No tax hike for Liberty Township / By Martha Knight

LIBERTY VILLA—Liberty Township plans to spend $328,316 on General Fund needs in 2014, $165,500 on highway and bridge improvements and care, and $38,300 in the sewer fund.

General Fund revenues are expected to total $355,922. State Fund income is expected to come to $146,735, with a modest balance from 2013 expected to help cover costs.

The Sewer Fund is maintained mostly on an “in and out” basis, with sewer rate payers covering the amounts billed to the township by the Port Allegany Sewer Authority, which provides the services to a portion of the township. The township is responsible for certain repairs and for billing customers, and maintains a small fund for that.

Among General Fund budget spending items is $30,200 for the fire protection services of the Port Allegany Fire Department. Last year the amount was $20,233.

The township is raising the amount in annual increments, as requested by the volunteer company also known as Star Hose. The intention is to provide stable financing for the fire company, end its dependence on fundraisers, and spread costs fairly. Star Hose also serves Port Allegany Borough and part of Annin Township.

Millage will remain at 3.06, and the per capita tax will be unchanged, at $10. Sewer customers will continue to be charged $146 per quarter.

The proposed budget can be viewed at the township office just south of Port Allegany on Route 155. Action to adopt the budget will come in December.