Tax Relief Could Attract New Salisbury Firefighters

If a Salisbury Township home or business was on fire, you'd certainly hope that enough firefighters were on the scene after making that 911 call.

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, Salisbury commissioners say there is a lack of new volunteer firefighters in the township and they want to attract new recruits.

Recently, commissioner James Martucci suggested that the township give volunteers some tax relief, as an incentive, in an attempt to increase involvement. 

Assistant Township Manager and Finance Director Cathy Bonaskiewich said that the township currently allots $15,000 per fire department each year. The department distributes the money to members who complete a certain number of hours in calls and training, she said.

Commissioner James Seagreaves noted that firefighters have to pay income taxes on the fire department money they receive.

Commissioner Joanne Ackerman suggested having residents pay in to help supplement the fire companies for their training needs. 

However, Bonaskiewich pointed out that Salisbury Township currently has a fire tax. 

Township Manager Randy Soriano told commissioners that fire tax funds are for equipment purchases. He said research will be done concerning whether there is legislation in place that allows those tax dollars to be used for other types of purposes.