Borough Places Importance on Fire Prevention

At the recent Roaring Spring Borough Council meeting, Fire Marshal James Musselman reported that fire activity has been relatively quiet.

He said he had a conversation with other fire chiefs, noting that current fire prevention efforts appear to be working well.

However, Musselman highlighted the importance of staying proactive, especially as the number of volunteer firefighters continues to decline across Pennsylvania.

"This week was pretty busy," he said, referring to the Friendship Fire Company's efforts to engage with the community by visiting local daycares and schools for fire safety education.

During the borough manager's report, Lisa Peel said the budget committee has recommended a half-mill increase in real estate taxes dedicated solely to fire services. If approved, this increase would take effect on January 1, 2025.

She said that about $15 of the property taxes paid by borough residents would be allocated to the fire company under the new ordinance. The tax collector would ensure that the fire tax is listed separately from the general mills.

The additional funds are intended to help the fire company with equipment purchases and loan payments, Peel said. This increase comes as the fire company continues to look for ways to maintain and upgrade its equipment, including a planned purchase of a new rescue engine.

Council member Derek Martin inquired whether other municipalities were raising similar funds for their fire departments.

Musselman said that neighboring Taylor Township also has a fire tax and has been discussing an increase to 0.4 mills.

Peel said that by dedicating half a mill to the fire service, the general fund would be relieved of approximately $64,000. This money could then be used for other projects, such as much-needed street paving.

Council member Mary Claycomb said that while the council has always found ways to donate money to the fire company, this proposed tax increase would provide a clearer, more structured way to ensure the fire service has the resources it needs.

Musselman talked about a conversation he had with the state fire commissioner, predicting that the number of volunteer firefighters in Pennsylvania could drop from 50,000 to just 20,000 in the coming years.

He said that such a decline would likely lead to the need for paid volunteer fire departments, which would significantly increase the financial burden on communities.

"The writing is on the wall," Musselman said. "We're eventually going to have to shell out a lot more money to ensure we provide adequate fire protection."

The council ultimately approved the tax increase proposal.

In other business, Peel provided an update on the Municipal Authority's approval to contribute to the purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet 2500H for the borough's maintenance building.

The borough will cover its portion of the cost, about $45,000, with funds coming from the borough's investment account.

The borough will also solely cover the cost of a new plow for the vehicle. This truck will replace a 2002 model, which will be put up for sale.

The council also gave approval for the fire company to apply for a Local Share Account (LSA) grant of $675,000 to cover the cost of a new rescue engine. The grant would be for next year's award.

Plans for a new borough building at 510 Spring Street also moved forward. Peel presented the council with designs for the building, which will include both a town entrance and a separate employee entrance in the rear, to be used by the police department when transporting individuals in custody.

A covered entry will be constructed at the front of the building. To accommodate the project, Spring Street would be converted into a one-way street near the building, as its current width poses challenges.

The new borough building will feature a council meeting room and a conference room for executive sessions. Peel also expressed interest in adding employee parking at the rear of the building.

"I'm excited for a place where the community can come and we can connect," Claycomb said.

Peel also provided an update on the status of a nuisance property at 706 East Main Street.

Council member Derek Martin, along with the code enforcement officer, ensured that the structure was secured with caution tape.

Potential buyer Mr. Cherry from Tyrone expressed interest in purchasing and renovating the property. He has been working on creating an LLC, but recently indicated he may pay cash for the home within two weeks.

The council also discussed the potential sale of the Nason Woods property, located on Locust Street. The borough, which has owned the 1.38-acre property since 1967, hopes to sell it and return it to the tax rolls.

Peel said they would advertise for open bids, with the council retaining the right to accept or reject offers. The council approved the decision to advertise for bids.