Shaler commissioners approve property tax relief for eligible fire volunteers

Shaler commissioners have extended the township’s tax relief program for fire volunteers.

Property tax relief is now available for firefighters who don’t meet the criteria for the township’s typical earned income tax (EIT) assistance.

Eligible fire volunteers can receive up to a $300 credit on their township property taxes through the new program.

It would give a 20% real estate tax credit so long as participants volunteer 25 hours of service at one of the township’s six fire departments.

The program extends only to township property taxes. It is not applicable to Allegheny County or Shaler Area School District taxes.

The township in December approved its 2021 budget, maintaining a real estate tax rate of 3.49 mills.

The owner of a home assessed at $100,000 will pay $349 to the township.

Residents also pay 23.5 mills to the Shaler Area School District, which is $2,350 on a $100,000 home.

Commissioners on Jan. 12 approved the move to extend tax help with the hope of recognizing all who serve, Manager Tim Rogers said.

There are younger people that don’t have full-time jobs but that the board wants to recognize, Rogers said.

Likewise, commissioners want to help retirees who no longer have a full income.

Previously, the township offered firefighters a $300 earned income tax (EIT) credit only.

Rogers said all of the members who are currently eligible take advantage of the EIT credit, and he expects the property tax credit would affect up to 40 additional volunteers.

“Commissioners recognize their service and want to help the people that help our community,” he said.

The tax credit must be applied for each year. Fire chiefs are responsible for compiling a list of all volunteers who qualify.