When: Mountville Borough Council meeting, May 10.
What happened: Borough Council discussed implementing a fire tax in Mountville. The proposed tax could be a 0.66-mill increase for residents. That amount would generate $120,000 in income yearly for Mountville Fire Department. If enacted, the tax would be in effect for five years, at which time the council would decide to increase, decrease or eliminate the tax altogether.
What it means: One mill equals $1 in property tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. For example, a tax of .66 mills would be $66 for a property assessed at $100,000.
Why itâs important: The borough holds the responsibility of ensuring that fire and medical services are available to public. Council makes yearly contributions to aid the fire company in their operations. However, officials said it is becoming increasingly challenging due to rising costs and fundraising difficulties. In order to keep the department operational, funds must be found elsewhere.