Dispute over fire service funding in Dauphin County [Video]

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. — Leaders from Middletown and Royalton boroughs in Dauphin County met Monday night over a disagreement on the Middletown Volunteer Fire Company’s funding.

The company has been shared between the two municipalities since the 1950s. However, Middletown Council President Ian Reddinger says Royalton hasn’t paid its fair share for services.

“I believe this is just one of those things that fell through the cracks,” Reddinger said. “We fell into a routine.”

Middletown leaders asked their neighbors to increase their contribution from 4% to 11% to match their population representation.

“With the rising costs of everything, the fire department is also seeing financial needs,” Reddinger said.

The company’s budget this year is estimated by Middletown to be $240,700. Broken down, it’s around $192,700 for operational costs and $48,000 …