TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)— Wabash Township residents want answers about a proposed emergency loan could lead to a property tax hike. Trustee Jennifer Teising said the township had to dip into savings to provide services for the fire department.
Leaders are currently seeking an emergency loan of $440,000. It would go toward hiring two full-time firefighters, increasing staff and benefits and replenishing the township's rainy day fund.
The loan would raise property taxes by $50 for every $100,000 assessed property value. Residents have asked the the Department of Local Government Finance to review the loan.
"We believe strongly in what we are doing," said Teising. "Firefighters are at a greater risk for health issues. Including cancer and death. They're putting their lives on the line and we don't even have health insurance benefits for them right now."
The Department of Local Government Finance is reviewing testimonies from opponents. When the council filed for the loan, it submitted the wrong statute. Teising said the township will re-apply for the loan for the 2021 budget.
