LEWISBURG — Union County tax collectors say they will seek re-election in the May primary despite the county commissioners’ ploy to discourage anyone from running for the position in a move to save money.

Union County officials say they can collect real estate taxes more quickly and efficiently than a local tax collector can and at a less expensive cost.

County officials claim it can be done for $200,000 less and are willing prove it by going to a countywide collection system.

The concept is being explored by county leaders elsewhere in Pennsylvania, as close as Lycoming County, which currently collects taxes in 11 of its 52 municipalities.

Union County officials took the first step Tuesday when the commissioners lowered the county’s commission rate for local tax collectors to 90 cents per parcel from $1.40 with the hope it will discourage the 14 collectors in the county from seeking re-election in the May primary.

Local tax collectors say they’re not budging.

Linda Moyer, tax collector for Kelly Township, says many collectors have already banded together to campaign in the spring.

“Oh, we’re running,” said Moyer, of West Milton. “There are four of us in this end of the county who are planning to be (in the May primary). If the county wants to do the job themselves, well, it’s not as easy as they think it is.”

Moyer, who helped a taxpayer Wednesday handle a canceled check situation at a local bank, said there are several situations that come up every year that need individual attention. Moyer said she doubts the county could be as personable or accessible as a tax collector.

“I bet they will enjoy getting a call at 9 p.m. from someone saying they want to file for property tax rebates and can’t find their bill,” Moyer said. “That happens more than you think.”

Connie Moore, tax collector for Lewisburg, also pledges to be on the ballot in the spring.

“I will continue to be a thorn in their side,” Moore said. “I’m proud of the job I do. The county isn’t going to scare me away.”

Municipalities would

have no choice