An article published in the Times News on June 19, 2025, titled “Panther OKs budget with slight increase,” included comments from outgoing business manager Jesse Walck. He stated that “the tax increase was needed to offset Homestead Act exemptions and keep district revenues level.” In response, Representative Doyle Heffley has offered clarification regarding the workings of the Homestead Act exemptions and their impact on homeowners and school districts.
For the 2025-26 school year, the state property tax reduction allocation for Homestead Act exemptions to Panther Valley School District (PVSD) is $1.2 million, an increase from $1.1 million in 2024-25. This change means every qualified homeowner will see a rise in their homestead exemption amount on their tax bill.
Heffley argues that PVSD’s rationale for increasing property taxes due to this higher state allocation is flawed. He explains that when the state’s contribution increases, it does not affect the total revenue received by the school district; rather, it changes who pays—the Commonwealth or homeowners.
Heffley emphasizes the importance of transparency from elected officials about school funding. Misleading information is unacceptable as property taxes continue to be a significant burden on working-class families in Panther Valley.
Highlighting his commitment to transparency and support for local districts, Heffley notes that state funding for PVSD rose by 85% from 2013-14 to 2023-24, averaging an annual increase of 8.5%. In just one year—2024-25—state funding increased by 19%, covering basic education, special education, and Ready to Learn Block Grant funds.
Heffley calls for “an honest conversation about school funding,” urging respect for residents’ financial pressures while prioritizing factual discourse.
Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Huntre Keip
717.772.9837
