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Issue Home June 13, 2007 Site Home

HEADLINES:
Montrose Deliberates Hotdogs And Asphalt
Great Bend Hears From PO Manager

Forest City Mayor Wants Snow Plan
Courthouse Report
Lanesboro Council Meeting Minutes
Gibson Barracks Report Compiled By Melinda Darrow
Great Bend Twp. Plans Road Work
Attempt To Oust Sharp Fails

Montrose Deliberates Hotdogs And Asphalt

With their accustomed joviality, the Montrose Borough Council met on Monday, June 4. Topics ranged from hot dogs to asphalt and its various uses. The utility of the noise ordinance was called into question, as was the acquisition source of bidders, and whether or not area youth could be trusted around a portable toilet.

The bids for paving and road repair materials were opened and read; however, the final decision was postponed. The borough planned to meet the following week for this purpose, in order to allow the information to be put in common language. A visitor to the meeting, Mike Neilson, expressed his concern that regardless of which company was chosen it be one which acquires materials from an approved plant, as is required by Bulletin 41. This is especially important if the borough will be using liquid fuels money.

In other repair news a massive water leak was discovered in the park. It is thought that a line must have burst, causing water usage upwards of 58,000 gallons. There will be no water at the park until this gets fixed. There was some discussion about renting a portable toilet to place at the site, as the toilets were in disrepair even before the water problem. Concerns were raised regarding the treatment of such by area kids, however, based on prior experience.

One area couple came to the meeting, inquiring into the details of the noise ordinance, and its efficacy. The couple has complained numerous times to the police regarding noise near them, yet the noise continues and no citations have been given. They felt that the various disturbances – yelling, dogs, music, etc. kept them from freely carrying on their normal daily activities. The barking dog ordinance has a stipulation written into it that a compliant must come from two separate households for action to be taken, and they queried whether this stipulation was also in the noise ordinance. It currently is not, though the matter might be looked into in the future. The chief of police stated, however, that though he could sympathize with the couple, generally by the time the officers responded to any calls there was no noise to be heard. He said that police could not testify regarding something they did not hear or observe. He explained that he knew, from experience, that were a citation written it would be difficult to prosecute without more than one witness, and subsequently would likely be thrown out in court. For this reason, while it is not currently required by the ordinance that two complaints be filed in such instances, it is essentially necessary if any further action is desired.

Another topic which spurred much debate was that of hot dogs, or more precisely the peddling thereof. The borough received a request for a peddler’s permit, from a man desiring to open a mobile hot dog stand. There was much discussion as to where such a stand could be permitted to park. The council did not want it to detract from restaurants already established in the area, and did not want it to pose a danger to anyone's safety. The original idea was that it could inhabit a parking space, however concern was raised that this might pose a traffic hazard as a line formed close to the street. In the end it was decided that permission would be granted with the stipulation that the supplicant locate a safe place to set up business, and have the place approved in advance by the council. The location cannot be very near an established restaurant, and can not be so located in traffic that pedestrians would be at risk. Finally the stand can not be open during the Fourth of July festivities, unless permission is granted from KLR, which is in charge of the downtown area at that time.

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Great Bend Hears From PO Manager
By Ted Brewster

Concerned over the fate of their post office and the ultimate identity of their little town, the Council of Great Bend Borough invited the local Postmaster and her supervisor to attend the June meeting on the 7th to explain recent moves to curtail counter hours and their plans for the facility.

Dan Reiss, United States Postal Service Manager of Post Office Operations for the Central District of Pennsylvania, and Gail Adams, Postmaster at Hallstead, who also oversees the Great Bend post office, fielded questions and comments from some 30 people. Mr. Reiss has clearly had considerable experience in meetings like this, as he said, some of them even more hostile.

He said that some months ago when the postmaster position in Great Bend was vacated, an opportunity opened to review the operations at the facility. A decision was made "not to fill the postmaster position" in Great Bend, and to begin to consolidate some operations at Hallstead. He said that with the transition to more on-line retail business over the Internet, revenue at small post offices like Great Bend is falling off, and some realignments have to be made.

With respect to closing the post office, several times he said, "At this particular time, I don't see that happening." However, he would not make a "long-term" commitment to the future of the local post office.

Council member Jerry MacConnell picked up on Mr. Reiss's statement immediately, noting that everyone could understand what "at this particular time" probably means. There remains the fear that the post office will eventually close.

In the meantime, Council was demanding that hours and service be restored to what they had been. But Mr. Reiss held firm. He said he would continue to review service hours and offerings, but probably would not employ another full-time postmaster at Great Bend, nor offer full-day service.

Council member Rick Franks seemed most distressed that the only notice provided was a single sheet posted in the post office window with the new hours, about two weeks before they were to go into effect. He said that common courtesy might have prompted the post office to at least notify the Borough office. Mr. Reiss said that any further changes would be announced to local officials as soon as possible.

Mr. Reiss said further that the letter-writing campaign would probably yield no further result than it had already, since directives would ultimately come down through the organization. After he left, however, Council vowed to collect the petitions still circulating and to forward them, and to keep the pressure on through federal representatives to try to get local service back, or at least to keep the office from shrinking further.

In other matters, everyone appreciated the commemoration at Memorial Park on Memorial Day. Many, many people are to be thanked for their effort at making it such a special day. Mayor Jim Riecke was accorded special commendation for his speech. And Mike Crook warmly thanked everyone for their help. Mr. Crook worked for well over a year to ensure that the park was renamed in honor of Specialist Lee Wiegand, who was killed in Iraq in September, 2005, and that the commemoration was held in accordance with the wishes of Specialist Wiegand's family.

Alan Grannis also attended the meeting to thank Council members for their support during his illness. The Borough's employee for five years, he apologized for having to resign so suddenly, but said he enjoyed working for the town and its people, and thanked everyone for their friendship.

Mr. Grannis won't have to be the one who supervises the street cleaning. Jerry MacConnell wanted to forego that this year, to save money and since it's so late into the summer already. However, Joe Collins said he could probably minimize the expense by hiring the street sweeper only for those areas – such as the corners – that need it the most, and for the minimum hours.

A lot of the money saved will go into street paving. Council opened bids for paving a stretch of Spring Street. Contour Construction will do the work for $31,613. A representative said it would take about two days, probably in July.

Mr. MacConnell said that the pressure to find out about excess water on Washington Street may be paying off. PennDOT isn't talking, but they're spending a lot of time digging and surveying underground conduits, apparently hunting for the source and conduction of some of the problems.

Council received a letter from the electric company announcing that, after 2012, Penelec will no longer install or service "outdoor area lighting." These are outdoor pole lights other than normal street lights.

Council was also notified that the Kime Apartments will be back on the tax rolls beginning in 2008. However, no one is counting the money yet. The apartments are under the wing of a non-profit outfit that can be expected to appeal for a renewal of its tax-exempt status.

Following an executive session, Council decided to hire Dick Button as a temporary, part-time grounds worker, beginning in August. Until then, Council member Ron Cranage will continue to fill in as necessary and available.

Council would like to continue to fly the flags along Main Street, but they can be expensive to maintain. Mayor Riecke suggested that the Borough sponsor a program under which residents can buy a flag for display, perhaps with a nameplate. Each flag costs approximately $50. Interested residents are encouraged to contact the Borough office.

The Great Bend Borough Council meets on the first Thursday of each month, beginning at 7:00 p.m., at the Borough building, at Elizabeth and Franklin Streets.

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Forest City Mayor Wants Snow Plan
By P. Jay Amadio

While residents of Forest City prepare for what could be a long, hot summer, Mayor Nick Cost is looking ahead to the snow season and wants the Borough Council to work with him on a snow removal plan that will keep the borough streets clean and safe.

For years, the borough has had an ordinance on the books that provides for alternate side of the street parking. The idea is to allow borough plows to clean one side of a street on even-numbered days and the other side on odd-numbered days. In two days, the streets would be cleaned and allow safe passage by motorists and emergency vehicles.

Unfortunately, the governing body has always yielded to public pressure and the alternate-side parking plan has been ignored. The end result has been chaotic to say the least and many borough streets remain snow laden days after a winter storm. Cost would like a plan in place before the snow flies.

“We need to set up snow removal meetings,” he told the council at last week’s meeting. “The snow will be here soon enough and we need to make certain our streets and sidewalks are clean.”

Council listened to the mayor but failed to heed his concern and moved on to other business without responding to his request.

The mayor also cautioned parents to remove basketball hoops from roadsides. He said it creates a hazard because kids are playing basketball in the streets.

“Those basketball hoops must go,” the mayor said.

Last, but not least, the mayor advised residents that leaving appliances, recyclables and refuse along the fence at the borough garage and recycling center is punishable by law. He said it is littering and the $300 fine for violators will be enforced.

In another matter of public participation, council urged residents to crush plastic bottles and tin cans before they are put at the curbside for pickup. The issue was brought to the governing body by the street department that is responsible for weekly recycling collections.

Bob Tedesco, street department foreman, said, as a result of plastics and cans not being crushed, the borough is taking three loads of recyclables to the Lackawanna County Recycling Center in Dunmore despite the fact that the weight is the same as when two loads were taken. And he said that the recycling center will not take recyclables containing plastic bottles or tin cans that are not crushed.

Tedesco further stated that commingling recyclables is a no-no, and that paper and cardboard should be separated from plastics and metals. And finally, he pointed out that the recycling center will not accept anything in plastic bags.

In other business, council-

-ratified adding Robert Dolph of Fiddle Lake to the street department.

-heard a plea from Councilman Paul J. Amadio for volunteers that are needed to deliver Meals on Wheels in the Forest City and Lenox Township areas. Interested individuals can contact Debbie at Barnes Kasson Hospital (570-278- 3277).

-named Councilwoman Kelly Twilly to represent the borough on a Rail-Trail Council study committee for the trail maintenance and management plan for the D&H Rail-Trail.

-passed a resolution adopting the Susquehanna County Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan.

-approved a revised borough employees’ handbook.

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Courthouse Report
Compiled By P. Jay Amadio

DEEDS

Stephen Durko, Beverly Durko to Kevin Durko, Union Dale, Sherrie Michele Durko, in Union Dale Borough for one dollar.

Michael Mulvihill, Amy Mulvihill to Russell E. Grodack, RR1, Forest City, Sarah E. Allen, in Clifford Township for $159,000.

P. M. Beys to John Olver, RR1, Hop Bottom, Mary Olver, in Lenox Township for $100.

John Olver, Mary Olver to John Olver, RR1, Hop Bottom, Mary Olver, in Lenox Township for one dollar.

James Vinton, Karen Vinton to Chris Potchak, Kirkwood, NY, in Jackson Township for $65,000.

Christopher D. MacNamee, Kathy M. Olszewski to Rolly Brink, RR2, New Milford, Penny A. Brink, in Franklin Township for $65,000.

Jeffrey C. Dahlander, Karin Dahlander to Walter G. Dahlander, RR1, Great Bend, in Great Bend Township for one dollar.

Rolly R. Brink, Penny D. Brink to Hugh McCollum, RR1, New Milford, Theresa M. McCollum, in New Milford Township for $133,000.

Cindy L. Cantone (by sheriff) aka Cindy L. Gardoski (by sheriff), Thomas Catone (by sheriff) to Mortgage IT, Horsham, PA, in Bridgewater Township for $5,511.

Thomas M. Wilbur, Elaine H. Wilbur to Robert W. McKeen, RR1, Montrose, Susan M. McKeen in Bridgewater Township for $20,000.

Robert W. McKeen, Susan M. McKeen to Robert W. McKeen, RR1, Montrose, Susan M. McKeen, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar.

Ruth E. Episale to Gary Lee Schaefer, Allentown, in Franklin Township for $136,000.

Arnold T. Manning, Mary Alice Manning to Victor J. Santarelli III, West Scranton, Tamara Santarelli, in Lenox Township for $300,000

Arnold Manning, Mary Alice Manning to Victor J. Santarelli, West Scranton, Tamara Santarelli, in Lenox Township for $125.

Sandra L. Robinson to Gerald Mark Clark, RR1, Springville, Mary Lou Clark, in Springville Township for $38,000.

Carey Leonard (by power of attorney) aka Carey C. Leonard (by power of attorney) to Maggie R. McNamara, RR1, Friendsville, Gregory A. McNamara, in Forest Lake Township for $132,500.

James Thomas, Nancy G. Thomas to George H. Rinck, RR2, Meshoppen, Kathleen G. Rinck, in Auburn Township for $172,000.

Shawn T. Truex (by sheriff), Erin D. Truex (by sheriff) to US Bank (SBM), West Palm Beach, FL, Flagstar Bank, in Lanesboro Borough for $3,681.

Donald Robert Smith to Community Bank & Trust, Clarks Summit, in Gibson Township for one dollar.

John Olver, Mary Olver to Petros M. Beys, RR1, Hop Bottom, in Lenox Township for $100.

Joseph Wentzell, Christina M. Wentzell to James T. McAllister, Philadelphia, Ellen K. McAllister, in Thompson Township for $163,000.

Walter S. Sadecki, Jr. to Thomas J. Perkins, RR2, Hallstead, Emily Perkins, in Liberty Township for $10,000.

Walter S. Sadecki, Jr. to Walter S. Sadecki, Jr., RR2, Hallstead, in Liberty Township for one dollar.

John Paul Kozlosky, Mary Ann Matuszewski to John Paul Kozlosky, New Hope, in Lathrop Township for one dollar.

Berneda Blaisure to William R. Hillier, Jr., RR4, Montrose, Barbara Hillier, in Dimock Township for $108,650.

Peter Isakson, Brenda D. Fahy-Isakson to Philip A. Keslo, Union Dale, Dorothy J. Keslo, Philip A. Keslo III, in Herrick Township for $164,900.

Gladys E. Bennett (aka) Gladys C. Bennett to Michael D. Wilmore, RR3, Montrose, Andrew D. Wilmore, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar.

Lynnette Dee Ryman Kaminsky, Stephen Kaminsky to Stephen Kaminsky, RR1, Susquehanna, in Jackson Township for $60,000.

Barry A. Searle, Roger B. Searle to Barry A. Searle, Clifford Township, Roger B. Searle, in Clifford Township for one dollar.

Barry A. Searle, Roger B. Searle, Anne C. Searle to Barry A. Searle, Clifford Township, Marvis Searle, in Clifford Township for one dollar.

Barry A. Searle, Marvis Searle to Barry A. Searle, Clifford Township, Marvis Searle, in Clifford Township for one dollar.

Joseph A. Dick, Jr. to James R. Schmidt, Carbondale, Andrew L. Schmidt, in Clifford Township for $96,000.

Harry A. Butts (estate) aka Harry Butts (estate), Harry L. Butts to Deborah DeParre, RR3, Hallstead, in Great Bend Township for $40,000.

Donna Yoder, Ida Ellis to Donna Yoder, Friendsville Borough, Ida Ellis, in Friendsville Borough for one dollar.

Paul H. Penny to Larry D. Cobb, New Milford, in New Milford Borough for $7,000.

William O. Wilson, Eunice F. Wilson to Scott P. Davies, Tunkhannock, Brandy P. Davies, in New Milford Township for $133,900.

MARRIAGES

Nathan Ramey and Jennifer Lynn Birtch, both of Lawton.

Gary J. Mokris, RR2, Meshoppen and Rebecca Lyrine Sidener, RR4, Montrose.

David Timothy Bowman, Canada and Becky Ann Tompkins, RR2, Susquehanna.

Robert J. Perini, Jr. and Nicole R. Davidson, both of RR1, Hop Bottom.

Robert W. Cain, Jr., Montrose and Colleen Marie Nolan, RR1, New Milford.

Patton J. Weidow and Abralyn Pearl Stone, both of RR3, Susquehanna.

Phillip J. Peterson and Michele Lee Whitney, both of RR7, Montrose.

DIVORCES

Alyssa A. Biondo, Susquehanna vs. John P. Biondo, South Gibson. Married in 1995.

Billie L. Evans, RR1, Montrose, vs. Judy L. Evans, Montrose. Married in 1996.

Chantel L. Gabriel, RR, Forest City vs. Christopher R. Gabriel, Hop Bottom. Married in 2001.

 

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Lanesboro Council Meeting Minutes
Submitted

Following are the Lanesboro Council meeting minutes from May 16, as submitted by Gail Hanrahan, Boro Secretary.

Roll Call: Dan Boughton, Regina Dilello, Myles Limbert, Bob Mireider, Bill Roberts, Stan Rockwell, Colleen Wilkes. Also Present – Gail Hanrahan, Boro Secy. Absent – Mayor Chris Maby

Action on minutes of previous meeting: Motion to accept with correction of address.

Correspondence and Resolutions:

Need to pass resolutions for County and Lanesboro Hazard Mitigation Plans. This resolution is needed to secure future FEMA / PEMA funding, in addition to providing access to buyout money for the Zeck and Welch properties. After discussion, motion to pass. For - 5 Against – 2.

Scerenka property is going to be subdivided into 15- and 8-acre parcels. One of the parcels is being purchased by B&S to allow them to finish the road to 171. Council needs to approve the subdivision. Approval could be conditional, based upon something in writing provided to the council through the Planning Commission as to when the remainder of Jefferson St. will be repaired and repaved. B&S agreed in the fall of 2004 to do this, at a meeting coordinated and chaired by Sandy Major. It is reasonable to think that this work can and should be done early this summer. The alternative would be to approve the subdivision and close the road until it is repaired, which is what was going to be done in 2004. After discussion, council agreed to subdivision with conditions. Vote – Unanimous.

Mayor’s Report:

Update on realignment work at end of Mountain Road by Harmony Township: Maby last corresponded with potential buyer of Selke property on 5/9. The earliest the closing on the property can be is the beginning of June, due to a problem with the survey. No work can be started without discussion and approval by the buyer after the purchase. Topic to be tabled until next meeting, unless something allows for earlier start, at which Maby will ask for council to consider holding a special meeting.

Right motor mount on the garbage truck broke on 5/12, while at the landfill. Rather than have truck towed (expensive), it was taken next door to the landfill to Sherwood Freightliner, Sterling, and Western Star, Inc. All three bolts broke inside the motor. Estimate of 30 hours to repair, unsure if it will be done in time for Saturday’s garbage. Maby will coordinate dumpster drop-offs if it is not done. Truck repaired on time for garbage pickup.

Maby invited to an all-day Flood Summit meeting in LaPlume on June 8, planning to attend. The fee is $10, and the program is put on by the Endless Mountains Resource Conservation and Development Council, several County Conservation Districts, Keystone College, Senator Madigan’s office and DEP, among others. Maby would like reimbursement for gas.

All non-residential sewer accounts have been reviewed against the 1987 ordinance establishing how many units they are being charged for, and adjusted accordingly. Maby would like to investigate the possibility of selling the sewer, in an effort to eliminate debt and save Lanesboro from future problems in an area where there is no in-house expertise. The obvious potential buyer would be Tri-Boro, but he does not want to discuss with solicitor or potential buyers without concurrence from council. After discussion, Council agreed for Mayor Maby to set up a meeting with Tri-Boro. Many questions were left unanswered until after the meeting.

The spreader was taken off the snowplow, and is now at Cleveland’s for repairs to the crack in the frame. As soon as it is complete, patching will begin on all paved roads. The spreader is on a trailer that was donated. Lanesboro purchased four railroad ties to elevate the spreader on the trailer so that it won’t drag.

Need permission to discuss cost of ditch and road shaping along Mountain Road. If Lanesboro can reach agreement with another municipality that has a grader (Harmony or Oakland Township), it does not have to be bid. Council agreed to discussion only.

Would like to have Tim Tompkins install a new inlet and cross pipe on Jefferson St. at the end of Enos White’s driveway to eliminate water running down the street and ponding in front of Dale Rockwell’s property. Also need permission from Stan Rockwell, as the outlet of the pipe will be distributing water toward his property. The slight increase in water heading toward Stan’s property will be offset by deepening the ditch and lining it with rock until it goes underground again. Maby also noted this is a hazard mitigation area in which a request has already been forwarded to PEMA to take the entire drainage system underground. The proposed repairs to be made now will become part of the permanent solution, if approved by PEMA. After discussion, council agreed. Stan Rockwell agreed with reservations and questions.

An individual came forward (through Tom Golka) with a donation of new surplus building material that can be used in the new building. Tom was able to secure enough tile flooring to do the police office, carpet for the municipal office, bulletproof glass, a shredder, and a large amount of ceiling tile.

Jay and Bev Bills of Windsor NY donated some chain link fence for the soccer field – it will be used with other donations being secured by the Soccer Association along the property lines.

Maby is participating on the Susquehanna County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee as the Borough Council Representative. Several meetings have been held in developing the plan, which was adopted by Lanesboro earlier tonight and by the County in the next several days. Having this plan in place will allow Lanesboro and other municipalities to chase mitigation monies for problems such as the wet area that extends from Joe’s General Store to Jefferson St. without waiting for another disaster.

The police have lined the roads for speed studies and are expecting to step up their efforts to enforce the speed limit. A request has been issued for a saturation visit by the state police, preferably on a weekend when there seems to be a large number of out-of-state visitors who disregard the laws. The last round of paperwork has been signed for the $30,000 grant for the new police car. We are waiting on funding, at which time the new car will be ordered. Council will then have to discuss what should be done with the old car, which has had several hundred dollars of repairs (ball joints, etc.) over the last few weeks. The repairs have kept the car off the road until recently, which is why there have been fewer patrols. Options for the old car – sell it, or keep it as backup. Maby would prefer to sell it and use the money toward paying off the packer on the garbage truck. The police are now patrolling in Thompson. A new policy is being written for how calls will be handled when our police are off duty. Effective immediately, all emergency calls that come in when someone is off duty are handled by the State Police. Non-emergency calls should be placed to 853–2911, so that a dispatcher can take the message and provide to the next officer on duty, which may not be for several days. A copy of this policy will be provided to the County Communications Center, State Police, and the School.

Code Enforcement – Pooler (Jail Hill) was issued a violation, and White (Jefferson St.) was issued a verbal warning regarding the collection of “stuff” at the properties. Not much can be done without enforcement of zoning everywhere. Questions from visitors regarding enforcing ordinances already passed.

Unfinished business:

Advertising the new building: draft copy of new building design, a change from NY to PA stamping must be changed. Motion to send design out to bid.

Potter property: Council agreed to contract an appraisal.

B-Mets game: Mireider obtaining 50 tickets to game on June 23, 2007.

Rental ordinance: Discussed and tabled for June meeting.

New business:

Visitors: Questions presented regarding new building cost and contractors. Codes questions raised regarding properties in the boro.

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Gibson Barracks Report Compiled By Melinda Darrow

ONE VEHICLE ACCIDENT

On June 6, at around 4 p.m., Nicole Williams lost control of her Hyundai Accent while negotiating a right curve in the highway. The accident occurred on SR0081 in Lenox Twp. The car entered the median and flipped over several times before coming to rest on the southbound lane within a construction zone. This led to the closure of SR0081 southbound, leading to an approximate four-mile backup of traffic. The traffic lasted approximately an hour after the accident occurred, when the highway was reopened. Williams was cited for careless driving.

MOTORCYCLE CRASH

On June 7, Daniel Cook of Richford, NY was traveling south on SR267 on a 1982 Honda CB900 motorcycle. A deer struck the motorcycle on the front fender area, causing it to slide on its left side approximately 140' before coming to a final uncontrolled rest off the west edge of the southbound lane. Cook was transported by Montrose EMS to Wilson Hospital for treatment.

BURGLARY

Unknown burglars broke into the Orient Star Restaurant, located on Erie Blvd. in Susquehanna, and stole money. The incident occurred after business hours between the 4th and 5th of June.

HIT & RUN ACCIDENT

On June 4, Sean Knickerbocker of Conklin, NY was traveling north on Pine Street in Hallstead Borough. As he approached the intersection of Church St. an unknown elderly, white female driving a green Ford Escort pulled into the intersection from Church Street and struck Knickerbocker's vehicle with her own. The woman then drove from the scene, and was last seen heading south on SR 171 in Great Bend Twp.

TRAFFIC CRASH

On June 2, Christopher Hoyle of Tunkhannock, PA was driving a 1991 Harley Davidson North along SR 29 when he got caught up in a downed telephone line and laid down the bike. Hoyle was treated at Montrose Hospital for bruises sustained in the crash.

TRAFFIC CRASH

On June 2, Rick Hunsinger of Stevensville, PA was driving a Ford F-350 North along SR267 in Birchardville when his trailer broke free from his truck. The trailer subsequently caused damage to some fencing and grave markers at the Birchardville cemetery.

ESCAPEE

On June 2, Daniel Bateman of Gibson, PA failed to return to the Susquehanna County Prison after being released on the “Work Release Program.” Bateman was taken into custody in New Milford Township at 9:45 p.m., after being seen at Green Gables. He was returned to the prison for detention and faces charges of escape.

POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA AND DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

On June 1, officers of the Susquehanna County Probation Department were checking on a client in Thompson Borough when they discovered David Brown, of the same location, to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana. Other items related to the usage of the drug were also discovered. The accused was placed into custody and charged with violation of the Controlled Substance Drug Device and Cosmetic Act, arraigned before duty Dist. Justice Jeffrey Hollister, and released on R.O.R. Bail awaiting a future scheduled hearing.

TRAFFIC COLLISION

On May 26 an accident occurred within the single left-hand lane of SR0081 Northbound in the area of the exit #230 on-ramp in Great Bend Township. The incident occurred as the lanes were restricted due to construction. The front end of a tractor trailer driven by Harry Shetlick III of Somerset, NJ struck the rear of the trailer unit driven by Scott Robacker of Oak Park, MI and a sleeper berth passenger/co-driver Jack Zamojcin of Hazel Park, MI. Shetlick was ejected from his vehicle, and sustained major injuries; he was not wearing his seatbelt. Robacker and Zamojcin were not injured; Robacker was wearing a seatbelt. Other vehicles traveled through the collision scene after the initial collision, partially struck the Shetlick's vehicle, and encountered debris on the roadway, sustaining damage. Approximately 150 gallons of diesel fuel was spilled onto the highway. Great Bend Fire/EMS/Rescue, Susquehanna County Fire Police, EMA, DEP, PennDOT and HAZMAT clean up crews responded to the scene.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS

On May 30th two men, Scott Robacker and Jack Zamojcin, of Oak Park, MI and Hazel Park, MI respectively trespassed onto the property of Marv's Towing in Great Bend. The men came to remove items from their truck, which had been impounded. They had been told not to enter it. Both men were arrested for criminal trespass.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On May 25, at around 9 p.m., Amanda Huston of Forest City is accused of damaging vehicles belonging to Michele Hitchcock of Hop Bottom and Melissa Henry of Clifford at the Penn Can Speedway in Oakland Twp. Huston allegedly dented and scratched several body panels, causing damage totaling approximately $1,000.

THEFT – MOTOR VEHICLE

On May 14, four people approached a vehicle belonging to Mark Tierney of Hallstead while it was parked on Church Street in Great Bend. Three of the four began to push the vehicle from behind while the fourth steered it. The group started the vehicle at the end of the block and fled. The incident occurred between 1 and 2 a.m. The vehicle in question was a black, extended cab Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, equipped with a brush guard and reading “Denton Criek” on the front license plate.

SIMPLE ASSAULT

On May 14, Steven Glover and Jefferey Moran, both of New Milford, got into a verbal argument. Moran got a gun and pointed it at Glover stating, “You better run, boy” before chasing him into the woods. After a short chase Moran and Glover talked out their problems.

TRAFFIC VIOLATION – DUI

On May 26, the Pennsylvania State police stopped Colin Fitzsimmons of the Cumberland, PA area while he was on SR 374, Herrick Center, in Herrick Twp. Fitzsimmons exhibited signs of intoxication and was transported to Marion Community Hospital in Carbondale for BAC testing.

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Great Bend Twp. Plans Road Work
By Barbara Whitehead

Roads were the main topic of discussion at the June 4 meeting of the Great Bend Township Supervisors.

Audience/resident comments and concerns included Bogart Street and McHugh Road. Bogart St., it was said, had been paved some time ago as part of the Agility program with the state, but parts of it had not held up well over time as a roller had not been used when the paving was done. McHugh Road had been tarred and chipped in 1998, but had seen virtually no maintenance since then and is in deteriorated condition. The supervisors were asked to consider having it tarred and chipped. They said it had been their goal to get it back in shape, but that the flood last year had interfered with the plans. Although they could not give a definite answer at this time, they will look at including it in the plans for improvement work for next year.

A motion carried to put out bids for tar and chip work on 100 yards of Lovers Lane; 250 yards of the north end of Bogart St. and 150 yards of the south end; all of Old Route 11, plus binder where needed; and all of Nova Road. FEMA funding will be used for the majority of the work. And, a sluice will be put in on Bogart St. before the tar and chip work is started.

Supervisor Squier planned to attend a flood summit meeting to be held at Keystone College on June 8.

A motion carried to adopt a resolution to accept the county’s hazard mitigation plan; municipalities that choose not to adopt the plan may be unable to secure FEMA or other federal funding in the event of another disaster, even in the case of private property owners seeking a buyout from flood damage.

Paperwork has been signed for NRCS to begin two projects on Salt Lick Creek; the projects were expected to be bid out the next week.

Eight applicants were interviewed for the two road crew positions. A motion carried to hire Timothy Patrick and Scott Tiffany, full-time, at $12 per hour.

Dirt and gravel road grant funding is available from the state; after a short discussion, it was agreed to file an application for work on Towner Road.

One of the bidders for road material submitted at last month’s meeting sent a letter requesting information on why their bid for road material was not accepted. They will be sent a letter of explanation, along with a copy of the meeting’s minutes, which stated that the supervisors were not happy with this particular company’s service the last time they had been awarded a contract; the materials had not been delivered in a timely manner.

Permits issued during the previous month included one for Todd Schmidt, for Small Noncoal Operations, and Mark Walworth was issued a waiver of permit for Noncoal Exploration from DEP.

Correspondence included notification from Penelec that they will no longer be accepting applications for new outdoor lighting (street lights), and will no longer repair or replace mercury vapor lights. By 2012, they will not maintain outdoor lights at all, and if a municipality chooses not to take responsibility for them, the lights and poles could be removed altogether.

The Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau made their annual donation request, in the amount of 10¢ per resident. With a total of about 1,890 residents in the township, a motion carried to approve a donation of $189.

Municipalities need to update their emergency operations plan every two years; the county has offered municipalities the opportunity to opt into a county plan, which would eliminate the need for individual plans. The supervisors will contact Dixie Russell, the township’s Emergency Management Coordinator, to have her look over the county plan, and get her input.

The supervisors have been notified that Joan Long has filed an appeal of her finding of guilt in her codes violation case.

The supervisors are still trying to locate the owner of a property where a number of complaints have been received about tires being dumped. Once the owner is determined, he/she will be sent a letter, giving notice that they must be cleaned up, after which DEP will be notified if they are not. And, the owner of a property where a saw mud pit has been of concern has been notified that it must be fenced in.

Under new business, a motion carried to get prices for a lawn mower and weed eater from local businesses, and to purchase whichever offers the best price.

The next meeting will be on Monday, July 2, 7 p.m. in the township building.

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Attempt To Oust Sharp Fails
By P. Jay Amadio

An attempt to oust Rowland Sharp as chair of the Susquehanna County Railroad Authority failed last week by a vote of 4-2.

Authority member Paul J. Amadio made the motion to replace Sharp and it drew a second from Janet Haulton but that’s as far as it went. Members Ken Bondurant, Joseph White, Tom Wooden and Bob McNamara opposed the motion.

“It behooves me on behalf of the taxpayers of this county,” said Amadio, “to make a move that I feel is essential to the success of the Railroad Authority’s project. I am making a motion to replace Rowland Sharp as chairman in keeping with a suggestion from state Senator (Roger) Madigan’s office.”

“If I felt in any way that I was jeopardizing any possibility of getting funding to finance the authority’s project,” Amadio continued, “I would resign. We are just the pawns in what could be quite a project for Susquehanna County. I don’t think any of us has the right to perpetuate ourselves in office if we are jeopardizing the funding.

“I did what I felt should be done. I made the motion. Now it is up to you. Vote your conscience. That is what I am going to do.”

“Who would replace him?” Wooden asked.

“That’s up to this body,” Amadio replied. “I am only one vote.”

”Yes,” Bondurant said, “But somebody has to say ‘I'll take it.’”

Bondurant further stated that after an April meeting he received an encouraging letter from Craig Shuey of Senator Madigan’s office.

“He said we seem to be making progress,” Bondurant said

“You have nothing in writing,” Wooden told Amadio. “You want us to go by what you are telling us, but you have nothing in writing whatsoever.”

Patrick J. Lavelle, attorney for the authority, read a letter signed by county commissioners, Roberta Kelly and MaryAnn Warren, urging the authority to vote Sharp out of office and elect a new chair. He said the authority should discuss the matter.

“My position would be,” Bondurant said, “is that we made good progress and we should just keep going.”

“The funding will go down the tubes because of you four that voted no,” Janet Haulton said after the motion was defeated. “We have been told if Rowland doesn't step down, the money will go elsewhere. This could have been a good project, and now it is down the tubes.”

“Everything that was brought to us, we have tried to do,” McNamara said. “I don’t know what has changed that created this. Senator Madigan is holding a hatchet over our heads. A guy that represents us is saying to Susquehanna County, ‘because I do not like Rowland Sharp, I am not going to help you.’”

“That’s not at all what he is saying,” Ms. Haulton replied. “What he is saying is there has been no progress made by the authority in three and one-half years.”

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