Word has leaked out that Santa has another gift in store for Chester County taxpayers. For the fourth year in a row, the local tax rate is projected to remain unchanged, according to preliminary budget figures for 2016. The budget will be finalized before the end of the holiday season.

“We have achieved a budget that maintains the programs and services our citizens deserve and want, but at no additional cost to taxpayers,” Commissioner Michelle Kichline said.

By the numbers, the proposed $439 million for operating expenses is an allocation 1.5 percent larger than a year ago, while the amount of investment in capital improvements is dropping 2.8 percent to $87 million. That translates into a tax bill of $692.76 for a home valued at the county’s median price, $166,410 — still one of southeast Pennsylvania’s lowest tax burdens.

“This budget reflects our focus on delivering high-quality services in a fiscally responsible way, and our budget process demonstrates the importance we place on transparency and accountability,” Commissioners’ Chairman Terence Farrell said. “This is all achieved through the diligent teamwork of our senior staff, department heads, their staff and our finance department.”

Among many other things, commissioners said the money will go toward continued urban development; the preservation of open space; workforce programs; an update to the county’s comprehensive plan, called Landscapes2; and ongoing projects in support of the 10-year VISTA 2025 economic development strategy.

For more budget details, a public hearing on the preliminary budget has been set for Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room on the sixth floor of the county office building.