RIDGWAY — The Elk County commissioners approved a 2024 budget of more than $12.47 million, a sending plan that does not include a tax increase and will continue at full operating capacity in all departments.

All bargaining and non-bargaining employees will receive an approximate 2.5% wage increase, the DuBois Courier Express reported. Elected officials will receive a 3% wage increase, as had been determined in the year prior to a municipal election.

“The Elk County commissioners, following past practice, continue to use discretion in applying Marcellus Shale Gas (Act 13) funding to address budget items that meet statutory compliance in order to reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers,” said Commissioner Matt Quesenberry. “Disbursements are also awarded to local municipalities and non-profit organizations to further assist with financial support for local projects.

“In addition, the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, under rules and regulations from the U.S. Treasury, have been judiciously applied to support a number of eligible budget items.”

Some of the capital improvement projects being funded by ARPA funds include the proposed slate replacement roof for the main Elk County Courthouse and window replacements in the courthouse addition built in 1970. These funds are also being used to update IT technology hardware and software in many departments, to fund the employment of an assistant public defender, to increase off-street parking for county employees, and to address the issue of broadband availability and development in the county.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, considerable ARPA funds were used to purchase personal protective equipment, supplies, and the reimbursement of sick time.

The budget also provides for operational assistance to local and regional airports, county libraries, food banks, human and social services programs, regional economic development groups, as well as travel and tourism organizations.