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HEADLINES: New Milford Treads Familiar Ground Clarifications were made at the September 17th New Milford Township meeting regarding misunderstandings from the August meeting. Bill Shigo is not in charge of residential code enforcement. Building Inspection Underwriters, Inc. will be handling both commercial and residential matters for the township; Mr. Shigo works for this company. The 10% administration fee, discussed at the last meeting, was also clarified. This percentage is taken off the total of combined permit fees, to be used for administrative purposes. It is taken from the combined sum of all UCC permits – building, electric, plumbing, etc. It was asked what the difference, cost wise, would be between working with Building Inspection Underwriters, Inc. and being a member of COG. It was answered that there is no difference in fees, save Building Inspection Underwriters, Inc. not requiring a yearly joining fee. It was also stated that this company is affiliated with COG. Mr. Bevan suggested that had the township gone with COG, the East Lake campground situation would not have gotten to the point it has. It was asked what the disadvantage of being in COG was, to which one of the supervisors responded, “More government.” A visitor asked what was occurring with open permits left by the previous enforcement officer. It was answered that the company he works with has a substitute for him, and those concerned could contact the borough secretary. Another visitor asked what should be done if an inspection were needed when the secretary was not in the office. Ms. Tyler responded that numbers, posted on the door of the township building, could be called. The largest discussion of the evening came at the end. Someone asked where the East Lake campground situation stood; the supervisors answered that they had not heard anything new. What followed was a familiar sort of discussion for regular attendees at the meeting. Questions regarding the tank which Mr. Young reportedly buried in the ground were raised. As far as the supervisors know, it was answered, the tank is in the ground, but is not hooked up to anything. Citizens concerned about the campground asked who was responsible for enforcing the judge's ruling, and asked what was in place to stop others from doing what they so desired. DEP, they said, told them that enforcement is the supervisors' responsibility. The supervisors reiterated that the matter was in litigation. The township, they said, could only go so far, as the supervisors do not want it sued. Reports were made of campers on the premises, and of Mr. Young advertising on the internet and going to Harrisburg to get signs re-erected on the highway. It was suggested that a closed sign be put on the gate, but the supervisors explained that they could not do so legally. Someone stated that the judge had ruled, and said that he could not enforce it unless the township filed a contempt of court. The supervisors responded that they had already done so, and it was suggested that currently, the judge's hands are tied as well. Dye tests have been done, and it was generally believed that the results had come out well. The supervisors were asked about having the SEO go to inspect the campground, but responded that he was not allowed on the premises. The supervisors responded, when asked, that their position was that they were waiting on the legal process. They stated, however, that the matter was not dropped, and that they would do what they could to rectify it. A few ideas for potential future action were mentioned. It was clarified that COG has no laws of its own, and only enforces municipalities' rules and laws, and those of the state. Some visitors stated that the situation was not the supervisors' fault, nor did they blame the campers. Some present also did not want the camp closed, it was expressed, but only want the problems fixed, and to know that the sewage system in place is adequate.
SCSD Board Fills Vacancy At the September 17 meeting of the Susquehanna Community School Board, Erin Soden was appointed as School Director for Region I until the first Monday of December, 2009, to complete the term of Mary Wescott, who had resigned. Clay Weaver was elected vice-president for the remainder of the 2008 Vice-President term (Mrs. Wescott had filled that position). One item of correspondence was read, a letter from an elementary student’s parent requesting that the district return to using Sunset Photo as the district’s photographer. The letter said that the photography service presently used is priced higher than Sunset and does not include a yearbook-type booklet that Sunset did provide. With $25,000 in Title VI funding, the district will be purchasing four laptop computer stations for the elementary building. The Strategic Plan, in its third year, is a professional development plan which will be updated, with the update to take effect July 1. The state Auditor General’s office conducted a safety audit and made some recommendations. The State Police will be asked to conduct a risk analysis of both buildings, the results of which will be combined with the Auditor General’s recommendations and used to develop modifications to the district’s current crisis response plan. The district will also be getting an energy audit to see where modifications can be made to save on energy costs. One item that will definitely need to be updated is the lighting system currently used, as replacement parts are no longer available. New high school faculty members were introduced, Assistant Principal Holly Warunek, Science teachers Jeremy Page and Kimberly Garrison, Social Studies teacher Brent Soden, Health and Phys. Ed. teacher William Sealy, and Computer Technology teacher Mike Matis. The elementary open house was well attended, with about 75% of families attending. Transportation is running well after some adjustments to new routes. The 2007-08 audit is underway, and data from ‘07 and ‘08 is being compiled for submission to the state for reimbursement. The staff has already had one in-service day, with a number of items addressed. The first night football game of the year will be on October 3, with lighting provided by one of the district’s bus contractor crews, and Homecoming will be on October 18. The 2008 Susquehanna Community School District Report Card was approved. Data from the last round of PSSA testing showed mostly good results, with a number of areas where students met or exceeded state average. Those few areas where the scores weren’t as good will be addressed. Items approved by the board included School Per Capita Tax Exonerations; Bullying/Cyberbullying Policy #249, which will be posted in all of the district’s classrooms; Rhondra Baldwin as the Thompson Borough deputy tax collector; transportation contracts and drivers for the 2008/2009 school year; substitute personnel for the 2008/2009 school year; the resignations of Andrea Sanders, S.A.D.D. Advisor, Richard Emmons, Junior High Basketball Co-Coach, and Tamara McKinney, elementary aide; the hiring of Michael Matis, Student Council Advisor, Jamie Smith, Baseball Head Coach, Jason Scarbez, Mark Wilchock and Carl Zukus, who will share a football assistant coach position; volunteers Karlyn Smith, Varsity Football Cheerleaders, Jody Stanley, Junior High Football and Janice Clarke, Teacher Mentor; tenure for teachers Tracy Bergen, Julie Gallo, Gloria Glidden, Benjamin Hibbard, Jamie Smith; adding Jeremy Wayman to the substitute bus driver list. A motion carried to accept the Classroom For the Future Grant in the (tentative) amount of $45,413.00 for the 2008/2009 school year. The funds will be used to purchase laptops for the high school Science and Social Studies departments. A Memorandum of Understanding and Agreement between the Susquehanna County Probation and Parole Department and Susquehanna Community School District was accepted. The board also approved a contract with Cyber City for website design services and maintaining. The district has outgrown its current website and the new one will focus more on the district’s students and faculty. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, October 15, 7 p.m. in the administration offices in the elementary building.
FCR Parents Want Answers At a public work session on September 8, the Forest City Regional School Board heard comments from the public. Robert Townsend asked the board what its policy is regarding censorship of library reading material. Dr. Vadella stated that the board attempts to follow community standards regarding library items that are not a part of the actual curriculum. Townsend asked, “Has the community been canvassed [regarding censorship]?” Townsend stated that, according to Supreme Court standards, once a book is purchased it cannot be removed for content. Vadella pointed out that the library is open to students age 12 and up. Townsend maintained that the issue of censorship is “an enormously huge deal,” and hoped that parents don’t believe in “truncating their child’s education.” Another parent questioned the prerequisite for Spanish III, stating that her daughter wishes to take the course but is unable to, since she scored below an 88 in Spanish II. The parent stated that if someone’s passing a subject, she should be eligible to take the next level, pointing out, “There are people who get jobs [because they speak Spanish].” Joe Castrogiovanni, acting high school principal, responded, “There has to be some cut-off. You have to be pretty sharp to continue on [to an advanced class], or you’ll be lost.”
Courthouse Report DEEDS James R. and Maria B. Canfield to James R. and Maria B. Canfield, in Rush Township for one dollar. George Frew to Keith and Gail Chadwick, in New Milford Township for $80,000.00. Eugene F. and Karen M. Schmidt to Eugene F. Schmidt, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Blair K. Caterson to Montrose Borough, in Montrose for $92,000.00. Edward R. and Nina F. Segeske to Joseph S., Jr. and Ann Marie Aylesworth, in Lathrop Township for $24,000.00. Betsy Sodon to James N. and Mary R. Blachek, in Silver Lake Township for $245,000.00. Richard and Lucille Norton to Kevin Crosby and Theresa Capooci, in Lathrop Township for $85,000.00. Paul (AKA) Paul F. and Betty J. Oleniacz (NBM) Betty Blaisure to Jennifer Oleniacz, in Jessup Township for one dollar. Ruth Bennett (By Atty) to Fay C. Button, in Harford Township for one dollar. Prudence V. Clark (By Atty) to Fay C. Button, in Harford Township for one dollar. Fay C. Button (By Atty) to Sue Ann Furney, in Harford Township for one dollar. Ellen J. Slocum to Marion R. Slocum, in Harmony Township for one dollar. Susan and Joseph J. Salko to Susan, Joseph J., Joseph, Thomas, Matthew and Mary Sue Salko, in Clifford Township for one dollar. George Stevens, Rebecca D. Jesse, Diane and John Marshman to George Stevens and Rebecca D. Jesse, in New Milford Township for one dollar. Roy E. (By Sheriff) and Tammy L. (By Sheriff) Groover (NKA) Tammy L. Torch to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company (Trustee) and Ameriquest Mortgage Securities, Inc., in Clifford Township for $2,552.37. Walter R. (AKA) Walter E. Walka to Walter E. Walka, in Harford Township for one dollar. Walter R. (AKA) Walter E. Walka to Walter E. Walka, in Harford Township for one dollar. Thomas M. and Elaine M. Wilbur to Michael Fancher and Jennifer Oleniacz, in Bridgewater Township for $125,000.00. Westhoff Holdings, Inc. to Patrick Schmuecker, in Montrose for $1,000.00. John R. and Mary A. Jardel and Joseph S. and Louise P. Myers to James T. Davenport, in Liberty Township for $25,000.00. Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to Gregory S. and Susan B. Barre, in Herrick Township for $3,495.00. Ann Cameron Corrie (Trust By Trustee) to Mary B. Barnhard, in Dimock Township for $85,000.00. Mark C. and Emily O. Dorval to Jomar 2008 LLC, in Lathrop Township for $65,000.00. John G. Baines to Tatiana Sorochka Baines, in Lenox Township for one dollar. Domenic and Eleanore Iacovelli to Lee Michael Iacovelli and Lauren Kominowski, in Franklin Township for one dollar. D. Dale and Carol Grosvenor and Jesse D. and Stacey Trunk to Curtis Ray Woodruff (DBA) and CRW Construction, in Bridgewater Township for $58,000.00. Allen M. and Linda A. Drum to Allen M. and Linda A. Drum (Revocable Trust), in Clifford Township for one dollar. Ellen Marie Hibbard to Arvin F., Milan J. and Sandra E. Hibbard, Catherine A. Glinski, Sharon M. Frei and Yvonne R. Darragh, in Dimock Township for one dollar. Theodore A. Baird and Gina Kuchinski-Baird to Catherine L. Formosa, in Great Bend Borough for $99,300.00. Dennis W. (By Sheriff) and Pamela J. (By Sheriff) Hayes and DW Hayes, Inc. (By Sheriff) to First Liberty Bank – A Div. of Community Bank, + (SBM) & Grange National Bank of Wyoming County, in Choconut Township for $11,171.30. Kenneth Small to Joseph D. Bishop, in Great Bend Borough for $121,500.00. Mary C. and James B. (By Agent) McColl to Mary C. McColl, in Ararat Township for one dollar. Gary A. and Susan G. Campbell to John and Heidi Zenefski, in Forest Lake Township for $185,000.00. Oscar A., Jr. and Kathleen E. Miller to Pennsylvania Commonwealth – Dept. of Transportation, in Harmony Township for one dollar. James P. May to John J. and Colleen C. Fitzsimmons, in Silver Lake Township for $610,000.00. Raymond Cox, Jr. to Raymond, Jr. and Debra L. Cox, in Franklin Township for one dollar. Thomas C. and Deborah R. Clark to Robert E. and Patricia O. Aiken, in Montrose for $275,000.00. MARRIAGES Andrew David Burkinshaw of Abbotsford, BC and Colleen R. Sargent of Cortland, NY. Matthew S. Johnson and Rebecca Lynn Rose, both of Kingsley. Franklin G. Belcher of Sula, MT and Janet S. Haulton of Hallstead. Timothy W. Allen and Joy Lynn Payne, both of New Milford. Terry Lee Irwin and Diane C. Ainey, both of Susquehanna. Bradley Richard Marcho of Susquehanna and Michelle Lynda Galacci of Harford. Michael James Cola and Helen T. Ofcharsky, both of Kingsley. James Paul Keating and Tiffany Elizabeth Cobb, both of Carbondale. Craig Arthur Rollings and Jayne K. Vanshan, both of Peckville. Dennis J. Canfield and Cheryl B. Pascavage, both of Meshoppen. Paul Raymond Wells and Kimberly L. Dunne, both of Montrose. Dustin Abbott and Cassie L. Lanfair, both of Hallstead. Louis W. Butts and Anita Naomi Flynn, both of Hallstead. Kenneth Frank Perry and Donna Mae Perry, both of Jackson. Andrew Winfield Lesser and Nicole C. Norton, both of Hallstead. Gregory Alan Clouthier and Michelle M. Decamp, both of Friendsville. Terry L. Anderson and Doris Marie Anderson, both of Hop Bottom. Kim Maury Merritt and Stephanie L. Reed, both of Hallstead. Craig Richard Yost and Virginia Betley, both of Montrose. Henry J. Matute and Keily Medina, both of Scranton, PA. DIVORCES Colleen Foote of Binghamton, NY vs. Eric Foote of Hallstead, married 1997. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has Bench Warrants for the following individuals as of 10:03 a.m. on September 19, 2008. Leroy J. Adams, Robert L. Andersen, Myrtle F. Anthony, Michael A. Argust, Harry Ashley, David P. Atherholt, Jr, Michael J. Beach, Keith B. Beach, David S. Blaisure, Joseph Bonavita, Jennifer N. Bonavita, William R. Bondarek, Daniel E. Boyer, Michael P. Bradley, Jr., Kevin P. Brink, Kenneth G. Burgess, Lynn M. Cokely, Mark T. Conklin, Brandi K. Cook, Jeffrey A. Craig, John C. Creps, Debra Dean, Michele Devito, Paul H. Donovan, Deborah L. Drish, Thomas D. Earley, Jonathan Fathi, Kristoffer B. Fazzi, David J. Fischer, Thomas Fisher, Nesbitt W. Fitch, Jr., Joseph E. Flynn, Ryan M. Forder, Kelly Fox, Yvette Glover, Gary C. Gorton, Jr., Jonathan S. Guzy, David Haines, Jr., Suzanne R. Hansen, Keith G. Harms, Shawn D. Hartzell, Edward C. Holmes, Jeffrey J. Horrocks, Roy M. Huntley, Erik E. Krisovitch, Victoria L. Kutney, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Howard J. Linder, George D. Lowery, John A. Manning, Patricia J. Marrero, Jason K. Marshall, Fred C. Materese, Erica Y. Mead, Gary Perico, Jeffrey A. Ransom, Kim Read, Raymond J. Ricci, Nathan Rosene, Constance Sevensky, Neil D. Shaffer, David J. Shiner, Jeffrey C. Skinner, Amy M. Squier, Correna A. Stormes, Earl H. Thompson, Jr, Laura M. Thorn, Keith W. Vroman, Glynn Wildoner, III, Patrick L. Yachymiak. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
Silver Lake Twp. Police Report Following is the August, 2008 Silver Lake Township Police Report, as submitted. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On Sunday, August 3, residents on Quaker Lake reported that egging had been done to cottage roofs and vehicles. Investigation showed that the mischief erupted from nearby cottages above the scene. This incident is still under investigation. ASSIST other AGENCIES On August 7, Silver Lake Police assisted the Susquehanna County Sheriff’s Department with a Bench Warrant arrest of Robert Simpson of Friendsville. While making the arrest, drug paraphernalia and marijuana were found in Simpson’s possession. He was subsequently charged by the Susquehanna County Drug Task Force with resisting arrest and drug related charges. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On August 7, Arrowhead Camp reported that paddleboats and inflatable rafts had been taken and vandalized on the lake and at the camp. The paddleboats were retrieved. DUI On August 9, Brian C. Swan of Montrose, PA, was arrested for DUI after nearly colliding head-on with a Silver Lake Township patrol vehicle. The erratic driver was traveling east near Barney Road on SR4002 at the time of the arrest. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/DISORDERLY CONDUCT On August 13, a vehicle was reported to have been driving on a resident’s lawn at the Arrowhead Lake cottage and resident area at 3:00 a.m. The vehicle awoke the residents before getting stuck in a field nearby and then abandoned. The N.Y. State vehicle was impounded and charges are pending upon further investigation. DISORDERLY CONDUCT On August 20, several residents reported late night and early morning gunshots fired in the Silver Lake (body of water) area. Reports are that this activity has been going on at random for several weeks. This activity is still under investigation. THEFT On August 20, Shasta Richmond, of Brackney, reported that her pocketbook with $170.00 cash, I.D. and other items was possibly taken while attending a family outing. Anyone with information on this investigation please call Silver Lake Township Police. MVA (DUI) On August 20, Julie M. Beagle was driving her 2006 Toyota Tacoma on McCormick Road T806, when she lost control and crashed the vehicle. Her two sons were in the back bed of the pick-up and were thrown out upon impact. One was seriously injured. She was later charged with DUI and two counts of recklessly endangering another person. DISORDERLY CONDUCT On August 21, Sandra Streater of Brackney, reported shots being fired very close to her residence on Upper Rhiney Creek Road. Other residents in the area also heard and reported the shooting. This incident is still under investigation. THEFT On August 22, Ed Giblin of Brackney, reported gasoline had been stolen from his vehicle on his property on Patton Road. ACCIDENT ASSIST On August 23, Silver Lake Police responded to an accident involving a collapsed building entrapping a resident. John Tucker, of Brackney, was dismantling an old dwelling on his property when the building collapsed, pinning him beneath the structure. Silver Lake Police and Silver Lake Rescue and Emergency personnel responded and freed Mr. Tucker, who was transported to a local hospital with only minor injuries. THEFT/CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On August 28, Michael Shuta, Jr. of Binghamton, N.Y., reported that quarry stone had been stolen from a quarry he leased to Joseph Roberts of Susquehanna, PA. The quarry is on Shuta’s property in Silver Lake Township. Equipment at the quarry site had also been vandalized recently. ASSIST PSP (HOMICIDE) On August 30, Silver Lake Police responded, at the request of PSP Gibson, to an incident in Franklin Forks, Franklin Township. The initial call was that an unresponsive female was down at the residence with an incoherent male present. DOMESTIC DISPUTE On August 31, Olivia Kellogg of Brackney reported that she and her boyfriend, Greg Branning, were having a verbal dispute and it was escalating. The individuals were separated and the incident resolved at this point. Any information or questions for the Silver Lake Township Police, call (570) 278-6818 or e-mail at silverlaketwppd@epix.net. All information will be held strictly confidential. Look at the Silver Lake Township website at silverlaketwp.org to see all of Silver Lake Township’s news, profiles and resources, including the police reports.
Sounds Of Change At Elk Lake School The school year began well at Elk Lake and the SCCTC, or so the administrators' of the schools reported at the September 16 board meeting. Mr. Cuomo, high school principal, reported the commencement of graduation project procedures by 11th and 12th graders. The drama club put on a spaghetti dinner, which board president Mr. Place spoke of favorably, at which patrons were both served and entertained. Mr. Pirrone reported a successful curriculum night at the elementary level, where parents could see what their kids were to learn. The school's new scoreboard was discussed and thanks expressed to those responsible for the board's donation. At the time of Mr. Mallery's report, the girls' junior high cross-country team was undefeated, and things were running well in the middle school as well. The director of the SCCTC had good news to report as well. The school run restaurant was featured by Channel 16 the week before the meeting, with more information posted on their website. The reporter and camera operator sampled the fare, and apparently spoke highly of it. The cosmetology clinic was mentioned, and will be open on some evenings and Saturdays this year to accommodate clients. Students involved in the house project have been exposed to applying stone, a new skill for them. Some were also able to tour the house with an inspector, who talked with them and explained how an inspector was really a friend. The house did pass inspection. There is a plan to create a sign to put at the house site, identifying it as a school project. This, it was thought, might help alleviate the fear that people might be passing it during idle periods and thinking something is wrong with the property. Once again, technical education was facilitated when the SCCTC received almost $13,000 this year from the United Way to help purchase tools and safety equipment. Significant discussion occurred regarding a new sound system for the auditorium. The drama and music departments had been complaining about poor sound quality in the facility, it was stated, due to a system termed “woefully inadequate.” Three bids were received when the district explored the possibilities for a replacement. The drama, choir, and band directors, it was reported, expressed comfort with the bid by Magdon Music of Olyphant, which happened to also be one of the cheaper bids. This bid specified 24 channel boards, with the option to upgrade to 32 channels for an extra thousand dollars. Finally, after further discussion of powered speakers, recorders, and the wisdom of having fewer dials where possible, the board voted to accept Magdon's bid with the upgrade included. The transportation policy was also discussed. The board wished to make it absolutely clear, in the policy, that no bus older than fourteen years could be run, though the bus could be run during the fourteenth year. There was some confusion over whether the count dated from the creation of the bus, or from the beginning of its use. Dr. Cuomo explained that the state used the age of the bus chassis as its mark. This information is known by the contractors, and stated in the district's contracts. The other change involved the fuel adjustment supplement adopted at the last month's meeting. The policy was predicated on the use of diesel fuel in the buses, but the district currently has one gas bus, and may see more in the future. A base amount of $2.05 was set, then, for gas, with the base for diesel remaining as it was. So far as he knows the early dismissal system is working well, Dr. Bush reported when asked. Study halls are being provided for students staying after school for activities. These are monitored by substitutes. Other changes are also occurring. The American Dairy Association donated a new milk machine to the district, provided only milk is sold in it. The old vending machine had been having problems, and the district is seeking a new home for it. It was mentioned that the American Dairy Association is completely funded by dairy farmers, and the board decided to send a thank you letter to the organization. The energy education position was filled by Kim Guiton. Four applicants were interviewed, two in-house and two from the community. Energy Education strongly recommended hiring someone in-house, and after the interviews recommended Ms. Guiton. The board was to review the policy involved in the agreement with that company and approval will be sought at the October meeting. The radio/switchboard operator position was also filled. The new operator is scheduled to work from right after school to roughly 4:45 pm. A what-if book is being created, to dictate procedures in different situations. A bus list, detention list, list of students in activities, and activity log have also been compiled.
Following is the list of names drawn to serve as Petit and Traverse jurors to appear in the Court of Common Pleas, Susquehanna County Courthouse, Montrose, on the sixth day of October at 9:00 a.m. Ararat Twp.: June Arneil. Auburn Twp.: Mary Frantz, Cheryl Stewart, Dale Stone. Bridgewater Twp.: George Costa, Joyce Egli, John Frystak, Nellie Gere, Lori Keihl, Matthew Nebzydoski, Leonard Norville. Brooklyn Twp.: Laurie Tylutki. Choconut Twp.: Loretta Bloch, Colleen Carey, Dale Clapper, Marcie Henderson. Clifford Twp.: Matthew Allen, Leon Burns, Pete Freely, Jeffrey Gamble, Joseph Gerdusky, Ralph Grecco, Thomas Yadlosky. Dimock Twp.: Joseph Ferguson, Julie Woodruff. Forest Lake Twp.: Kevin Brady, Mark Gardner, Mark King, Lisa Reeves. Gibson Twp.: Ralph Biesecker, John Goodenough. Great Bend Twp.: John Chianese. Hallstead Boro: Armando Gutierriz, Shawn Moody, Marie Wheaton. Harford Twp.: Christine Latwinski, Marianne Stout. Harmony Twp.: Robert Frechen. Hop Bottom Boro: Janice Webster. Jackson Twp.: Richard Klim, Lillian Mannina, Bryan Roosa. Lanesboro Boro: Joann Depew, Bertha Hadden. Lathrop Twp.: Ronald Carpenetti, John Marrazzo, Dan Miller. Lenox Twp.: Dorothy Gates, Shelley Kilmer, Melvin Manzer, Bonnie Reed, Patricia Sussman. Liberty Twp.: Jeffery Proof. Middletown Twp.: Deborah Purtell, Jared Traver. Montrose Boro 1W: Antonia Lilly. New Milford Boro: Bessie Stevens. New Milford Twp.: Betty Campbell, Jaelynne Goff, Billy Hawkins, Karen Woodbridge. Rush Twp.: Gary Douglas, Earl Tiffany. Silver Lake Twp.: Michael Marrer, David Mitchell, Heather Perry, Michael Ticonchuk. Springville Twp.: Evelyn Hunter, Richard Ransom. Susquehanna Boro 1W: Marion Sellitto. Thompson Boro: Kristine Baldwin. Thompson Twp.: Michael Flor.
FCR Waiting On A Principal The September 15 Forest City Regional School Board meeting opened with some positive remarks about Joseph Castrogiovanni, acting high school principal. One parent stated that she has heard “many favorable comments” about Castrogiovanni, and Henry Nebzydoski agreed, “I think we’re lucky” to have him. Superintendent Robert Vadella added that he “credits Joe’s low-key approach” with the success of the new dress code. At the meeting, board members officially approved a $400 per diem contract between the Forest City Regional School District and Castrogiovanni. One member of the public asked if this means that the district is paying two high school principals. Vadella admitted that this is true; legally, FCR cannot hire a permanent, full-time principal because technically, Anthony F. Rusnak occupies the position. Although the board has yet to reach a decision regarding questionable books in the high school library collection, they have found what may be a “reasonable compromise.” Nancy Marcinkus suggests that questionable books be kept on reserve in a back room of the library, to be checked out only if a student has a signed permission slip from a parent. The issue comes about because, although board members are hesitant to ban a book, as Vadella states, “We want to address the concerns of parents of younger students [who use the library].” When it comes to the new dress code, “I think we’re getting there,” said Vadella. Henry Nebzydoski, who voted against the dress code policy, stated, “I can’t believe it worked as well as it did. I’m amazed.” Nevertheless, one parent stated that when it comes to footwear, “I don’t see the teachers trying.” Vadella stated that he is working toward teacher cooperation. Newly tenured teachers include Sarah Burke, elementary special education, and Tara Palickar and Julie Panek, elementary education. On October 23, children’s book author Lindsay Barrett George will host a program about stars and the night sky, geared for Pre-K students. The time is yet to be announced.
Drainage Discussed At Hallstead Meeting One topic took up most of the discussion at the September 18 Hallstead Boro Council meeting, drainage problems. Several residents were present to request help with problems they’ve been having. One problem, on Lusk Ave., has been ongoing, and has become worse after a new home was built further up the hill. A motion carried to install a catch basin that should alleviate the problem. Council agreed to look into another complaint about an area of Old Route 11 where drain pipes have reportedly been crushed, keeping the water from taking its intended course. Another problem affects five homes on the south side of Main St. Reportedly, the state is aware of it and has plans to address it, but there were some doubts that the proposed fix will alleviate the problem. A Blue Ridge student had addressed council at two previous meetings; as his senior project, he’d like to work on getting a skateboard park in the boro. At their August 13 meeting, council had given him the information they’d received from the boro’s insurance carrier; the cost of liability would be high. On this evening, the student told council that he had approached the Hallstead American Legion about the possibility of putting the park in at their post property. They were considering the idea, he said, and would look into the cost of insurance, and whether or not waivers could be signed by those using it. If the park becomes a reality, they’d also like to see it fenced in. The student said he’d keep council apprised of any developments. Correspondence included a letter from a business owner, unhappy with another business in the boro. After discussion, it was agreed to send copies of the letter on to the business owner in question, to make sure they are aware of the situation. PennDOT is in the process of getting environmental and utility company clearance for the sidewalk project. Council is still working on getting a new truck, which would be financed through a low-interest loan, obtained with the help of NTRPDC. It was agreed not to limit the choices to the same type of truck the boro has now, and to look into specs for other types. A budget work session has been scheduled for October 9, with the proposed budget to be voted on at the October 16 meeting. Both will be held at 7 p.m. in the boro building.
COG Has Short Meet COG Action taken at the September 16 COG meeting included a motion to approve purchase of an ad in the county township officials’ publication, which will be distributed at the township officials’ meeting on October 23. Boro officials have also been invited to attend. Correspondence read included the closeout paperwork on the $8,000 supply grant COG had received, and an e-mail from an individual requesting information on COG, specifically what COG supports, what it discourages, what it has accomplished, and what it hopes to accomplish. He was sent a copy of the recent “Facts about COG” advertisement, which was published in the August 20 issue of the County Transcript, and explains in detail what COG is about. Thompson Boro was sent the information they requested about joining COG; no response had been received as of this date. The building committee is still in the process of gathering financial information from local banks for comparison of options available to finance the new building. LTAP will be hosting a training session on September 30 at the county office building in Montrose on posting and bonding roads. Sewage The sewage committee reported that SEO John Watts has completed his 90-day probationary period and was given a favorable evaluation. He is now considered full-time, and was given the raise agreed upon when he was hired. The executive board requested an executive session after the meeting. Codes At the last meeting, a member had asked about regulations for fuel tanks; it was reported that he had been sent the relevant information. It was noted that the UCC does not oversee fuel tanks, that individual fuel companies have regulations, etc. that they must follow. It was said that most of them who do business in this area are very responsible about adhering to those regulations. It was noted that the previously mentioned e-mail was most likely spurred by an individual who was not pleased with the outcome in a recent codes situation in which he’d had to deal with COG. He had circulated petitions asking for a public hearing before his municipality renews its membership in COG, and in matters relating to zoning and wood burners (outdoor furnaces). Those who signed the petitions were invited to attend a public municipal meeting to discuss these issues; none did. It was noted that the state is in the process of enacting legislation to regulate outdoor furnaces, as a number of small municipalities have been experiencing problems with them. The legislation will regulate the height of chimneys and what can be burned in them; there have been problems with some people burning household garbage and green wood. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 21, 7 p.m. in the COG offices in New Milford.
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