Residents approve Cherry Hill Fire Department budget
On Saturday, residents voted in favor of approving the Cherry Hill Fire Department’s $25 million budget, 477–375.
The budget, Assistant Fire Chief Tom Kolbe said, has increased .7 percent over the 2011 budget, but still remains under the 2 percent state-mandated cap.
In Cherry Hill, less than 8 percent of property taxes go to the fire department, with about 54 percent going to the school district, 23 percent to the county, 16 percent to the township and less than one percent toward open space.
For the average homeowner in Cherry Hill with an assessed home of $140,000, residents can expect a $3.11 increase per month, Kolbe said. The average homeowner will pay approximately $695.83 per year for fire and EMS services.
Residents also voted to fill one vacant seat on the Fire Board of Commissioners.
William Kelly defeated incumbent Joseph Gilson, 393–369 for the 3-year seat.
Kolbe said the department appreciates its residents who voted in this year’s election.
“We continue to appreciate the residents who support the fire department. Our goal is to provide efficient service while keeping in mind the family budget,” Kolbe said.