IN Plum Winter 2024 | Page 35

Moody ’ s Upgrades Plum Borough School District Credit Rating , Reflecting Responsible Financial Management
Property Tax Programs Provide Discounts to Residents

Moody ’ s Upgrades Plum Borough School District Credit Rating , Reflecting Responsible Financial Management

Moody ’ s Investors Service issued a press release to upgrade Plum Borough School District ’ s credit rating from A3 to A2 . This upgrade is a reflection of the district ’ s improved financial position , growing local economy , and steady student enrollments .

The district ’ s credit rating is an important factor for banks and bond holders to assess the overall creditworthiness of the district . Positive movement in the district ’ s credit rating will reduce the overall costs of borrowing when issuing new debt or refinancing existing debt . Since this credit rating is an important factor in the district ’ s overall financial health , the district ’ s credit rating was added as a key performance indicator in the district ’ s balance scorecard . The district is pleased to report that we have achieved our goal two years in a row .
Ryan Manzer , Chief Financial Officer , stated , “ The school district is extremely proud of the work that the Plum community has put into improving the district ’ s financial position . This upgrade ensures the district ’ s credit rating properly reflects the outstanding performance of our school district . An improved credit rating will lower our cost of borrowing in the immediate future while furthering the district ’ s goal to be fiscally responsible .”

Property Tax Programs Provide Discounts to Residents

The Plum Borough School District offers a variety of programs to make taxes more affordable to residents .
Homestead / Farmstead Exclusion
The Homestead / Farmstead Exclusion provides for a reduced property tax assessment on qualifying owneroccupied properties for County and School District Real Estate Taxes .
For more information , including the application process , please visit Allegheny County ’ s Homestead / Farmstead Exclusion website : bit . ly / plumhomestead
Senior Citizen Tax Relief Program
The School District offers a Senior Citizen Tax Relief Program , which entitles qualified senior citizen homeowners to a flat 5 % discount on the real estate tax on their primary residence .
For more information , including the application process , please visit Allegheny County ’ s Senior Tax Relief Program website : bit . ly / PlumSeniorTax
Property Tax / Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax / Rent Rebate Program is a state program that supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania . This program provides a rebate ranging from $ 380 to $ 1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older .
In addition to age requirements , to qualify for the Property Tax / Rent Rebate your household income must be $ 45,000 or less annually . Learn more here : bit . ly / PAPropertyTaxRebate

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