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Issue Home October 27, 2010 Site Home

HEADLINES:
Sunny Days Ahead For ELSD
Clifford Supers Pass Ordinances
Courthouse Report
SCSD Conserving Energy
Susky Gets Pension Update
N.M. Twsp. Supports Lock-Up
Gibson Barracks Report
Sentencing Report



Sunny Days Ahead For ELSD
By Melinda Darrow

The October 19 ELSD and SCCTC school board meetings began with a series of presentations about energy. One, Kim Guiton said, was an option for the future (solar) while the other was to be options for the present, as the lifting of electricity rate caps looms. The guest speaker was Jared Quiet from AM Solar in California. He described the company as a solar developer with a nationwide reach and a school focus. The company is of German descent, he said, and Germany is the largest solar market in the world due to the government support. In the beginning of 2009 they began operations in the United States, in California. He said that the most important reason they decided to work with schools was because they felt they had something to offer. As far as they know, he said, they are the only company focusing solely on schools. Schools, he continued, use solar as an educational tool, not just a money saving option. He said that his company tries to make the installed solar system come alive for the students. The company has secured financing, with the motto of financing with little to no upfront funding. Toward this end they have GCL Solar financing the projects. As Elk Lake has a lot of land, it was thought that perhaps ground would be the option the school might like to consider. Were Elk Lake to do the project, they would enter into a power purchase agreement (ppa) in order not to expend the money up front. They agree, then, to purchase the energy from the facility off the company. Under the model, AM Solar owns and operates the panels, and would contract with a local company to maintain it free of charge. If local people could be employed for the installation, he said, jobs would also be promoted. In addition, the company would invest in the community with renewable energy grants, etc., and make it so that the students could understand the process and reasoning behind the installation. Even, he said, there might the possibility to assist with a green training program through the vo-tech.

Right now, however, he said, he wasn't certain that it was alright and possible to enter such an agreement in such a way that would allow an electricity rate comparable to what the district currently pays. This might be possible in the near future, though. He proposed a few potential courses of action, the first being up-front money, which could lower the ppa rate. Option two would be a tiered ppa structure. The price would begin at or below the current price, jump during years six or seven, and then eventually drop again. The third option would be to utilize a state grant during a future round of funding, to offset the ppa price. The last option would be a utility style option. The investors would finance the project, the company would sell the power to a utility, and in return for using their land the company would pay Elk Lake in a lease. There would be no obligation for the district to purchase the power.

He finished the discussion by saying that there was real possibility at the district. He was asking the board to enter into a non-binding letter of intent, which would allow the company to discuss things with the local utility players. Mr. Matthew Curley expressed his anxiety over the potential risk of the program. Ms. Donica McGee asked what would happen after the twenty year contract they were discussing. He responded that there would be three options at that time: purchase the system cheaply, have them remove it at no expense to the district, or enter into a contract to continue the agreement. The system, just to power the school, would take up three to five acres. However, a larger project, at the utility scale, could occupy twenty acres. Mr. Tewkesbury questioned the location of the system, with the area right around the school being in use for the students. It was responded that the engineers would have to consider the viability of the other land. A megawatt system, he said, he felt would be able to supply 75% of the district's electric needs. Should the public wish to investigate the company, the website is www.amsolarcorp.com.

Next, Ms. Guiton went through a presentation to describe what the district had been contemplating for when the energy caps come off. First, she pointed out, the electricity use had decreased, from 316,480 kilowatt hours in 2008 to 221,658 kilowatt hours in 2010, enough to power a household for a year. Penelec, after the change, will be paid to be the distributor. This cost is not to change. When the caps come off on January 1 Penelec is predicting an 18% or greater increase. From there the options included indexed price suppliers, where electricity would be purchased month to month at fluctuating prices. She expressed her opinion that this was risky. Next would be a fixed priced option, where the district would decide the term they agreed to. Then there was a banded fixed price option, where the fixed price would be set for plus or minus 20% of historical use. There is a penalty for leaving the range of use, however, and she felt this was also not a good option considering the construction project. Then there is a variable option, where there is a 5% savings based on Penelec's price to compare. This option was ruled out due to restrictions. Finally there was a power consortium option, which aggregates groups to get the best market price. Customers in this option, however, have different load profiles, and the worst profiles benefit. She continued, then, to present several vendors in the area, and the prices for the different sort of contract lengths. Allegheny, appeared to have the best price for the options she was comfortable with. She turned the floor over next to Terrence Brazill, a Keytex Energy representative; they are an energy management company which represents Alleghany. They are a puc certified company, and licensed to operate in Pennsylvania. They focus their business on industrial and commercial, not residential projects. The market is at a low right now, he said, and a three year contract (actually a 35 month contract at this juncture) has a certain attraction therefore. It was clarified that even with the addition of the building project, the price would remain the same per kilowatt hour.

After all of this, the actual meetings didn't begin until around eight thirty. After Mr. Brazill left, during the regular meeting, Dr. Bush discussed the energy situation again with the board. All things considered he felt, Allegheny was the best option for the district. Even though it was not known whether or not the construction project would occur, he said, with the energy conservation program a banded program could prove dangerous. He proposed that they agree to it for three years, lest the prices (currently .06790) rise later. The board unanimously approved the action.

At the September meeting the board had discussed plan con e, and had approved the tentative approval of it. Shortly after that meeting the district had received the official approval of this, and Dr. Bush asked the board to approve the official approval at this meeting.

Dr. Bush then broached the subject of meeting dates, proposing an alteration from the third Tuesday of the month to the third Thursday of the month. When Mr. Tewksbury asked why he would do this, Dr. Bush explained that he felt it would flow more smoothly with the business office, were the meetings to run late. The motion was made and approved to adopt the change.

A special meeting was scheduled for November 9, as a regular public business meeting. At that time it was planned that the board would address the bids for the construction project. Action may be taken at that time.

During the principal's reports, Mr. Pirrone spoke of a fourth grade grandparent day held in attempt to better involve parents. Fifty percent of the fourth grader's grandparents, 86 in number, attended. They came, ate lunch with their students, and then attended the book fair. It was such a success, that the next month a third grade grandparent day was planned. He and Mr. Stang are also leading adult computer classes, he said. The night after the meeting, around twelve parents were scheduled to come and attend the second of these.

Dr. Bush echoed the success of the grandparent program, speaking of how the children interacted and how excited they appeared to be. It was hoped that similar initiatives for the other grades would also be run in the future.

Dr. Cuomo spoke of the upcoming fall musical performance and other newsworthy items. Rachel's challenge assemblies were held the day of the meeting, he announced, with programs for the kids during the day and a parent and community program that evening. It focused, he said, upon acts of kindness, and was named after Rachel Scott, the first student killed at Columbine.

The district evacuation drill off site was held since the last meeting, and Dr. Bush said that it had gone very well. As part of this, he commended staff and students, as well as community agencies that assisted. An after-action review was held, to assess the exercise. Its success was echoed by Mr. Place. He mentioned that there seemed to be some disappointment that this was not a gas well related event however.

The district had received a letter from the Susquehanna County Tax Claim Bureau. There was a trailer where the taxes had not been paid. It was put up for two public sales with no one interested. The bureau was asking, then, for permission to sell it free and clear for whatever price could be gotten. The motion was made and approved.

Dr. Bush led a discussion on bus contractor mileage. There were two items in this: one where they made them bring buses in to install cameras, and the evacuation drill. This led to extra mileage, which he suggested that the district reimburse. The board approved this action, after a presentation of the ways in which this ought to be carried out.

Mrs. Hollister said that the question was frequently asked regarding the income from the gas and oil wells. She had some numbers that evening, which she shared. The district had received $71,689.18 during the month of September, $176,269.64 from the months prior. Combining this to the previous payment brought the total to $422,958.05 in all.

Mr. Emerich announced that the Susquehanna County Tax Bureau had decided as a group to move away from Berkheimer as a tax collector. It wasn't possible for the district to do this for 2011 due to a 90 day contract with Berkheimer, however it would take effect in 2012, likely along with others. Everybody, he thought, benefited from the decision. The district, then, adopted the resolution.

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Clifford Supers Pass Ordinances
By Stephanie Everett

After several months’ review, Clifford Township Supervisors passed a local Oil and Gas Drilling Ordinance, as well as an Industrial Noise Ordinance, during a business meeting held October 18. Township Solicitor Joseph McGraw stated that the Director of the County Planning Commission reviewed the ordinances and “gave us a lot of recommendations, which we incorporated into our ordinances.” McGraw explained that sometimes local ordinances are pre-empted by state law, but added, “we have as tight of an ordinance as possible.”

Per Act 60-2002, the supervisors passed a motion to bill Gibson and Lenox Townships for services received from the Clifford Volunteer Fire Company. Funds received will contribute to insurance expenses for ambulance personnel and firefighters.

A grant approval contract for Jane’s Lane was signed.

During public comment, a resident of Mud Road inquired about why construction has stopped on Mud Road Bridge. Dennis Knowlton, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, explained that the contractor, Ken Rauch, is waiting for delivery of the concrete box culvert, which is presently being constructed by a pre-cast company. Due to communication problems with the architect, engineer and the supplier of the box culvert, “it’s not going as fast as it was supposed to,” Knowlton admitted. Delivery of the box culvert is expected in mid- to late November.

Representing the Clifford Advisory Committee, Sandy Wilmot encouraged the Supervisors to fund an “e-mail blast” system, in which 500 or 600 Clifford residents would receive a mass e-mail detailing township business news. The township will be charged fifty dollars per blast, and no long-term commitment is required.

A suggestion was made that the township consider registering four-wheelers and snowmobiles. However, the matter was dropped when McGraw pointed out that such a policy would be pre-empted by the Department of Natural Resources, which registers ATVs driven on public roadways.

With the goal of constructing a museum-quality display area, the Clifford Township Historical Society hopes to install track lighting in the municipal building. Wilmot received permission from the supervisors to pursue a free energy audit from Commonwealth Energy Group. If the historical society installs “green lighting,” a PP&L rebate program may nearly cover the cost of the project, Wilmot explained. She also stated that a representative from Commonwealth Energy recommended installing an occupancy sensor for the hallway lights.

A message was read from Trent Turner, Clifford Fire Chief, who was unable to attend the business meeting. Turner informed the supervisors that due to an unfinished roadway, the fire company cannot test a hydrant in the lower left portion of Fern Hall subdivision. Turner requested that an occupancy permit for an adjacent house be withheld until the hydrant can be accessed and tested. The supervisors agreed to withhold permits as necessary.

McGraw stated that Geotechnical Services, a company conducting geological surveys, requested a permit to use 7/10 mile on Tennessee Gas Road to bring in trucks. McGraw drafted a standard road agreement. With the cost to replace damaged road estimated at $2000.00, Geotechnical Services must provide the township with a $2,000 check to hold as bond.

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Courthouse Report
Compiled By Lauren Price Ficarro

DEEDS

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (by POA) to Matthew Quinn Latwinski, in Clifford Township for $32,445.00.

Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to Richard J. and Milicent J. Wener, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to Jerry Tallent, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to Stephen C., Jill L., Shawn M. and Matthew J. Kowalewski, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to Donald Faatz, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Bremer Hof Owners, Inc. to David Grecco, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Raymond G. Sheridan, Jr. (by sheriff) to US Bank, in Montrose for $5,877.53.

Donald J. Mutford to Donna Roxbury, in Great Bend Township for one dollar.

Joseph Cina (estate) to Margaret Ann Cina, in Oakland Borough for one dollar.

Margaret Ann Cina to Dale and Marian Baker, in Oakland Borough for one dollar.

Lawrence L. Travis, Jr. (by sheriff) to Federal National Mortgage Association, in Oakland Borough for $2,227.35.

Craig L. and Debra Victoria Stark to Jason and Lorie Wadlington, in Springville Township for one dollar.

Wayne L. (AKA) Wayne Lowe Williams (estate) to Debra and Marshall Decker, in Gibson Township for one dollar.

Eva M. Smith (estate) to Susan I. Swavola, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar.

Todd F. (by sheriff) and Kathryn M. (by sheriff) Spratt to Fannie Mae, in Clifford Township for $2,548.09.

Anna Elizabeth Kaufman (by POA) to David and Sharon Heath and Matthew Ogozaly, in Clifford Township for $40,000.00.

Dale J. and Thomas N. Hancock to Dale J. Hancock, in Lenox Township for one dollar.

John Koromlan to John Koromlan Farm LLC, in Auburn Township for one dollar.

D & K Family Enterprises, Inc. to Amy L. Powell, in Springville Township for $46,000.00.

Dennis A. Troup (by sheriff) to Citi Corp. Trust Bank, in Susquehanna for $1,832.10.

Renee Lepre (by sheriff) to Bear Creek Properties, Inc., in Lenox Township for $230,000.00.

Kenneth R. Post to Post Family Irrevocable Trust, in Great Bend Township for one dollar.

Andrew J. Conklin (by sheriff) and Lorraine Angus (by sheriff) to Susquehanna County Housing/Redevelopment Authority, in Forest City for $59,000.00.

James, Jr. and Michelle Roma to James M. Roma, Jr., in Forest Lake Township for one dollar.

Melissa A. Chandler (AKA) Melissa A. Marcy (by sheriff) to US Bank and Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, in Susquehanna for $2,407.28.

Harry C. and Jessie Winnie to Edward L. and Kira L. Carr, in New Milford Township for $80,000.00.

Ricky S. and Beth L. Gregory to TH&W Forging, in Montrose for one dollar.

Charles F. (AKA) C. Frederic, Jr. Stiles to James D. and Ronald C. Stiles, in Great Bend Borough for one dollar.

Patricia Hall to Beverly A. and Gregory R. Land and Pauline R. Johnson, in Thompson Township for $110,000.00.

Beverly A. and Gregory R. Land and Pauline R. Johnson to Beverly A. and Gregory R. Land and Pauline R. Johnson, in Thompson Township for one dollar.

Paul and Pippa Adams to Jesse Babuka, in Silver Lake Township for $50,000.00.

Barbara A. and Helmut Kunst to Thomas Norton and Susan A. Keen, in Clifford Township for $172,154.00.

George Vanvleck (estate) to Sally J. Vanvleck, in Great Bend Township for one dollar.

Margaret A. Blaisure to Jolene Bennett, Mark Blaisure, Jamie Marshall and Michelle Millard, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar.

Joseph and Patricia Thomas to Frank D. and Sandra M. Rinker, in Springville Township for $30,000.00.

June (by sheriff) and Richard F. (by sheriff) Hunt to US Bank, in Rush Township for $2,350.86.

Cindy K. and Mark W. Tompkins to Montrose Hillbillies III LP, in Franklin Township for $730,000.00

Robert J. Bastek (by sheriff) and Jane Jones (by sheriff) to US Bank, in Forest City for $4,376.20.

Charles P. Kaskey to St. Nicks Forests LLC, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar.

Marleta L. and David A. Shadduck to D & M Shadduck LLC, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar.

Elbert C. Seamans to Jennifer and Steve Glover, in Harford Township for one dollar.

Phil Alan and Irma Marie Beardslee to Phil Alan and Irma Marie Beardslee, in Springville Township for one dollar.

Christina M. Deakin (NBM) Christina M. Wallace to Christina M. and William J. Deakin, in Oakland Borough for one dollar.

Louis Cerracchio, Jr. to Laura Zukowski, in Middletown Township for one dollar.

Fannie Mae (AKA) Federal National Mortgage Association (by POA) to Douglas, Elizabeth, Aaron and Sarrah Wilcox, in Springville Township for $74,500.00.

Velma E. Hornbeck to William, Robert and Jean Marie Dempsey, in Forest City for one dollar.

Laurie Bean to David L. Bean, in Clifford Township for $50,000.00.

James F. Pulice to James F., Anthony and Bonnie Pulice, in Gibson Township for one dollar.

Max Lawson (by sheriff) and Gidget A. Edsell (by sheriff) to Chase Home Finance LLC, in Montrose for $1,706.51.

MARRIAGES

Clifford D. Fassett, Jr. and Deanna Christine Shaklee, both of Montrose.

Erik D. Hines of Thompson and Kara Lynn Culnane of Susquehanna.

Michael L. Hawley and Angel J. Severcool, both of Montrose.

Brian D. Day and May Rose O’Connor, both of Johnson City.

Jason E. Traver and Holly Marie Siglin, both of Montrose.

Harold Thomas Allen of Montrose and Marcella S. Squier of Great Bend.

George L. Scott, Jr. and Rosina B. Miller, both of Binghamton.

Ralph Lee Dewald, Jr. and Cheryl Lynn Koval, both of Susquehanna.

Jeff Allan Travis and Wanda Rae Yonkin, both of Montrose.

Sean Michael Hennessey and Kiera Ceres Brown, both of Susquehanna.

Kyle David Stockholm and Bobbi Jo Hamblin, both of Sayre.

David Eugene Rumage, Jr. and Ashley M. Whipple, both of Springville.

Clayton J. Kern of Stevensville and Dawn Kaye Cokely of Montrose.

Kip Allen Travis and Fawn Iva Rosevear, both of Friendsville.

Justin Matthew Silfee and Melissa Ann Davis, both of Forest City.

Matthew Floyd Merrell and Stacy F. Gelatt, both of Hallstead.

Scot Brian Ahearn and Ronnie M. Cadden, both of Pittston.

Jeremy K. Payne and Melissa C. Bell, both of West Chester.

Evan N. Dyer of Owego and Shaloam C. Birchard of Montrose.

Joseph Taylor and Leona L. Florance, both of New Milford.

Craig George Brown and Lisa Sue Dirskell, both of Hallstead.

Carlos Giron and Roseanne E. Nolan, both of Clifford.

Conrad J. Gemmer of New Milford and Katherine A. McLaughlin of Harford.

Philip D. Foote, II and Mariann Hammond, both of Thompson.

DIVORCES

Jeremy R. Fries of Nicholson vs. Christina D. Fries of Factoryville, married 1996.

Christine L. Quick of Great Bend vs. David W. Quick of Sugar Run, married 1980.

Tamara L. Parsons vs. Jeffrey A. Parsons, both of Forest City, married 1984.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 10:06 a.m. on October 22, 2010.

Erika L. Back, Bradley J. Baker, Keith Bryant Beach, Harold R. Bensley, David Shawn Blaisure, Howard A. Burns, III, Deborah L. Drish, Jonathan Fathi, Shawn Fiorentino, David J. Fischer, 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.

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SCSD Conserving Energy

Energy saving measures taken by the Susquehanna Community School District have already seen results. New lighting, installed not just to save energy but because the old ones were obsolete, has reduced electric usage by 19.46% from last year, over the same time period in September. The new boiler is also up and running in the elementary building, and it was reported that temperatures are more even throughout the building than they had been with the old one.

Parent teacher conferences will be held on November 10; the new On Call system will be used to send out reminders to parents on November 8. Fliers will be sent home with students explaining how the On Call system works, and those parents who do not receive a call will be asked to notify the district. On call will be used to notify parents of school closings or delays, which will still be posted on local TV and radio stations, as always. The On Call system will also be used for attendance purposes; when a student is absent, his/her parents will be notified by On Call.

David Jagger, the district’s new Special Ed. Coordinator was present, and was introduced to the board.

There have been several incidents involving traffic violations, drivers passing stopped school buses while students are being dropped off. The local police have been notified and will be keeping an eye out for careless drivers.

This week is Red Ribbon week, and elementary students will be taking part in various activities with a “don’t use drugs” theme.

The following items were approved by the board:

- New free/reduced price meals, fund balance and safety policies, and a revised behavior support policy.

- Thirty transportation contracts for the 2010-11 school year.

- Granting the superintendent the authority to tentatively approve an electricity purchasing agreement.

- Granting the superintendent the authority to tentatively hire pending board approval for any vacancies that may occur between October 20 and December 1.

- Granting the business office permission to pay bills that may occur between October 20 and December 1.

- A revised non-instructional contract.

- Troy Mechanical’s quote for emergency pump repairs that occurred in the elementary school in September.

- Homebound instruction for two elementary students and one high school student.

- Superintendent Bronson Stone to serve as adjunct faculty for Wilkes University for a one-evening school law course during the 2011 spring semester.

- Hiring Bridgette Stone as junior high assistant girls’ basketball coach for 2010-11.

- Substitute personnel for the 2010-11 school year: Raymond McDonald, teacher; Maria Vauter, elementary/special education teacher; Gerald Chandler and Brian Chandler, substitute bus drivers.

- Hiring of personnel for the 2010-11 school year: Richard Emmons and Ellen Rockwell, homebound instructors; Karyn Armitage, Rachael Arietta and Bridgette Stone, homebound instructors and substitute after school teachers; Katherine Edwards and Rebecca Stalker, co-teachers for the after school program; Carmelina Zyats, bus aide/interpreter; Rebecca Odell, bus aide; Daniel Mauer and Mary Weaver, scorer/timer/ticket takers; Rebecca Wright, substitute teacher.

- Authorizing the county Tax Claim Bureau to sell four repository properties within the district.

- The customary list of fundraisers and activities.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 1 at 7:00, and will be the annual reorganizational meeting.

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Susky Gets Pension Update

Bill Hildebrant, an actuary with the firm of Beyer-Barber Company was present at the October 18 Susquehanna Boro Council meeting to give an evaluation report on the boro’s police pension. At the present time, there are two recipients of the pension plan and the boro pays about $16,000 into the plan each year. Mr. Hildebrant said that the boro should expect to make the payments for another ten years, after which they should no longer need to contribute. He also brought some Act 44 paperwork the boro needs to submit to the state.

Mayor Matis asked what the increase in the boro’s contribution would be if the police department were to add one fulltime officer; Mr. Hildebrant said that the boro’s contribution would be at the “normal cost,” and most likely the boro would be eligible to receive two units of state aid, or about $6,400.00.

Bill Perry asked if the boro’s contribution would change if the boro were to join a municipal police department with its neighbors; Mr. Hildebrant said that the costs would change. Beyer-Barber would be happy to work up some figures when and if there was a definite agreement in place.

In other business, the boro’s newest secretary, Samantha Lawson, was sworn in at the meeting.

Minutes of three previous meetings were presented for approval. Mr. Perry voted against approving those from September 21, all others voted in favor. Mr. Perry abstained from voting on the minutes from the October 5 committee meeting and a special meeting held on October 14; all others voted in favor. A member of the press questioned whether or not Mr. Perry could abstain from voting; he said that he had not been at the meetings, and therefore could not vote on approving the minutes of those meetings.

There were questions about two items on the bill list, one for $703 from PAWC for a public safety siren and one from Masters Concrete in the amount of $2,000 for blocks for the salt shed. Mr. Perry questioned the cost of the blocks, as he had thought the price quote had been around $900. No one seemed to know what the PAWC bill was for. (After the meeting, the Transcript learned that “siren” was a typo, the bill was for hydrants.) Both items were tabled pending further investigation; all other items were approved.

Margaret Biegert was present to update council on the Elm Street (program) sidewalk project. Bids have been put out for Grand St. Funding is available through the Elm Street program to acquire and demolish another property, and some possible sites had been discussed at the last SCDA meeting. Mr. Scales had some concerns about the width of the sidewalks on Grand St., and wanted reassurance that parking would still be possible. And, Mrs. Biegert said that there are still funds available for matching funds for housing façade improvements; fliers would be distributed in the eligible area.

The Chemung Valley Historical Society has not yet removed the three rail cars parked on the tracks near the boro building. There are some “New Jersey Transit Authority” cars blocking them, and the owner of the Transit Authority cars has refused to move them. As the Transit Authority cars are not in good condition and there have reportedly been kids playing in them, the matter will be referred to the boro’s solicitor as a matter of public safety.

Mr. Matis has been looking for a company to update the boro’s website and had obtained prices from one in Clarks Summit. Mr. Scales asked to have a representative make a presentation to council.

The owner of a Washington Street property had requested a cutout for a driveway when new sidewalks had been put in, but due to a series of circumstances, the cutout was not put in. The contractor who installed the sidewalks said that there was no work order on record, so putting one in would be the boro’s responsibility. The Streets Department can do it, and council approved having it put in the spring.

The position of property maintenance officer had been advertised, and council received one letter of interest from a resident attending this meeting, Charles Oettinger. An interview would be arranged for the next committee meeting.

A resolution, number 101910 was tabled; it deals with the forming of an advisory board for the proposed regional police department. Council’s consensus was that more information was needed before entering into an agreement.

Some scheduling changes were made. The November committee meeting will be held on the ninth, as the second is election day, and budget meetings were rescheduled to October 25, November 1 and November 8. The regular meeting will be held on November 16, as scheduled.

A number of homeowners within the boro have still not complied with posting of their new 911 addresses; the police department will be checking for non-compliance.

John Hendrickson will take the training necessary to become the boro’s emergency management coordinator, and those members of council who have not yet taken NIMS training will do so.

A motion carried to advertise for a citizen to serve on a vacancy board along with council members Bill Perry, Dave Scales and Joe Varsik.

A letter of thanks will be sent to Barnes-Kasson Hospital for allowing use of their machinery to clean and buff the boro building floors.

The boro building’s outside lights have not been working properly for some time. An estimate to replace them came in at $1,896. After discussion, a motion carried to authorize purchase of the necessary materials; Mr. Perry, Mr. Matis and Mr. Oettinger will install them.

Some time ago, council had initiated the use of purchase orders for any expenditure exceeding $50, but it was reported that not all employees have been using them. A memo will be sent to all department heads stating that purchase orders must be used; disciplinary consequences will follow for those who do not comply.

The boro has had a quantity of biodegradable leaf bags for sale for some time, but not many have been sold. The bags will be given out free at the boro office during business hours.

The boro garage is presently heated by a used, residential furnace that had been donated, but it is not efficient. It was agreed to get prices for overhead propane heaters and discuss purchasing them at the next meeting.

The boro’s S10 pickup truck was said to be in poor condition. There was some discussion about whether to keep it and get it repaired, or to sell it. It was agreed to find out what repairs would be necessary for it to pass inspection and how much it would cost before a decision is made.

The boro had received a check for replacement of the street light in front of the post office from the insurer of the driver who damaged it, but the amount received was $2,000. Replacement cost is $4,800, so the insurance company was contacted and they agreed to pay the additional amount. There is a discount if two lights are purchased, at a total of $6,822; after discussion, a motion carried to approve purchase of two, with one to be kept in reserve until needed.

Mayor Matis reported that trick or treat time will be on Sunday, October 31 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and the Lions Club annual Halloween parade will be the same day at 2:00. He is looking into starting up another neighborhood crime watch. Nine street lights were out and had been reported to Penelec.

The Susquehanna Community Development Association will be hosting their annual Christmas tree lighting on Friday, December 10 at 7 p.m. in the Shops Plaza, followed by refreshments at the American Legion with entertainment by the elementary school chorus. The free breakfast with Santa will be held Saturday, December 11, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Parish Center.

There was some discussion about changing the boro’s codes inspector, and information from COG was reviewed. The matter was tabled for the time being.

An appraisal in the amount of $2,000 was received for property on Washington St. that the boro owns. Although grant funding paid for the purchase and subsequent demolition of the house, which had been condemned, the boro has put about $500 into the property (legal fees and installation of a drainage pipe). It was agreed to research just how much the boro has invested in the property and table discussion on whether or not to sell it until the next meeting.

There was some discussion about an old pressure washer that the boro owns but no longer uses. It was agreed that it would bring a better price if it was sold as scrap. And, a leaf vacuum that is not used will be listed on the Municibid website.

Other items approved included a motion to allow the Tax Claim Bureau to sell several properties in the boro at a repository sale, and to contact the exterminator to take care of some problems.

The meeting adjourned to an executive session to discuss a personnel issue.

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N.M. Twsp. Supports Lock-Up
By Melinda Darrow

At the October 20 meeting of New Milford township, there were a few new faces in attendance. Nevertheless, the meeting maintained its usual short and sweet nature.

Jack Conroy, supervisor, and Julene Graham, township secretary, will be locked up for a good cause to support MDA. The cell will be at Green Gables. Donations are tax deductible. Sign ups are available at the building at any time.

A subdivision was discussed, where Jon and Bonny Onyon swapped a little over two acres of land next to the old South New Milford church, for the church. The property being exchanged was below the parsonage.

In 2008 the township applied for a $300,000 grant through the DCED to put up a new cinder shed. Recently they were notified that they received $150,000 of this, which they were, as the agenda put it “diligently pursuing.” Because they do not yet actually hold the money, Mr. Hunter said, they have a grant but also do not have a grant. The money, it is planned, will be used to create a cinder shed and perhaps to increase garage space for vehicles. When a visitor asked if they did not then need to use the gas money for a salt shed, it was responded that the gas money was already used for Bailey Road. It was hoped this would eventually be reimbursed through FEMA.

A notice was received from DEP regarding a permit for a small bluestone non-coal industrial mine. Paperwork had been submitted three times on this mine, which was only for two acres authorized and under five acres affected. The submitter was from Factoryville. It was said that the supervisors would provide more information at the next meeting, if they had any.

The Susquehanna County Tax Claim Bureau had sent a letter. A piece of property had gone through to sale, and been purchased by Chris Tracey. This was just notification.

One of the Township's auditors is resigning. She sent a letter of resignation, and it was up to the supervisors to appoint another auditor. It's not a high paying job, Mr. Hunter said, and not a time consuming one, but still Jacqueline Gates was interested. Jack Conroy abstained from the vote due to relation to the candidate. A motion was made and seconded, and Ms. Gates was dutifully approved.

Ken Bondurant asked what the status of the legislation on the municipal police was. The supervisors did not know for certain, though Mr. Hunter said that he thought it had gone the other way.

Jerry Bevans wished to compliment the township on the dirt road activity to assist the East Lake detour. He said that, except when it rains, it was almost as good as the paved road.

Another visitor said that he was impressed that the township crushes its stone. He felt it showed a lot of foresight. Mr. Hunter explained that in the past there hadn't been enough material. After the flood, however, the excess material could not go back into a flood zone. The township is not one; they accepted it. When it was brought up that there was more that had been brought in, Mr. Hunter said that they would take all they could get, especially as it is getting more scarce with the gas business.

Mr. Bevans then asked about the road going up to BS quarries, as it had been a large issue the year before. The situation appeared to be better than the previous year. He wondered if they had contributed money or it had been the township's cost. Mr. Conroy explained that the township had done the tar and chip work, but the gravel up the road was the company's contribution.

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Gibson Barracks Report
Compiled By Melinda Darrow

BURGLARY

Sometime between the 15th and 20th of October the residence of Andrew Axworthy, in Bridgewater Twp. was burglarized. A set of golf clubs was removed from within. A kayak was also removed from a lake near the rear of his residence, between June 18 and July 9.

CRASH

On October 18 at 5:56 p.m. Thomas Kerr of Montrose was traveling north on SR 0029 in Bridgewater Twp. when, for unknown reasons, he lost control of his vehicle while negotiating a curve. The vehicle exited the roadway off the west side and struck a tree. Kerr was utilizing a seatbelt; he sustained moderate injury. He was arrested for suspicion of DUI.

ATTEMPTED BURGLARY

On October 3 between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. undisclosed juveniles attempted to force entry into a Harford Township residence, by means of a side and back door. The juveniles failed to obtain entry. They also rummaged through a 1991 Chevy truck and a 1997 Chevy Cavalier located on the property. Entry was also attempted into a detached garage, where a 4 wheel ATV was stored. The juveniles then fled the scene undetected.

HIT AND RUN

On October 16 at 11:30 p.m., Joshua Swackhammer of Endicott, NY was traveling eastbound on Tripps Lake Road at the intersection of Mahoney Road, in Silver Lake Township. At this point he failed to negotiate a left hand curve, exiting the roadway to the south and striking a tree. The vehicle came to a rest at that location. Swackhammer fled the scene after the crash. He was utilizing a seatbelt; an injury of unknown severity was obtained.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

Between the 13th and 14th of October the front door glass at Robinson's Market in Bridgewater, Twp. was damaged. The incident appears to have occurred overnight.

THEFT

Between the 18th and 19th of October, sometime overnight, Corey Butler of Hop Bottom left his vehicle parked in the lot of Chet's Bar in Herrick Township. When he returned to his vehicle he discovered the window had been broken and items were stolen from within.

CRASH

On October 11 at 8:40 p.m., Jessica Wrobel of Island Park, NY was traveling on I81 in New Milford Twp. She was driving too fast, and the roadway was wet. Wrobel lost control of her vehicle and struck the guide rail off the east berm with its front, proceeding to travel across the roadway and strike the guide rail off the west berm with the vehicle's rear. Wrobel was treated on the scene and released; she was utilizing a seatbelt. Three other vehicles ran over debris on the roadway from the crash, causing minor damage to the vehicles but disabling them. Wrobel was cited for safe speed.

CRASH

On October 15, Thomas Laffan of Toms River, NJ was traveling south on SR 81 in Lenox Twp. The road was wet at that time. He lost sight of the right side fog line , drifting off the roadway onto the west berm. He then traveled onto a grassy area where he dumped the bike prior to striking a road sign. A motorcycle helmet was in use; the driver was not injured.

BURGLARY

On October 17 at 3:45 a.m. a subject forcibly made entry into the Great Bend Exxon in that township. Entry was obtained by breaking the glass in the eastern side, back entrance, door. Once inside, the burglar removed monies from within without authorization or consent. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

CRASH

On September 26 at 11:15 a.m. Brittany Loomis of Meshoppen was traveling on route 3012 in Springville Twp. when her vehicle swerved off the roadway and struck a parked truck.

BURGLARY

Between the 7th and 11th of October the office building of Donald Dean and Son's in Bridgewater Township was entered sometime during the evening or night hours. Approximately $100 worth of cash and a couple bottles of medication were taken from within.

CRASH

On October 14 at 8:37 p.m. Gilberto Perez of Allentown, PA was traveling north on SR 11 in New Milford Twp. when he lost control of his vehicle and exited the roadway to his right. The SUV struck an embankment before rolling over onto its roof. It was towed by Marv's. No fire or EMS responded. Perez was utilizing a seatbelt; he was not injured.

GAS DRIVE OFF

On October 14 the driver of a black Mercedes Benz class three put $43 worth of gas into his or her vehicle from the Liberty truck stop in Harford, PA then drove off without paying.

COLLISION-TRAFFIC

On October 15 at 2:48 a.m. Lee Labor of the Meshoppen area was traveling northbound on SR 3001 in Auburn Township when his vehicle exited the roadway to the east of the travel lanes while he was attempting to negotiate a curve. The jeep impacted with a tree, coming to a final rest partly on the travel lanes. Labor was transported via ambulance to Tyler Hospital in Tunkhannock. Assistance was provided by PSP Tunkhannock.

BURGLARY

On October 10 at 1:30 p.m. Jessica Lobdell, Edward Barber, and Christopher Butts, all of Hallstead, arrived at the residence of Patricia Lobdell in Great Bend Township. One of the thieves broke into the residence, took a laptop computer, and fled the scene. On October 11 the three were arraigned and released on bail.

THEFT

On October 6 a cell phone belonging to Steve Kubcznk of Springville was stolen. The phone was valued at approximately $275 in total.

THEFT FROM A MOTOR VEHICLE

Between the 12th and 13th of October a Ford F150 belonging to Sara Cosler of Hammond, NY was broken into by means of a smashed rear window. Cash was stolen from within.

CRASH

On October 13 at 1:41 p.m. Kelly Fitzgerald of Hallstead was traveling Northbound on SR 171 in Great Bend Township when she lost control of her vehicle. The Kia Reo exited onto the right shoulder, began a counterclockwise rotation after hitting an embankment, and came to a final rest overturned. Fitzgerald was not injured during this collision; she was utilizing a seatbelt.

HIT AND RUN

On October 8 at 11:55 p.m. PSP received a report of a hit and run crash that occurred sometime between 8 p.m. and 11:55 p.m. The vehicle was a white vehicle of unknown make which was backing in the parking lot behind the apartment building located at 200 Main Street in Great Bend. It struck a parked and unattended Chevrolet Cavalier. The driver of the fist vehicle then fled the scene.

CRASH

On October 10 at 6:27 a.m. Matthew Felter of Scranton was traveling north along SR 2034 in Gibson Twp., entering a right curve portion of the road. Felter suddenly steered to the left to avoid an alleged deer in the road, then overcompensated in steering and traveled back to the right. The corolla spun on the graveled surface of the road and slid into a small ditch before flipping onto its left side and coming to a rest along the right lane of travel. Clifford Twp. fire department and Kozlowski towing responded to assist PSP with the crash. Felter was not injured; he was utilizing a seatbelt.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On October 12 at 3:29 p.m. a bb/pellet/small caliber round was fired into the front door glass of Robinson's market in Bridgewater township, causing it to smash. Nothing was reported stolen at the time of the incident.

If you have information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

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Sentencing Report

Following is the Susquehanna County sentencing report for October, 2010 as submitted by the county District Attorney’s office.

George Humber, 57, of Montrose, PA to 6 months to 23 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, followed by 8 years probation, pay $1,000 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with the victim in this case, not to have contact with anyone under the age of 18 without adult supervision, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to possess firearms while on supervision, not to possess alcoholic beverages while on supervision, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement fee for Statutory Sexual Assault in Bridgewater Township on January 1, 2007. Mr. Humber also received, 10 years consecutive probation, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with anyone under the age of 18 without adult supervision, no contact with the victim in this case, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $750 fine, not to possess firearms while on supervision, not to possess alcohol while on supervision, receive a sexual offenders evaluation for Statutory Sexual Assault in Bridgewater Township on November 1, 2000.

Warren Anson Ball, 47, of Montrose, PA to 90 days to 12 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, served 45 days incarceration and 45 days home confinement, while incarcerated participate in drug and alcohol program, perform 50 hours community service, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Law Program, pay $1500 fine, pay $100 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $300 Act 198 fee, pay cost of prosecution, attend alcohol highway safe driving school program, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages for Driving Under the Influence in Montrose Borough on March 26, 2010.

Peck Joseph Milbauer, 38, of Susquehanna, PA to 10 days to 12 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $10 EMS, pay $200 CAT surcharge, attend alcohol highway safe driving school program, receive drug and alcohol counseling, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock law Program, complete 50 hours community service pay, $100 Act 198 fee, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages for Driving Under the Influence in Clifford Township on February 14, 2009.

Michael Matthew Ely, Sr., 39 of Dimock, PA to 90 days to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, followed by 3 years probation, pay $1500 fine, pay $200 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay cost of prosecution, pay $300 Act 198 fee, continue with drug and alcohol counseling, attend alcohol highway safe driving school program, perform 50 hours community service, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Law Program for Driving Under the Influence in Springville on July 15, 2009. Mr. Ely also received, 90 days to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, followed by 3 years probation, sentence to run concurrent, pay $1500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $200 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $100 Act 198 fee, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Law Program, attend alcohol highway safe driving school program for Driving Under the Influence in Liberty Township on November 3, 2009.

Michael William Hillier, 21, of Montrose, PA to 5 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, pay $500 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, perform 50 hours community service, not to utilize alcoholic beverages or controlled substance, not to have contact with codefendants in this case, pay restitution to the victims in this case, pay cost of prosecution for Burglary in Lenox Township on February 28, 2010. Mr. Hillier also received, 3 years probation to run consecutive to the above sentence, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to possess firearms, not to have contact with codefendants in this case, not to have contact with the victim in this case for Criminal Attempt/Burglary in Lenox Township on March 10, 2010.

Scott A Stoll, 38, of Uniondale, PA to 12 months probation, not to consume alcoholic beverages, perform 50 hours community service, continue with drug and alcohol abuse counseling, pay cost of prosecution, pay $300 fine for Disorderly Conduct in Herrick Township on March 5, 2010.

John James Bandonis, 57, of South Montrose, PA to 6 months probation, pay cost of prosecution, pay $300 fine, pay $50 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, attend alcohol highway safe driving school program, receive drug and alcohol counseling, not to possess alcoholic beverages for Driving Under the Influence in Montrose, Borough on April 29, 2010.

Frank James Siglin, 48, of Montrose, PA to 4 months to 15 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, continue with drug and alcohol counseling, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to have contact with the victim in this case, pay cost of prosecution, pay $350 fine, receive anger management treatment, not to possess weapons while on supervision, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages for Simple Assault in Montrose Borough on September 6, 2010.

Eric Arthur Benscoter, 30, of Montrose, PA to 7 1/2 months to 23 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, credit for time served, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, perform 50 hours community service, continue with drug and alcohol classes, not to have contact with victims in this case, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Rush on September 10, 2010.

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