Chester County Tax Rebate Program: A Win for Volunteer First Responders

Gerry DiNunzio President Chester County fire Chiefs Association and Matt Eick Chester County EMS Council PresidentGerry DiNunzio President Chester County fire Chiefs Association and Matt Eick Chester County EMS Council President /Submitted Images

WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County has found a unique way to thank its volunteer first responders and administrative members for their service – by offering them a real estate tax rebate. Just six months after the initiative was legislated, over 355 eligible individuals have already applied to recoup a portion or all of their county property taxes.

This number amounts to 60% of those who qualify for the rebate, according to data from the respective first responder agencies. A total estimated amount of $167,000 will be returned to these local heroes via the County Real Estate Tax Rebate ordinance.

The Active Volunteer Real Estate Tax Rebate Ordinance was passed by the County Commissioners last October. It provides a financial incentive that directly impacts the Chester County real estate taxes of local emergency responders and administrative members of fire or EMS agencies in the county.

Patricia Maisano, Chester County Treasurer, hailed the initial success of the tax rebate program. “Chester County was the first in Southeastern PA to enact this county property tax rebate, and it is encouraging that a significant number of individuals and families will be able to recoup some or all of their county tax as a direct result of their incredible service to our community. ,” she said.

Maisano added that while eligible volunteer first responders have until January 2025 to apply, they are advised to submit the required paperwork well ahead of time.

The tax rebate program operates on a points system. Volunteers can accumulate points through various activities, including responding to emergency calls, attending meetings, participating in public education activities, and more. This system’s design encourages a greater sense of involvement and responsibility among the volunteers.

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Considering the steadily growing population of Chester County, this tax rebate serves as a crucial incentive. Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe all agreed, noting that the county’s growth has led to an increased need for first responder services. The tax rebate is intended not only as an acknowledgment of current volunteers but also to encourage more individuals to step up.

Gerald DiNunzio, President of the Chester County Fire Chiefs Association, emphasized the importance of this incentive for the recruitment and retention of volunteers. “[The volunteers] expect no financial gain in return for their dedicated service; this incentive is a well-earned thank you for taking on such an essential, and at times, thankless role,” said DiNunzio.

Matthew Eick, President of the Chester County EMS Council, echoed similar sentiments. Eick lauded the initiative, saying the tax rebate program was a thoughtful way to thank volunteers, highlighting it as an innovative solution to a nationwide decline in volunteer support.

Chester County’s unique tax rebate program is more than just a policy; it is a testament to the county’s commitment to the volunteers who tirelessly work to keep the community safe. This initiative is indicative of the potential for innovative policies that recognize and reward the service of volunteer first responders, encouraging more to step up and serve their communities – a crucial need in these times.

Information about the Active Volunteer Real Estate Tax Rebate can be found at www.chesco.org/responder-rebate.

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