budget

For the first time in Corning’s history, the city passed a budget with an increase in the tax levy that exceeds the state tax cap. The city council adopted the $22.6 million budget for 2026.

The budget, which totaled to $41.4 million, increased $3 million from 2024.

"There are only so many projects that we can take on," Talbot said. "[Tompkins and Cortland counties] do not have deep pockets, neither one of you."

The petitioners have been arguing Pennsylvania’s school system is so underfunded, it violates the state constitution.

Most schools under the PASSHE umbrella will be getting a several million dollar funding boost this year.

“This is a tremendous bipartisan effort. We are talking about historic investment in education for our children.”

County programs will get their first significant increase in over a decade — though some details remain uncertain.

Each is arguing that funneling more money to support staff positions is one of the best ways to solve their problems.

“More than a week in, state fiscal officers agree there’s plenty of money to spend, but disagree about how long it will last.”

Advocates are hopeful to see needed funds during Gov. Tom Wolf’s final year in office.