Firefighter retention a hot topic
CRANBERRY TWP — Discussions have recently begun over the state’s amended Volunteer Incentives Program.
“It’s both recruitment and a retention effort,” said Amy Behun, administrative assistant and recruiter at Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Company. “Volunteerism in the fire service, as everyone knows, is on a decline — everything that we can throw at this to attract or retain volunteers is important.”
The state’s incentive program began in 2016 with Act 172. The act established tax-based incentives for municipal volunteer firefighters. This allowed municipalities to provide earned income and real estate tax credits to volunteers.
“Most of the municipalities that did it — Cranberry included — did an earned income tax credit,” said township manager Dan Santoro.
