By Dave Marcheskie
ABC27
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — It’s not uncommon to see volunteer fire companies rush through Chambersburg to help the borough firefighters put out flames. Borough officials said on Wednesday, they could soon rely more on the volunteers mutual aid agreements if a proposal to cut 8 out of 21 professional firefighters passes.
According to borough officials, cutting positions will be necessary to balance this year’s budget. Back-up funds have gone dry and there isn’t enough money coming in to balance the budget according to borough council president, William McLaughlin.
“Our earned income tax has dropped, our municipal services tax has dropped, our deed transfer tax has practically evaporated,” said McLaughlin.
Borough officials explained the cuts wouldn’t affect public safety because they can rely on the volunteers to step in.
“The idea that we can not meet our public safety requirements with enhanced volunteer service is totally false,” said McLaughlin.
Volunteers said they have always responded to calls if needed and are happy to continue that tradition. A sentiment expressed by Franklin Fire Company President, Jim Hull.
“Franklin Fire Company has been here 108 years we will continue to respond and continue to protect the citizens as best we can,” said Hull.
But, some firefighters who are paid in other counties and volunteer in Chambersburg on their off days said they have been asked not to help by the paid firefighter’s union.
Abc27 obtained a copy of a letter sent by union president, Pat Martin. The letter asks the volunteers to “refrain from providing volunteer firefighting services in the borough of Chambersburg.” A request that has caused friction for volunteers who’ve said they just want to serve their community.
“A paid firefighter is no different than a volunteer on his day off he wants to serve his community, they will continue to do it, it think its unfortunate we went to this level to discuss that,” said Hull.
Regardless of the disputes where the proposal may have started, borough officials stand behind it.
“I believe these cuts are a responsible decisions,” said McLaughlin. “These things are not done lightly.”
Republished with permission from ABC27