A judge has approved Cambria County’s 2026 budget following a comprehensive review and hearing, authorizing a property tax increase of nearly 7 mills. The court upheld the county’s position that the hike is essential, noting that previous tax cuts and a 30% surge in inflation have strained the budget. During Monday’s hearing, County Solicitor Ron Repak testified that failing to approve the increase would force a 20% reduction in the county workforce, and cause a significant decline in public services.