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Graytock Resigns From FC Council A notable event at Forest City’s February 7 borough meeting was the resignation of Councilperson Fran Graytock. The motion to accept Graytock’s resignation passed with reluctance; two council members voted “no.” In various capacities, Graytock served the Forest City community for over forty years, and he promised to “continue to support the community in any way I can.” Forest City Council President Robert Trusky thanked Graytock for his service, stating, “It is greatly appreciated.” Individuals who are interested in finishing Graytock’s term must submit a letter of intention to the borough office by February 21. All letters will be reviewed by the Forest City Personnel Committee, then voted upon by the entire council. Trusky announced that PA American Water Company is accepting grant applications for watershed protection activities, biodiversity projects and surface groundwater protection education programs. The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and applications, which are available in the borough office, are due March 25. In his report, Paul E. Smith, solicitor, announced that the storm water plan that recently was submitted to the DEP is now to be reviewed by DEP solicitors. “We have no idea how far that sets everything back,” Smith reported. In regard to snow removal in town, Smith stressed that according to the Snow Removal Ordinance, property owners must clear their entire sidewalk; fines for noncompliance will be levied as necessary. “The ultimate duty is always on the landowner,” Smith clarified. He suggested that the borough “take care of the whole town,” charging each individual property owner. On a similar matter, Robert Tedesco, head of public works, stated that he has received many complaints that PennDOT is not coming through enough in the early morning. Paul Lukus of the police department asserted that two PennDOT trucks come through daily at about 2 a.m., one behind the other. However, Smith commented that road conditions in town “seem worse this year than I’ve ever remembered.” Several individuals attending agreed, and Trusky promised to contact PennDOT. Borough residents should note that bulk items can be set out with trash bags on Fridays. Interested individuals should contact the borough office to purchase a sticker for such items.
Commissioners Have Brisk Meet Due to uncontrollable circumstances, I missed the February 9 Commissioners Meeting in the County Office Building. However, graciously and compassionately Commissioner MaryAnn Warren granted me a meeting in her office. I thank her staff, Chief Clerk, Silvia Beamer, Janet DePue and Amanda Wilston for their friendly assistance. At the regular meeting, Lisa Vail, Probation was recognized for 15 years of service. The Commissioners voted to correct/approve the minutes of the January 26 meeting. They elected to ratify or approve General Expenses from 1/26/2011 to 2/09/2011 of $672,241. (Nearest dollar amount) The following to ratify are: CYS Expenses - $135,085.68, Payroll Expenses - $164,438.72, Employee Retirement Contribution - $14,295.08, State Withholding - $7,271.55, Federal Payroll taxes of $55,975.66, Jury Expenses - $73.90, a total of $ 1,049,383 including General Expenses. (Nearest dollar) They approved the following seminar requests, and/or payment for seminar requests for the following persons and positions, from dates February 8, 2010 to April 1, 2011: John Benscoter and Marlene Bailey, Soil Conversation, Troy; Northern Tier No-Till Conference, Robert Fearnley, Soil Conservation, State College, Pennsylvania Lake Management Annual Conference, Robert Fearnley; Soil Conservation, Bethleham, Lehigh Valley Watershed Conference. (All the above no cost to the County.) Art Donato and Steve Janoski, 911, Reading, Next Generation 911, cost $50.00. Scott Aylesworth, Emergency Management, Westchester, Hazardous Weather and Flood Preparedness, cost $300.00. Karen Mitchell, Children &Youth, Mayfield, #204 Interactional Helping Skills Model Workshop, $58.00, cost to the County $11.60. Mark Darmofal, Children & Youth Solicitor, State College, Solicitor's Meeting at the Pennsylvania Children & Youth Administrator's Quarterly Meeting, total $303.50, cost to the County $60.70. Susan Adamec and Kenneth Zahora, State College, Pennsylvania Children & Youth Administrators' Quarterly Meeting, total $916.00, cost to the County $183.20. Alexander Novack, Assessment State College, Certified Pennsylvania Evaluator classes cost $4125.00. Commissioners voted to appoint the following to the Susquehanna County Emergency Preparedness Task Force for all of 2011: Charlene Moser, Paul Johnson, Michael Giangrieco, Paul Lukus, Jeff Shoemaker, Blaine Dibble, Jerry Fives, Robert McTiernan, Michael Ognosky, Stephen McHenry, Robert Lintott, Scott Aylesworth, MaryAnn Warren, Reverend Jane Pykus, Debra Strong, Anthony Conarton, Charles Bement, Michael Hinds, William Bush, Andrew Chichura, Tom McGroarty, Julie Costello, Art Donato, Leon Allen, Sgt, Chris Grube, Lance Benedict, William Iveson, Jr., Jim Krupinski, Elwood Litvin, Robert Vadella, Bronson Stone, Beverly Griffiths. They approved to appoint the following to the Local Emergency Planning Committee for all of 2011: Charles Moser, Art Donato, Michael Giangrieco, Blaine Dibble, Allen Oswald, Ted Cady Jr., Jeff Wayman, Larry Souder, Scott Aylesworth, MaryAnn Warren, Mike Stalnecker, William Iveson Jr., Steve Watkins, Donald Button, Don Kessler Jr., Phyllis McNamara, Paul Johnson, Leon Allen, Sgt. Chris Grube, Robert Lintott, Steve Lord, Joe Schell, Gregg Confer. They acted to reappoint Adam Diaz, William E. Owens, George Conner, and Susan Dean to the Economic Development Board for all of 2011. They voted to reappoint the following to the Endless Mountains Resource Conservation and Development Council for all of 2011: Board Member - Commissioner MaryAnn Warren, First Alternate - Jim Garner. They voted to reappoint David Darrow to the Susquehanna County Rail Authority for a five year term from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2015. They accepted, with regret by Susan Eddleston, Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts, the retirement of Harriette Taylor effective March 3, 2011. They accepted the quote from United Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., Pittston Township, to replace the heating coil in the Treasurer's office for $2,591.00. They authorized the purchase of a 2010 Ford Crown Victoria for the Sheriff’s office from New Holland Auto Group, New Holland, PA, for $30,500.00 through the PA COStars Agreement. Finance will be through Pennstar Bank at 2.85% for four years. The regular meeting adjourned at 9:07 a.m. Solicitor Michael Gathany called the County Board of Elections meeting to order at 9:09 a.m. in the Lower Conference Room in the County Office Building. Present were Richard L. Ainey, Thomas Charles (both Democrats) and Gary Marcho (Republican). Motion to nominate Rich Ainey as Chairman of the Board of Elections carried. Motion to nominate Gary Marcho as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Elections carried. Motion to authorize Laura Watts, Director of Elections, to acquire signatures from the Board of Elections and order a signature stamp carried. Motion to close the meeting carried. Meeting adjourned at 9:12 a.m.
Courthouse Report DEEDS Thomas P. (by sheriff) and Nancy E. (by sheriff) Duffy to HSBC Bank, in Thompson Township for $1,626.29. Canawacta Rod and Gun Club to Canawacta Rod and Gun Club, in Oakland Borough for one dollar. Bijoy Bhushon and Aparna Sarmaroy to Arindam Purkayastha, in Susquehanna for $42,000.00. Mark A. Henninge (by sheriff) to Wells Fargo Bank, in Liberty Township for $1,587.94. Arthur and Regina Roth to Jason Clancy, in Clifford Township for $30,000.00. Jeffrey S. Falcone and Tammy James to Jeffrey S. Falsone, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Chad D. (by sheriff) and Melissa S. (by sheriff) Perry to Peoples State Bank of Wyalusing, in Hallstead Borough for $2,959.75. Carol J. Douglas to Milo D. Douglas, in New Milford Township for $10.00. James L. Voelker, Jr. and Kathleen Zeek (estate) to James L. Voelker, Jr., in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Kathleen L. Zeek (estate) to James L. Voelker, Jr., in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Ludwig F. (trust by trustee) and Jean C. (trust by trustee) Skubic to Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Carol Skubic and James J. Pantzar, in Clifford Township for $197,976.00. Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Maryann S. Bean, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Jean Ann (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Maryann S. Bean, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Lori A. Zuba to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Dept. of Transportation, in Montrose for one dollar. Thomas R. and Cheryl E. Kerr to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Dept. of Transportation, in Montrose and Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Mark L., Debra L., Scott and Laurie M. Andre to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Dept. of Transportation, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Patricia and Robert Aiken to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Dept. of Transportation, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Victoria Lynn Heitzenroder to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Dept. of Transportation, in Montrose for one dollar. Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Maryann S. Bean, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Maryann S. Bean, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Maryann S. Bean to Maryann S. Bean, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Jean C. (AKA) Jeanne C. Skubic to Carol Skubic and James J. Pantzar, in Clifford Township for one dollar. Daniel J., Gretchen P., Richard E. and Virginia M. Backer to Daniel J. and Gretchen P. Backer and Albert G., Jr. and Bonnie S. Platt, in Montrose for $105,000.00. Rhonda Conlon (by sheriff) and Joshua Ellis (by sheriff) to US Bank (trustee) and Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, in New Milford Borough for $1,385.54. Jane H. Austin to Gregory and Robyn E. Adams, in Silver Lake Township for $105,000.00. Peoples Neighborhood Bank (NKA) Peoples National Bank to Kevin M. and Theresa A. Crosby, in Jackson Township for $85,000.00. Fannie Mae (AKA) Federal National Mortgage Assoc. (by POA) to Paul Striefsky, in Clifford Township for $31,250.00. Theodore Melyan to Martha Melyan Brunelle, in New Milford and Harford Townships for one dollar. Joseph R. and Patricia Thomas (AKA) Patricia Publik to Christopher E. and Teri A. Evans, in Springville Township for $150,000.00. Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. (trustee for) Ameriquest Mortgage Securities, Inc. to Matthew Mark Darrah and Adrian Marie Kinney, in Silver Lake Township for $59,000.00. Allien (AKA) Allien H. Finch (estate) to Samuel R. Finch, in Jessup Township for one dollar. MARRIAGES Michael Christopher Forbidussi and Cailtin R. Hackett, both of Montrose. Robert Kenneth Goodrich of New Milford and Vicki Renee Wayman of Susquehanna. Scott Rowlands and Tina Ann Smith, both of New Milford. Antonio Tomas Guerrero Diaz and Elizabeth T. Gaughan. DIVORCES Xaysongkham Phonechanh of Hallstead vs. Lakuisakha L. Phonechanh of Old Forge, married 2005. Amanda Bledsoe of Montrose vs. Levi Lyon of Hallstead, married 2009. Marcia Karhnak of Kingsley vs. James Karhnak of Nicholson, married 1990. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 11:00 a.m. on February 11, 2011. David Shawn Blaisure, Ryan T. Brooks, Douglas Buckman, Bryan S. Burnett, Howard A. Burns, III, Jason James Carroll, John C. Creps, Charles S. Dunn, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, Thomas Fisher, David D. Fitzpatrick-DePue, John S. Frisbie, Jr., Deborah E. Gould, Andy L. Groff, David Haines, Jr., Keith G. Harms, William Neil Hendrickson, Shannon J. Hollister, Gerald C. Hundley, Richard W. Ianuale, Christopher J. Kingsbury, Erik E. Krisovitch, Lee Labor, Casey J. Lawton, Joshua S. Lee, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Derrick Lezinsky, Jason Lindquist, Mark C. McCarey, Jennifer M. Miller, Shane Nelson, Jeremy Presson, Arthur D. Quick, Shawn Rousseau, Neil D. Shaffer, David J. Shiner, Richard D. Shoemaker, Eric J. Snell, Garrett M. Staudinger (a/k/a Thomas), Justin Thompson, Robert J. Twilley, Todd M. West, Steven G. Wormuth, Donna Zeluff. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
Gibson Barracks Report RETAIL THEFT On February 9 at 5:45 p.m. an unknown person in a green Subaru put $40.01 worth of gas in his car and did not pay for it. The incident occurred at the Lenox Pump and Pantry. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On February 9, a mailbox belonging to Connie Penny of Uniondale was knocked off with an unknown object. CRASH On February 5 at 1:22 p.m. Thomas Vanderhoef of Thompson, PA slid on ice and snow across the opposing lane of State Highway 171 in Clifford Township and proceeded over an embankment. He was utilizing a seat belt; he sustained moderate injury. CRASH On February 8 at 10:35 a.m. Leon Feduchak of Hop Bottom was traveling south along SR 2017 in Lenox Township when his vehicle drifted to the left side of the road and collided with a tree. The vehicle came to a final rest against the tree. Feduchak was not injured in the crash; PSP was assisted by Denaples towing. He was wearing a seat belt THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE During the night of February 7 a purse was stolen from the vehicle of Maxine Madura of New Milford Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. BURGLARY On February 1, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. the residence of Justin and Kimberly Lee of Springville was entered. Currency was stolen from a glass five gallon water jug within the residence. BURGLARY Between January 23 and 30 the residence of Joseph Loomis of New Milford was entered while he was away. All rooms were entered, and drawers and closets rummaged through. Several hunting knives, a hunting bow, and money were stolen. Anyone with any information is asked to call PSP at (570) 465-3154. RETAIL THEFT On January 18 Christopher Sano of Johnson City is accused of stealing a beer from Tedeschi's Restaurant in Hallstead, PA. FUGITIVE On January 25 Jason Kaszupski of New Milford Township was found to be a fugitive of Camden Co., New Jersey, for probation violation. CRASH On February 2 at 3:08 p.m. and unknown driver was traveling north on SR 29 at the same time Edward Kays of Montrose was traveling south. The unknown driver turned left in front of Kays, causing the latter to swerve left to avoid a crash and strike a utility pole. The unknown driver continued west on SR 4002. Anyone with information as to the identity of the driver may call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. He was driving a Chevrolet Silverado. Kays was utilizing a seat belt; he was not injures. CRASH On February 2 at 11:49 a.m. Crystal Tracy of Lawton, PA was traveling south on SR 858 when her vehicle traveled off the west berm into snow slush. Tracy then overcompensated in an attempt to regain control of the vehicle and drove off the right side of the roadway, hitting an embankment. The vehicle flipped onto its roof. Neither Tracy nor a passenger were utilizing seat belts; neither was injured. BURGLARY Between January 29 and 31, between 6 p.m. and 8:30 a.m., a seasonal residence in Herrick Township was entered without authorization, and items removed from therein. The victims were three men from out of state. The investigation was ongoing at the time of report. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson and reference incident #R05-0795072. BURGLARY Between the 15th of November and the 2nd of February, homes were broken into in Ararat, Gibson, and Herrick Township. Various items were taken. AGGRAVATED ASSAULT On January 31 Theresa Burris of Harford spit in the face of Trooper Eric Burns as he was attempting to place her in custody at the Northwest Health Services Parking Lot off SR 706 in Bridgewater Township. Charges were filed at District Court 34-3-01 for Aggravated Assault, Resisting Arrest, and Disorderly Conduct. CRASH On January 22 at 8:20 p.m., Jason Yasnovitch of New Milford was traveling east on Tingley Lake Road in Harford Township when his vehicle entered the oncoming lane and left the left side of the roadway. After leaving the roadway he encountered a drop off. The vehicle subsequently became airborne and struck the ground with the front right side, rolling over partially, righting itself, and sliding counter clockwise. The blazer then slid through a field and struck a tree, coming to rest facing a northerly direction. Yasnovitch fled the crash scene prior to the trooper's arrival and failed to report the crash. Citations were to be filed in District Court 34-3-03 as of the time of report Yasnovitch was not injured; use of safety equipment was unknown as of the time of report. HIT AND RUN On January 20 at 6:18 p.m. Kami Lee of Thompson was traveling south on SR 171 in Ararat Township when she encountered another vehicle traveling north which crossed the center line. Lee attempted to avoid the other vehicle by moving to the right, but the unknown driver entered her lane and struck her vehicle, dragging down the driver side and taking off the side mirror. The offending vehicle then continued north, not stopping. Lee stopped to assess the damage and continued to Arlo's Country Store to get cell service and await assistance. Lee was utilizing a seat belt; she did not report any injuries. The guilty driver is believed to have been driving a heavy duty pick up truck in a dark color, which would have damage to the driver's side. No citations were issued at the time of the report. CRASH On January 18 at 11 a.m. Clark Billiot of Springville was traveling east on SR 3004 in Springville Township, approaching a left hand curve. While he was negotiating the curve, the vehicle exited the roadway and impacted with a tree. Billiot related he had no injures; he was utilizing a seat belt. Traffic citations were to be filed on Billiot in District Court 34-3-01. CRASH On January 12 at 11:45 a.m. Sydney Carmody of Thompson was traveling west on SR 2046 in Gibson Township, descending a downhill grade on a slush covered highway, while another vehicle was traveling east. Carmody slid off the right side of the roadway and down an embankment, colliding with a tree. The vehicle was disabled after the crash. Carmody claimed she did not receive any injuries from the crash. She was mailed a warning for driving on roadways laned for traffic. ATTEMPTED BURGLARY On January 30 damage was done to the garage door of Thomas and Ruth Vanderhoef in Thompson. It appears as if the damage was done while trying to force the door open. BURGLARY On January 31 between 2:30 and 6:30 the residence of Patricia Holden of Susquehanna was entered by means of an unlocked door. Money was stolen, along with several pieces of jewelry. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Between the 30th and 31st of January Cecil Kilmer of the Nicholson area discovered that someone had purposely tampered with the ignition and attempted to drive a golf cart while it was parked at the Rock Creek Golf Course in Lenox Township. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. CRASH On February 1 at 7:02 a.m. Fahd Alsohiby of Syracuse, NY was traveling south on SR 81 in the left lane. A tractor trailer, in the right lane at that time, came towards the dotted line and Alsohiby veered to the left, losing control of the unit due to the snow covered road. The vehicle exited the road, entered the median, and rolled over several times coming to rest on its roof. Harford fire and ambulance responded and took Alsohiby and a passenger, 110 year old Abdul Aziz Alsohiby of the same location, to the hospital in Montrose. Both were utilizing seat belts; both sustained minor injury. Kozlowski towing removed the vehicle. HIT AND RUN On February 6 at 12:10 a.m. Amy Helstrom of Elmira, NY was traveling northbound on Interstate 81 in New Milford Township when she lost control of her vehicle on the slush covered roadway, which was slush covered due to a recent snow weather event. The vehicle began a clockwise rotation and exited the roadway to the east of the travel lanes, impacting an embankment and coming to a final rest off the travel lanes. Helstrom left the scene prior to police response. She was utilizing a seat belt; she was not injured. COMMERCIAL VEHICLE CRASH On February 3 at 6:15 a.m. a driver, unnamed in the report, was preparing to pull out of the Pump and Pantry in Great Bend, preparing to go east on SR 171 in that township. At this time another unnamed driver operating a Kenworth truck was turning right into an adjoining lot. The right front of the truck struck the left front of the other vehicle, a Ford. Very little other information is in the report. CRASH On February 3 at 9 a.m. an unnamed driver was northbound on SR 29 in Bridgewater Township. The driver attempted to downshift and slow down on snow and ice covered roadway caused by a storm the day before, lost control, and slid off of the north side of the roadway. There were no injuries, and the Chevrolet Colorado was driven from the scene. CRASH On January 29 at 3:00 p.m. Carl Coker Jr. of Mansfield, PA was traveling west on Parsons Hill Road in Springville Township when, while negotiating a left curve, his vehicle slid on ice and was unable to stop impacting several trees. He was not to be cited as a result of the investigation, due to extremely poor road conditions. Both he and a passenger were utilizing seat belts; neither was injured. BURGLARY Between the 29th and 30th of January the front door to the home of Robin Medovich in New Milford Township was removed from the hinges, and entry to the home obtained. Though undetected, the scene was fled without the removal of any items from within the residence. CRASH On January 18 at 7:05 p.m. Todd Brister of Auburndale, FL was traveling east on SR 492 in new Milford Township when he lost control of his vehicle due to slippery roadways, while crossing over a bridge on SR 492. The vehicle crossed over both lanes and travel and started sliding down the embankment on the north side, subsequently flipping onto its roof before coming to an uncontrolled stop. There was no injury; a seat belt was in use. CRASH On January 28 at 4:01 p.m. Brittany Noriega of Dunmore, PA was traveling south on Interstate 81 in Harford Township when her vehicle traveled off the left berm and into the median, spinning around, flipping onto its roof, and continuing back onto its wheels. Both Noriega and a passenger were utilizing seat belts; neither was injured. BURGLARY On January 26 forcible entry was gained into the residence of Doreen Lavelle of Clifford Township, by means of the front door being struck next to the lock area. Nothing was taken from inside once entrance was gained. Exit was made through the back door. Anyone with any information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On January 28 at 4:00 a.m. Jason Guyette of Springville was charged with criminal mischief after he intentionally damaged the door and doorframe of Philip Moyer in Springville Township. The citation was filed with District Court 34-3-01. THEFT On January 25, around 6 p.m., Thomas Mcdermot Jr. and Douglas Smith were charged with theft of a Pennsylvania registration plate form the vehicle of Edward Arnold of Hallstead. The plate was taken from the victim's vehicle while it was parked in Rob's Market Parking Lot in Great Bend township. If you have information on any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.
Great Bend Township Dealing With Winter The recent winter weather has made its presence known in Great Bend Township. At their February 7 supervisors’ meeting, the roadmaster’s report consisted of difficulties in dealing with the winter weather. Aside from the usual plowing, the road crew had to deal with equipment breakdowns and the resignation of one employee. The supervisors commended the crew for dealing well with the circumstances and doing a good job. In other business, requesting time on the agenda was attorney Jodi Cordner, who will be running for the office of district magistrate in the spring primary. She wanted to introduce herself and ask for support, and gave a rundown of her experience and qualifications. A motion carried to reappoint Norm Darrow to the Hallstead-Great Bend Joint Sewer Authority. Correspondence included notice that Chip Berthelot II of Laser Northeast Gathering Co. LLC had submitted a notice of intent to DEP for a Erosion and Sediment Control General Permit 1. A property owner had asked if the township would install streetlights on Old Route 11 near the mobile home park. There was some discussion as to how it is determined whether or not one is needed, and who would have to pay for it if it is. The supervisors will check the township codes for more information. And, the township is still in need of an Emergency Management Coordinator. The next meeting will be on Monday, March 7 at 7:00 p.m.
Code Quibbles In Montrose The Montrose borough meeting was run slightly out of order. It began with a question for David Darrow, codes enforcement officer. A visitor was speaking about her desire to purchase a residential property for use as a flower shop. Todd Chamberlain asked the solicitor Marion O'Malley for her take on the matter. She advised that the borough's current conditional use ordinance is insufficient for the purpose of granting conditional use. She said that she had reviewed it and agreed, and did not think that they could grant conditional uses at this time. She said that she also wasn't certain that the item under discussion had been approved by the planning commission. The visitor said that she knew this, but that she had spent a lot of money. Another visitor asked what had happened to the zoning board, she thought that council was not to be involved in zoning matters. Sean Granahan argued, saying that council always had the right and could overrule the zoning board if they wanted. The zoning board hadn't met for a while. The visitor asked why no zoning meetings had been held. Mr. Granahan stated that was the responsibility of the citizenry. It was stated that there had been multiple advertisements in the paper for zoning members, council members, etc., with little to no result. He then said to go to some basics. No one is trying to stop her from putting a business in a house. That's not the point. The point is that there has to be rules or businesses would crop up everywhere. Council, he said, was unaware that their conditional use resolution was insufficient until it was pointed out. He advised the woman who wanted to start the business to seek an attorney who knew what she would need to sign, or to purchase a residential home. Currently the zoning book does not, he said, give them the power to do what she was asking them to do. It wasn't, he said, that she could never do it, but the zoning ordinance would have to be changed. A second visitor asked if there was anything that could be done, and Mr. Granahan reiterated that the council had been put on notice publicly that they could not do that. Ms. O'Malley corrected this, stating that it could technically be done, but then if anyone questioned it the borough would lose and the woman would lose the conditional use anyway. Mr. Lamont said that if that property was granted commercial use, probably the commercial would extend all the way to Ridge Street. A visitor spoke of the increase in rent for commercial properties, and Mr. Lamont explained that all of those properties might then become $1800 a month. What he wouldn't want to happen, he said, was to lose some of the historical houses on Church Street, to have the gas companies use it for offices until they pull out. He said that they were trying to protect the historic district, and create some kind of an orderly growth. Mr. Reimel then spoke about the last time something had been rezoned to x-1, which required polling neighbors, etc. That had taken about two years. He said that you can't not know something you already know. Council, he continued, feels badly about the situation, but now that it had been pointed out to them, they could not go back to ignorance. Mary Anne Waddington advised her to take the time to do a business plan. She said that the council wanted to support the local businesses, but they also had to consider possible backlash. Todd Chamberlain said that if council now acted as if they did not know what they now knew the door would be opened and they may as well have no zoning at all. The house was supposed to close February 1, and she is against a time-line for the 28th. The owner of the Lily Pad spoke of her rent, and how purchasing the building would save money over rent. Mr. Chamberlain said that council knows about the problems, and that he felt they were ready to do something and to do it quickly, but that they wanted to do it right. The consultant will look at things. He said that his one seventh, for what it was worth, was that he would be in favor of it, but that that wouldn't be decided until this all went through. A visitor said that she was personally against offices being in the downtown. She thought commercial should be there, as the downtown was glutted with lawyers, dentists, and other offices. She thought offices should be pushed out. It was confirmed by council that this process likely could not be completed in a month. It simply couldn't be done to have an ordinance passed that quickly. Mr. Granahan said that there were still two requests out there. Something needed to be done with the requests, he explained, and that something should not foreclose on their ability to come back. He proposed, then, that the applications be denied, without prejudice to reapply after the zoning change was completed. He then added to that motion the motion that the council hire the zoning consultant. The motion was carried. Council was asked about New Milford's request to purchase salt for the roads. Some on council hadn't heard of it, but the borough secretary said that Ken Diphillips, the Street Department foreman, was taking care of the matter. It was confirmed that council needn't act on it, and that Mr. DiPhillips had council's permission to deal with the matter. Later in the meeting Mr. Diphillips requested and was granted, in abstentia, permission to purchase additional salt if needed. Dave Darrow, during his codes enforcement report, said that an energy report had been done by Employer's Energy Alliance and the company thought they could save the borough around $2200 a year for the red light and the street lights. The company is a wholesale energy provider. The biggest problem was the red light in the street light. The new building was excluded from the energy audit. They would come to discuss the matter with council, he said. It was clarified that the company was a not for profit group that didn't work with residential energy. Council decided to pursue the matter further. The mayor reported that he had witnessed an accident near the antique store, when someone didn't see the line due to covered roads. He wondered if a sign could be placed by the sidewalk on Church street coming in from Fairdale, so that people knew to stop far enough back so they wouldn't get hit by a big truck. Mr. Reimel said that the big problem continued to be South Main Street, and the bottleneck. He suggested blocking off that first parking area before getting to the Butler's Pantry. The problem is the snow, which Mr. DiPhillips said was too iced in at this point to be cleared out. When he was able to, Mr. Reimel said, it would be desirable to shave snow down close to the curb. Mr. Lamonte wondered if the sign or the problem would be moot when the 706 project was completed. Mr. Reimel made the motion that the erection of a sign be approved. The Chocolate and Wine festival asked permission to once again close certain streets for their Saturday event. It is in May, and the appropriate insurance would be in place. Mr. Reimel motioned that, once the dates were received, permission be given. It was passed. The Memorial Day parade was approved as well. Health insurance was discussed. Blue Cross had better coverage in New York, he said, whereas Geisinger coverage was more restricted to Pennsylvania. Mr. Granahan was reviewing this. He said that his one seventh was to go with Blue Cross, so people could use New York if they so chose. He feared that Health America might be too restrictive for medical practitioners who would take it. The topic of Geo Kientics was approached. Mr. Lamonte said that by not signing the letter the council would be held harmless. However, he said that they are working on state roads so council may not have a say in it. It was suggested that perhaps the police could forbid them, as the vibrations would shake windows. There was concern that sewer and water lines couldn't handle it, and it was suggested that they be sent a letter stating that the council would not allow it. There was some oil and gas ordinance, but Mr. Granahan said that there had to be a certain way it was handled. It was tabled to the next meeting. Mr. Reimel said that their active member roster changed from week to week. He said that their workmen's comp people needed to know that. Also, he said, people need to let the council know the day that it happens if an injury occurs and they want to file a workmen's compensation claim. Also, he wanted them to do an activities report so the council knows what is going around.
The February 10 Oakland Boro Council meeting began with an executive session concerning two codes issues. The owners of the two properties in question were present, and after the executive session motions carried to proceed with litigation against one and to approve a timetable for repairs on the other. Mayor Glover reported that the police department had responded to eleven calls during the previous month, and that the police car had been out of commission for awhile for repairs. Resident Doug Arthur was not present, but council extended their thanks to him for keeping the sidewalk near the bridge cleared of snow. Jeff Wayman was not present either, but he, too was commended for his work dealing with the winter weather and keeping the streets cleared. At last month’s meeting, council had received a check in memory of Lynnie French, to be used for the boro park. Ron Beavan extended the boro’s thanks to Mrs. French’s family for designating the park fund for memorial donations. Mrs. French had been instrumental in forming the boro’s parks and recreation committee; council discussed several ideas to recognize her for her service. In response to an incident, Mr. Beavan had done some research to find out what the boro could do when there was a report of animal abuse. The county, he said, does not have an abuse or cruelty officer in this area. If abuse occurs, the local police could be called, but Mayor Glover said that then there would be the problem of what to do with the animal if it was taken in; would the Humane Society take it, or would the boro be responsible for holding it, and if so, where? He urged people to keep an eye on their animals in the bitter cold weather, and to try to keep them from barking as much as possible. Mr. Beavan said that they would continue to try to figure out the best way to legally deal with the situation. Correspondence included notice of the Robert C. Edwards annual scholarship; the boro forwards information on the scholarship to the school every year, but no one was sure whether or not any local students had ever received the scholarship. There was also a letter about the Viaduct Valley Scenic Byway (on Route 92), asking for contributions, either from the boro or individuals. Those interested can contact the Endless Mountains Heritage Region for information. And, information was received from the county election bureau; those interested in seeking office may circulate petitions from February 15 to March 8. The next meeting will be on Thursday, March 10, 7:00 p.m. in the Lanesboro Community Center.
Two guests were present at the February 8 meeting of the Oakland Township Supervisors, Alice Deutsch, President of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region and attorney Jodi Cordner, who will be running for the local District Magistrate position in the primary election in May. Mrs. Deutsch was present to follow up on the township’s entering into the Route 92 corridor Scenic Byway program. A motion carried to enact an ordinance relating to the program; it regulates signage along the route. Mrs. Cordner was present to introduce herself and to ask for support. A short discussion followed her address to those present, concerning municipal law and its enforcement. There was also discussion concerning the question of whether or not to vacate Bedbug Hollow (road); there has been consistent damage caused by beavers building dams in the river adjacent to the road and blocking sluice pipes. Representatives of one of the groups that own property on the road were to have attended this meeting to discuss the matter, but did not attend. Correspondence included information about several grant programs. The current list of codes violations was reviewed. A motion carried to table two items, as cleanup has been started. Another two were to have gone to court, but the defendants requested and received a continuance. The township has been in the process of forming a regional police department with Oakland Borough, to be named the Northeast River Valley Regional Police Department, but after discussion, the township will begin the process to withdraw from their agreement with the boro. There are some concerns about the department’s discussions with other municipalities to provide coverage. The state Liquor Control Board will be contacted regarding problems the township has been having with a business delinquent in paying the township amusement tax. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 8 at 7:00 p.m.
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