Nearly three months after Manheim Township commissioners asked other local leaders to join them in calling for creation of a county health department, boards in only a handful of the
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.
When: Mountville Borough Council meeting, April 12.
What happened: Borough Council shot down a resolution initiated by Manheim Township supporting a county health department. Not all council members were present, but several members said adding a county layer of health oversight is redundant.
Background: Manheim Township sent the resolution to every school district and municipality in Lancaster County, including Mountville Borough. The document supporting a Lancaster County health department has received mixed reviews.
Quotable: Council member Richard Spiegel, chairperson of public safety, police and fire, was the first to voice his objection to the resolution saying. âIt would be a waste of taxpayer money when we already have a lot of government money in health care,â he said.