifecta in Pennsylvania's state government since 1993.
Yes, but: New funding is not available now, and he's proposed depleting the city's rainy day fund by $28 million next year to keep services afloat.
- He's hopeful the city's finances will stabilize by 2029.
Follow the money: O'Connor highlighted over $100 million in donations from corporations, unions, universities and nonprofits that are helping the city provide and improve public services amid the tight financial situation.
- Donations funded dozens of snow removal vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks, as well as upgraded baseball fields and kept community centers open.
State of play: O'Connor said Pittsburgh needs to grow to sustain and improve services as Downtown property values decline by millions of dollars.
- He highlighted his administration's efforts to lower home improvement permit times by 66% and establish new zoning reform packages that are meant to boost housing and business development.
The other side: Advocates rallied outside the City-County Building in Downtown on Monday morning to oppose O'Connor's proposal to slash funds for Housing Opportunity and Stop the Violence funds, per TribLive.
- They said the funds were lowering crime rates and should be preserved.
What's next: City Council will vote on the proposed budget before the end of the year.