A police chase involving a firearm, new questions about whether Bensalem schools could levy their own amusement tax, and continued debate over the district’s budget dominated the first week of March. Township officials also prepared for upcoming zoning and council meetings while police carried out multiple arrests and warrant searches.
Here’s everything that happened March 1–7.
The Big Stories
Could Bensalem Schools Levy Their Own Amusement Tax?
One of the week’s most widely discussed stories examined whether the Bensalem School District could legally impose its own amusement tax.
Bensalem’s School District Could Have Its Own Amusement Tax. So Why Doesn’t It? explored how Pennsylvania’s Act 511 allows school districts to levy certain local taxes — including taxes on admission to entertainment venues.
While Bensalem Township already collects an amusement tax, the analysis examined why the school district has not pursued the same authority and what it could mean for future school funding debates.
Police Chase on Street Road Leads to Gun Arrest
A dramatic police pursuit unfolded during the week when officers arrested a suspect after a chase involving a firearm.
Bensalem Police Arrest Suspect After Street Road Gun Chase detailed the pursuit and the weapons charges filed after the arrest.
The incident added to a busy week for local police responding to multiple serious calls.
Public Safety
Police activity remained a steady presence in local headlines.
- Bensalem Police Arrest Fugitive After Multi-State Manhunt detailed the capture of a suspect wanted across state lines.
- Bensalem Police Seek Individuals on Active Warrants – March 4 updated the department’s weekly warrant list.
Fire & Emergency Response
- Bensalem Firefighters Respond to Bellview Drive House Fire reported on the deadly residential fire that brought a large emergency response.
Government & Planning
Several upcoming township meetings could shape local development and spending decisions.
- Bensalem Township Council Meeting Preview – March 9 highlighted agenda items expected to come before council.
- Bensalem Zoning Board Meeting Preview – March 2026 outlined upcoming zoning cases.
Community Programs
- Bensalem Parks & Recreation Announces Youth Programs for 2026 provided an overview of new and returning recreational programs for local families.
The Big Picture
The first week of March showed how local news often sits at the intersection of policy debates and day-to-day public safety.
From a police pursuit and fugitive arrest to deeper questions about school funding and a possible amusement tax, the stories shaping Bensalem this week ranged from urgent incidents to longer-term questions about how the township funds its future.
