Business Directory Now Online!!!

Look Here For Future Specials

Please visit our kind sponsors

HEADLINES:
IU Budget Criticized At Blue Ridge
Forest City Sues Embezzler
Gibson Barracks Report
Commissioners Meet March 9
Courthouse Report
Harford Solicits Materials Bids
Oakland Boro Updates Police
Oakland Twp. Explains Police
Starrucca Borough Council Minutes

IU Budget Criticized At Blue Ridge
By Ted Brewster

It was the evening following the big snow, but all members reported for duty at the Blue Ridge School Board meeting on March 7. All but the student representative, Theresa Whitehead, that is, but she was excused because it was her birthday. There wasn’t much of an audience either, and the Board didn’t lose any time working through the business agenda, adjourning in less than an hour. The Elementary School chorus was scheduled to perform, too, but they were also excused, because of the weather. The Board hopes to hear them at its workshop later in the month.

Most of the agenda was consolidated in a single motion, but that didn’t inhibit discussion of some items. Some adjustments to the school calendar were set aside for the time being, with the number of available snow days getting tight. Bethany Austin’s request for assistance with a mission trip to Africa this summer was put in the pool that the Board allocates for such things.

Board member Shane Rumage objected to the appointment of a long-term substitute in the Middle School because his Personnel Committee was not consulted. Christina Whitney joined him in the protest vote, but the rest of the Board accepted the administration’s argument that the position needed to be filled and there was only one applicant who accepted an offer.

Superintendent Robert McTiernan was asked about the addition of another to the substitute list so late in the year. He said that for contingency purposes he wanted to maintain “as large a stable of substitutes as possible.”

The presentation of the administrative “General Operating Budget” for 2011-2012 of the Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit #19 (the “IU”) came in for some debate, and the measure was ultimately tabled for later consideration. Board member Joel Whitehead is the district’s representative on the Board of the IU and he defended the budget vigorously. He noted especially that the IU’s budget had been cut by some $287,000, or about 8%, largely due to a substantial drop in federal funding, and a smaller anticipated cut in state subsidy. And services are not expected to be cut at all.

Nevertheless, with such a cut in projected expenditures, there was no corresponding cut in the contributions of the 20 participating school districts. Mr. Whitehead offered that maintenance of the IU’s facilities has been expensive recently, so that extra funds were necessary to cover capital funds. Other apparent discrepancies in the figures, however, led the suspicious Board to table action on the IU budget pending clarification. Recent controversies surrounding the retirement IU’s executive director have the collaborating school districts looking closely at such things in a time of financial stress.

Board President Alan Hall asked administrators to keep their reports brief, so Middle/High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski took special note of the 27 new members of the National Honor Society, one of the largest groups “in recent history.” Mr. McTiernan, noting some concern over the recent decision to drop the “college prep” track, said that Blue Ridge would try to ensure that all students were “career and college ready.” Board member Laurie Brown-Bonner announced that her Education Committee’s next meeting, on March 31, beginning at 6:30 p.m., will focus on that very issue.

The Blue Ridge Parent Council has also been following a thread on that issue on its active Facebook page. They will also hear from Mr. Hall at their next meeting on March 15 on the energy program in progress, and the prospects for a windmill on campus.

Mr. Hall reported that he will testify before the legislature on the voucher program that appears to be on a fast track in Harrisburg. He said that, as proposed, the program would have some 36% of Blue Ridge students eligible to find someplace else to be educated; with enrollment now at about 1,100 and declining already, that could mean Blue Ridge could lose nearly 400 students. He said that the program “will destroy us” as well as most other schools in the state, and that public education could only deteriorate under such a program. Ms. Brown-Bonner said that at the recent county school board meeting with legislators the “hot topic” was vouchers, a particularly difficult issue for rural schools like Blue Ridge.

The next public meeting of the Blue Ridge School Board, a workshop, is scheduled for Monday, March 21, beginning at 7:30 p.m. (earlier for committee meetings). All meetings are held in the cafeteria in the Elementary School.

Back to Top

Forest City Sues Embezzler
By Stephanie Everett

On March 7, Forest City Borough Councilpersons opened their monthly business meeting by appointing Joann Matarese to fill a vacated seat on council for the remainder of the term, which expires in November.

In his report, Paul E. Smith, borough solicitor, discussed information from the Department of Environmental Protection concerning the borough’s sewer project plans. Smith stated that DEP detailed seven areas of concern, which are technical in nature and will be addressed by KBA Engineering, the firm hired by the borough to design and oversee the project. Smith discussed a suggestion from DEP that the borough install new sewer lines behind every property and add new laterals where necessary. Smith opposed the suggestion, explaining that costs would be prohibitive - probably increasing the cost of the project by millions. He also stated that it is the “homeowner’s responsibility for laterals,” adding that the USDA is assisting homeowners with the cost of laterals, funding that would not be available should the borough assume the cost of laterals.

Other news concerned progress in the recovery of $136,727 alleged to have been embezzled by Susan Coleman, former borough secretary. Smith stated that due to a four year statute of limitations, Ohio casualty denied a claim submitted by the borough. Of a $103,000 claim submitted, CNA Surety will pay $88,328. There is an approximate $19,000 in forfeiture of pension, leaving about $28,000 to recover. A plea hearing is set for April 1, at which time the borough will request that Coleman be ordered to pay the $28,000 “as part of restitution.” Smith commented, “The borough may take a long time to see it, but eventually the borough will be made whole.”

During the code enforcement report, Trusky commented that two Main Street property owners have neglected to clear their sidewalk, “endangering the public and thumbing their nose at the borough.” A borough ordinance requires Main Street property owners to clear their sidewalk. Trusky suggested that council raise the fine for noncompliance from $25 to $250 per event. Council passed a motion to advertise the increase.

Concerning committees, Matarese will join Nick Cost on the Building, Grounds and Parks Committee, and Bernie Scalzo will assist Mary Twilley on the Personnel Committee. An advertisement will be made for someone from the public to serve on the Zoning Planning Committee, as a seat has been vacated.

A heated matter involved a routine inspection by Cocciardi and Associates, a worker’s compensation insurance company. After an inspection last week, suggestions for modifications were submitted to the borough. Barbara Mihelc asserted that the inspector “inspected portions of the building that have nothing to do with this worker’s compensation company.” Trusky requested that for the next meeting, the Public Safety Committee consider the matter and provide a report of suggested corrections. Additionally, a copy of the previous inspection report will be requested of the insurance company.

Back to Top

Gibson Barracks Report
Compiled By Melinda Darrow

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On March 5, between 5 and 7 p.m., the vehicle of Victor Smith of New Milford was scratched on the driver's side while parked at St. Lawrence's Church in Great Bend Borough. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

POSSESSION OF SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA

On March 2 at 12:30 p.m. Eric Anderson of Endicott was stopped for suspicion of a traffic violation. He was found during the interview to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Charges were to be filed in District Court 34-3-02 as of the time of report.

CRASH

On March 1 at 9:44 p.m. Jessica Coulombe was traveling west on SR 171 in Great Bend Township when her vehicle went off the north shoulder of the roadway and struck the guard rail. It then traveled across both lanes of travel and impacted the guard rail of the south shoulder. Coulombe was to be cited as a result of this investigation. She was utilizing a seatbelt; she sustained minor injury.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE CRASH

On February 20 at 5:30 a.m., Kyle Wyant of Mayport, PA and Kent Shaffer of Knox, PA were both traveling northbound on SR 268 in Forest Lake Township. Wyant was following Shaffer, and as he was slowing to make a right turn he struck Shaffer's vehicle. Both units came to rest at that location. Both operators suffered only minor injuries; both were utilizing seatbelts. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

THEFT

Sometime between the 3rd and 4th of March a sign was stolen from Munley's Grove at SR 374 in Lenox Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

ATTEMPTED BURGLARY

On March 3 one or more unknown person(s) arrived at the residence of Bruce Sickler in Bridgewater Township and attempted to gain entry through the basement steel door, utilizing an unknown instrument to attempt to pry said door open. The attempt was unsuccessful, though a scratch approximately 1/2 inch long was left on the door. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

BURGLARY

Sometime between February 6 and March 4 a home in Gibson Township, belonging to Forrest Mayo of Clifford, was burglarized. The door was forced open, after which drawers and cabinets were rummaged through. A few items were removed and exit was made via the front door.

SIMPLE ASSAULT/TERRORISTIC THREATS

On March 1 Clifford Johnson of New Milford is accused of going to a property in Great Bend Township in an attempt to locate David Calla. Once he arrived at this location, he pulled an aluminum baseball bat out of his vehicle and began to yell for Calla to exit the residence. Jeffery Sterling exited the residence to stop Johnson from entering. Johnson allegedly pushed Sterling out of the way in an attempt to enter the residence. Numerous times during this incident the accused related that he was going to kill and beat Calla with the baseball bat. Calla was able to escape the residence and run to a neighbor's house until police arrived on scene. Johnson fled the scene prior to police arrival. Charges were filed on Johnson at District Court 34-3-02. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

BURGLARY

Between February 13 and March 2 William Addesso of New Jersey was driving by his residence in Ararat Township and observed the side door open. The door had been kicked in, damaging the door frame. Nothing was damaged or stolen after entrance was obtained. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson (570) 465-3154.

COLLISION-DUI

On March 3 at 11:30 p.m. Vern Hunsinger of Montrose was traveling southbound on SR 267 in Rush Township when he lost control of his vehicle while attempting to pass another vehicle. The pickup truck impacted a dirt embankment, crossed over the travel lanes of the roadway, and came to a final rest in a ditch. Hunsinger was transported by a witness of the crash to her residence. Hunsinger sustained minor injuries but refused ambulance treatment. A seatbelt was not in use. Upon interview, he exhibited signs of intoxication and was transported to Endless Mountains Health Care Systems for BAC testing. Charges were pending findings as of the time of report.

THEFT

John Tucker of Brackney reported that Tidewater Trading Company, located in Georgia, had defrauded him of monies. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

SIMPLE ASSAULT/HARASSMENT

On February 27 at 2 a.m. troopers responded to a home in Oakland Borough for a disturbance. Upon arrival, it was determined that two women on the property were victims of domestic abuse. Daniel Brown of Hallstead was taken into custody in Hallstead, on an outstanding bench warrant. He was lodged at the Susquehanna County Jail. Charges were filed with District Court 34-3-02.

BURGLARY

Between the 11th and 17th of February, entrance was obtained on a residence belonging to Larry Herbert of New Milford, located in Gibson. Entrance was obtained by the pushing in of the front door and breaking of the door frame. All cabinets and drawers on all three floors of the residence were then opened. The residence was exited, and flight directed towards Creek Road. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

BURGLARY

Between the 11th and 17th of February an unknown person walked down the unplowed driveway to a cabin belonging to Daniel Henrichsen of Lititz, PA, and located in Gibson Township. Upon reaching the cabin, the perpetrator broke a window on an enclosed porch to gain access, and proceeded to forcibly push open the door that lead into the cabin. All the medicine cabinets and all drawers and cabinets were opened. The burglar then exited the cabinet by the means of entrance and ran away towards Snyder Road. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

CRASH

On March 7 at 3:10 p.m. William Schottman of Brackney was traveling west on SR 0167 when he hit a patch of ice and lost control of his vehicle. The Ranger then traveled across the eastbound lane and off the roadway form the south berm, striking a guard rail with the front end, rolling over, and traveling approximately 30' east of the initial impact point. It came to a rest on the roof, facing in a westerly direction. The driver was utilizing a seatbelt; he was not injured.

CRASH

On March 2 at 12:22 a.m. an unnamed person was traveling west along SR 171 through Great Bend Township when he or she came across an icy patch on the roadway and lost control of the steering. The Toyota Scion TC spun in a counterclockwise movement and struck the southern guardrail, before continuing to moved back into the westbound lane and coming to a rest. The driver then moved the vehicle to the right to get it off the road as far as possible until PSP arrival.

CRASH

On February 27 at 12:20 a.m. an unnamed driver was traveling north along SR 82 in Harford Township towing a U-Haul trailer when, while attempting to slowly accelerate to gain momentum to get up the snowy incline of the road, he or she lost control of the truck and traveled in a westerly direction across the left northbound lane, the median, and entered the southbound lanes. The trailer remained attached but landed on its side. The power unit to rest against the southbound, west embankment. The trailer was subsequently uprighted with the assistance of Kozlowski Towing. The truck remained drivable and the crash was cleared without further incident.

BURGLARIES

The Pennsylvania State Police at Gibson are investigating approximately 40 burglaries which have been reported since the middle of January. These burglaries occurred in remote locations of Lenox, Gibson, Harford, Ararat, Clifford, Herrick, and New Milford Townships. The homes burglarized were primarily hunting cabins and seasonal residences. Items taken range from cash and electronics to souvenirs and household goods. The burglar(s) used force to gain entry to the residences, usually by forcing open a window or door. Citizens in the affected communities are asked to be extra alert and take notice of any pedestrian or vehicle traffic in these areas, day or night. Citizens are asked to report all suspicious activity to PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. Callers are asked to reference the “cabin burglaries.”

COMMONWEALTH VEHICLE CRASH

On February 25 at 7:30 a.m. James Hilton of Mount Jackson, VA was traveling north on SR 0081 in New Milford Township when he failed to negotiate a right curve in the roadway. The Freightliner traveled off of the roadway and west berm, causing it to roll onto its side. A seatbelt was in use; minor injury was sustained.

CRASH

On February 25 at 3:15 a.m. Clinton Ficken of Clifford Township was traveling west on SR 2008 in that municipality when he failed to negotiate a right curve and lost control of his vehicle on the snow covered roadway. The breeze slid off the roadway form the north berm and struck an embankment with the right front corner. As a result of the impact the vehicle rolled over and landed on the roof in the westbound lane, facing in a northerly direction. He was utilizing a seatbelt; no injury was sustained.

CRASH

On February 18 at 8:20 a.m. Debra Clayton of Meshoppen, PA was traveling on State Highway 2005 in Auburn Township when her vehicle traveled onto the soft shoulder and struck a tree. She was utilizing a seatbelt; she was not injured.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-PSP VEHICLE

On February 25 at 6:11 p.m. a PSP trooper was parked on the right side of the berm on the off ramp of interstate 81 northbound in New Milford Township, assisting a disabled motorist. At this time Zachary Barlow of Greensboro North Carolina attempted to exit the interstate at that exit and in doing so slid on the ice covered roadway, striking the rear portion of the police car. Both units received minor damage. Both were able to be driven from the scene. Barlow was not injured; the trooper sustained minor injury.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-PSP VEHICLE

On February 25 at 7:50 a.m. a marked PA state police vehicle was stopped on the left shoulder of SR 81 in New Milford Borough, attempting to control the speed of vehicles entering the backlog of another crash further north of this spot. At this time Winston Whitney of Laredo, TX was traveling north in the left lane of SR 81 northbound and, upon negotiating a right curve in the roadway, lost control of his vehicle. The semi-trailer portion of his truck began to slide on the roadway and the left rear wheels struck the right rear of the police car. Both drivers were utilizing seat belts; Whitney was uninjured but the trooper sustained moderate injury.

THEFT

Between the 19th and 22nd of February, 3 rings and a necklace were removed from the residence of Karen Taylor Great Bend Borough. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

CRASH

On February 22 at 12:15 p.m. Linda Norris of Susquehanna was pulling out of a driveway in Jackson Township at the same time as Michael Dibble of Susquehanna was traveling North on SR 92 in that area. Dibble struck Norris' vehicle in the right rear area, causing it to spin to the left coming to a final uncontrolled rest off the east side of the northbound lane facing south. The striking vehicle came to a final uncontrolled rest area in the northbound lane facing north. Thompson fire and EMS responded to the scene. Dibble was transported to Barnes Kasson Hospital for treatment; he was utilizing a seatbelt. Noris was also utilizing a seatbelt; she was not injured. French's towed both vehicles from the scene.

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

Back to Top

Commissioners Meet March 9
By Larry Gary

I apologize to Chief Clerk, Silvia Beamer, and Commissioner MaryAnn Warren, who value "correct procedures," for writing that they sent the "minutes" to me for the February 23, meeting. I meant to write "agenda."

At the March 9 Commissioners meeting, the Commissioners voted to correct/approve the minutes of the February 23 meeting.

Congratulations were extended to employees receiving recognition for years of service: Mary Lou Warner, Treasurer's Office, 15 years; Kathy Aldrich, Commissioners' Office, 5 years; Christine Jones, Prothonotary Office, 5 years; and Brenda Landes, Domestic Relations Office, 5 years.

They elected to ratify or approve, from 2/24/2011 -3/03/2011, a total of $ 742,988.12 as follows: General Expenses $406,478.47; Payroll Expenses $166,596.70; Employee Retirement Contribution $14,705.80; State Withholding taxes $7,382.32; Federal Payroll taxes $57,114.63; and CYS Expenses $90,710.20.

The motion to approve the following seminar requests and/or payment for seminar requests from 3/30/2011 - 4/20/2011: Eric Watkins, Soil Conservation, Annville, Erosion & Sedimentation Technical Training Level 1; Willie Keeney, Soil Conservation, Wilkes-Barre, Nutrient Management; and John Benscoter, Soil Conservation, Bloomsburg, Growing Native Grasses as Biomass. (All three at "no cost" to the County.)

Other motions were: Nicholas Conigliaro, Warden, Washington, PA, Pennsylvania County Corrections Association Conference and Training Seminar, cost $378.56; Art Donato and Steve Janoski, 911, State College, InterAct Users Group, cost $252.62; Raebelle Taylor, Domestic Relations, State College, 2011 Spring Domestic Relations Section Directors' Meeting, total cost $340.00, cost to the County $115.60; Susan Adamec, Children & Youth, Scranton, Act 101 of 2010 Overview Training Program, total cost $58.00, cost to the County $11.60; Susan Adamec, Children & Youth, Scranton, Northeast Crisis Intervention, total cost $58.00, cost to County $11.60; Brenda Landes, Domestic Relations, Wilkes-Barre, Advanced Analysis of Tax Returns 301, total cost $93.00, cost to the County $31.62; and Diana Snow, Domestic Relations, Wilkes-Barre, Medical Support Establishment and Enforcement 201, total cost $93.00, cost to the County $31.62.

They also voted to adopt Resolution 2011-05, a Resolution supporting the renewal of the Growing Greener Program in Pennsylvania.

WHEREAS the Board of Commissioners of Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, constitutes the chief governing body of Susquehanna County, with legislative and policy-making powers that affect each resident's quality of life; has the responsibilities to assure the fiscal health and integrity of Susquehanna County, planning for and implementing projects that accomplish the preservation of open space, economic development, historic preservation, community parks and recreation and safe water resources; and whereas Pennsylvania's ability to attract growing businesses and to provide the quality of life this governing body seeks for its residents is hindered by the loss of open space and farmland, the failure to remediate Brownfield sites and restore impaired rivers and streams, the deterioration of our state game, forest and park lands, and the resultant financial pressures on local governments; and whereas the Board of Commissioners has learned that Growing Greener II will soon expire and funds for both Growing Greener I and Growing Greener II are precipitously dropping; and that this will affect Wyoming County's and Salt Springs’ ability to restore and protect our local environment; and they understand that Growing Greener II has helped to preserve nearly 34,000 acres of working family farms in Pennsylvania; conserve more that 42,300 acres of threatened natural areas; restore more than 1600 acres of abandoned mine lands; and enhance access to outdoor recreation through 234 community park projects and 132 state park and forest infrastructure projects; and

WHEREAS Article I, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution states that, "The people have a right to clean air, pure water, and to the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic and esthetic values of the environment. Pennsylvania's public natural resources are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come. As trustee of these resources, the Commonwealth shall conserve and maintain them for the benefit of all the people"; and

WHEREAS The Board realizes that the Commonwealth is losing three times more forest, wildlife habitat, farmland and other open spaces to development than it is able to preserve; and that the Commonwealth has over 16,000 miles of rivers and streams that are unsafe for fishing and swimming; and more than 2,00 working family farms await protection from encroaching development; and 189,000 acres of abandoned mine lands scar 44 of the Commonwealth's counties; and the grand funds available for community and county recreation, greenways and trails projects have been severely diminished: and

WHEREAS The Board wishes to encourage and support the renewal of Growing Greener before the last of the Growing Greener II bond funds are spent in 2011,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that 1. The Board supports renewal of Growing Greener by the General Assemble and the new Governor with dedicated, sustainable and long-term funding sources, 2. The signed resolution shall be forwarded to the Governor of Pennsylvania and our respective county and state legislators. DULY ADOPTED at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of Susquehanna County this 9th day of March 2011.

Motion by Commissioners to adopt Proclamation 2011-01, proclaiming March 31, 2011 as C.A.S.U.A.L. (Colon Cancer Awareness Saves Unlimited Adult Lives) Day in Susquehanna County. In short, this "Proclamation" by the Board urges residents of Susquehanna County and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania to be screened for early colon cancer awareness efforts, and designate March 31, 2011 as this day.

The Commissioners appointed Jennifer Hibbard, Recycling/Solid Waste Coordinator, as the Project Officer, who on the County's behalf shall constitute its primary contact with the Department of Environmental Protection during the completion of the Scope of Work for an Act 101, Section 901, Municipal Water Planning Grant (SAP Document 4100055182) for $37,350.00. The County Municipal Solid Waste Plan as mandated by DEP.

They reappointed Gerald Fransceski, Union Dale, to the Susquehanna County Industrial and Commercial Development Agency for the five-year term beginning immediately and ending December 31, 2015.

They accepted the resignation of Ryan Latz, Children & Youth, effective 02/23/2011, per the recommendation of Susan Adamec, Agency Director, and the resignation of Suzanne Nowalk, 911, effective March 7, 2011, per the recommendation of Arthur Donato, 911 Coordinator.

They motioned to terminate the month-to-month agreement with CalJean Vending on April 28, 2011 and direct the Chief Clerk to send a letter of termination.

Motion to authorize the Commissioners to sign a service agreement with American Food and Vending, Syracuse, for a three-year term with a 10% commission and either party may terminate upon sixty (60) days notice to the other party. This is for a Christmas party for employees.

Robert Templeton, Director of Planning, presented the Susquehanna County Planning Commission 2010 Annual Report. I called Bob Templeton 3/11/2011 at 12:10 p.m. and he said you can obtain this report on the Internet at www.susqco.com and go to "Planning Commissioners."

Back to Top

Courthouse Report
Compiled By Lauren Price Ficarro

DEEDS

Donald R. (AKA) Ronald Reid Noldy (estate) to Appalachia Midstream Services LLC, in Auburn Township for $500.00.

Michael and Mary Jo Fortuner to Mary Jo Fortuner, in Herrick Township for one dollar.

Bryan L. Nye (by POA) to Brett and Nicole E. Bixby, in Forest Lake Township for $140,000.00.

Ethel Ferenczi to Scott and Steven G. Ferenczi, in Harford and New Milford Townships for one dollar.

Wade R. (by sheriff) and Jill K. (by sheriff) Lunger to US Bank National Association (trustee), in Auburn Township for $1,129.77.

Abram and Carole Diane Haberle to Abram and Carole Diane Haberle, in Liberty Township for one dollar.

Elsie P. Deangelis (estate) to Richard Paul Deangelis, in New Milford Borough for one dollar.

Ryan P. Guiton to John, Jr. and Kim S. Guiton, in Rush Township for one dollar.

Ryan P. Guiton to Ryan P. Guiton, in Rush Township for one dollar.

Donald R. and Lois H. (AKA) Lois R. Williams to Donald R. and Lois H. Williams, in Lathrop Township for one dollar.

William P. (AKA) William Paul Coleman (estate) to CC, Jr. and Genevieve Ann Coleman, in Middletown and Rush Townships for one dollar.

Donald R. (AKA) Donald Reid Noldy (estate) to Errick and Karl Noldy and Donna Williams (NBM) Donna Gow, in Auburn Township for one dollar.

Jean Blaisure to Michael Edward and Rodney Alan Blaisure, in Jessup and Dimock Townships for one dollar.

Anthony Disalvo to Craig T. Roe, in Hallstead Borough for $85,000.00.

Lois and Tami D. Loucks to Tami D. Loucks, in Great Bend Borough for one dollar.

Lucille E. Grzankowski to Grzankowski Family Properties LLC, in Harmony Township for one dollar.

Russell A. Fauver, Sr. (AKA) Russell Fauver (estate), Jennifer and Mark Hunsinger, Tonya and James E., III Lucke and Russell A., Jr. and Helen Fauver to Russell, Jr. and Helen Fauver, in Auburn Township for one dollar.

Henry G. Tusar, Jr. (AKA) Henry Tusar to Henry G., Jr. and James J. Tusar, in Forest City for one dollar.

Jeffrey McAndrew to Sam Wolfe LLC, in Lenox Township for $14,667.00.

Jeffrey McAndrew to Michael Appleton, in Lenox Township for $9,333.00.

Bruce B. and Jeanette M. Beamer to Dustin C. Beamer, in Silver Lake Township for one dollar.

Lawrence T., Christine M. and Thomas J. Oreilly to Dale Allen, Stephen Allen and Nichole A. Garnett, in New Milford Township for $145,000.00.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 11:15 a.m. on March 11, 2011.

William D. Barton, Ryan T. Brooks, Douglas Buckman, Bryan S. Burnett, Beverly A. Carvin, James J. Corridoni, John C. Creps, Heather R. DeBoer, Charles S. Dunn, David J. Fischer, Thomas Fisher, Christopher Frailey, John S. Frisbie, Jr., 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, Michael Maryasz, Mark C. McCarey, Jennifer M. Miller, Shane Nelson, Donald Palmer, Jeremy Presson, Arthur D. Quick, Jesse R. Rhinebeck, Jr., Matthew J. Setzer, David J. Shiner, Eric J. Snell, Garrett M. Staudinger (aka Thomas), Justin Thompson, Robert J. Twilley, Steven G. Warner, 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.

Back to Top

Harford Solicits Materials Bids
By Ted Brewster

The agenda for the Harford Township Supervisors’ meeting on March 8 was brief to begin with, and technical problems truncated the session even further because the bill list and treasurer’s report couldn’t be reviewed because they couldn’t be printed. The Supervisors did, however, decide to solicit bids for road materials for 2011.

Harford Township will be looking for 28,000 gallons of AEP oil for dust control, 2,500 tons of #67 anti-skid stone, 2,500 tons of 1B stone, 500 tons of black cinders, 50 tons of gabion stone, 50 tons of 2B stone and 5,000 tons of 2RC stone. Supervisor and Roadmaster Terry VanGorden said that he expected price increases of 7-8%. The Supervisors considered requesting bids for diesel fuel, but that hardly matters much these days, with suppliers unlikely to provide fixed-price bids as prices rise. Last year they didn’t bid fuel at all; the agreement with their supplier rolled over from the prior year.

Supervisor Garry Foltz also reported that he has been researching noise measurement equipment. The meter and accompanying calibration kit would be used to enforce the “Industrial Noise Ordinance” recently passed in an effort to head off potential problems with large natural gas compressors. Mr. Foltz said that certified meters could cost from $250 to $800; the one he is especially interested in would cost about $555.

The Supervisors also gave approval to Southwestern Energy to close a part of Houlihan Road for up to 2 weeks to drill test bores to collect geologic core samples. This work would determine the feasibility of laying a fresh-water pipeline from Martin’s Creek to Southwestern’s impoundment ponds on the mountain east of U.S. Route 11 that would support drilling for natural gas. The portion of the road to be closed would be above the one house near the highway to the township line.

A representative of Southwestern attending the meeting said that the work would begin on March 14, weather permitting, and probably wouldn’t take longer than a week. He said a water pipeline from the collection point just below Alford on the other side of the highway would help to minimize truck traffic as drilling ramps up in the area. Should testing bear out, the company would later seek approval to lay the pipeline itself.

The next public meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the township building on Route 547.

Back to Top

Oakland Boro Updates Police

Oakland Boro Council usually starts their meetings with a moment of silence in recognition of our troops, as well as local people in need of prayers. At their March 10 meeting, they included nine Marines and their families; the Marines had recently died in action in Afghanistan.

Mayor Glover reported that the police department had responded to 16 calls during the month; 11 traffic stops, one theft, and one felony in Oakland Township. The boro officers had joined with those from Susquehanna Boro to take training to be certified in use of tasers. The cost of the training, $200 for a six-hour course, would be split with Susquehanna. And, the mayor reported that Officer Mike Devries has resigned.

There was some discussion about parking on Prospect St.; there has been a continuing problem with vehicles obstructing the roadway. Putting up “no parking” signs was discussed, which might necessitate amending an ordinance. The police will be issuing parking tickets.

The mayor said that he has been meeting with the mayors of Susquehanna and Lanesboro, exploring opportunities to work together. He and Tom Kubus are still in the process of talks with Great Bend Township and Harmony Township to contract police services. And, he said, he had heard that Oakland Township was no longer interested in forming a regional police department (with Oakland Boro), but he had not heard anything directly from the township supervisors.

Work on the park will resume in the spring when the weather is better, and it was reported that the boro has received many donations in memory of Lynnie French, to be used for the park.

The boro had received a request for a donation to benefit the Viaduct Valley Way Scenic Byway. There had been some questions as to whether or not it was permissible to make a donation. Secretary Flo Brush did some research, and municipalities can donate to tourist attractions or related organizations, provided the amount does not exceed ten cents per resident. The byway organization had requested that council consider a donation when they draft their 2012 budget.

Negotiations are still underway by River Bounty to lease the hydro electric plant on the Susquehanna River, but as of this date no contract had been signed.

Council had recently changed their meeting time to 6:30 p.m., but after discussion a motion carried to go back to 7:00.

Jeff Wayman was commended for doing a “terrific” job on the roads during the recent snow storms, as was the mayor for digging out the fire hydrants.

The printer/fax/scanner in the boro office is five years old and has been acting up. After discussion, a motion carried to purchase a newer one, cost $120.

The next meeting will be on Thursday, April 14 at 7:00 in the Lanesboro Community Center.

Back to Top

Oakland Twp. Explains Police

In the absence of Chairman Mike Fabrizi, Vice Chairman Jamie Chilewski presided at the March 8 meeting of the Oakland Township Supervisors. Mr. Fabrizi was absent because he and his wife had just welcomed their first child, a boy.

At last month’s meeting the supervisors had discussed withdrawing from the process of forming a regional police department with Oakland Boro; there had been some concerns about plans to provide coverage to other municipalities. Much of the discussion this evening was about police coverage, and whether or not it was necessary. Mrs. Chilewski stated that she was not in favor of ceasing the process to form a regional police department and would like to continue working on it. Supervisor Cy Cowperthwait said that he wholly supported the concept of a regional police department, but did not feel that this effort was headed in the right direction. He questioned a bill received from Oakland Boro for coverage in January; the township had agreed to 15 hours of coverage per month, but was billed for 26.1 hours. It appeared that the township had been billed for five hours of patrol that was actually conducted in Oakland Boro, to monitor traffic on Route 171. He also questioned whether the township had been billed for covering an incident in Susquehanna Boro.

A resident in the audience who is not in favor of local police asked if the supervisors couldn’t add two volunteers to the board, to allow for more input when decisions are made. Mr. Cowperthwait responded that township code does not allow for volunteers; even if it did, they would not be allowed to vote on matters, as they would not be elected. He said that several years ago, the supervisors had looked into expanding the board number from three to five, but residents had voted against it.

The resident also stated that the State Police provides better service and said that the state did not “force” townships to get involved in providing police coverage; legislation that would require municipalities to provide coverage had not been passed, but the township had gone ahead and done so anyway, for what she felt was inferior protection. She feels that the increased taxes to finance the coverage negatively impacts township residents, especially the elderly, and that citations issued would negatively impact individuals’ insurance premiums. Mr. Cowperthwait said that newsletters had been sent to township residents with information about the intended police coverage, and that not one response had been received by the supervisors. Coverage provided by the State Police is not satisfactory, he said; there are only two officers on duty to cover the entire county. He also pointed out that citations are issued when the law is violated (individuals should be responsible for the consequences of their actions). The resident said that there doesn’t seem to be much for the police to do; they seem to be “sitting around” waiting for something to do. Mrs. Chilewski cited a recent incident; a speeder had been ticketed for driving 93 miles per hour on Rte. 171, in a zone that is posted for 45 mph. The resident said that she had never experienced other drivers traveling that fast on that road, and also felt that those in charge of the department did not have the experience to run one. She added that she is considering circulating a petition asking the supervisors to reconsider providing police coverage. Mr. Cowperthwait said that HB1500 was not a dead issue; it would be brought up again because cities were unhappy that rural municipalities are being provided coverage by the State Police without paying for it, while cities are paying for their own coverage.

In other business, the supervisors had been discussing for quite some time what steps could be taken regarding a business delinquent in paying the township’s amusement tax. The business owner was present at the meeting, and brought the tax reports and a check to bring his payments up to date. He said that the delinquency was due to a misunderstanding on his part, and that he would like to iron out any further misunderstandings. Mr. Cowperthwait questioned whether the tax had been paid in 2005 and 2006; the business owner said that they had been. Mr. Cowperthwait suggested that the supervisors set up an executive session with all three supervisors, the business owner, the township’s solicitor, and the township’s tax collector.

The police report for February included traffic stops, one domestic dispute/custody dispute, and a (felony) burglary. The person responsible for the burglary had been apprehended and transported to jail.

A request from the Viaduct Valley Way scenic byway for a donation to be earmarked in the 2012 budget was tabled until next month.

A discussion of the roads noted that a fill-in plower had missed a couple of areas in Mr. Fabrizi’s absence during the storm that hit the area the day before, and that a Skinner Hill resident was stranded due to a washout. There was also a complaint that there was a problem with a school bus at the intersection of Jackson Ave. and Turnpike St. due to untreated roads, and one about a fence on Jackson Ave. that is too high and obstructs sight distance.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Back to Top

Starrucca Borough Council Minutes
Submitted By Pat Schneyer, Secretary/Treasurer

The Starrucca Borough Council meeting was called to order by President Jack Downton on Monday, February 7, at 7:00 p.m. at the Starrucca Community Hall. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Council members present were Vice President Robert Martin, Barbara Glover, Arthur Kopp, Paul Everett, Louis Gurske and Mayor Maryann DeBalko. Council member Anthony Palonis was absent.

The audience included Dee Martin, Kathy Downton, Jerry Gill, Paul D’Agati, Brigitte D’Agati and Loreda Everett.

The minutes of the council meeting held on January 3 were read. Motion to accept the minutes as corrected (one typo) passed unanimously.

The minutes of the special meeting held on January 13 were read. Motion to accept the minutes as read passed unanimously.

The Treasurer’s report as of February 4, 2010 was read. Motion to accept the report as read passed unanimously.

Bills to be paid (February 2011) - Motion to pay the bills (with additions and corrections) as read passed unanimously.

The secretary/treasurer explained a transfer of $250.00 from the General Fund account to the Fire Fund to cover an overdraft. Motion to accept the transfer passed unanimously.

Motion to transfer $250.00 from the Fire Fund account back to the General Fund account passed unanimously.

The secretary/treasurer also reported that Scott Township had not yet submitted any bills for winter road maintenance

Correspondence Read

DGK Errors & Omissions Renewal due April 15, 2011 - Motion to send the renewal to Solicitor Treat for his review and comments passed unanimously.

Hess Road Use Agreement & DVD - President Downton recommended that all Council members sign the Agreement. Following discussion, motion that all members of Council should sign the agreement and that the agreement should be tabled until the March meeting pending review of the video provided by Dean Jamieson (Hess) concerning the Borough roads passed unanimously. The Road Committee (President Downton and VP Martin) will review the video.

DCED re. Grant Closeout Report - Stephano Bridge - President Downton reported that he spoke with J. DeYoung at the Wayne Co. Redevelopment Authority. Ms. DeYoung will be sending copies of bills so that the report can be submitted on behalf of the $20,000 grant the Borough received for the Stephano Bridge project.

WC Dept. of Planning re. Buck/Rhone/Woodruff survey map - filed.

Woodruff cc. to Borough re. status of sub-division approval from Wayne Co. Dept. of Planning - filed.

Paul Bunnell re. Woodruff building permit - filed.

SEO Documents re. Woodruff sub-division - mailed to Woodruff.

E-mail to Russell Warner, SEO from Pat Schneyer re. Woodruff - filed.

E-mail response from Russell Warner, SEO re. Woodruff sub-division - filed.

Correspondence to Paul Bunnell re. Woodruff sub-division - filed.

Concerning the Woodruff sub-division, President Downton explained that a Modulel I is required by the Department of Planning and the SEO must sign off on the Module I before the sub-division documents can be submitted to Council. Motion that the secretary should send a letter to the Woodruff’s regarding the sequence of events that need to occur including the return of their check in the amount of $350.00 payable to Starrucca Borough dated November 11, 2009 and previously held by the SEO pending completion of the paperwork passed unanimously.

Gale Reddon resignation/Emergency Management Coordinator - Motion to accept Mrs. Reddon’s resignation with regrets passed unanimously.

PA Uniform Construction Code Report (October-December, 2010) - filed.

John Mazur (PennDOT) Financial Consultant - filed.

WC Redevelopment Authority - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application 2011 - discussed and filed.

NEPA Transportation Enhancement Program - filed.

WC Municipal Waste Program - filed.

PSAB 100th Annual Conference, Hershey Lodge, April 2011 - filed.

PSAB Scholarship Application - filed.

Neal Chernakoff - tabled until March meeting.

Social Security Administration - Motion to accept the request of Pat Schneyer to file payroll information with the Social Security Administration passed unanimously.

Old Business

Hess Road Agreement - Discussed earlier in the meeting.

FEMA-PEMA Representative - The necessary paperwork (DAP 1 or DAP 2) was not completed. Tabled until the March meeting.

Payment to Council members for 2010 - VP Martin will contact Michael Martin as to whether or not he wants to receive payment for Council meetings he attended in 2010.

Liquid Fuels Reimbursement - President Downton reported that he spoke with Solicitor Treat and the Solicitor will be sending a letter to Brian Hanisko on behalf of Starrucca Borough.

New Business

Meeting with D.A. Lehutsky - President Downton reported on the meeting. VP Martin reported that everyone in attendance had input regarding the Shadigee Creek wall project.

D.A. Lehutsky reported that he had sent the Wall Committee’s report to the Attorney General along with his verbal concerns but he has not as yet received a response. D.A. Lehutsky has also recused himself from the concerns of Starrucca Borough.

Motion was made to ask Solicitor Treat to prepare a letter for the Attorney General and to copy the District Attorney of Wayne County that Starrucca Borough Council has it verbally from the District Attorney that the Attorney General’s office has been contacted regarding a series of events (civil and possibly criminal in nature) to include the August 2009 Special Investigations Report and findings from the Auditor General, the 2005-2008 Auditor General’s Liquid Fuels report concerning Starrucca Borough and a repayment of $18,000, documentation from the PEMA assistance office dated September 2010 informing Starrucca Borough of the validity of a previous project and the reasons that money was required to be returned for non-completion, bound minutes from the Borough of Starrucca from 2004-2009 that are not complete and include manufactured minutes. The Borough would like to know if a case number has been assigned to any of the allegations. Motion passed unanimously.

Motion to add to this letter from Solicitor Treat that also in question should be the possible false filing of paperwork in the courthouse from 2006-2009 and to question the subpoenas passed unanimously.

Motion was made that the Solicitor should contact the U.S. Attorney to see if there are possible criminal acts related to the 2009 Auditor General’s Special Investigations Report, the 2005-2008 Auditor General’s Liquid Fuelds report, the withholding of public documents from the public at large, the return of $121,000 in previously approved FEMA funding for the Shadigee Creek Wall project, the piece-mealing of bids, the processing of vague invoices to avoid audit scrutiny, the payment of certain monies out of the General Funds account to avoid the scrutiny of the Liquid Fuels auditors, the filing of incomplete and falsified Minutes during the period of 2004 through 2009 and the general conspiracy to withhold information from the public at large as committed by certain members of the 2006-2009 Starrucca Borough government. Motion passed unanimously.

Scott Township - Following discussion, Council instructed the secretary to send a certified letter to Scott Township asking that they please provide a monthly bill or advise otherwise.

Committee Reports

VP Martin reported that there are wet floors in the Town Hall and the roof is leaking.

Public Participation

Mrs. Everett suggested reviewing previous Errors & Omissions reports for possible insurance fraud.

Mr. Kopp presented a letter to Mayor DeBalko during public participation. The letter sent by Steven Knash regarding the Buck Road Bridge was dated 2004. Due to the confusion during their discussion, there was no further recording at this time and the meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

Back to Top

© 2006 Susquehanna County Transcript. All Rights Reserved