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Great Bend Township has received an invitation from Oakland Boro to discuss the possibility of the township contracting police services from the boro. Oakland Boro is currently contracting services to Oakland Township, and asked if Great Bend Township would be interested in discussing the particulars. The Great Bend Supervisors agreed that they should at least hear the details, so a meeting will be set up. Great Bend Township does have money in their budget for police services, in anticipation of state legislation that may be passed requiring all municipalities to provide police coverage. The township had participated in a survey through COG, but the resulting plan had the township partnered with Harford and Union Dale, neither of which are immediate neighbors, and had a price tag in excess of $100,000. The supervisors also participated in a group discussion with several other nearby municipalities to discuss the possibility of forming a regional department, but that group had dissolved. In other business, summer road maintenance has been completed. The crew has been busy patching potholes, mowing, and preparing for winter. A new member of the road crew, Greg Huntley, was hired and had started work the previous Thursday. There was some discussion about the township’s two spreaders, one of which has needed a lot of work due to salt damage. After reviewing literature on poly-coated spreaders, with prices ranging from $3,999 to $5,400, it was agreed to do more research on comparable models and discuss it again at the next meeting. COG Assessment and UCC permits were issued during the month to Mark and Donna Tewes and Phillip and Kathryn Soller. Perc tests had been done for Norman and Diane Klimasiewfski and Connie Ehrie. DEP issued a GP-3 permit to Bobby Sweeney, and JEB’s PA Bluestone Quarry received a small noncoal mining permit from DEP. Correspondence reviewed included a reminder of the Susquehanna County Township Officials Association fall convention on October 28; a copy of a letter from an individual to the Susquehanna River Basin Commission regarding Chesapeake Appalachia’s water withdrawal from the Susquehanna River; an invitation to the county Conservation District’s annual awards banquet; PSAT’s 2010 wage and salary survey results; a deed from property that was previously an easement or right-of-way; notice that a property on Steam Hollow Road will be sold at a sheriff’s sale on November 9; a list of annual events from the Endless Mountains Heritage Region; an application for 2011 Community Development Block Grants; and the township’s public protection summary report (fire protection rating). The township is still in need of an Emergency Management Coordinator. Work on the 2011 budget is in progress. And, the township has received delivery of new LED lights for the traffic light, obtained through a grant. It was agreed to hold onto them until the spring before installing them, as the company that contracts to maintain the lights has just put new bulbs in. The next meeting will be on Monday, November 1 at 7:00 p.m.
Forest City Recycling Stolen? At a public business meeting held October 4, Forest City Borough Council appointed secretary Sharon Vannan to hold an additional office as borough treasurer. Per Ordinance 411, Vannan is eligible to serve as treasurer because she is not a member of the borough council. It was noted that the treasurer does not have the authority to sign checks, which is solely the responsibility of the president and vice president. The potential removal of three parking meters on Main Street incited letters from Dr. Tomazic and from Maxis Health System, which pointed out that the parking spots, including one handicapped spot, are located directly across from the Marian Community Outpatient Center, which serves a significant number of geriatric patients who need convenient access to the center. In his report, mayor Patrick Coles announced that trick-or-treating in town is set for Sunday, October 31 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Coles also noted that on National Take-Back Day last month, three pounds of unwanted pills were collected in Forest City. In the solicitor’s report, Paul E. Smith noted that the Forest City Borough Council, KBA Engineering, Senator Baker and the DEP will meet on October 6 to discuss some “last issues” with the sewer project. During public comment, a resident of Hudson Street complained about her neighbor’s dirt quad track, stating that the quads spray mud against her house and that the noise from the quads “goes on for three-and-a-half hours sometimes.” Another comment was received from Robert Selinsky, who stated that, while at a local junk yard, he noticed a man with a “huge amount of aluminum cans,” for which he was paid sixty-five dollars. Upon question, the man stated that, with the assistance of Robert Tedesco, (head of public works in Forest City), he took the cans off of the borough recycling truck. Selinsky said that when he asked the man if he realized that such an act was stealing borough property, the man replied that he and Tedesco did not see it as such. Selinsky reported that the District Attorney’s office confirmed the act as theft, and Selinsky cited it as an example of “corruption” in Forest City. Selinsky went on to state that Tedesco has too many roles in the borough, interfering with his official job as street commissioner. Some jobs, Selinsky asserted, could be performed at a lower hourly rate than Tedesco is paid. Several times, Selinsky asked Robert Trusky, council president, what Tedesco’s hourly wage is. Trusky did not reply. After review, council decided to award garbage bids to Franceski Waste. Bid prices are available for public review. Also concerning waste, council passed a motion to raise the sewer truck rate for jobs outside the borough to one hundred dollars at show-up and one hundred dollars per hour thereafter. Concerning sewer bill delinquencies, Trusky suggested that council “turn this over to the professionals.” After interviewing two agencies, he recommended Pennsylvania Municipal Services Company because there are no up-front costs to the borough. Trusky asked council members to review the matter and make a motion to adopt an agency at the next borough meeting.
Courthouse Report DEEDS Anthony Trecoske, Jr. to Anthony, Jr. and Malaine A. Trecoske, in Silver Lake Township for one dollar. Thomas J. Liguori to Thomas J. and Anne E. Liguori, in Silver Lake Township for one dollar. Howard Perry to Tammy Scott and Allan Hinchcliffe, in Hallstead Borough for $24,000.00. Tonya C. Claytor (estate) to Warner J. Claytor, Jr., in New Milford Township for one dollar. Curtis (by sheriff) and Joann (by sheriff) Rudock to US Bank National Association and Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, in Hallstead Borough for $2,369.52. Anne M. Saccone to Lisa A. Simoncelli, in Middletown Township for one dollar. Shamus 54 LLC to Shamus 54 LLC, in Herrick and Clifford Townships and Union Dale Borough for one dollar. Edgar B. and Louise M. Baker to Raymond C. Warriner, in Dimock Township for $170,000.00. Kevin S. Phillips to Nadine Lucas, in Liberty Township for $115,000.00. Karen White to William G. and Amy L. Boot, in Franklin Township for $118,000.00. James M. Golden (estate) to Michael L. Hester and Edward Kelley, in Friendsville Borough for $89,000.00. Robert W. Neely, Jr. and Lori Allen to Lori Allen and John Edward Neely, in Choconut Township for one dollar. Cynthia Grisafi to William Curtis, Jr. and Mary L. Stevens, in Bridgewater Township for $200,000.00. Errick and Cathleen Noldy to Matthew Noldy and Jessica Douglas, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Rochelle L. Klieger to Rochelle L. Klieger, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar. Fanny Mae (AKA) Federal National Mortgage Association to Dale Howell Enterprises, Inc., in Oakland Borough for $23,000.00. Earle A. and Robert R. Wootton to Endless Mountains Health Systems, Inc., in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Ralph R. Yocum to Ralph R. Yocum, Jr., in Lathrop Township for $150,000.00. The Three Little Bears LLC to David R. and Tracey Dibble, in Susquehanna for $50,000.00. Richard Warshany and Heather Paladino to Richard Warshany and Heather Paladino, in Jessup Township for one dollar. Connie Lee and William J., Jr. (estate) Goff to Connie Lee Goff, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Richard and Nina L. Robinson to Philip A. and Katherine A. Martino, in Liberty Township for $77,000.00. Daniel D. and Barbara S. Santos to Dandy 32 Rushboro LLC, in Auburn Township for $217,500.00. Timothy J. and Melanie R. Cunningham to Cunningham Family Partnership LP, in Harmony Township for one dollar. Stephen C. and Anne M. Smith to Aaron Treadway, in Hallstead Borough for $95,000.00. Geraldine Lindow to William A. and Joanna M. Osterhout, in Jackson Township for $27,000.00. Christopher and Jennifer Allen and Donald C. and Jeanne M. Button to David Ward, in Hallstead Borough for $105,000.00. David A. and Margaret L. Hellenga to Joseph G. and Diane Conigliaro, in Forest Lake Township for $174,000.00. Joseph A. and Annette E. Applegate to Jerome K. Ellis and Mandisa A. Powell-Ellis, in Susquehanna for $55,000.00. Ronald V. and Nancy Jean Washburn to Ronald C. and Carol L. Dubas, in Oakland Borough for $107,500.00. Fox Enterprises, Inc. to Linda L. Hermann, in Susquehanna for $61,000.00. Edward W. Ziegler to George Dale Howell, in Bridgewater Township for $32,000.00. Francis Hosie (by sheriff) to Bear Creek Properties, Inc. and Pro Ko Properties, Inc., in Gibson Township for $42,001.00. Mary Ann Munley (estate) to Marielle Munley, in Union Dale Borough for one dollar. Paul Joseph and Madalyn Hansen to Paul Joseph Hansen, in Lenox Township for one dollar. Mark Susquehanna Associates LP to Gregg M. Lewis, in Bridgewater Township for $105,000.00. Arvin F. and Roselyn P. Hibbard to A & R Hibbard Partners Limited Partnership, in Dimock Township for one dollar. Arvin F. and Roselyn P. Hibbard to A & R Hibbard Partners Limited Partnership, in Dimock Township for one dollar. Arvin F. and Roselyn P. Hibbard to A & R Hibbard Partners Limited Partnership, in Dimock Township for one dollar. Willard S. and Alice M. Docktor to Alice M. Docktor, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Willard S. and Alice M. Docktor to Willard S. Docktor, in Auburn Township for one dollar. DIVORCES Barney Wilkins of Kinsley vs. Melissa Wilkins of Carbondale, married 2001. Jason D. Crisman vs. Michele C. Crisman, both of Meshoppen, married 2002. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 11:20 a.m. on October 8, 2010. Erika L. Back, Bradley J. Baker, Melanie M. Barber, Keith Bryant Beach, Harold R. Bensley, David Shawn Blaisure, Daniel M Brown, Howard A. Burns III, Christopher J. Clark, Deborah L. Drish, Jonathan Fathi, Shawn Fiorentino, David J. Fischer, Jason Gardner, David Haines, Jr., Keith G. Harms, Anthony D. Hibbard, Sr., Erik E. Krisovitch, Casey J. Lawton, Joshua S. Lee, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Jason Lindquist, Jennifer M. Miller, Shane Nelson, Anthony Neri, Brian T. Phillips, Arthur D. Quick, David J. Shiner, Richard D. Shoemaker, Sinon C. Smith, Sr., Duane Spencer, Justin Thompson, Keith W. Vroman, Jamie L. Williams, Kenneth L. Wilmot, Jr., Karl D. Zantowsky. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
GB Still Preoccupied With Police The agenda for the Great Bend Council’s October meeting on the 7th covered a lot of ground, but Jerry MacConnell is still mighty frustrated at the lack of progress creating a police department for his little town. Tom Golka of the Lanesboro Police Department, who has been advising Council on the issue for several months, attended the meeting to offer counsel. Council has received a letter from State Police Headquarters listing 9 items required for the establishment of a local police agency. Not all of them were clearly understood by Council, so they focused on a mammoth policy and procedure manual developed by Mr. Golka’s colleague, Jon Record, Chief at Lanesboro. It was said that the county District Attorney had already favorably reviewed the document, which was vetted by the Lanesboro solicitor where the book is currently in use. Among many other things, Mr. MacConnell is frustrated with the borough’s solicitor, who was expected to review the manual, along with other information that would help council along. Council met with attorney Frank O’Conner at a special meeting on September 15 to discuss the situation. Mr. O’Conner clearly lacks enthusiasm for the project, and, however willing he might be to help out, has so far been reluctant to commit to a target for reviewing the materials, which include, besides the manual, a proposed ordinance and some insurance requirements. Council finally decided to “remind” Mr. O’Conner by mid-October to prepare for the scheduled November meeting. Where it was originally expected to take about 4 months to obtain the so-called ORI (Originating Reporting Agency Identifier) number, it appears now that it could take from 6 to 12 months to complete the process. In the meantime, the borough will soon finalize purchase of a police car from Port Dickinson, NY. Because it can’t be used, it will have a home in the borough’s garage. The displaced borough equipment (mowers, truck) will be moved to a new shed to be erected at the garage lot at a cost of about $3,000. Mr. O’Connor may have qualms about a new police department for the borough because he remembers what happened the last time Great Bend had such a thing, which it shared with several other neighboring communities. It would be hard to forget, because that department’s retired chief, Charles Martell, is still contesting his pension plan. Great Bend Borough was the last to pull out of the old police compact and is thought by state auditors to be thereby responsible for the pension fund, which they say is now short by about $49,000. Mr. O’Connor says that, since the fund is under the control of a trustee, the borough no longer has any responsibility for it, and should not respond to the auditors’ report. “The borough is not the owner of the pension plan,” said he. Mr. O’Connor was also asked to send a letter to the Hallstead-Great Bend Joint Sewer Authority (HGBJSA) inquiring about the authority’s intentions regarding the repair of Spring Street once the renovation of the sewer plant is complete. The borough received a noncommittal response, but is expecting the street to be restored next Spring. In the meantime, the borough’s representative on the HGBJSA’s board, Bret Jennings, is on a crusade to retrieve an arrearage from the New Milford Municipal Authority that now amounts to almost $80,000. When the sewer system was extended to New Milford a few years ago, the HGBJSA contracted with the New Milford Municipal Authority rather than with each property owner individually. A special deal was cut at the time to give New Milford sewer subscribers a slightly lower rate to begin with. New Milford has been paying all along, but Mr. Jennings says New Milford is obligated to pay the increases in rates since October of 2008, plus interest. He said that the HGBJSA’s attorney, Ray Davis, has been negotiating with New Milford, and is recommending that the authority settle for something less than the full amount to avoid costly litigation. For his part, Mr. Jennings is adamant that the HGBJSA collect what it is owed by New Milford, the sooner the better. He is advocating filing liens on property owned by the New Milford Municipal Authority. He is concerned that all the rest of the sewer system’s ratepayers are covering for what New Milford so far has been unwilling to pay. Unfortunately, he doesn’t seem to have a lot of support on the HGBJSA board. And the Great Bend Borough Council, while appreciating his work, isn’t inclined to go it alone to pursue the issue. In other business, council member Joe Collins recommended that the project to install a sluice to relieve a potential flooding problem on Washington Street be bid to a contractor. He looked into possibly purchasing and delivering pipe and materials directly to save some of the cost, but decided that the number of variables made the idea too complex for the borough to handle itself. The two new spring-loaded playground items, Buzzy Bumblebee and Hoppy Grasshopper have arrived. They will be installed when the borough can arrange to borrow a backhoe. The effort to have an entrance to the welcome center on the interstate from U.S. Route 11 is proceeding apace, a slow pace. Mr. MacConnell said that PennDOT has already given its imprimatur; the borough is now waiting for approval from the Federal Highway Administration. Several properties that seem to be in disarray were debated. In one case, the owner has cleaned up the front yard; some - particularly Mr. MacConnell - would now like some attention given to the back yard. The borough’s Codes Enforcement Officer, borough Secretary Sheila Guinan, said that she didn’t think she was allowed to trespass to get pictures or other evidence, and wouldn’t do it anyway. “I’m not going into people’s back yards,” she said. In another case, the property owner claims to sympathize with complaints, but has evicted the tenants several times already, and problems with the residents are now in the hands of the State Police. Council member Mike VanGorden reported on a project to replace the roof on the borough building. He talked with a representative of Erie Materials of Susquehanna, and presented the information and brochures to his colleagues. He said that they considered a steel roof, but, considering how metal roofs handle snow and ice, he accepted the vendor’s recommendation to use 30-year shingles instead. He said that Erie could supply all the materials for the roof for about $5,000. The borough will get quotes from contractors for installation based on specifications that derive from the information collected by Mr. VanGorden. Council (read Jerry MacConnell) has been concerned that building permits are issued but sometimes little is done on the permitted properties. Ms. Guinan reported that Council of Governments (COG) building permits are good for up to 5 years, as long as something is actually done on the property at least every 180 days. And finally, what about Halloween? Technically, this year it would be Sunday, October 31. Sunday being a school night, Council declared that Halloween in Great Bend Borough will be on Saturday night, October 30. Should you want to hear the Great Bend Borough Council rearrange the calendar, consider attending its next meeting, scheduled for 7 p.m. on November 4, at the borough building at Elizabeth and Franklin Streets.
Gibson Barracks Report CRASH On September 26 at 4 p.m. Anne Wodnick of Sewell, NJ was traveling south on SR 0081 in Lenox Twp. when his vehicle exited the travel lane and struck the steel guide rails on the west side. It then reentered the roadway and traveled approximately 510 feet before coming to a controlled stop on the west berm of SR 0081. Wodnick and two passengers were all utilizing seatbelts; all sustained moderate injury. THEFT On September 24 Nicholas Demaree reported that he had purchased several signs to support the local police department, which had been strategically placed along several roadways throughout Silver Lake Township. Sometime during the first three weeks of September someone removed the signs. Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. DUI On July 11 Casey Jenkins of Kingsley was operating a motor vehicle on SR 1001 in Gibson Township when the vehicle was stopped for traffic violations. Jenkins displayed signs of intoxication and was given field sobriety tests. The operator failed these tests and was subsequently arrested for DUI. Charges were filed in District Court 34-3-03. DUI On June 18 at 10:50 Theodore Denike of Clifford, PA was operating a Ford vehicle on SR 171 and SR 374 in Herrick Township when it was stopped for moving and equipment violations. Denike displayed signs of intoxication and was given field sobriety tests. He failed the tests and was arrested for DUI. He was transported to PSP Gibson to provide a breath sample for analysis. DUI charges were filed in District Court 34-3-03. RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY On August 15 a safe, approximately 1.5' by 1.5' was discovered in a remote wooded location of T R Williams Road in Clifford Township. Anyone that may have had a safe of this size stolen is asked to call PSP Gibson. DUI On September 11 Dylan Ely of Dimock, PA was arrested for Driving under the influence after Troopers responded to a disabled vehicle in that township. J&D towing removed it from the scene. Charges were filed with District Court 34-3-01 for driving under the influence and other traffic violations. COLLISION-TRAFFIC On October 6, at 3:09 a.m., Angelica Allen of the Clarks Summit, PA area was traveling southbound on SR 92 in Gibson Twp. when she fell asleep, crossed the northbound travel lane, impacted a series of fencing, and impacted a utility pole. Allen was not injured during the collision. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. CRASH On October 5 at 4:40 p.m. an unnamed driver was traveling west on SR 0492 in the westbound lane of travel when he lost control of the vehicle in New Milford borough causing the right side tires to exit the roadway via the right shoulder. The vehicle then traveled along the right shoulder for approximately 150 feet before re-entering the travel lanes of SR0492 and traveling across both lanes. The front of the vehicle then impacted with an embankment along the left shoulder area of the road. The vehicle then traveled along the embankment for approximately 25 feet and rolled onto its roof. The vehicle came to a rest on the eastbound lane and shoulder area on its roof, facing in a northeast direction. The driver was utilizing a seatbelt; he was not injured. THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE Between October 2 and 5 an unlocked vehicle was entered while parked on Valley View Avenue in Hallstead Borough and quarters stolen from within it. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at Gibson. Between the 3rd and 4th of October a Garmin GPS was stolen from another vehicle on that street. Between the 2nd and 3rd another Garmin GPS was removed from Orchard Rd. in Great Bend borough. DISORDERLY CONDUCT On October 4 at approximately 7:30 p.m., David Robert Jenkins of South Gibson and Adam Michalski of Thompson began to argue at the Pump and Pantry in Lenox over a road rage incident. Both were charged. AUTO THEFT On October 1 at 2:35 a.m. the tan 2005 Dodge Caravan belonging to Laura and Larry Biesecker of Hallstead was stolen while parked in their driveway. The thief or thieves then fled the scene northbound on William Street. Anyone with information is asked to call state police at Gibson. CRASH On September 19 at 4:25 p.m. Michael Addice of Springville was traveling on Route 29 in Dimock when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle exited the roadway and rolled over. Addice was not utilizing safety equipment; he sustained moderate injury. CRASH On September 29 at 4:06 a.m. Jillena Bennet of Susquehanna was traveling north on SR 171 in Great Bend Twp. when, according to her own relation, she fell asleep at the wheel. The vehicle exited off the west edge of the road, traveled along a ditch, and hit a culvert end. COLLISION-TRAFFIC On October 2 at 1:08 a.m. an unknown or unnamed operator was traveling west on SR 3029 in Bridgewater Twp. when his vehicle exited the roadway, impacted an embankment, and overturned. The driver then fled the scene prior to police response. The vehicle is described as a 2001 Dodge 1500 truck with PA registration #YYT5236; the investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. THEFT Sometime between July 15 and September 24, it was reported on the 28, Roderic Williams discovered nine checks drawn upon his Peoples' National Bank Checking account, which was fraudulently utilized. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. BURGLARY Sometime between August 29 and September 15 entry into a residence owned by Carl Graver was obtained by the means of a kicked in door. A telescope was removed from the living room, as well as a fishing vest from the first floor bedroom and a chainsaw and weed trimmer from the basement. DUI On September 26 at 10:20 p.m. Christopher Cavanaugh of Susquehanna was traveling south on SR 92 in Oakland Twp. when, while crossing over a bridge and beginning to negotiate a right hand curve, he lost control of the vehicle. The truck left the left side of the roadway and impacted a mailbox, a utility pole, and a tree, beginning to become airborne before hitting another tree and rotating counterclockwise. It came to a rest on the passenger side facing in a northeast direction. Cavanaugh was airlifted to United Health Wilson Memorial Hospital by Guthrie. Assistance was provided at the scene by Susquehanna Volunteer Fire Company, Fire Police, Ambulance, and Barnes-Kasson Paramedics. There appears to have been no seatbelt in use; Cavanaugh sustained major injury. Charges were to be filed in District court 34-03-02 as of the time of report. CRASH On September 30 at 10:00 p.m. Yefry Calderon-Tejeda of Elizabeht, NJ was traveling south on Interstate 81 in Lenox Twp. when he lost control of his vehicle which struck an embankment. The vehicle then continued to travel in a southerly direction where it came to a final rest on the right shoulder southbound on Interstate 81, with damage. The driver was utilizing a seatbelt; he was not injured. He was to be given a written warning for driving vehicle at safe speed, as of the time of report. THEFT On September 30, at 4:50 Richard Storr of the Great Bend area reported that a Magellan Road Master GPS was removed from within his vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. The Pennsylvania State Police would like to remind the public to lock their vehicles and remove all items of value when leaving then unattended. THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE Between the 29th and 30th of September, overnight, Diane Pashinski, Laurie Hubal, and Samuel Phillips, of Hallstead and Great Bend, all had items stolen from their vehicles during the night. Among the stolen items were two handicapped placards, sunglasses, a knife, and a backpack. People are reminded to keep their vehicles locked and not leave valuables in their cars overnight. THEFT Between the 24th and 26th of September twelve steel weights were stolen off the front of a John Deere tractor belonging to Jeffrey Williams of Kingsley, while it was parked in one of the many fields which he utilizes for his farm business. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police. THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE On September 23 at 5 a.m. Ronald Bryan of Montrose reported that, while he was in the Pump 'N' Pantry mini mark location on State Route 29, someone had entered his vehicle and stolen a bag of tobacco and a smoking pipe. Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact PSP Gibson. THEFT Overnight on September 27 Andrew Sienko of the Great Bend area reported discovering an XM satellite radio was stolen from within his vehicle. Anyone with any information is asked to contact PSP Gibson. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. THEFT Sometime overnight on September 27 Jesse Squier and Harold Allen, of the Great Bend area, reported a black Ipod Model #MA446TT/A, 30 gigabit electronic device, an ipod dc charger, a Verizon cell phone, and a pack of Marlboro cigarettes were stolen from within their vehicle. Anyone with any information is asked to contact PSP Gibson. THEFT Between the 19th and 26th of September Tracy Gumaer had a white and light blue bicycle, with flowers, stolen from her residence. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Between the 25th and 26th of September a mailbox was smashed on the property of Gerald Guinane of Hallstead. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On September 26 two cell phones were found in the borough of Montrose. The phones were described as being of an older type with extensive use. Anyone missing a cell phone can call PSP Gibson. THEFT On September 24 a Kingsley resident left her purse in a shopping cart at Price Chopper in Montrose and had it stolen. The purse was later recovered, but with a few credit cards and a checkbook missing. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Between the 24th and 25th of September the fence and mailbox of Sally Viall of Hallstead and the mailbox of Krystyna Valentin were damaged. CRASH On September 25 Ulana Zahajkewycz of Brackney, PA was traveling east on Naasser Rd. when her vehicle left the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. She left the scene prior to police arrival. Citations were issued at the scene via the owner. No injuries were reported to the trooper; the seat belt is described as being used improperly. BURGLARY (The date was unclear in the report) A bedroom window was broken in the home of Jean Soltis-Kneiss of Union Dale, and cell phones and jewelry removed. If you have information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.
Skating, Boarding In Montrose Boro The October 4 meeting of the Montrose Borough Council began with the swearing in of Tom Lamont. President Todd Chamberlain joked, as he joined the rest of council at the table, that the seats were red due to being “hot seats.” During the street department report, Mr. Ken DiPhillips mentioned leaves. He was advised to cruise around now, and deal with piles they see. The oil tanks, discussed the year prior, were delivered. During the standard “wants and needs” section, the subject of a hot water pressure washer was broached. Mr. Randy Schuster advised him to look into purchasing a replacement boiler as well, just in case. There was a little more discussion on the matter, regarding what the tank was made of, if the temperature was adjustable, available warranties, and other sundry matters, before the purchase was, in the end, postponed. Mr. DiPhillips was advised to gather more information for possible approval at the recessed meeting. It could be used to clean “everything.” Mayor John Wilson asked if signs had been removed naming Public Avenue as such. It was responded that they had been taken down at some point, and hadn't been replaced. It was asked that Mr. DiPhillips look into this as well. When asked, it was responded that supposedly the jake brake signs were in possession of the borough. The signs are slated for erection on South Main, Church and Cherry Streets, and Grow Avenue. Mayor Wilson also asked about the addition of one more handicapped parking space near the top of Public Avenue. Mr. Lamont commented that once the borough started doing this, every shop owner would want one. Mr. Chamberlain said that there was a reason why they were placed lower down, and asked Mr. Lamont why, as he had been mayor at the time. He cited various reasons, including historical positioning and not desiring to give the appearance of favor to any one particular shop owner. It was also suggested that new spaces might not be possible anyway, not only because of state roads but because of the presence of a curb along the passenger side all the way along the road. David Darrow asked if it might be wise to eliminate one parking spot near the light on South Main street. Mr. Lamont said that when the new lights go in three or four spots should be removed anyway. Mr. chamberlain agreed, stating that PennDOT would likely be removing them. While they were on the topic, Mr. Chamberlain acknowledged a visitor regarding the traffic on Church Street. When Mr. Chamberlain acknowledged him stating that the jake brake ordinance had been passed, the visitor queried how it would be enforced. He said that he wasn't singling out the gas trucks, it was all of the trucks. He said part of the problem was with the speed they were going, contributing to the noise. A second visitor added that if one truck makes it through the others will follow, even through a red light. The original speaker continued, discussing accidents which had occurred recently. Mary Anne Waddington asked if there was any way they could get in touch with the state police, to ask them to spend some time in the town. Similar action had been taken in other areas, she said, where the cops stopped trucks, etc. The man then expressed his opinion that the state ought to assist, as the state gave permission for the actions leading to the trucks. Ms. Waddington said that the group doing this was a special unit, not part of the police out of Gibson. Chief Dale Smith clarified that the group was from Dunmore, and handled multiple counties. It was suggested that someone try to contact Dunmore. Another topic discussed was the quotes for the skating rink. There was a difference in prices, and it was discovered that there was an issue with the amount, as there was only one bid under $10,000, and that one was so close to that mark as to be flirting with it. As this is the mark after which work must go out to bid, Marion O'Malley the solicitor said, she thought it had to. No one, it was said, had thought the project would be over this amount. Craig Reimel argued, however, that one bid was under $10,000, even if only by $25, and said that he really wanted to get it done this year. Ms. O'Malley then suggested that the other guys be called as well and told that someone else had brought the project in for under $10,000 such that they might too. There was then talk of what Mr. DiPhillips and his crew could do themselves. It was decided that this too would be tabled, in hopes that they could get something done for (maybe) around $6,000 and have it done this year. The idea was for more information to be gathered. While on the subject, Mr. Reimel said that the Tony Hawke foundation is offering grants for small towns to receive skateboarding parks. Mr. Lamont said that the council should always accept help, especially where grants were concerned. It had been suggested that Maple Street should be a right turn only lane. In order for this to happen though, he said, a letter would have to be sent to PennDOT for the coming project. It was said, however, that if the left hand turn were taken away another street would be overloaded. Mr. Schuster suggested that, as it was to become a three lane street, it be waited on. This seemed the popular idea, and was agreed upon. During the police report Mr. Chamberlain asked what was going on with the car break-ins. It was confirmed that only unlocked cars were broken into. When asked if they had been caught yet, Chief Smith replied no, but the last time a string had occurred the thieves had been caught a few months later. The Kiwanis was given permission for their annual Halloween parade. Halloween was established to be Sunday, October 31, between 5 and 8 with a nine o'clock curfew. Justin Sprout resigned from his position on council. This was accepted by motion. This opens another seat on council, though it was said that there might already be interest. Mr. Chamberlain brought out a letter form PSAB acknowledging the loss of a fellow borough member. It was estimated that Jack Yeager may have had over 30 years in service. Mr. Schuster said, during a discussion of the Dimock waterline, that he had reservations. He said that he had received several calls from people who weren't very happy about their water plant running water down to there. He asked who would be paying the water bill. It was said that Cabot was supposedly to pay this, but they were currently fighting it. Another concern, it was said, was it would require putting a twelve inch main between here and there, and other people would want to hook up to it. When and where, he said, would the water run out, and at which point would it be called enough. Mr. Schuster said that he wouldn't be opposed to putting out a letter stating the council was opposed, even though they may not have a lot of say at the end of everything. When drilling a well was suggested, it was said that Chesapeake Bay wouldn't allow it due to fear of that well being contaminated. The water isn't in Montrose, but it was basically for their use. Mr. Lamont suggested that the letter not oppose the situation, but rather ask for more information. Mr. Schuster said it was putting the water quality and quantity of 1600 homes at risk to benefit 14, and asked if the lake could support the growth from here to Dimock. Mr. Darrow pointed out that the gas companies were already being allowed to take out 75,000 gallons a day per company. Mr. Reimel said that as a new treatment plant was being constructed anyway, why couldn't they find water elsewhere as well. Some suggested perhaps using Little Elk Lake. Concern for who was paying the water bill was then reiterated. It was decided that a letter of concern be written and sent, and for Sean Granahan, who was absent that night, to write it. The letter was to go to Cabot, PAWC, and John Hanger. A story was related of two residents who were stopped in paving their driveway. In order to continue this, it was said, the borough would need to pass a no parking ordinance around it. It was said then, that all of the driveways in that area were illegal, and not permitted, and trouble might come if they try to do improvements. It was stated that a parking ordinance probably needs to be enforced anyway, as it poses a safety issue, but that this might not be the way to approach it. Once it's done, it will have to be done all along the road, from the vet clinic all the way to the Original Pizzeria. It was stated that Sandra Major's office was meeting on this, and council would wait to see the results.
New Milford Focuses On Codes The October 7 meeting of the New Milford borough began with a laundry list of properties being complained about in town. It was quipped that the codes enforcement officer was going to be a very busy man. Amy Hine gave a report on the Peck Hill situation. The CEO was supposed to have gone there that day to investigate about the reported fifth apartment, but the appointment had to be rescheduled until later this month. The property owner about whom all the complaints had been lodged was served an order to vacate the sheds, by COG. Mayor Joe Taylor said that this man had been sent a certified letter about the large piece of equipment, which he hadn't acted upon. Mayor Taylor asked how the borough would feel about towing the equipment. It was responded that it was located on private property, and would require a complaint from the property's owner to do so. The situation with the trailers on Main Street was brought up again. That property owner's attorney had hand delivered his building and zoning applications this afternoon, which the borough's CEO had already said he was going to deny based on the letter of violation which had been sent to the property owner. The letter said that the owner was in violation of use of existing manufactured housing and vehicles as storage units. According to the zoning ordinance, Ms. Hine said when asked what his next step would be, the owner would then have up to 20 days to appeal the decision. The CEO had wanted his plan to deny brought before the council for their decision - they agreed with this. The Susquehanna County Housing and Redevelopment Authority had sent an announcement of CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) grants. The grants, it was said, are based on income - an area could be worked on but a certain percentage of that area would have to be low to moderate income. It was suggested that they bring a wish-list to the work session. It was stated that Peck Hill had been worked on through that program. Stop signs were discussed. A letter had been received from Integrated Risk Management. The borough had chosen not to fund a traffic study, the letter said, so liability was found to be against New Milford Borough, and they were being asked to remove the extra stop signs. The problem was that two extra stop signs were erected by an ordinance, using liquid fuels money, without performing a proper traffic study first. Ms. Hine clarified that this was just a letter and they had yet to receive an order to remove them. The letter stated that the liability would be assessed against the borough. Mayor Taylor expressed his concern that if something happened the borough would be found liable, but others felt this phrase meant that if they were not removed when ordered the borough would then be liable. Sue Abbot felt that this meant just that they were being held liable by making them remove them. Mayor Taylor felt this might set a precedent with others then, wondering about other stop signs that were done without a traffic study. This wasn't considered to be a problem, though. It was asked if the borough's maintenance man had been filling potholes, and responded that he had done Broad Street. He wasn't the one who spray painted the pot holes, it was added, though no one knew who had. The burn ordinance was discussed. It was stated that the committee was still working with the solicitor on it, trying to make sure everything was covered. The no smoking signs at the park were mentioned, where part of the words were scraped away. It was decided that they be taken down. Someone else mentioned that the skateboard equipment in the park had been deteriorating. Ms. Abbot said that she had told the maintenance man to talk with them; and he had said that they were cooperative. Two of the council members had apparently taken pictures a few weeks ago, saying that the kids had road signs and a fence post down there. This led to a discussion of safety, with Mr. Carr stating that he looked at it as a liability issue. There was discussion regarding whether or not the kids should be allowed to skateboard over there at all. It was publicly said that they didn't think it was everyone, but that even if someone else broke the stuff the other kids had to clean it up. Ms. Abbott said that she had told the maintenance man to tell them to treat it as a guest, or they were done. Concern was expressed where they would go from there, with fear being that they might destroy other property. It was agreed by some that they didn't mind the skateboarding itself. In the end Ms. Abbot offered to go speak with them, with the threat that if they weren't tidy they would be out. On the 17th, Teri Gulick reported, the Triplets were to host playoffs. They had wanted to hire a police officer to run security, but it was preferential to schedule someone for regular duty and run it through New Milford borough. The council approved this; the Triplets were to reimburse the borough for the expense. When the wage tax surveys were discussed, it was said that about 46 were brought in, of over 400 - about 10% overall. Of that several were opposed, a few abstained, and some were in favor. One man said that some people weren't going to turn it in as they pay online banking for their water and sewer bill, and don't even look in the envelopes. Some others said that they didn't want to give the information. The handicapped parking ordinance was adopted, to add two spaces on Broad Street on the Main Street side, and to subtract one space on the Church Street side. One space would be added at the borough building, and one at the other park. A visitor came and protested this, feeling that the spots where Broad Street met Main Street were unsafe and didn't meet the American's With Disability's Act. She wondered if any engineering had been done. Ms. Gulick addressed that the spots were put in place because the elderly coming to park events had no place to get someone in a wheelchair into the park. That area, she said, was a park parking place, belonging to the borough. After complaints it had been decided to put in a van spot. She said that they had gotten the width from PennDOT, and the reason why it was at the end of the street was because there was parking with a ramp there. The wheelchairs couldn't go over the parking blocks. The visitor said that most handicapped people parked on the Park Place side of the park. She felt this was more level. Mayor Taylor suggested that the planned spots just be moved down the street. There was significant debate over this. Ms. Gulick said that the ordinance was written for one van and one handicapped, not saying which one would be which. She proposed then switching the spots, so that the car spot is closer to the road and the van spot is further on the interior. The visitor then asked if the parking barriers could be spread further apart, so that someone with a walker could go through. Council agreed to take one barrier out. Someone from Peck Hill area came to address what she felt was misinformation after the last meeting. One visitor stated that she felt that misinformation was given. She said that they tape measured their street, and it was not fourteen feet wide - it's only twelve. She also said that they did not have a sluice pipe under her driveway. The borough said that it was said that she had two six inch pipes, which the woman agreed were there but said were plugged. She also complained about one spot where a sheet of ice forms where the snow is plowed up there, asking if the snow could be plowed elsewhere. Amy said that she had spoken to the fire department to take a look at the clogging debris and see if it was something they could flush out. The catch basins were to be made a priority for the maintenance man. It was also said that one property owner has been plowing the roads, which Mr. Carr said was not allowed. If there is evidence of that, he continued, the liability then falls upon the person plowing. Due to a minor change in printing schedule, we will be strictly adhering to our Friday, noon deadline for all news and reserved space advertising.
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