Politics & Government
Salisbury Adopts 2012 Budget With Small Tax Increase
Salisbury Township's small tax increase will generate money to buy fire equipment.
Salisbury Township residents will pay a small property tax increase in 2012 now that the board of commissioners approved an $11 million budget last week. Property taxes were raised to 3.82 mills, up from 3.57 mills. This means that for an average property assessed at $77,000, a homeowner will pay $19 more in taxes next year.
After some heated words between Township Manager Randy Soriano and Salisbury Townhip fire department representatives, thevoted Dec. 22 to adopt next year’s $11 million budget, with some minor changes.
Instead of the previously allocated $20,000, will get $22,000 in general operating funds and will get $36,000 instead of $38,000.
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Eastern Salisbury Fire Co. argued they saved the township $7,000 in insurance costs last year by shopping around for a better rate, but were not allocated the $25,000 they requested. Western Salisbury paid nearly twice as much for insurance and was allocated their requested amount of $38,000.
Ultimately, however, both fire companies said they supported each other 100 percent.
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The new budget also reflects the recently recommended slight increase in the from 0.25 mills to 0.55 mills, to raise money for new fire equipment, including a
Township officials reported that overall revenues have decreased 8 percent, while expenditures have decreased by 9 percent. The proposed budget sought to hold the line on taxes, while cutting expenses.
Commissioner Norma Cusick cast the lone vote against the new budget.