UPDATE: Montgomery County property owners will face an increased tax bill as officials just announced a rise in the millage rate for the Montgomery County Community College. The rate has surged from 0.39 mills to 0.49 mills, a decision made during the budget proceedings on December 4, 2023, which also involved a sweeping $632.7 million operating budget.
This urgent change is part of a broader 4 percent tax increase aimed at generating an additional $6.2 million in operating revenue for the community college. Montgomery County Chief Operating Officer, Dean Dortone, stated that this increase is crucial for balancing funding sources, which include local, state, and tuition fees. As of 2025, tuition and fees accounted for 56 percent of revenue, with state and local funds contributing 24 percent each.
The millage rate, set initially in 2017, had not changed until now, and officials believe this adjustment will ensure that the county’s contribution aligns more closely with state funding levels by 2026. Community College President Victoria Bastecki-Perez expressed her gratitude for the support from the county commissioners and emphasized the college’s mission to provide equitable access to higher education for all residents.
Bastecki-Perez also committed to freezing tuition rates for the next three years, aiming to alleviate student debt concerns. “This increase would allow us to freeze tuition to help keep student debt to a minimum,” she stated during the public hearing.
Enrollment numbers reflect the college’s growing influence, with 15,702 students enrolled in various programs during the 2024 fiscal year. The community college offers over 100 programs, catering to a diverse student body.
Current students highlight the college’s impact on their educational journeys. Sloane Harker, a second-year student from Harleysville, described the college as a nurturing environment where professors genuinely care about students’ success. “It’s not just lectures and homework; it’s about personal growth and preparing us for the workforce,” Harker noted.
This increase in the millage rate represents a significant shift in funding for higher education in Montgomery County, aiming to enhance the quality of education and support services for students. As the college continues its mission to foster educational opportunities, residents are encouraged to stay informed about further developments in the budget and its impact on future tuition rates.
As Montgomery County moves forward with these changes, the community will be watching closely to see how the increased funding will enhance educational resources and opportunities for all residents.
