By MELISSA DIPENTO
The Mt. Laurel Fire District #1 budget passed by a margin of 599–227 on Saturday, Feb. 19. The $9,212,102.55 budget included no tax rate increase for residents.
Voters also approved the New Apparatus Capital Lease question, 607–187.
The department is looking to replace three to four pieces of fire apparatus including a 1988 heavy rescue truck, a 1996 pumper, which is similar to an engine and a 2001 75-ft. Quint, which is a cross between an engine and a ladder.
Typically, Acting Deputy Chief John Colucci said, the department would need to raise taxes to pay for new apparatus. But because the current apparatus is paid off, a tax increase was not necessary.
Voters also elected Phil Roura and Robert Shestack to full three-year terms on the Board of Fire Commissioners.
