Fire tax floated to Upper Burrell voters

Upper Burrell voters may be asked if they are willing to pony up additional tax dollars to support the township’s volunteer firefighters.

Township supervisors received a letter from the fire company announcing its intent to petition for a referendum on a 2-mill fire tax to be voted on during this year’s primary on May 20.

The average property taxpayer in Upper Burrell would pay an additional $56 if the 2-mill fire tax is approved, according to supervisors Chairman Ross G. Walker III.

“It’s going to extremely help the fire company,” he said. “They do need the money, and it’s only going to cost the average taxpayer $56 more a year.

“That’s about $4.50 a month, for the average taxpayer.”

Fire Chief Bryan Fitch directed questions to Assistant Chief Kevin Hogan, who could not be reached for comment.

“Rising costs for current and future expenditures, the current economy, and lack of donations are the basis for this approach,” read a letter from fire company officials sent to the township.

“Every neighboring municipality has a tax or are budgeted to accommodate their agencies; we are just (falling) in line with their practices so that we can continue delivering the best services to the residents, businesses and visitors of our township.”

Asked why township supervisors wouldn’t simply install a 2-mill fire tax on their own, Walker said the ballot question is intended to let people voice their opinions on the fire tax.

“We decided to let the fire company do a referendum because we wanted the input of residents,” Walker said. “We’re going to let the residents decide whether or not they want this tax increase. They’re going to vote on it, and I sure hope they do.”

Upper Burrell’s budget for this year allocates $92,000 for fire protection, including a $20,000 direct contribution to the fire company.

Township officials considered a fire tax in 2021, but that did not go through. Walker said there was not enough support on the board of supervisors for the tax at that time.