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HEADLINES: MVSD Focuses Skyward Ms. Vagni, High School Principal, gave a presentation on the school's new on-line student information system, Skyward, at the December 15 Mountain View School Board meeting. Through Skyward, parents can closely monitor various aspects of a secondary student's school experience. By logging in, parents can access discipline records, attendance reports by day and by period, schedules, etc. A calendar can be accessed which lists student assignments, with missing work in red. Cafeteria information is kept, along with notations regarding what a-la-carte items are bought with cash. There are links to e-mail educators, and to look at staff web pages. Parents can set the system to e-mail them if their child is absent from a class, has a low cafeteria balance, or if his or her grade goes below a certain level. There is also a student demographic page, which Ms. Vagni requested that parents check for inaccuracies, and an emergency contact section. The latter is important, it was stated, because only persons listed as emergency contacts will be allowed to remove a child from school. Bus information is currently not available, but it is hoped that this can be incorporated. At the elementary school some of this information is similarly available, however due to a lack of standardized assessment and reporting between the various grades the grade book function is not yet accessible. This is something the administration is working on, which should lead to more standardized report cards. (They will still look different, however, due to benchmark discrepancies.) It is hoped that this situation will be rectified by the next school year. Parents and students alike, it was said, would be receiving login information in the near future. The system is already demonstrating results, one person reported. Fear of increased parental monitoring has students doing more homework. The elementary principal reported on her trip to the governor's forum, a by-invitation only event she was honored to be included in. This year the focus of the forum, which was sponsored by Kellogg's, was early childhood education. Quality pre-k, either in the schools or in the community with school monitoring, is currently being emphasized, she related. A board member asked how Mountain View's own pre-k program was progressing. She responded that it kept staff busy, especially being 100% grant funded, but expressed a sense of pride that with this funding the pre-k does not take money away from benefiting other kids. She would like to see the program expand, though the governor implied that while the state would try to honor existing grants, expansion grants would likely not be awarded in the coming year. The elementary administration is currently investigating other funding options, and already fielding calls about pre-k enrollment for next year. Other positive elementary news was given. Four students had work chosen to be displayed at the Everhart museum, as part of a Happily Ever After exhibit. Parent conferences were held, with a schedule carefully arranged so that parents of multiple children could meet with staff in a more time convenient manner. Overall, around 720 meetings were held. Various programs held at the secondary school were also highlighted. Maggie Gething, as part of her graduation project, organized a presentation on organ donation that was termed beautiful. Mr. Yost, Mr. Doster, and District Attorney Jason Legg gave students information on internet and cell phone safety, which included warnings regarding the information students post on websites. The FBLA, along with supervisors Mr. Donnelly and Mrs. McHenry, was complimented on the recent Breakfast with Santa event. Mountain View is currently in school improvement. It is planned that letters will be sent to people regarding after-school tutoring.
Road Confusion In New Milford At the December 17 New Milford Township meeting, the supervisors officially approved the budget proposed at the November meeting, with a one mil tax increase. It was reiterated that this elevation is due mainly to the increase in fuel and materials costs. In relation to the cost of materials, the supervisors considered materials bids at the meeting. Montrose Materials offered a cheaper price on all bids, but it was decided to pursue the same course as the previous year, accepting the bids of both companies, with Eastern serving as a backup source. Nancy Tyler was appointed as the right-to-know open records officer. It was announced that, in the future, there will be a 15 cent charge for copies, $1 for certified, and people will have to fill out a request form to obtain information. One area road apparently had some identity confusion, which was resolved at the meeting. The township, it was related, had begun putting signs on the roads in accordance with the new 911 address mandates. Some people do not like the names their roads received. The township had received a petition to change Cola Road to N. Plank Road. Of the four residents on the road, two wanted it changed, one did not, and one did not care. One woman had a deed in her possession where it was referred to as Plank Road. Mr. Hunter related that there was already a Plank Road on the other side of Route 11, and expressed concern that if the name were changed it might confuse emergency personnel. He put the matter to the public, seeking input. Some discussion was held, and in the end it was decided that the old name would stand. A camera is slated for erection near the Flying J, to allow PennDOT to monitor the intersection. Permission was sought from the township to trench the road, and was granted. PennDOT also wished to notify residents of Tingley Lake Road in advance about future bridge repair. It is planned that a culvert be installed in the year 2010. During the visitor section of the meeting, more sign confusion was broached. One woman, residing on Rosebud Corners, wondered how she could get a road sign erected on what is now Tingley Lake Road. The supervisors explained that it was a state road. She responded, however, that she had called PennDOT, and been told that the township needed to send them a request for the sign. Another visitor wondered why the road previously known as the Million Dollar Road (near 81 in the highlands) was now labeled as Darrow Road. The supervisors responded that it had been Darrow Road, and stated that they did not change road names during the process of compliance with the mandates. Others were uncertain which of the multiple numbers they received they were to use. Those confused about their new address, it was said, could call the number on their notification card. Others present wished it to be known that they did not approve of turning Carey Road over to B&S. A request for the township to do so had been received and discussed at the November meeting. Various reasons were listed why the visitors felt this to be an unwise move. The supervisors answered those concerned that they had not planned on doing anything about it at this time anyway. The much alluded to survey, designed to decide exactly where Carey Road ends, was brought up again. It was related that the survey had never been pursued due to financial reasons, though B&S had offered to pay for it if the road were vacated. Confusion over whether or not the road extends under the saw shop remained, though various persons present asserted that it ended before this point. Residents of the area might recently have seen a number of geophysical trucks on Rte. 11. One visitor queried as to their purpose. As far as the supervisors knew, from communicating with workers, the purpose was to check the area for oil and gas. The examination was to extend 90 miles from the state line. There was no mention of it being for pipeline purposes. Of late, it is very unusual for a New Milford Township meeting to pass without mention of the East Lake Campground, and this one was no exception. The results of the recent investigation regarding the sewage system at the camp were asked about. The final results of the engineer's examination had been turned in to DEP, which organization, after perusing these results, had come up with 49 usable sites. Other stuff still needed to be worked through, however. When a visitor asked if these tanks had been placed in the ground legally, it was responded that this was another issue entirely. The owner of the camp, Mr. Young, attended the meeting, and publicly thanked the supervisors for attending a recent meeting held regarding the matter.
Courthouse Report DEEDS Jennifer M. Wildenstein (NKA) Jennifer M. Trusky to Jennifer M. Trusky, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Scott W. Dewalt and Margaret M. Lynn to MSD Bedrock LLC, in Harmony Township for one dollar. Charles R. (Estate AKA) Charles Andren and Barbara J. See to Gary Arthur and Kelly Jo Robbins, in Auburn Township for $80,000.00. Scott W. Dewalt and Margaret M. Lynn to MSD Bedrock LLC, in Harmony Township for one dollar. Chase Home Finance LLC (SBM) Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corp. to United State Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in Forest City for one dollar. Mary E., Charles H. and Michelle L. Snyder to Elizabeth S. and Paul R. Valentine, in Ararat Township for $91,900.00. Robert E. and Arline M. Davis to Kenneth O. and Gwendolyn J. Mead, in Bridgewater Township for $160,000.00. Katholeen Youngs and Patricia Gleeson Evans to Stuart C. and Georgia Macneal, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Katholeen Youngs and Patricia Gleeson Evans to Stuart C. and Georgia Macneal, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Katholeen Youngs and Patricia Gleeson Evans to Stuart C. and Georgia Macneal, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Stuart C. (AKA) Stuart Charles and Georgia Macneal to Stuart Charles and Georgia Macneal, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Paul E. Meglathery to Scott and Elizabeth Updyke, in New Milford Township for $143,000.00. Dean R. Patterson (By Sheriff) to Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, in Clifford Township for $1,041.71. Charles M. Eslinger and Santa Sepcie to Christina Bisignani and Joseph Wojcik, in Clifford Township for $148,175.00. John Pidhajecky (By Sheriff) and Marette Rockman-Pidhajecky (By Sheriff) to Walter Weseman, Sr., in Apolacon Township for $164,401.00. Paul J. and Marie Himka to Stephen M. and Lisa E. Himka, in Lathrop Township for one dollar. Paul J. and Marie Himka to Thomas P. and Suzanne B. Himka, in Lathrop Township for one dollar. Paul J. and Maire Himka to John D. and Karla A. Himka, in Lathrop Township for one dollar. Nicholas Whengreen to Diane E. Rusek, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Kenneth W. Gumaer to Shane Decker and Danelle O’Neil, in New Milford Township for $45,000.00. Joseph R. Gulbin to Joseph R. Gulbin and Jacqueline Molanda, in Forest City for one dollar. Wells Fargo Bank (By POA) to Gregory M., II and Christa L. Monforte, in Lenox Township for $120,000.00. Anthony B. Viotto to Kenneth R. Muldoon and Melanie A. Deforge, in New Milford Township for $77,700.00. Ovidio Robert (AKA) O. Robert and Jennie E. Neira to O. Robert and Jennie E. Neira, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Keith L. and Marie Edith Everitt and Evelyn J. and Raymond G. Carley to Vera E. Everitt, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar. Gajindradeo and Michelle Jhingoor to Michelle Jhingoor, in Great Bend Borough for one dollar. Leo and Donnamarie Dooley to Richard and Linda G. Morrell, in Herrick Township for $206,000.00. Kenneth B. and Sandra S. Garnsey to Ricky D. and Lisa J. Mullins, in Bridgewater Township for $167,000.00. Richard and Ellen Vlasak to Leonard J. and Linda Ann Santalucia, in New Milford Township for $350,000.00. Margaret I. Ragantesi to Margaret L. Ragantesi, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar. Pamela L. Dewey (By Sheriff) to Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., in Bridgewater Township for $3,164.86. Gordon and Marsha Mosier to Gordon and Marsha Mosier, in Rush Township for one dollar. Sharla B. Lewis to Randy K. Lewis and Eric V. Corbin, in Franklin Township for one dollar. Theresa M. Giacovelli to Theresa Giacovelli, Joanne and James P. Hickey, in Choconut Township for one dollar. Russell E. and Darla Y. Hobbs to Russell E. and Darla Y. Hobbs, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Belva I. Festag (Estate) to Belva I. Festag (Living Trust), in Apolacon Township for one dollar. Kevin and Donna Gerioux to Donna Gerioux, in New Milford Township for one dollar. MARRIAGES Bruce W. Fink and Jean Marie Shimer, both of New Milford. Ralph Gene Brenneman and Donna M. Pomraning, both of Hop Bottom. Joshua Dwight Perrim and Ashley Nicole Clark, both of Evans Mills, NY. Christopher Paul Slater and Amy Lee Sheffler, both of Montrose. James Walter Sine and Tammy J. Slater, both of Nicholson. Robert E. Northrup of Windsor, NY and Donna R. Ball of Great Bend. Donald M. Gula and Linda L. Frailey, both of Great Bend. Ronn James Stevens and Jessica Maria Nusbaum, both of Great Bend. DIVORCES Anthony J. DeSanto of Montrose vs. Teresa L. DeSanto of Binghamton, married 1987. Gary D. Swartz, Sr. vs. Carol Swartz, both of Thompson, married 1975. Thomas A. Gall vs. Amy Jo Gall, both of Susquehanna, married 1987. Michelle Jhingoor vs. Gajindradeo Jhingoor, both of Great Bend, married 1989. Gary Wilder vs. Mary Wilder, both of Susquehanna, married 1998. Nanci L. Larnerd vs. Richard P. Larnerd, II, both of Montrose, married 2004. Edward M. Cox, Jr. vs. Dora J. Cox, both of Montrose, married 1997. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has Bench Warrants for the following individuals as of 10:05 a.m. on December 19, 2008. Michael Argust, David P. Atherholt, Jr., Erika L. Back, Keith Beach, Michael J. Beach, David S. Blaisure, Jennifer N. Bonavita, Joseph Bonavita, Michael P. Bradley, Jr., Ryan T. Brooks, Kenneth G. Burgess, Joshua D. Calby, Lynn M. Cokely, Mark T. Conklin, Jeffrey A. Craig, Mary Dallasta, John J. Deakin, Jeffrey L. Decker, Amanda Dedonis, Paul H. Donovan, Deborah L. Drish, Thomas D. Earley, Jonathan Fathi, Kristoffer B. Fazzi, David J. Fischer, Thomas Fisher, Nesbitt W. Fitch, Jr., Ryan M. Forder, Kelly Fox, Yvette Glover, Jeremy Grick, David Haines, Jr., Suzanne R. Hansen, Keith G. Harms, Jamie E. Heaman, Gregory R. Henry, Ann Hightower, Holly N. Holbrook, Timothy M. Holmes, Lyle J. Hugaboom, Roy M. Huntley, Erik E. Krisovitch, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Howard J. Linder, Debra J. London, George D. Lowery, Joseph Malloy, Jr., John A. Manning, Tanika Marazzani, Patricia J. Marrero, Jason Marshall, Fred C. Materese, James R. Moran, Todd M. O'Hara, Ivy U. Oropallo, Gary Perico, Warren N. Peterson, Jonathan R. Powers, Jeffrey A. Ransom, Kim Read, Jesse R. Rhinebeck, Jr., Nathan Rosene, Donald L. Rousseau, Jr., Neil D. Shaffer, David J. Shiner, Rory Sicovitch, Amy M. Squier, Correna A. Stormes, Andrew J. Survilla, Earl H. Thompson, Jr., Shannon L. VanVleck, Anthony M. Vaow, Keith W. Vroman, Robert C. Walter, II, Joseph Watkins, Glynn Wildoner, III, Patrick L. Yachymiak, Edward K. Zajaczkowski, Karl D. Zantowsky. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
Following is the Susquehanna County sentencing report for December, 2008 as submitted by the county District Attorney’s office. Stanley B. Wood, 56, of Montrose, 6 months probation, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation, attend alcohol safe driving school program for Driving Under the Influence in Bridgewater Township on July 27, 2008. Jonathan Thomas Hinton, 48, of Hallstead, 5 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, served on weekends, pay $300 fine, pay $100 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $100 Act 198 fee, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Law for Driving Under the Influence in Great Bend Township on September 5, 2008. The defendant also received 12 months probation, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment, pay $100 Act 198, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages, perform 50 hours of community service, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Great Bend Township on September 5, 2008. Michael Shane Holmes, 38, of Montrose, 5 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay $100 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages, attend alcohol safe driving school program for Driving Under the Influence in Montrose on August 10, 2008. Daniel M. Brasche, 25, of Montrose, 18 months probation, pay $600 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, receive drug and alcohol counseling, receive mental health counseling, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages, perform 50 hours community service, not to have contact with minors for Corruption of Minors in Montrose on October 31, 2008. Lonny Eugene Cook, 42, of Montrose, 15 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $100 Act 198, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Program, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages for Driving Under the Influence in Bridgewater Township on June 21, 2008. The defendant also received 6 months probation, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, 10 p.m. curfew, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment for Disorderly Conduct in Bridgewater Township on June 4, 2008. Jordon David Wells, 18, of Tunkhannock, 2 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to have contact with the victims in this case, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Criminal Trespass in Forest City on December 19, 2007. The defendant also received 1 month to 12 months to run concurrent to the above sentence, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with the victims in this case, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Forest City on December 19, 2007. The defendant finally received 12 months probation to run concurrent to the above sentences, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with the victims in this case, for Criminal Mischief in Forest City on December 19, 2007. Shane Michael Buchanan, 34, of Montrose, 3 months to 12 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay costs of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to have contact with the victim in this case, not to have contact with co-defendant or anyone on supervision, perform 50 hours community service for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Great Bend Township on November 23, 2007. Frederick R. Swingle, 23, of Kingsley, 5 years probation, pay $350 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to victim in this case, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample for Criminal Trespass in Montrose on July 8, 2008. He also received 2 years probation to run concurrent to the above sentence, pay $200 fine, not to have contact with the victims in this case and pay restitution to the victims for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Montrose on July 8, 2008. Amberly Dawn Payne, 20, of Kingsley, 5 years probation, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay restitution to the victim in this case, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, perform 50 hours community service, not to have contact with the victim in this case, not to possess weapons, obtain GED for Receiving Stolen Property in Montrose on July 8, 2008. The defendant also received 2 years probation to run concurrent with the above sentence, pay $200 fine, pay restitution to the victim for Criminal Conspiracy/Criminal Trespass in Montrose on July 8, 2008.
Jail Board Approves Medical Contracts The Susquehanna County Commissioners Leon Allen and Mary Ann Warren, District Attorney Jason Legg and Susquehanna County Sheriff Lance Benedict met on December 15 for a special meeting of the Inspectors of the Jail. The meeting was called to bring staffing matters before the Inspectors, regarding the necessity of professional staffing help needed by the inmates of Susquehanna County Jail. According to District Jason Legg, there is a need to provide physician services to the prison, as well as part-time nursing services. The physician service agreement was requested between Susquehanna County and Weatherby, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Florida-based physician facility is “to provide physician services to the prison, at $140 per hour, four hours a day, one day per week, including $.58 per mile travel expenses, plus $1,000.00 per month, for call services with conditions as stated in the contract.” This is a one-year contract, with a thirty-day written cancellation clause by either party. District Attorney Legg stated that the reason for the Florida-based service is, “Because Dr. Kahlil, Montrose, resigned from the position and no other doctor in the area would like to take over the prison duties.” The incoming doctor will attend to the prison one day a week, as requested. Filling the position was a necessity, Sheriff Lance Benedict related. District Attorney Legg explained that the nursing need would now be filled by Care Givers America, Clarks Summit, who also have a local office in Montrose. According to the contract conditions, the staffing agreement is to provide part-time nursing services to the prison, one nurse per day, at $33.00 per hour, with a minimum of four hours per days, seven days a week, with conditions as stated in the contract. This contract is for a period of one year, with a thirty-day written cancellation clause for either party. Each contract will be reviewed again by the county solicitor, and each request has been granted by the commissioners present, upon the okay from the solicitor, at a special meeting of the commissioners held immediately after the motions from the Jail Inspector Committee. It is the positional duty of Susquehanna County to provide these necessary services to the prison, a spokesman stated. After an executive session, a motion was made by District Attorney Legg to terminate Beverly Grier, part-time nurse, effective immediately. According to Attorney Legg, the termination was necessary due to the contract restraints by Care Givers, as any nursing staff employed at the prison must be an employee of Care Givers America. He added that if Ms. Grier wanted to join Care Givers, that may provide an opportunity for her to be rehired by the prison. The Inspectors will hold another meeting on the first Tuesday of the month at 11:30 in the Commissioners’ Office, located in the Susquehanna County Court House.
New Milford Moves January Meeting Date The New Milford Borough Council agreed to change the next meeting (January 1, 2009) to January 8, due to the holiday. New Milford Borough called the December 2008, meeting to order with all members in attendance. They then proceeded to the “Good Neighbor Recognition” part of their meeting. According to spokesperson Teri Gulick, the December award was the last time the award would be offered. Charlene Moser, Susquehanna County Emergency Management Agency Director, was the qualified choice of the borough’s final Good Neighbor Award. “Charlene has always been there for us, helping, preparing and keeping us informed for many years,” Gulick said. “She has an important position and is never too busy to help with what we need. She is also a second-generation EMT.” Charlene is the daughter of Ted Batzel, who served in the Susquehanna County Emergency dispatcher position, as well as being dedicated to Susquehanna County as a volunteer fireman and chief for his entire life. Charlene is certainly following in her father’s footsteps. The Cosmello junkyard fence situation was again discussed, with the final decision reverting back to the original promise from Cosmello to have the entire fence completed by the end of 2008. Mayor Joe Taylor said that he would go talk to Cosmello’s and be sure each party is on the same page. COG’s Ted Plevinsky was on hand to bring a window problem before the council. According to Plevinsky, “It is too cold to work beside those windows, due to the air coming through the windows and door.” Plevinsky asked that council fix the problems, to allow the COG office employees to work in comfort. Council member Chris Allen said that the council would seek contractors’ bids on the request and get moving with it as soon as possible. It was also discussed that the whole front of the building be looked at for other possible suggestions for the windows and doors. Council’s Scott Smith added that they will look at several possibilities. Plevinsky added that he did not care what exactly they did as long as “it is not cold and is energy efficient.” He also brought up some concerns he wanted council to consider; painting and replacing carpeting in the COG office, as well as repairing ceiling tiles that got damaged when the roof leaked. Mayor Taylor reported that there were 24 (give or take) tiles left over and that replacing the six or seven tiles that are damaged will not be a problem. Mayor Taylor told council that about 15 skate boarders had worked on cleaning and setting up the tennis courts for skateboarding. He added that they expressed thanks to council for allowing them to skateboard on the tennis courts. Jane Zick reported that she had attended a very informative meeting regarding changes in reporting codes, building and other permits to COG. Zick stated that there are now new forms which needed to be completed before starting any new projects. COG has the required forms at their office. Zick also said that there will be a police study report available from COG in January. Council President Jim Carr informed council that there are two costs estimated on replacing the roof at the garage. The first estimate is $14,985 and the second was from CB Contractors for $15,000, and included more work than the previous estimate. This will be discussed further at the January 8 meeting. Ms. Gulick informed council members that the Montrose Police agreement for 2009 has a little tweaking to do before presenting it to Montrose Borough. “Everything is fine, I have had very good reports, there have been three or four DUI’s in the three months the police have been here in the borough. “My main concern is that currently, the service is providing 20 hours per week and I believe that through the winter months, that amount of hours may need to be lowered a little. I am certain come spring, they will slide back up to the minimum of 20 or more, but I wanted to go over this with council before drafting the agreement. “Fine monies from the police department are being taken to Montrose Borough, where Borough Secretary Annette Rogers will disperse the monies from New Milford to them.” Rogers had contacted Gulick regarding method of disbursement. Council’s Barb James reported she had a complaint that the police were “targeting local establishments where liquor was served.” They have been seen sitting right across the street from one and directly down the street from another, James relayed. Gulick stated that she was very sure that the places were not being targeted. “Look at the DUI’s, there surely would be more of them if that was the intention. The ‘speed trap lines’ were close to an establishment, and they have since been moved,” Gulick added. She also said that she had spoken to Montrose Police Chief Dale Smith regarding the possibility of targeting those areas. Chief Smith told her that “that was not the intention. The police put those lines for targeting speeders.” Mayor Joe Taylor reported that people in the bars/restaurants were concerned about the police car being near the restaurant, and one patron left the bar/restaurant stating “he was never coming back in.” Council President Jim Carr again added that if the restaurant/bar establishments are worried about their patrons being targeted, “none of them have brought that concern back here to us at council.” Gulick concluded, stating that she has had feedback from residents of New Milford Borough, who feel better that the police patrols are there. Johnson Street underpass rights have been signed by all residents except two. Work regarding the underpass and a possible alternative route in an emergency situation was discussed for a time. Carr stated that the alternative, if necessary, route would be along the railroad. Allen added that he had been in contact with a representative of the railroad regarding this possibility, and would further explore the options with the railroad representative. Mayor Taylor reported that in an emergency situation, there would have to be a way and that may just be it. “It’s not like we are going to use that rough area in an everyday capacity.” Information will be sought and brought to the January 8 meeting as well. Discussion regarding a donation request by the Bicentennial Committee for $1,500 from the borough resulted in tabling the matter, until the council is aware of what other monetary donations are being made. “I think they just want to have the money on hand if an emergency arises,” Mayor Joe Taylor interjected, “but if there is a cap on it, it would be better.” A complaint regarding a tractor trailer unloading on Main Street for four hours was brought up by council’s Barb James. “Is there a limit on the amount of time they have to unload?” James asked council. Carr responded that there was no such limit that they were aware of, but agreed that four hours was too long. Council members interjected that they had seen 20-45 minutes, but never that long. It was agreed that council would talk or send a letter to the business owner depicting the problem. Tax Collector, Vicki Drake was on hand to thank council for sending her to the Pennsylvania Tax Collector’s Convention in Lancaster. Drake reported that she had learned much from the conference, and she thought it was really worthwhile. She stated that it is suggested that municipal tax collectors should attend at least one conference every two years, if not every year. The meeting of the New Milford Borough Council is normally held on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the borough building. Again, January’s meeting for New Milford Borough has been moved from January 1 to January 8.
Gibson Barracks Report TRESPASS On November 23, between 6 and 7:48 p.m., a woman listed in the report only by initial and last name, called PSP Gibson from Canada. She stated that although she and an unnamed 31-year old male had been living together for years, and even had a child together, they had broken up 2-3 months ago. She reported that he was not supposed to be living at her house, but that he had called her from there that night. She wanted him arrested for trespassing. The man in question was able to show that he had legitimate access to the Susquehanna residence, and the district attorney declined prosecution at this time. THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING Between December 13 and 15, one or more unknown person(s) arrived at the residence of Robert Marshman in Hallstead and removed an orange, 20-foot Coleman canoe. CRASH On November 26, at 8:00 a.m., Lynette Wegman of Montrose was traveling northbound on SR 29 in Franklin Twp., behind other vehicles. When these slowed, Wegman slid on the snow-covered roadway, while attempting to follow suit, exiting the roadway from the right and striking a utility pole. CRASH On November 25, at 8:30 a.m., Jonathan Harris was traveling east on SR 706 in Bridgewater Twp. when his car slid while failing to adequately negotiate a left hand curve in the highway. Harris' vehicle continued off the berm, striking a tree and rolling over onto its left side. RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY On November 24, Scott Maxey of Montrose was found to be in possession of a stolen HDTV, after he was interviewed relative to a burglary investigation. Maxey was taken into custody, interrogated, and subsequently arraigned before District Justice 34-3-01. Bail was set at $5,000 unsecured. CRASH On December 12 at 6:45 a.m., William Baker was traveling on State Highway 29 in Bridgewater Township when a tree fell across the roadway, which he in turn struck. A minor injury was sustained; Baker was wearing his seatbelt. CRASH On December 6 at 2:40 p.m., John Ball was traveling on T401 in Clifford Twp. when, failing to negotiate a right curve, he struck a culvert. The vehicle overturned, sustaining major damage. Ball fled the scene. He and a passenger, Robert Compton, sustained moderate injuries; Ball was wearing a seat belt. Multiple citations were filed against Ball. THEFT Sometime between October 15 and December 10, an unknown person stole a hand powered barrel pump from an exterior gas tank at the Montrose Club in Bridgewater Township, and fled the scene. BURGLARY Between the 25th and 26th of November, one or more unknown perpetrator(s) entered a residence on SR 267 through an unlocked front door. The burglar(s) proceeded through the kitchen to a back room, which was under construction, took possession of a medium sized safe, and pushed it back through the kitchen and out the front door. UNDETERMINED FIRE INVESTIGATION PSP Gibson is investigating a fire which occurred at the Wilbur family residence in Bridgewater Township on December 5. The fire appeared to have begun in the basement area; the cause of the conflagration was still under investigation at the time of report. No human was home at the time; a neighbor discovered the fire around 6:30 p.m. Several pets were lost during the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154 or the PSP Marshal Unit at (570) 963-3156. CRASH On December 5 at 9:21 a.m., Rory Corbett of Manlius, NY was traveling south along SR 81 in Lenox Twp. At this location, Corbett's vehicle collided with the guardrail on the east side, subsequently continuing south and striking the concrete barrier on the bridge twice more before coming to a rest. Corbett was not injured, it was reported, due to seatbelt usage and airbag deployment. The vehicle was removed by Kozlowski Towing, and PSP was assisted at the scene by members of the Greenfield Twp. fire and ambulance crews. Corbett was cited for a traffic violation. CRASH On December 1, at around 2:53 p.m., Bernard Hirsche of Jeffersonville, NY was traveling east on SR 492 when, while negotiating a curve, he drove into a guide rail. Hirsch's vehicle traveled along the guide rail until its end, at which point it continued farther off the road and struck a tree. The GMC UT came to a final rest against the tree, facing a southeasterly direction and with its rear still in the lane of travel. Physical evidence consisted of paint transfer on the guide rail and damage to the vehicle's right front side. The trooper arrived on the scene and interviewed Hirsche at about 3:40 p.m., who related he must have fallen asleep. DUI On December 4, at 2:30 a.m., Charles Groover of Hallstead was traveling southbound on US HWY 11 in Great Bend Twp. At this time Jeffrey Tierney was traveling northbound on that road. Groover crossed the double yellow lines and collided with Tierney, then fled the scene, running into a wooded area. PSP Gibson and members of the New Milford and Hallstead Fire Departments conducted a search of the wooded area. Groover was located and subsequently arrested for D.U.I. HIT AND RUN On November 30, at 5:00 p.m., an unknown driver was traveling south on Station Road in Brooklyn Twp. when, while attempting to negotiate a right hand curve, he slid on the ice and struck a building. After impact, the operator of the vehicle fled the scene without giving notification of the crash. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. The vehicle appears to have sustained heavy front bumper area damage, as well as a smashed window. If anyone has information on any of the incidents, please contact Gibson state police at (570) 465-3154.
In the December 10 edition of the Susquehanna County Transcript, an article with information about a discount prescription program being offered to county residents listed an incorrect website address to access information about the program. The correct address is: www.coast2coastrx.com/susquehannapa.
COG Approves Requests COG The first order of business at the December 16 COG meeting was to approve the 2009 budgets. Copies had been given to all members who attended last month’s meeting, and mailed to those who did not attend so that all would have time to review them. The new state mandated road signs, which are more reflective than what is currently used, will be somewhat more expensive. The sign committee planned to get together after the meeting to work out just what the cost for individual signs will be. The state is requiring that all municipalities have an Open Records Officer, who has knowledge about what records can be given out and what can’t. Mandated training sessions are being offered around the state, but none in this area. It was agreed to contact PSATS to see if one can be held in Susquehanna County, through the auspices of COG. The Eastern Susquehanna County Partnership consists of six member municipalities, all of which also are members of COG. ESCP’s members have been working on enacting zoning ordinances, and are attempting to make the relevant documents as available as possible for inspection by their residents. It was asked if COG would be willing to post a link on their website for the ESCP’s documentation; it was agreed that this would be a very acceptable use of this resource. ESCP would be willing to pay any related costs to post the link. It was noted that the Northern Tier Coalition had made their ordinances available on their website for public inspection, which provided the opportunity for many to read them. In response to a letter from the Ararat Township Supervisors, COG is pleased to send a letter of support in the township’s plans to nominate Donald Stone for the PSATS annual President’s Leadership Award. Mr. Stone had been instrumental in the forming of the COG Sewage Enforcement Committee, which began with six member municipalities and has grown to a total of 26. COG Sewage The executive board requested a meeting with the SEOs following the meeting to discuss some ongoing issues. COG Codes The Codes committee reported that the current economy doesn’t appear to be hurting too much yet, inspections are still busy. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20, 7:00 p.m. in the COG offices in the New Milford Borough building.
PennDOT Seeking Input On Projects The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is proposing to rehabilitate various structures within the six-counties of District 4-0 (Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming). These projects are being advanced in accordance with PennDOT’s overall goal to reduce the number of structurally-deficient bridges within the district over the next several years. The public is asked to review the project information listed below and discuss it with their municipal officials at their regularly scheduled meetings in order to provide input to PennDOT. Information of interest includes access for emergency services during construction, possible presence of private utilities, local events that could be impacted by construction, and other items requiring special coordination. Subject to availability of funding, the earliest possible time that construction can begin on any of these projects is Summer, 2010. Questions regarding any of these projects may be directed to PennDOT project manager Greg Scochin at (570) 963-4064 by December 31. Projects planned for Susquehanna include the following. Route 2039, Section 570, Lenox Township, Susquehanna County, Millard Creek Bridge rehabilitation. Existing structure is a pre-cast channel beam bridge. Curb-to-curb width is 27 ft. with a 8.5 ft. underclearance. Structure length is 24 feet. Proposed is a new superstructure replacement with a spread box-beam bridge, 28 ft. curb to curb; 8.5 ft. underclearance. Structure length remains 24 feet. A detour will be utilized during construction. Route 2034, Section 570, Gibson Township, Susquehanna County, Tunkhannock Creek Bridge rehabilitation. Existing structure is a steel stringer bridge with a wood deck. Curb-to-curb width is 22 ft. with a 7.8 ft. underclearance. Structure length is 50 feet. Proposed is a spread box-beam bridge, 22 ft. curb to curb; 7.8 ft. underclearance. Structure length remains 22 feet. A detour will be utilized during construction. Route 1029, Section 570, Great Bend Township, Susquehanna County, Randolph Road Bridge replacement. Existing structure is a steel I-beam bridge with a wood deck. Curb-to-curb width is 14 ft. with a 8.67 ft. underclearance. Structure length is 30 feet. Proposed is a replacement with a spread box-beam bridge, 24 ft. curb to curb; 8.67 ft. underclearance. Structure length will be 40 feet. A temporary runaround upstream will be utilized during construction. Route 2061, Section 570, New Milford Township, Susquehanna County, Tingley Lake Road Bridge. Existing structure is a slab bridge. Curb-to-curb width is 20 ft. with a 6.25 ft. underclearance. Structure length is 17 feet. Proposed is a new pre-cast box culvert, 24 ft. curb to curb; 7.5 ft. underclearance. Structure length remains 45 feet. A detour will be utilized during construction.
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