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HEADLINES: Clifford
Residents Oppose Sewers Clifford Township’s proposed plan to install sewers in the Crystal Lake/Dundaff areas of the township appears to be growing at each Board of Supervisors’ meeting. Last week for the second consecutive meeting, opposition to the idea took up most of the board’s meeting. An anti-sewer petition with 50-plus names was also submitted to the board and one township resident said he intends to appeal the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) approval of the township’s Act 537 Plan that includes tying the Crystal Lake/Dundaff areas into neighboring Greenfield Township’s treatment plant. Most of the opposition came from James White, whose family owns a trailer court in the Village of Dundaff. White suggested that the supervisors consider a centralized township sewer system that could serve the entire township but Regan said it would cost $3.2 million. "Crystal Lake is not polluted," White said. "Why would you be focusing on that area when Lake Idlewild and Fiddle Lake need attention? Get the whole ball of wax taken care of." White’s comment that DEP expressed an opinion that the plan to sewer Crystal Lake and the Village of Dundaff is not ideal brought strong rebuttal from Regan. "Let me tell you something," Regan said. "DEP speaks with forked tongue. I heard them people tell me all kinds of stuff and next time they come in front of us with a whole new story." White said the township received 16 letters from people in the Crystal Lake area wanting sewers and that the petition he submitted had more than 16 names on it from Crystal Lake people who are against the project. He said there should be a community vote on the project. One man stood up and told the supervisors he is a single parent raising two boys. He said if he has to pay monthly sewage fees it would be taking food from his children’s mouths. Regan did not commit the township to a suggestion from James White that a second opinion be sought before the township proceeds to sewer Crystal Lake and Dundaff. "There is a lot to it and that is why no decisions have been made yet," he said. "It is our decision at the end." In a letter to the township, James Ridgik of DEP, said the Act 537 Plan is consistent with DEP’s planning requirements. He noted that the plan provides for construction of a centralized sewage collection system to serve the Crystal Lake and Dundaff areas. He further pointed out that on-lot sewage disposal systems will serve the villages of Clifford, Royal and West Clifford, Lake Idlewild, Elkview Lake, and Cotrell Lake. "The proposed system," Ridgik wrote, "will be owned by Clifford Township and will be operated and maintained by the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority" (GTSA). He said the plan proposes to obtain financing for construction of the project from the US Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service. Ridgik also pointed out that a review of the plan raises questions regarding the low number of confirmed sewage malfunctions in the service area of the proposed sewer system. This concern was reiterated in the public comments submitted to the township. The township," said Ridgik, "may want to consider completing a more detailed needs assessment before moving forward with design of the central sewer project." Approval of the plan paves the way for Clifford to get state reimbursement for one-half of the $18,000 it paid to Engineer David Klepadlo to update the Act 537 Plan. In another matter, the supervisors hired Jeremy Snyder of Waymart as a part-time police officer. He will be paid $10 an hour. The supervisors also hired Thomas Andzulis as a sewage enforcement office and said he will replace Michael Fortuner. Andzulis has the state certification required for the position. On Wednesday, October 15, Borough President, Janice Webster, Major Paul Henry, council members Gary Griffis, Janet Wisniewski, and Sue Pratt were on a information panel that included Dawn Watson of Susquehanna County EMA, Dawn Swetland of the County Red Cross Office in Montrose, and Fire Chief Mike Karhnak. The purpose of the gathering was two-fold. Vial of Life holders were given to residents in attendance that could be filled with vital health information and information on the mechanics of how the Borough would react in an emergency situation was shared. Mike Karhnak covered the availability and responses that would be received from the Hop Bottom Hose Company. Included in the information he shared, was the approximate circumference of coverage from the fire company. Hop Bottom covers the Borough, Brooklyn, and portions of Lenox and Lathrop. Depending on the emergency, the fire hall on So. Center Street would be a gathering place. Information in the borough is updated every six months, but requires help from the residents to keep it current. Webster noted some of the responsibility of making information available, which will cover people who may need special help in an emergency, needs to be with local residents. Watson shared that she felt the "Borough is very progressive in making up a comprehensive plan." When a real emergency arises that requires help from the county agency, Hop Bottom has only to ask for it. When something comes up outside of the borough limits, the county will do whatever it can to help to oversee arrangements and offer advice. Dawn Swetland, local director of the Red Cross, noted, "We always work behind the scene." A recent gas problem in the area which took a good part of the day to address, saw the Red Cross helping with some light refreshments for the workers. She shared that after two hours of notification of an incident, a skeleton crew will be sent in to help with registration, and to assess how many people need help. The next round of help would be available in the next two-hour period. For more help the Red Cross would proceed from county, to state to national levels. During the first month, the Red Cross would help residents with a number of issues. After that time period, FEMA would be involved. People will then be counted upon to help with personal responsibility. It was shared that the hospitals that would provide help in a disaster would be the major ones in Lackawanna County, Scranton. She shared that a Statewide Plan is being put together for EMA. Many suggestions came from the public that included buddy systems, light arrangements, and ways of marking doors of houses that had special needs or were waiting for more help. Information shared is confidential regarding the people who need special assistance or who have extreme health conditions living within the Borough. It was an informative evening that ended with cider and donuts. Anyone who has more questions is welcome to come to the Hop Bottom Borough meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 7:30 p.m. MOTOR VEHICLE WITH INJURY On October 9 at 1:00 a.m., Charles Guy Williams, 24, Nicholson, was traveling east on State Route 47, Clifford Township. When he asked passenger Michael Thomas MacNamara, 25, Kingsley, for a smoke, Williams became distracted, lost control of his 2001 Ford Mustang, and drove off the south berm. The vehicle struck a ditch and flipped over onto its roof. Williams was not hurt, but MacNamara suffered minor injuries. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Chun-Shien Tseng, 26, Taipei, Taiwan, was traveling north on Interstate 81, New Milford Township, in a 2003 Ford Taurus and lost control while negotiating a right hand curve. The vehicle slid sideways across both lanes, left the highway, struck an embankment and rolled over several times before coming to rest on its roof. The driver was not injured, but passenger Yi-Chun Tseng, 24, Taipei, Taiwan, suffered an abrasion to the head and was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital after this October 11 incident. TRAFFIC CRASH Allison McNamara, New Milford, pulled from her driveway onto State Route 492, New Milford Township, on October 3 at 7:29 a.m., and did not see an oncoming east bound vehicle driven by Gwen Williams, Susquehanna, resulting in a collision. Williams then collided with a third vehicle going west, driven by James Bush, New Milford. There were no injuries. THEFT Sharon McGuigan, Little Meadows, realized there were missing household items from her rental cabins after suspects had left on Sunday. The incident occurred between August 22 at 2:00 p.m. and the next day at 10:15 a.m. Anyone with information is asked to contact the PA State Police at 570-465-3154 and refer to incident R5-0512820. No names of the suspects were given in the report. TRAFFIC COLLISION – FATAL Rosemary Rose, 21, Nicholson, was pronounced dead at the scene after her 1993 Ford Explorer and a 2003 Chevrolet 2500 pick-up driven by Scott Sutton, 46, Nicholson, collided head-on, for unknown reasons. Sutton sustained major injuries and was transported to Community Medical Center. The incident occurred on October 11 at 8:20 a.m. on State Route 92, south of State Route 106, Lenox Township. State Route 92 was closed for about 4 hours. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Someone sprayed black and gold paint on a 2000 International Box Truck owned by Budget Rent a Car Systems, Inc, Oklahoma City, OK., then left the scene at State Route 367 at the West Auburn Baptist Church's parking lot, Auburn Township, between 10:00 p.m. on October 9 and 11:30 a.m. the next morning. Anyone with information please contact the PA State Police at Gibson. MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT William Allen, South Montrose, was traveling too fast and failed to negotiate a curve on State Route 2024, just west of State Route 2053, Dimock Township. Allen went into the oncoming travel lane and struck Darrin Miller, Kingsley, head on. Allen was flown to CMC; no note was in the report regarding Miller. Allen was driving a 1990 Ford Ranger, while Miller was in a 1994 Dodge Ram. The incident occurred on October 10 at 6:50 a.m. TRAFFIC COLLISION Jeremiah Gana, 25, Vestal, was traveling east on Russell Rd., Apolacon Township, on October 8 at 9:00 p.m. and lost control, colliding with a tree for unknown reasons. Gana and passenger Donald Burshnick, 18, Endwell, NY, were transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. THEFT A white male, driving a maroon sedan, drove away from the Pump & Pantry, Montrose, without paying for $11.90 in fuel. Anyone with information on this 5:20 p.m., October 2 incident is asked to contact the PA State Police at Gibson. TRAFFIC COLLISION Kristen Lawrence, 20, RR1, Montrose, was traveling in a 1999 Mercury Cougar on State Route 706, Bridgewater Township, and apparently lost control for unknown reason, causing the vehicle to leave the road and collide with a tree. After impact, the vehicle rolled twice coming to rest blocking the eastbound lane. The incident occurred on September 19 at 5:20 a.m. MARRIAGES Henry L. Glover, Jr., 37, Great Bend Township, and Amy Sue Jesse, 25, Great Bend Township. Christopher Davidson, 35, Owego, NY, and Brandy L. Welch, 26, Bridgewater Township. Richard Keith Kosakowski, 27, Treadwell, NY, and Shawna Jill Rummel, 22, Treadwell, NY. Derek Carl Green, 27, Nichols, NY, and Alecia Marie Brown, 25, Apalachin, NY. Brian Keith Evans, 35, Forest Lake Township, and Suzanne Michelle Stone, 35, Bridgewater Township. Joseph A. Riley, 24, Montrose Borough, and Brandy Melissa Blaisure, 26, Montrose Borough. Frank Lynn Brainard, 48, Gibson Township, and Kathleen Shawn, 41, Lenox Township. Frank Paul Trader, 55, Archbald, and Carol Ann Hunter, 58, Archbald. DEEDS Elizabeth Hawley and Janet B. Taylor, Co-Executors of the Estate of Maurice D. Taylor to Michael J. Lyden and Amy J. Lyden in Montrose Borough for $116,000. James M. Foy and Mary H. Foy to Jeremy Randall and Dana Randall in Gibson Township for $67,000. Donald H. Capron, Sr. and Bobbie R. Capron to S. William Capron in Brooklyn Township for $30,000. James K. Peck, Jr. and Rosamond Peck to Abigail K. Peck, Lucy Peck Eysenbach, Laura J. Peck and James J. Peck in Lenox Township for $1 (two deeds). David R. Cavanaugh and Sandra R. Cavanaugh to James R. Baker and Christine M. Baker in Montrose Borough for $90,000. Joyce E. Shedd to Deane H. Shedd and Joyce E. Shedd in Montrose Borough for $1. Margaret Zory and Stanley Zory to Margaret Zory in Uniondale Borough for $1. Bonnie T. Conroy and Barbara J. Conroy to Edward Budnikas in Silver Lake Township for $150,000. Bruce Ross & Nancy Ross, Raymond Swingle & Lulu Swingle, Jerilee Turner, James T. O'Brien and Kathleen D. O'Brien, Barbara Campbell, Clarence Fleming and Anne B. Fleming, Judd Roberts & Marilyn Roberts, by and through a Power of Attorney granted Nancy Ross "or" Jerilee Turner to Joseph A. Takach and Lisa A. Takach in Herrick Township for $33,000. Alan A. Mindas and Mary K. Mindas to Justin J. Lotz in Forest City Borough for $29,000. Bruce Ross & Nancy Ross, Raymond Swingle & Lulu Swingle, Jerilee Turner, James T. O'Brien and Kathleen D. O'Brien, Barbara Campbell, Clarence Fleming and Anne B. Fleming, Judd Roberts & Marilyn Roberts, by and through a Power of Attorney granted Nancy Ross "or" Jerilee Turner to Werner Kuesters and Maureen Kuesters in Herrick Township for $28,000. Chester E. Kilmer, Jr. to Daniel S. Warner and Gretchen M. Warner in Bridgewater Township for $5,500. Donald R. Strope and Susan A. Strope to Karen M. Hondrick and Lalania Garner-Winter in Silver Lake Township for $29,500. Deborah Dymond to Deborah Dymond and Gregory A. Johnson in Auburn Township for $1 (transfer tax paid on fair market value of $62,000). George E. Mowry and Patricia M. Mowry to Eric J. McGlynn and Jaclyn M. McGlynn in Auburn Township for $1 ogvc. Daval Associates to Carl W. O'Hara and Maureen A. O'Hara in Forest City Borough for $45,000. Donna L. Williams to Jeffrey D. Williams and Beth Ann Williams in Brooklyn Township for one dollar and love and affection. Jonathan C. Miller to Charles Heller and Melissa Heller, Frederick Heller and Carol Heller in Brooklyn Township for $79,000. Charles J. Davis, Jr. and Nancy E. Davis to Sheyn R. Cook and Nicki R. Cook in Rush Township for $45,000. George W. McClure as Executor of the Estate of James E. McClure to Zlatko J. Lemut in Lanesboro Borough for $10,800 (two parcels, same price for each). William C. Maney and Marilyn A. Maney to Yolanda Marquez in Oakland Borough for $32,500. Nelson Crawford and Erma Crawford to Dennis J. Mudge and Mary Lou Mudge in Dimock Township for $1 ogvc (two parcels). Nelson Crawford and Erma R. Crawford to Eric D. Mudge in Dimock Township for $1 ogvc. Morris C. Baker and Nan A. Baker to R. Marconi Co., Inc. in Forest Lake Township for $1 (transfer tax paid on total consideration of $260,000). Stanley A. Konczyk, Jr. and Rianoris E. Konczyk to Donald Kennedy and Deborah Kennedy in Bridgewater Township for $60,000. Robert J. Ludwig and Susann M. Ludwig to Scott E. Lockman and Kathleen A. Lockman in Forest Lake Township for $87,500. Heather A. Jones and Karen L. Green to James Achey and Barbara Achey in Herrick Township for $25,000. Elk Mountain Ski Resort, Inc. to PPL Electric Utilities Corp. in Herrick Township for right-of-way agreement. Edward Budnikas aka Edward A. Budnikas and Monica A. Budnikas to Edward A. Budnikas and Monica A. Budnikas in Silver Lake Township for $1. PennDOT to Elizabeth M. Carpenetti in Lathrop Township for highway occupancy permit. Dan A. Noble and Annette A. Noble to John J. Di Giore and Phyllis DeGiore in Bridgewater Township for $179,500. Mary L. Lombardo to Michael Braddock in Apolacon Township for $25,000. Free III LLC to AFJ, LLC in New Milford Township for quit-claim deed for $10 (transfer tax paid on fair market value of $2,566,252). The Honesdale National Bank to Sons of NAM-MC, Inc. in Harford Township for $45,000. Bruce Ross & Nancy Ross, Raymond Swingle & Lulu Swingle, Jerilee Turner, James T. O'Brien & Kathleen D. O'Brien, Barbara Campbell, Clarence Fleming & Anne B. Fleming and Judd Roberts & Marilyn Roberts by and through a Power of Attorney granted to Nancy Ross "or" Jerilee Turner to Richard J. Burnis & Harold J. Nealon in Herrick Township for $20,000 (two parcels each for same price). Chester J. Morris and Ruth E. Morris to Michael Stark in Susquehanna Depot Borough for $41,824.22 for articles of agreement. Elwin Ellis and Penny Gray as Co-Executors of the estate of Doris Mae Ellis to Walter J. Luger, Walter G. Luger, Jon A. Molinare, and Angelo Molinare in Dimock Township for $18,000. Morris C. Baker and Nancy A. Baker to John Wilkerson and Barbara Wilkerson in Forest Lake Township for $1 (transfer tax paid on fair market value of $15,691). Dana Lynn Allan, nbm Dana L. Wood to David P. Wood in Silver Lake Township for $1. David P. Wood and Dana L. Wood to David P. Wood in Silver Lake Township for $9,000. Donald E. Keller and Elizabeth A. Keller to Dwayne L. Clark in Oakland Borough for $82,000. Lawrence T. O'Reilly and Christine M. O'Reilly and Thomas J. O'Reilly to Anthony M. Ferro and Joanne M. Ferro in Bridgewater Township for $35,000. Lawrence T. O'Reilly and Christine M. O'Reilly to Gerald Reedy and Pauline M. Reedy in Apolacon Township for $39,400. William Burke and Clara Burke to William Burke and Clara Burke in Auburn Township for $1. Richard P. Green & Sherry L. Green to Charles L. Allen in Choconut Township for $86,400. David T. Walpole and Elin O. Walpole to Daren S. Tsaconas in Dimock Township for $110,000. Harford
Meeting Brief A scant agenda made for a brief session when two of the Harford Township Supervisors met on October 14. For all practical purposes, all three of them were there, since outgoing incumbent Jim Ketterer hasn't been seen in months and unopposed candidate for the seat, Sue Furney, is already the Township Secretary. Sue is always there. When the Treasurer's report came up, there was a question about a deposit item labeled "Reimburse." It seems that the Harford Fire Company helps to cover parts of both Gibson and Lenox Townships, and, since the Township subsidizes workman's compensation insurance for the firemen, it's only fair that those other municipalities chip in. The amount contributed by Gibson and Lenox is defined by the insurance carrier apparently based on the territory covered by the Fire Company. Rick Pisasik asked that the shares be reevaluated to ensure that Harford is getting its fair share from its neighbors. The Supervisors opened two bids for a smallish cinder spreader that is not being used. The highest bid, $700, wasn't high enough, so they rejected both bids and will try again. The spreader, too small for useful application in the Township, is stainless steel and is said to be in like- new condition. Terry Van Gorden said that a new spreader like it would cost about $5,000, so he thought the Township should get a lot more for it. None of the road crew were present, but Ms. Furney gave a summary of operations from a written report. She said that the crew spent two days cleaning up after hurricane Isabel, and have recently put down some 700 tons of stone on Plank Road. Mr. Van Gorden also reported that a stop sign has been installed on Market Street in the village at the intersection with Tingley Lake Road, but that many drivers have yet to take notice of the $85 addition. The big new trailer on the lawn at the Township building is the construction headquarters for the bridge project on Route 547 by the Interstate. The contractor has offered road materials in exchange for parking the trailer on Township property during construction. The next meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors, on Tuesday, October 28, will begin discussion of a budget for 2004. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. Lathrop
Planning Budget All Lathrop Township supervisors, Dennis and Elwood Phelps and Nick Sabaucek, were present at their regular monthly meeting, held at the Grange Hall near Lakeside. Secretary/Treasurer, Ann Marie Shevchak, reported $4,453.42 was received for fire relief. Total revenue received amounted to $11,740.49. Under correspondence, Pennsylvania Emergency Management in Harrisburg approved Rich Frankovsky as the EMA Coordinator for the township. The Susquehanna County Planning Board accepted the Paul and Beverly Pashchuk subdivision conditionally. There must be an erosion and sedimentation plan for the subdivision and a driveway permit needs to be received from PENNDOT. The Fekette and Lopatofsky subdivision was approved. The supervisors were advised that a grant for $500.00 was given to the township to use in Emergency Management planning. They signed the paperwork that needed to be returned. A budget meeting was set at Shevchak’s house on Thursday, November 13, 7:30 p.m. It will be advertised. There was no SEO report. Road report given by Elwood Phelps covered the ditch and sluice pipe work that was supervised by Susquehanna County Soil Conservation. The ditch will have to be kept clean of debris so that a water situation does not develop. The next meeting of the Lathrop Supervisors is planned for Tuesday, November 11, 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall. The public is invited. Oakland
Twp. Talks Codes, Fees The Oakland Township Supervisors met for their regular monthly meeting on October 11 with all present. At a prior meeting, the supervisors had decided that a $500 emergency management grant should be turned over to the fire company, as they are the township’s first responders in an emergency situation. Supervisor Cowperthwait felt that the check should be presented in person, at the next fire company meeting; Supervisors Gorton and Ross agreed. Mr. Cowperthwait reported that the amusement tax from the race track is all paid up; however, although payment had been included for activity on September 5, there was no report for this date. He will request a copy of the report for the township’s records. Another business, he said, had not submitted a report. He will contact the owner to clarify that reports must be submitted on a monthly basis. Codes violations were discussed; a plan for a septic system has been acquired through the SEO for the Jennings property. A trailer on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) has been removed. There was no activity on the Trynoski or Reed property violations. A letter sent to the owner of the Oakland Trailer Park was returned and re-mailed to a new address; a copy was also sent to the park manager. Mr. Cowperthwait reported that there has been some cleanup. And, a problem with an unlicensed truck in front of a house will be corrected shortly. Discussing sewage permits, Mr. Cowperthwait noted that a permit was issued to the Buckhorn Rod and Gun Club for a privy; the property was "grandfathered" to allow for a privy as the clubhouse did not have running water. But, Mr. Cowperthwait said, the club has applied for a permit for a new building; a well has been drilled and a generator installed. The privy had not yet been inspected for final approval. Mr. Cowperthwait noted that the club’s (tax) assessment appeal was denied by the county. Mr. Cowperthwait will be addressing the county planning commission regarding the Gordon property, a situation that has been ongoing for three years. An engineer has designed a system but as of yet a permit has not been issued. The supervisors reviewed the SEO’s reports on other properties. Discussing COG, information received indicates that in addition to hourly fees, member municipalities will now be charged an additional mileage fee for the CEO’s services which will apparently include an additional hourly fee for mileage. "I’d like to see some of these problems get cleaned up," Mr. Cowperthwait said, "but I don’t know that I want to spend that kind of money." Mr. Ross suggested that, instead of using a CEO for violations, perhaps other ways could be used to address problems, such as splitting the cost of dumpsites with the property owners. That, Mr. Cowperthwait said, is not legal. Reviewing land development permits, updated paperwork was received for the Niven property; dimensions for a planned home have been changed since the original application was made and the paperwork has been updated. The supervisors reviewed a draft of driveway specifications for township properties. DEP has issued a small, non-coal mining permit for Litts and Son. Correspondence reviewed included water resource planning information from DEP; workshops for an emergency management incident command course and grant writing classes; and, notice of a county household hazardous waste recycling program. Mr. Cowperthwait noted that the township is short one auditor. The supervisors had requested that the township’s attorney contact SOLIDA to request a financial report. In a related discussion, Mr. Cowperthwait reported that the supervisors have received word that LDS would like the township to reconsider taking responsibility for the access road to the SOLIDA property; a similar request is also being made to the county commissioners. The consensus among the supervisors has not changed from prior discussions; as only one of SOLIDA’s sponsoring municipalities, the costs/responsibility for the road should be shared among member municipalities. Information received indicates that LDS would be willing to support the road in perpetuity unless business is located in the park, at which time the maintenance costs would then have to be shared between the church and those businesses. But, Mr. Cowperthwait said, township code does not allow for an individual property to be assessed for road repairs; the township would need to be assessed as a whole. And, there is no guarantee that the township wouldn’t be assigned the responsibility of the railroad crossing by the courts. There was no further discussion. The supervisors reviewed information from the county Housing and Redevelopment Authority regarding applications for 2004 for CDBG grant funding; as proposals must be submitted by December 31, the supervisors will contact the authority for further information. Information was received from PSATS regarding a workshop on Governmental Accounting Standards Board which, Mr. Cowperthwait said, are new bookkeeping standards for townships that are expected to be put into effect by the state; his understanding is that accounts will be kept on an accrual basis, which would require that a value must be established on all township roads. As the workshop is in Wyomissing a motion carried to approve Mr. Cowperthwait’s attendance, including an overnight hotel stay. DGK, the township’s insurance carrier, has requested a meeting to discuss the coming year’s insurance policy; the meeting has been scheduled for November 20, at 7 p.m. The remainder of the meeting was spent in an administrative work session, to discuss the 2004 budget and for strategic planning on roads. The next meeting is on Saturday, November 8, 9:00 a.m. in the township building. Brooklyn
To Get Meters Present at the 7 p.m. Brooklyn Township monthly meeting on October 16, were Supervisors Graham Anthony and Dan Anthony. Supervisor Jackie Thomas could not attend. Secretary/Treasurer Linda Spinola read last month's minutes and noted that there is $58,559.10 in all funds. The supervisors opened the meeting extending time to Curtis Stone of the Brooklyn Historical Society. It was determined that there may be the need for as many as 14 poles, for 8 or 9 historical sign markers that will be used in the township. Some are new, and some are refurbished signs that are being enclosed in a wood frame. Dan Anthony recently was checking out plows for attachment to the John Deere Grader. It does not appear that the township will be purchasing another truck this year. The Ag Security Area will be organized by Donna Williams. She has been the coordinator for this project for the last five years. The supervisors will not take any action regarding their involvement with the new BOCA laws at this time. It may be another year before those laws are implemented, they shared. It appears that there is a real problem with getting PENNDOT approved cinders for road usage this winter. Since that is the case, the supervisors determined that they would purchase approximately 500 tons of type 2 anti-skid from Montrose Materials, which will be mixed with the cinders left from last year. The price may be $6.90 plus the summer delivery price. They will go to the Montrose firm, who is piggybacking on the state price this year. The supervisors checked their present health insurance plan for one employee against a plan offered by PSATS. They determined their present carrier is more reasonable in price. Brooklyn is in receipt of the $500.00 check being given through the Susquehanna County EMA. The money will be utilized to buy two-way radios. New water meters will be placed on Saturday, October 18, in the town and other areas covered by Consumer Pennsylvania Water Company. Blue Ridge School District sent a letter requesting that the area on Alfred Road is plowed and cindered. Further, the winter maintenance agreement with PENNDOT so far covers 63.3 linear miles. Dan Anthony will see if a couple miles can be added to that amount when he talks with PENNDOT personnel. At that time, township boundaries will be examined. Dan Anthony noted there has been vandalism in the township that involves approximately five street signs and a few stop signs. The incidents have been reported to the State Police. A small grant has been written for municipalities through Susquehanna County Recycling. It is being awarded to municipalities who are active in recycling. In addition, the annual budget meeting is scheduled for November 6 at 7 p.m. The PENNDOT State Audit gave the township accounting approval. A recommendation was made for a time clock. The monthly Brooklyn Township meeting takes place in the municipal building on Maple Street, 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Mt.
View Discusses Model All members of the Mountain View School Board were present at the Monday, October 13 meeting, with the exception of Carolyn Price, Board Secretary, who was unable to attend because of recent surgery. John Beeman was elected, and acted, as secretary pro tempore in the absence of Price. The Treasurer and Cafeteria report was given by Sondra Stine. During the first hearing of the visitors Maria Diaz asked about some checks issued that covered computer insurance information. She also asked if inventory is being tracked. Under financial reports given by Kevin Griffiths, $1,630,026.09 was the payment taken from the September General Fund Bill List, Capital Reserve Fund Bill List, Cafeteria Fund Bill List and by ratification approved the payment of employee payroll, transportation contracts, fringe benefit payments and fund transfers. The October General Fund Bill List, Cafeteria Fund Bill List and Capital Reserve Fund Bill list in the amount of $274,699.40 was approved. A motion was passed to rescind the motion of September 22, approving the 2003-2004 budget transfers. The transfer was amended this month and approved. Purchase of school district road signs at Lenox Corners and Kingsley were approved. The signs will measure 24 x 70 inches. The daily tuition rate of $51.69 for the Partial Hospitalization Program for the 2002-2003 school year was approved. There were no legislative, negotiation or transportation reports. Bryce E. Beeman reported that name badges are being distributed. They are expected to be a big help at school events. Attendance at 12 conferences and on 7 field trips was approved. A new textbook, World Georgraphy, Building a Global Perspective, was adopted for grade seven. Arthur J. Chambers spoke at length about the district’s "Success Model" that was designed with the help of expert advice, staff and administration. The model encompasses areas under Powerplant "Roadmap and Compass", Process "Gentle Bulldozer", Pillars "Supporting Organization Quality" and Partnership "Collaborative Culture". It includes the statements: "We will achieve results that exceed all similar and Pennsylvania public schools and we will achieve a culture of respect and responsibility among all children and adults." Chambers noted in particular that we "need to commit to a common mission." The school mission statement is being worked upon to make it shorter and more timely with language consistent with recent changes. Further, the superintendent announced that two task forces will be set up in the future with input from board members, staff, parents and members of the public. One task force will deal with the gifted program and the other will concentrate on experience based education, with job coaching. Under Personnel Report given by Ordie Price, a supplemental salary position was approved for a mentor/teacher. Added to the substitute lists, pending receipt of all documentation for various positions, are Sharon Kress, Roseann Twining, Harvey Zelkowitz, Philip Svoboda and Natalie Kilmer. Corinne Ross was added as an approved volunteer with the wrestling cheerleaders. Family and medical leave was granted to Holly James. Under the second hearing from the visitors, Maria Dias pointed out the changes made to the format and information contained in "Cosmopolitan" Magazine. The magazine content no longer is suited to the students in the library. In response to a question from Mike Feduchek, it was noted that the athletic director is now tutoring two students and mentoring 30. A question about a "golf cart" on the school premises was fielded by Chambers. It is used between sporting events and by grounds people. It was purchased second hand for $1075.00. It was announced that the Mountain View Golf Team made the playoffs for the first time in Mountain View history. The school board meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 8 p.m. in the elementary board room. Susky
Boro Gets Updates Members John Bronchella, Todd Glover, Mike Matis and Ron Whitehead were present at the October 14 meeting of the Susquehanna Boro Council as well as a number of visitors. Correspondence read included a letter from a resident who commended the boro for quick cleanup of debris from Hurricane Isabel. Mr. Whitehead read a letter from Mary Jo Glover, chairperson of the Sesquicentennial committee; it said that the event had been very successful , with a few details yet remaining to be seen to. A finance report was included. The committee has purchased/ordered twelve banners for the new lampposts on Main St., three "Welcome to Susquehanna" signs, Christmas lights for the new trees and storage containers for the lights. A cornerstone was purchased to commemorate the boro’s anniversary. A time capsule will be buried some time in October. The committee is still receiving requests for the Sesquicentennial book, and has asked the Susquehanna Community Development Association to take on the task of getting orders for an additional printing. Mrs. Glover’s letter concluded by thanking the dedicated committee and volunteers for making the event a success. Secretary Margaret Biegert reported that she and CEO Shane Lewis had attended a meeting with PENNDOT to discuss several projects. A pre-bid contractors’ meeting was held on-site, regarding demolition of the building at the corner of Main St. and Franklin Ave. Emergency demolition bids were to be accepted until October 17, with demolition to begin October 20 and complete by the end of November. The sidewalk in this area will be blacktopped for the winter and new concrete walks put in some time next spring. Plans for the proposed park on Franklin Ave. were discussed at the meeting; the plans include period lighting, botanical landscaping, historical signage and information on a walking tour. The Susquehanna Depot Area Historical Society has been involved with planning the park. Also discussed at the meeting were replacement of the Main St. (Drinker Creek) bridge and lighting, and the retaining wall at the corner of Euclid and Franklin. Mr. Lewis and Mrs. Biegert met with a representative of Governor’s Center for Local Government to discuss the boro’s application for a joint municipal codes services grant which is a shared project with Oakland Boro. The representative suggested that the boro refigure the dollar amount of the application and increase Susquehanna’s share by $1,331.00. If the application is approved, Susquehanna’s share of codes costs will still be below the amount budgeted for 2004; the budget is being prepared to allow for the event that the application is not approved. The application will be up for review in November; the boros should hear whether or not it has been accepted some time in December. A motion carried to approve the increase. The Lions Club’s annual Halloween parade will be held on Sunday, October 26 at 3 p.m., from the Shops Plaza to the fire hall. Trick or Treat time has been set for Halloween day, October 31 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Putting the Washington St. park property out to bid had been voted on at last month’s meeting; however, the notice has not yet been published because Mrs. Biegert had some questions about the stipulations that will be attached to sale of the property. After some discussion, it was agreed that the property will be sold with the stipulation that once the property is purchased, construction must begin within one year. After two years, if construction is not complete the owner will be fined according to boro ordinance. Mrs. Biegert reported that River Bounty has requested a letter of intent from the boro regarding river-front property; the letter should state that once the boro acquires the property, it is willing to accept responsibility for any back taxes, attorney’s fees and surveyor’s costs, approximately $7,000. Mr. Glover asked if it would be possible for the taxes to be exonerated. Mrs. Biegert noted that, in other instances, both the county and the school district have been cooperative as the boro’s acquisition of the land would be with the intention of bettering the community. The fire company and the municipal authority have already sent letters of intent, as they will also be acquiring a portion of the property. A motion carried to proceed. The Nellie Jane DeWitt Business and Professional Women’s Club will be hosting a "meet the candidates night" at the boro building on October 24. Requesting time on the agenda was former mayor Roberta Kelly for the purpose of presenting council with a copy of the application to have the Route 92 corridor accepted into PENNDOT’s Scenic Byway program; the application was actually an entire binder full of material. The application, she said, represented several years’ worth of a tremendous amount of hard work; the program would promote tourism which, in turn will complement all of the improvements underway in the borough. The application has been submitted to Harrisburg; there is an expectation, she said that the initial application will be rejected after which it will be re-submitted; overall, though, it does look good. "It (the program) will be important to this area." In addition to Mrs. Kelly, a number of people had been involved with the application; Gene Price, Margaret Biegert, Nancy Hurley and Hal Lucius. And, Mrs. Kelly said, the application itself could also be used as a reference for other projects, such as the Main St. Program. Mr. Whitehead noted that all of the lights on Main St. had recently been turning on at night. They look beautiful, he said, and complimented Mrs. Kelly and all who had worked on the project for the years they had spent to get the project completed. Mayor Hurley’s report included a recap of a meeting she had attended with Mrs. Kelly and members of the Parks and Rec. committee, with American Hydro, to discuss acquisition of the river-front property. The Susquehanna Community Development Authority will be hosting a two-day seminar, on October 18 and 25 on seeking a Main St. designation to further enhance revitalization of the boro. Mrs. Hurley reported that there has been a growing problem with increased loitering in the boro, which is seen as contributing to increased drug traffic, harassment and crime. "This boro has come too far to let a handful of individuals ruin it, " she said. "We are looking into tougher rules, and revamping the boro’s ordinances; the boro will be tough and non-tolerant of such behavior." Police Officer John Record reported that the department is actively enforcing the boro’s curfew ordinance; minors under the age of eleven must be off the streets by 10 p.m.; those twelve and thirteen by 10:30, and minors fourteen and up by 11 p.m. Parents of violators will be sent a notice, which will be followed by a fine in the case of subsequent violations. There are four officers scheduled for duty on Halloween night, and additional coverage has been scheduled for October 26, for the Lions Club parade. A "police day" program was held at the Susquehanna Branch Library, with Officer Jerry Gow and Mayor Hurley participating. Activities included bike safety information and a coloring contest. Mayor Hurley was pleased to note that she has received a lot of nice comments from residents about the police department; the number of arrests and citations are up. "They’re doing a great job," she said. Mr. Glover asked that the police department get "heavy" on parking violations, as winter is coming, particularly instances where a vehicle is parked within the right-of-way for driveways and intersections, or is facing the wrong direction. "If we get heavy on enforcement now, before snow comes," he said, "people will be used to it. It’s a problem everywhere; it’s a mobile world, families don’t have just one car anymore. It is something I’d like to see done." Mr. Record responded that the police department has been aware of the problem and are reviewing the boro’s ordinances. Under old business, it was reported that no bids were received for sale of the boro car; a motion carried to re-advertise and include Scranton newspapers. A meeting has been scheduled for October 20 to work on the 2004 budget. In observance of Veterans Day, the November monthly meeting has been rescheduled to Wednesday, November 12. Under new business, Mr. Glover brought up the need for an updated sidewalk ordinance, as the new walks could be destroyed by use of salt. Mrs. Biegert said that the Housing Authority has sent letters to property owners adjacent to the new sidewalks, reminding them that salt should not be used and that the walks should be kept clear when there is snowfall; the property owners will be responsible for snow removal. Mr. Lewis said that an ordinance was obtained from Forest City for review; some changes pertinent to Susquehanna Boro had been made. Mr. Glover said that he feels that an ordinance committee is needed, as this particular ordinance will affect the streets, codes and police departments. And, Mr. Glover said, with additional parks being added to the boro, more park maintenance will be needed. "We only have two (streets department workers)," he said, "who is going to maintain the parks?" Mrs. Biegert added that the trees on Main St. would also need to be taken care of. Mr. Whitehead suggested that a meeting be arranged with the Parks and Rec. Committee to discuss maintenance. Mr. Whitehead reported that the Parks and Rec. Committee has purchased a new tractor, and a security system has been installed at the Prospect Street park. Mr. Lewis gave a rundown of codes reports and inspections for the previous months. The meeting adjourned to an executive session to discuss a personnel issue; council reconvened briefly after the session. A motion carried to terminate the employment of one (probationary) police officer.
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