WORTH TWP — Slippery Rock Fire Chief Ryan Hanchosky proposed implementing a fire tax on residents of the township at the board of supervisors meeting Tuesday.

The two-mill tax would cost residents roughly $40 a year and generate $25,000 annually for the volunteer fire and rescue services. The amount would be divided among three departments and supplement the general budget.

Hanchosky said the tax has been implemented in Franklin Township and Slippery Rock with much success.

“Lots of municipalities are doing this already,” Hanchosky said. “We hope this will help the department financially in the long run.”

Hanchosky said the tax could help supplement the purchase of new rescue equipment, which would cost roughly $40,000.

“Everything is more expensive now. (The tax) should keep us on track with our yearly budget,” Hanchosky said.

The department expects residents to stop donations should the ordinance pass, but Hanchosky said the tax would provide guaranteed funds, which is better than donations overall.

“Worth seems on board with (this); they seem to want to help us out,” Hanchosky said. “Slippery Rock Township likes when we ask for help too.”

Currently, the department operates a 24-hour ambulance in addition to its volunteer fire service. Hanchosky said they're responding to more calls now than in years past.

It will be discussed at the township meeting in November. Hanchosky will also propose the tax at the Slippery Rock Township meeting on Monday.