Friendship Fire Co. Asks for Tax Help to Keep Doors Open

April 13, 2023

Rick Boston

Friendship Volunteer Fire Company firefighters Rodney Hartman and Chris Childers show the wear on turnout gear from new to after several years of use. The gear to the left is about seven years old and will need to be replaced soon. The cost to outfit a firefighter is $23,350 with Thermal Imaging Camera and $17,350 without. Rising costs of equipment is one of the reasons cited for asking for a millage increase to help fund the fire company.

Citing increased costs, dwindling contributions, and equipment that is going to need replaced sooner rather than later, the Friendship Volunteer Fire Company asked Roaring Spring Borough Council for a one mill property tax increase that would go to help fund the borough's fire protection service.

"We are at a critical time," said Friendship Chief James Musselman. "Costs are going up on everything and that is making it harder to make money."

Musselman cited the rising cost of food that has cut into fundraising profits as well as the increased cost of training, equipment, and testing that is...

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