| |
| MAIN NEWS |
|
Business Directory Now Online!!!
Please visit our kind sponsors |
|
||||||
|
HEADLINES: Clifford Township supervisors at a May 9 business meeting passed a motion to incorporate Susquehanna County provisions for compression stations into the Clifford Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. Such action, a township resident pointed out, could present liability issues for the township. However, Joe McGraw, solicitor, stated that the problem with adopting the county ordinance “wholesale” is that the supervisors would not be able to “address issues that may be unique to Clifford Township.” McGraw explained that in some instances, the county ordinance might be too restrictive, or not restrictive enough, to meet the needs of the township. Next, the supervisors discussed improvement plans for the township building that are designed to improve energy efficiency and also aesthetics. Larry Wilson, who researched the building modifications, reported that within a year, the township could expect to save $9,400 on energy bills. This would mean “effectively paying for the whole project,” pointed out Dennis Knowlton, chairman. Nevertheless, the supervisors tabled the matter in order to review the plans and the cost of stucco versus siding. Barhite Excavating was approved to perform road work within the township. Regarding an ongoing matter, a resident of Elk View Drive asked the supervisors when liquid fuel money would be received for road maintenance within the development. Reportedly, a PennDOT representative told the man that although the road doesn’t presently meet state standards, “If it’s close, it’s good enough for him.” Supervisor Barry Searle commented, “I can’t believe [the representative] said he would turn a blind eye to the standards,” but the supervisors agreed to consult the PennDOT engineer again. With a historical society open house slated to coincide with Election Day, Searle asked Clifford Police Chief Donald Carroll if security cameras within the township building are functioning. Carroll, whose office is located within the building, replied in the affirmative. Searle alerted residents that the Susquehanna River Basin Commission has advised property owners near drilling sites to have “legitimate” water testing performed, meaning that a reputable agency should be hired to collect water samples on-site. This should be completed “before the first shovel of dirt is removed,” Searle clarified. Water testing information has been posted on the Clifford Township website, www.cliffordtownship.com. It was stated, “There is a pad going in [near Lake Idlewild] very shortly.” Knowlton complimented Searle on the research he has performed on issues currently impacting the township. John Knighton stated that the planning commission would like subdivision roads within the township to have the same specifications as state roads. “Now it’s very vague… That’ll eliminate problems,” he explained. The recommendation will be discussed next month. Carroll is to work with Elk View Drive residents on a crime watch within the development. Also concerning police presence, through state funding, a “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement will occur from May 23 through June 23. Carroll also asked the supervisors to release a paycheck of a township employee. He advised that “holding a paycheck is against the law.” Secretary René Reynolds retorted that the township was doing nothing illegal. Knowlton stated that employment documentation still was needed, adding, “We’ve been trying to collect it for four months.” The matter was to be discussed further following the meeting. Concerning Spring Clean-Up Day, Reynolds announced that six tons of garbage had been collected. By participating with the Great American Clean-Up, the township saved $360 on garbage removal costs and paid a total of $804. Raucous Turbulence In Harford The young woman who visited the Harford Township Supervisors’ meeting on May 10 as part of a school project got her money’s worth. Municipal meetings are usually bland discourses on the attributes of snow plow blades, the way to properly dig a ditch, or the merits of various types of dust-control materials. There was some of that this time, too. But this meeting also saw some tension between the Supervisors erupt into vociferous confrontation. It began quietly enough, with the Supervisors accepting bids for fuel, dust control oil and cinders. Mirabito Energy Products will supply bio-diesel for $3.6310 per gallon, and kerosene for $3.9137 per gallon, fluctuating with average prices published in Harrisburg. The Supervisors accepted bids from both Asphalt Paving Systems of Lemon and Suit-Kote for AEP/EDP dust-control oil. The former was the low bidder at $1.34 per gallon, but, as a new company, Supervisor and Roadmaster Terry VanGorden wanted Suit-Kote (which bid $1.375 per gallon) as a backup. And they accepted the sole bid of Brown Farms Enterprises for 500 tons of clean, black cinders at $14.50 per yard for fine grade and $18.25 per yard for coarse grade, the latter being state certified, the choice to be purchased to be determined when needed. The Supervisors then agreed to purchase an Extech sound meter kit from Fotronic Corporation for $409 on the recommendation of Supervisor Garry Foltz. The kit, equipped for wind baffling, calibration features and user manual, will be used to help enforce the township’s new Industrial Noise Ordinance. A road service agreement drafted by Southwestern Energy was accepted with clauses that require Southwestern to take responsibility for plowing snow on White, Houlihan and Stillhill roads in the event that they need those roads for winter operations. The agreement will be forwarded to Southwestern for their signatures. Supervisor and Township Secretary Sue Furney reported that Bobby Jo Turner, Grants Administrator for the Susquehanna County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, will be handling the bidding process for the repaving of School Street in Harford village. The township received a grant to help with this project based on the proximity of the Housing Authority’s property known as the Harford Village Apartments. The Supervisors agreed that the two highest priorities for the road crew right now are the Richardson Road and Stearns Road projects. Both roads are now closed to traffic. A new sluice is being installed on Richardson Road with help from a county grant. The township is in the process of selecting an operator for a bulldozer necessary to complete the work. On Stearns Road, the flooding of Tingley Lake impelled the township to cut a trench to allow the flooded lake to drain more quickly. Mr. Foltz said that the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued an “emergency permit” to install a pair of 24-inch pipes across the road as a “temporary” measure to alleviate any future flooding. Because the township sewer line runs down that road about 4 feet below the surface, the sewer operator’s employee will have to be present when the sewer pipe is uncovered, probably by a lot of careful hand digging. The new pipes are expected to be placed on top of the sewer line. Asked how “temporary” he expected these measures to be, Mr. Foltz said that would be “up to the court.” Asked what could be inferred by that, he said that the court would need to determine “who put the tube in there,” and therefore who is responsible for the sluice under the road. Seven property owners on the lake have sued the township to replace the permanent sluice under the road; the litigation which began last year is still in progress. Mr. Foltz said that if the court decides it is the township’s responsibility, “we still have to figure out how to pay for it.” Mr. VanGorden said that residents along Richardson Road will continue to have access to their properties. He wants Stearns Road reopened quickly because school bus drivers must add miles to their routes at their own expense, and milk trucks and milk producers are sorely inconvenienced. With Tingley Lake Road closed at Shay Hill, and Richardson and Stearns Roads closed in the township, except for the long way through Harford village or via Kingsley, Wilcox Road is the only alternative, and that is barely passable due to a near washout at the low point where it crosses a creek. This is where the meeting began to dissolve into shouts and recriminations. Mr. Foltz said that he wanted the crew to finish one thing before moving on to the next, instead of distributing labor across 2 or 3 projects concurrently. Mr. VanGorden objected that Mr. Foltz first wanted one thing, then another. Each repeatedly crying, “You’re not listening to me,” Mr. VanGorden said to his counterpart, “You keep throwing a stick in the spokes… Leave us alone!” It went on like that for a while, until finally Mr. Foltz resumed a list of items he wanted to follow up on, although they weren’t on the agenda. He asked about a draft letter to the owners of properties with collapsing barns that had only a place for him alone to sign. He had asked for the letter last month, based on the new Act 90 of 2010. Ms. Furney said that she would not be comfortable signing the letters without their solicitor’s approval, and a new ordinance to back it up. Mr. Foltz insisted that ordinance number 6 of 1974 was adequate to cover the issue. Mr. VanGorden also said he would be uncomfortable signing it. There was some heated discussion concerning the township’s roller, which recently got a new engine. Two of the township’s workers attended the meeting, one of them uncomfortable that the new temperature gauge wasn’t working, and recommending the purchase of a replacement for $100. Mr. Foltz was concerned that the roller had been out of action for over a year, now had a new engine, but couldn’t be used because of a faulty gauge. He recommended that the roller be put to work anyway, after testing to be sure the problem was only the gauge itself. Mr. Foltz moved to follow up on the auditors’ recommendation that the township install a timeclock to record employee work hours, despite his colleagues expressed opposition. He said the instrument would ensure better accountability, especially since two township employees are also Supervisors and sign their own time records. The motion did not receive a second. Ms. Furney did agree to establish regular office hours, so that they could be published on the township’s new web site. The office will be open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Ms. Furney also championed the annual “cleanup” program. Mr. Foltz has said that he would prefer to forego it this year so that a week would not be taken from the roadwork schedule. Mr. VanGorden also said he would like to “forget it for a year.” Mr. Foltz said that “our roads are really, really bad, and that has got to take priority.” In future, he would like the program changed so that residents bring their discarded materials to the township instead of expending time and fuel to collect it; he would also like to start a recycling program. Ms. Furney recommended scheduling the cleanup for the week of June 20. She said that the township’s population is “elderly based,” and many residents would not have a way to bring materials to the township themselves. Many people also work outside the township and would not be able to bring materials during weekday hours. She said that the cleanup has always been promoted as a “service to the community.” Mr. Foltz agreed that it is not meant to make a profit, but he didn’t think there were enough loads out there to warrant the labor taken from the roads. (One observer even characterized the program as “negligent” if it took work away from road maintenance.) In the end the Supervisors agreed to schedule the cleanup for the week of June 20 at $50 for a pickup load, extra for tires, same as last year. Mr. Foltz reported that a lab study of material taken from the latest sewer blockage on Tyler Lake Road indicates “compost.” Hard to imagine how such stuff could get into the sewer system, but Mr. Foltz is determined to track it down, house by house. It was a full evening for the young lady studying rural Pennsylvania civic affairs. Visit the next one to see for yourself, scheduled for the 2nd Tuesday of June, the 14th, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Township building. Courthouse Report DEEDS Valance J. and Michele Miller (NBM) Michele Stadler to Valance J. and Michele Miller, in Forest City for one dollar. William J. and Susan E. Baier to William J. and Susan E. Baier, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. William Robert and Nancy L. Decker to Thomas E. and Shelley M. Wood, in Bridgewater Township for $45,000.00. Frigerio Living Trust (by trustee) to Endless Mountain Farm LLC, in Lenox Township for $175,000.00. Eugene and Lynne C. Beautz to Bryan James Wich and Theresa Ann Lombardi, in Thompson Township for $25,000.00. Samuel Perpetua and Linda Bonomo to Adenco LLC, in Ararat and Herrick Townships for $87,500.00. Samuel Perpetua to Adenco LLC, in Ararat and Herrick Townships for $87,500.00. Norman and Patricia Clark to Charles D. and Kim I. Clark, in Springville Township for one dollar. Wayne Richard Kozloski to Adenco LLC, in Ararat Township for $100,000.00. John Onysko to Donna Fekette and Thomas Lopatofsky, in New Milford Township for $60,000.00. Kevin and Karen Mitchell to Joshua A. and Cambria G. Ely, in Bridgewater Township for $200,000.00. Christopher and Jennifer L. Marvin to Anthony J. Snedeker, in Great Bend Borough for $66,000.00. Steven (by sheriff) and Bonnie (by sheriff) Wormuth to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, in Harford Township for $3,713.73. Charles Brensinger to Arete Adquistions LLC, in Rush Township for $10.00. Daniel H. Swackhammer, III to Arete Adquistions LLC, in Thompson Township for $10.00. Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (by trustee) to Twin Tier Homes LLC, in New Milford Borough for $30,000.00. William H. Heritage (estate) to Benjamin C., Gary T., Stacy M. and Timothy P. Heritage, in Brooklyn and Dimock Townships for one dollar. Randall Miles Hepler to Hepler Rendon Properties LP, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Kenneth A. Lambert, Jr. to Daniel Stankiewicz, Jr., in Montrose for $1,000.00. Dwight A. and Dwight C. Nunemacher to Dwight A., Judy, Dwight C. and Joan Nunemacher, in Springville Township for one dollar. John T. (estate) and Gregory M. Lopatofsky to Gregory M. Lopatofsky, in Springville Township for one dollar. Robert E. and Constance M. Panasevich to Michael R. and Sharon Panasevich, in Gibson Township for one dollar. Paula and Gordon C. Whitney to Derek Stalker, in New Milford Township for $264,000.00. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 10:08 a.m. on May 13, 2011. Douglas Buckman, Howard A. Burns, III, Beverly A. Carvin, James J. Corridoni, Randall L. Cox, John C. Creps, Heather R. DeBoer, Charles S. Dunn, John F. Feeley, David J. Fischer, David Haines, Jr., William Neil Hendrickson, Melinda Holbrook, Shannon J. Hollister, Steven L. Jones, Christopher J. Kingsbury, Eric C. Kohlhepp, Erik E. Krisovitch, Lee Labor, Casey J. Lawton, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Jason Lindquist, Michael Maryasz, Mark C. McCarey, Jennifer M. Miller, Matthew S. Miller, Donald Palmer, Jeremy Presson, Arthur D. Quick, David J. Shiner, Jerome Slick, Eric J. Snell, Justin Thompson, Robert J. Twilley, Robert J. Vanostrand, Steven G. Warner, Steven G. Wormuth. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
The state budget, or lack of one, was the main topic of discussion at the May 11 Susquehanna Community School Board meeting. As of this date, the state had not yet enacted a final budget, but it does appear that the district is likely to see a reduction in funding of about $918,000. The board approved a tentative budget of $12,821,977, although that total may change depending on the final state budget. Local millage was set at 43.30 for Susquehanna County and 14.29 for Wayne County; those figures are not expected to change even if the budget total does. The district budget is about $1,000,000 less than last year’s, to reflect the state reduction and the district’s reductions in expenditures. Superintendent Bronson Stone said that there are hopeful signs that the voices of constituents are being heard by the state regarding the expected reduction in state education funding. The House has proposed a budget that restores about $400,000 of the cuts, but there is no guarantee that the Senate will approve it. A conference committee comprised of members of both legislative bodies will work together to bring a proposal to the governor. There are other mandates being passed in the Senate and moving to the House, regarding competitive bidding relief measures and economic furloughs of teachers and administrators. Mr. Stone said that the package’s intent is to relive the burden on school districts, but just may increase it instead. In other business, a full campus evacuation drill is scheduled for this week. It will be conducted with the assistance of neighboring police departments and hospital personnel. Spring athletics have gotten off to a slow start due to the recent rainy weather, and one storm blew down the baseball field dugout. Spring field trips are scheduled for this month; hopefully the weather will cooperate for those that are outdoor events. The state has approved 1,359 district homesteads/farmsteads for a tax rebate from gambling revenues this year, in the amount of $302 to qualified properties. Each year, the elementary principals in each of the county’s school districts select a pupil to receive a principal’s award. Elementary Principal Robert Keyes said that the choice is based on a number of factors, such as overall grades, citizenship, and involvement in community and school activities, and it is always a difficult decision as there are many students who qualify. This year’s winner was Evan Cantone, a sixth grade student. A luncheon had been held the previous day for the students selected and their principals. At last month’s meeting, Kathleen Hinkley had announced that the district’s education association was planning to award three scholarships to students planning to pursue a career in the education field. But, the committee has since determined that they will award four scholarships of $2,000 each. Winners were announced at an assembly held earlier in the month, and the awards will be given out on Class Night. The association held their annual car show last weekend; proceeds are used towards the scholarship fund. And, the association is in the planning stages of hosting a holiday dinner this year, sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas as a community service. Other items approved by the board were as follows: - Bids for supplies for the 2011-12 school year, and giving the business office permission to order supplies. - Election of Martha Stanford as board treasurer for the 2011-12 school year at the same compensation as this year. - An agreement Thomas P. Theobald, Government Software Services for printing to tax duplicates for Starrucca Boro for 2100. - An agreement with Infocon Corporation for the printing of tax duplicates for the district for 2011.- The 2011-12 Title I Parent Involvement Policy. - The EdOptions Online Academy proposal for high school summer school for 2011. - Three bus contract changes effective April 11. - Homebound instruction for a twelfth grade student. - A program of studies for grades 7-12 for the 2011-12 school year. Last year, Japanese language classes were added and this year, Russian will be added. - Peoples Neighborhood Bank as the district’s depository for 2011-12. - Textbooks for the high school: Writing Coach, Pearson, grade 9; Biology, Pearson; Environmental Science, Pearson; and Buen Viaje, Glencoe/McGraw Hill, Spanish Level I. - Appointment of Attorney Joseph Gaughn as district solicitor for the 2011-12 school year. - Released time classes with Child Evangelism Fellowship of Susquehanna County for the 2011-12 school year. - A consulting service agreement with Kathy Matis for the 2100-12 school year at a cost of $125/day for 60 days to implement use of an online curriculum program. - Leave of absences for Melissa Franks from August 22 to November 29 and Elizabeth Sabatelli for the remainder of the present school year. - The resignation of J.J. Acosta, elementary aide, effective May 13. - Tiffanie Wolf, football cheerleading volunteer, fall 2011. - Substitute bus driver Jim Phelps. - The Homestead/Farmstead resolution for the 2011-12 school year. - A memorandum of understanding with NHS to provide on-campus mental health services for students. The board also approved hiring of the following personnel: Debra Stone, Rebecca Stalker, Ray Testa and Rachel Arrieta, summer elementary teachers; Julie Gallo, RTII coordinator; Brian Niblock, girls’ varsity basketball coach; Jason Fissel and Dennis Gow, elementary wrestling co-coaches; Roxann Lloyd, substitute game manager for 2011-12 and 2012-13; Tiffanie Wolfe, track scorer, spring 2011; and Roxann Lloyd, track announcer, spring 2011. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, June 15 at 7:00 p.m. in the administration offices in the elementary building.
Following is the list of names drawn to serve as Petit and Traverse jurors to appear in the Court of Common Pleas, Susquehanna County Courthouse, Montrose, on the 7th day of June at 9:00 a.m. Auburn Twp.: Florence Helmacy, Steven Leiser. Bridgewater Twp.: Frances Cantone, Herbert Detweiler, Patricia Dube, Carey Gibson, Victoria Mulligan, Michael Pasteka, Clifford Taylor. Brooklyn Twp.: Shana Mack, Janice Stankiewicz. Choconut Twp.: Frederick Capotosto. Clifford Twp.: David Bean, Neal Daniels, Janice Edmunds, Gareth Griffiths, Betty Lopatofsky, Mark Miller, Terry Short, John Smith. Dimock Twp.: Rachel Bartron, James Hanjaras, Raymond Hunsinger, Jacques Kline, Debra Roth, Mark Warner. Forest City, 1W: Mary Remus. Forest City, 2W: Carole Kameen. Franklin Twp.: James Ainey, Donald Roberts. Great Bend Boro: Toni Collins. Great Bend Twp.: Randy Osterhout, Shanie Ralston, James Stiles. Hallstead Boro: John Kammerer, Leona Merrell. Harford Twp.: Todd Hinkley, Mary Jones, Shirley Masters, John Yannone. Herrick Twp.: Loretta Barrese, Andrew Belcher, Marybeth Cassidy. Jackson Twp.: Stacy Calvo, Edward Costello, Patti Schmidt, John Tomassacci. Jessup Twp.: Jason Aukema, Bill Johnson. Lathrop Twp.: Catherine Frankovsky, Paul Judd, Dawnielle Newhart, Ivan Oakley, Cheryl Runco, Anne Stock, Karin Wellings. Lenox Twp.: Kimberly Benjamin, Tanner Murphy, Jerome Ruddy, Robert Wallace. Liberty Twp.: Wade Robinson, Roxie Sager. Little Meadows Boro: Donna Rogers. Montrose Boro, 2W: Kathy Andre, Nanette Dean. New Milford Twp.: Donna Fekette, Darlene Harhut, Carol Kropa. Rush Twp.: Cheryl Larue. Silver Lake Twp.: Donald Conning, Nancy Kuwaye, Michelle Mayes, Kim Snyder, Frank Sparacino, Ann Zalepa. Springville Twp.: Rachel Decker, Eric Emmerich, Cheryl Lukasavage, Audrey Massaker, William Rodgers, Judy Wood. Thompson Boro: Deanna Wasko.
Commissioners Are Still Quick At 9:00 a.m., Commissioner Allen called the May 11 meeting of the County Commissioners to order in the Lower Conference room in the County Office Building. Commissioners Allen and Giangrieco were there to say the "Pledge of Allegiance" to the flag, but absent was Commissioner Warren who was in Harrisburg. She was giving testimony regarding the local impacts of Marcellus Shale in Susquehanna County. The minutes of the April 27 meeting were accepted. The two commissioners motioned to approve or ratify the following total sum of money appropriated. They ratified $845,384, in the following manner: ratification expenses of $764,177 of which $474,990 is allocated to General, $116,417 for CYS, and $172,770 for Payroll. They also ratified the following EFTPS payments, totaling $81,207 of which $14,903 for Employee Retirement Contributions, $7,606 for State Withholding taxes, and $58,698 for Federal Payroll taxes. They motioned to approve the following seminar requests and/or payments for seminar requests from May 12, 2011 until September 15, 2011. This time no "zero" cost to the county. Charmarie Bisel, Children & Youth, Scranton, Medications for Brain: Psychotropic Medications/Psychiatric Medications, total cost $153.00, cost to the County, $30.60. Susan Adamec, Children & Youth, Montrose, Mandated Reporting, total cost $20.00, cost to the County $4.00. Raebelle Taylor, Roberta Collins, Brenda Landes and Linda Daly, Domestic Relations, September 11, Harrisburg, Training for child support enforcement Title IV-D Program, total cost $3247.50, cost to the County $1104.15. They motioned to adopt Proclamation 2011-06, proclaiming May 15-May 21, 2011 Police Week in Susquehanna County. Whereas The Congress and The President of the United States recognize the same dates as "Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and May 15 falls as "National Police Week." Now, therefore, all citizens of Susquehanna County, including the Commissioners, be thankful for the services of our "Police," along with there great sacrifices. They motioned to open for review the sealed bids for the 88 Chenango Street Project "Phase Two" for reconstruction, due in the Chief Clerk's office on April 29, 2011 no later than 1:00 p.m. They motioned to acknowledge the termination of Glyn Kester by Judge Suzanne Brainard. They motioned to accept, with regret, the resignation of Leslie Estabrook, 911, per the recommendation of Art Donato, 911 Coordinator. They motioned to exonerate the following, per the recommendation of Catherine Benedict, Tax Claim Director: There is a 2010 Upset Sale of Thompson Borough property in the name of Thomas Woodford. Therefore, said taxes were not collected at the sale. Hence, $32.94 is to be exonerated. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to sign the Purchase of Service agreement between Susquehanna County Services for Children & Youth and PA Treatment & Healing, Turbotville; Unit ID FC contracted per diem $81.00. They motioned to accept the bid for election equipment for "polling places," from the lowest qualified bidder, Inclusion Solutions, LLC, and Evanston, IL for $9,999.95. This amount has been approved by HAVA and will be reimbursed to the County. They motioned to appoint Michael Koscelnak to the Susquehanna County Emergency Preparedness Task Force, as the National Guard representative, effective immediately through December 31, 2011. They motioned to hire Kenneth Kiefer, Jessup Township, and Bruce Butler, Susquehanna, to the open, part-time position of Dispatcher Trainee, Rate $9.25 pr hour, varied hours, with a six-month probationary period, per the recommendation of Art Donato. They motioned to reappoint the following to the Children & Youth Advisory Committee: Dr. Ronald Miller, Susan Rookstool, Loren Small, Kathleen Kurosky, Mary Hinds, John Blachek, Ester Romeika, and Ruth Rought. The final motion was to close the Commissioners' meeting and open a Salary Board meeting. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 a.m. At 9:22 a.m. the Susquehanna County Retirement Board meeting was called to order by Commissioner Allen, in the Lower Conference Room in the County Office Building. Present were Commissioner Allen, Treasurer Benedict and Chief Clerk Beamer. They motioned to approve/correct the minutes of the January 12, 2011 Retirement Board meeting. They motioned to accept the investment policy statement with changes. The Seneca Group presented the quarterly review. The funds are healthy. They motioned to adopt recommendations starting on page 22, and to include pages 23 and 24 in the Portfolio Review. Motion to close the Retirement Board meeting, meeting closed by Commissioner Allen at 10:05 a.m.
MASD Packed With Student Success The room was packed at the May 9 Montrose School board meeting. Mr. Ognosky, early explained the reason why, saying that he had wanted to acknowledge all of the students for their accomplishments over the past month. As it was nearing the end of the school year, he had invited everyone for that night. First on the honor agenda, Mr. Wilcox presented the Ray Kroc Achievement Award to a Junior High school student. The award was established in honor of McDonald's founder Ray Kroc. He valued persistence, as exemplified by his starting the franchise when he was fifty-two. The award was given to a student exemplifying citizenship and leadership in scholarship and extracurricular activities. In addition to a medallion and certificate, the student's name would be placed on a plaque and he or she received one share of McDonald's stock. This year the recipient was Alyssa Cutri, who came to the front, received her medal and certificate, and made her way around the table shaking hands. Mr. Ognosky related that the award was voted upon by the instructors at the junior high level. The evening then progressed to the musical portion of the meeting. Mr. Scott Zimmerman and Mrs. Susan Bennici came to the front of the room. Every year, Mr. Zimmerman said, the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association sponsored band and chorus concerts at the county, district, and regional level. District band that year was hosted by Mrs. Bennici in Montrose, and with eight district participants: Emily Augenti, Mollie Host, Jacob Kerbaugh, Michael Roman, Adam Distad, Megan Gregory, Ryan Brown, and Nicholas Best. That year's district chorus was at Pocono Mountain, and four Montrose students attended: Jacob Myers, Mollie Host, Keenan Small, and Tyler Zaleski. Mollie, Keenan, and Jacob made it to regionals. Jacob Myers made it to the all-state level for chorus, and Jacob Kerbaugh for band. Jacob Myers also made it to All-Easterns, due to his having also made it to district band the year prior. Mollie went to district band in both disciplines. Emily made it to both district band and district orchestra. Before bringing the students down, the two directors threw out a plug for the school's upcoming music events. Mrs. Bennicci told the board that they appreciated their continued commitment to music, despite what the department realized were difficult times.Mr. Ognosky stated that, with the bad weather, the district has not been able to do the excavating around the new administration building. He assured those present that it would be done, and that the marching band practice area would likely even be larger than before. The music students were applauded, and received certificates and handshakes. Mrs. Bennici and Mr. Zimmerman also received acknowledgment. Mr. Clifford of the Business Ed department was the next to speak, opening with a bit of history on how the technology competitions had begun at the school. With school support, he said, because there were only two or three students participating, the district had begun a local competition. This had the intended effect of garnering interest, and the program blossomed. At this year's competition, he continued, it was almost embarrassing how many awards the students from the school had received. That year there were three students attending states All students who participated in one competition placed in the category they participated in. The students honored where Michael Duncan, David Koloski, Bryce Carlton, Mead Hansen, Clayton Hansen, Andrew Wood, Eli Washburn and Justin Boldt. Mead, Clayton, and Bryce, made it to states. In addition, it was reported, David and Michael had attended a competition at the University of Scranton, for the district's first time, and had placed second, a very respectable outcome. In closing, Mr. Ognosky said, he wanted people to realize how much the board and administration appreciated what the students did in representing the district. The awards were not only for their successes, he said, but for the hours and effort the students gave, outside of the school day. Mrs. Smith thanked the board for not allowing them to drill surface wells near the schools, referring to an article about drilling near schools. A preliminary budget was approved in the amount of $23,109,079, which was, Mr. Ognosky said, the current expenditure number in the budget as of that morning. It was approximately $150,000 less than last year's expenditure amount. This preliminary, he explained, put the expenditure side of the budget on public review for the next month. At the June meeting, then, there would be a motion which would set millage, discuss rates, and confirm the number. At that time, the district had a gap of about $200,000 over revenue. The district anticipated, however, that a few things would occur which should bring that amount close to closing. One of these areas of savings included bids coming in lower than originally budgeted. Ricky Clapper was acknowledged by business manager Michelle Lusk, for performing an inventory of his supplies and reducing the amount ordered. The proposed budget represented quite a change, he said, from a $1.5 million discrepancy to a $200,000 discrepancy. The motion was made and accepted with regret of James Buchman as Assistant Football coach. Also, Max Amato was appointed as Head Soccer coach. The head coach of soccer taking a one year leave, and his assistant was to take over the position for that time. Two other positions were filled: Lonnie Griffiths as Junior High Head Soccer Coach, and John Zenefsky as the Junior High Assistant Soccer Coach. On the professional side, the resignation of Theresa Kaub, the Crisis Counselor at the Junior-Senior High School, was accepted. Mr. Ognosky spoke very highly of her, and stated that her services would really be missed. This position was to be filled, he stated, as with an emotional support classroom the district needed to have it filled, and it would be advertised. Revisions of the 2010-2011 school calendar were proposed and accepted, to reflect the 7 student days and 1 in-service day which were canceled due to snow. The changes included: May 31, June 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8, being regular full days of school, June 9 and 10 being Act 80 student early dismissal days, June 10 being the last day of school, and June 13 being an instructor in-service day. Graduation was set for June 11, at the stadium or the auditorium depending on weather. The end of the year is busy, Dr. Golden said during his report. He wished to recognize the transition coordinator at the high school, Mrs. Gregory, as the district had six students attend the Pause program at Penn State. That college opens its doors to give the students a taste of what college is like, so they can decide whether or not they want to pursue it. Four of the six students had decided they would, and continued with the program. As of July first, Mr. Ognosky said, in order to streamline the process of switching payroll over to the business office, the district was going to be making a change. All payroll was to be through direct deposit. Mr. McComb related a list of events for the end of the year, including music concerts, kindergarten orientation, open house, a sixth grade send-off dance, a Knoebels trip, and the first grade play. That school was at 40 kindergarten students registered for the next year, this was a little higher than the previous year but lower than the average. Mr. Adams stated that the district had 45 students registered, which was low for them but a good number for the 3 kindergarten instructors. He also spoke of end of the year events, to include the class trip, the principal's luncheon, and an open house. The luncheon involved one student accompanying the principal to a luncheon at Green Gables, with the other principals and students from their schools. This was a very difficult decision for him to make, he said. Mr. Ognosky provided an update on staffing. Everyone who was shifted had been sent a letter, he said. The one staffing matter which was staring at them, he continued, which needed action, was the Dean of Students position. The position had been posted as a part-time position. After mulling over it, however, he felt that probably a part-time person wouldn't be sufficient, that perhaps it should be posted as a full-time position. A member of the full-time staff could be pulled into it for a year, at their current salary. They would work their regular schedule, as well as an additional three hours per contract. This would be cheaper than a stipend. That person's position could then be filled by a long-term substitute, which would also save money. Also, he felt this would be better due to stability. Mr. Caterson asked what would occur the following year, if this person was to work out. He queried whether this position would be administrative. This would be at the discretion of the board at that time, the superintendent replied. Mr. Caterson then spoke of his concern that this could also lead then to the necessity to fill a full-time professional staff position, as there were not as many retirees anticipated. Mr. Ognosky admitted that this was a possibility. Mr. Douglas Wilcox said that he understood this concern, but with a part-time person he foresaw potential difficulties with burnout. Mrs. Kathy Mordovancy also spoke up seemingly in favor of the full-time idea, due to stability. Mr. Ognosky said that he needed to thank somebody, and he didn't know who it was. He had buried the wheels on his riding tractor. Somebody stopped and helped him retrieve it from the hole. The man disappeared before he could thank him however, so he mentioned it at the meeting. The intermediate unit, Mr. Wilcox announced, was still looking for a new executive director, and had spend much of a day doing interviews. They had chosen a final candidate, who had opted not to take the position. The process was still moving forward, he assured those present.
Silver Lake Twp. Police Report BURGLARY A burglary took place at a business in Silver Lake Township and the owner does not want publicity in order to protect the business. Some damage was done to gain entry and inside contents were left disorderly. A small amount of cash was taken. This incident is still under investigation. HARASSMENT BY COMMUNICATION On April 4, Muriel Tucker, in Silver Lake Township, reported harassment which has been going on and off for several months with Bonnie Orourke from Springfield, Missouri. This has been an on-going case with charges filed and pending court action. TRESPASSING On April 11, Jean Pudish reported that people have been trespassing on her property in Silver Lake Township and have left refuse and items lying around in the wooded area on the property. This incident is still under investigation. ASSIST OTHER AGENCY On April 16, SLTPD was requested to assist Montrose Borough Police with a possible break-in in progress on Public Avenue, Montrose Borough. Two on-duty officers responded to assist and the situation was resolved. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On April 18, Forest Lake Fire personnel reported criminal mischief on the Forest Lake Fire Company’s property. Evidence was presented and this activity is still under investigation. COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION On April 22, PSP Harrisburg requested SLTPD to do a community notification for nearby residents affected in Silver Lake and Forest Lake Townships per PSP notification laws. ANIMAL COMPLAINT/DISORDERLY CONDUCT On April 29, several complaints were received from Silver Lake Township residents concerning several species of animals - ponies, horses, peacocks, etc. - wandering upon yards and properties causing damage. The owners were contacted and requirements put into place. EMERGENCY ASSISTS SLTPD assisted the Silver Lake Fire Company and EMS Ambulance with three medical emergencies and one fire call during the month of April. Any information or questions for Silver Lake Township Police, please call 570-278-6818 or e-mail silverlaketwppd@epix.net. All information will be held strictly confidential. Visit silverlaketwp.org to see all of Silver Lake Townships’ news, profiles and resources, including the police reports.
Oakland Boro ApprovesWater System Updates DEP has recently enacted new regulations, and those operating municipal water systems have no choice but to comply. One mandate involves quarterly testing, and will cost the Oakland Boro water company $1,400 each time. Other mandates involve monitoring and chlorine degradation and monitoring reports. Roger Holleran, who oversees the technical aspects of the system, addressed council at their May 12 meeting about those mandates, as well as the need to repair or replace the number two well. If a new one is needed, the cost could be quite exorbitant, but it is hoped that it can be repaired, although the tests to determine whether or not it can be are also quite expensive. In all, he asked council to consider refinancing the water company’s loan to obtain a construction loan of $180,000. A construction loan would allow the necessary expenses to be taken care of, and any funds left unused would immediately be paid back and not added to the life of the loan. After discussion, a motion carried to approve. During the discussion, several council members said that they had, from time to time, been asked by residents why the boro doesn’t sell the water company. The consensus is that it is more economical to the boro’s residents than a public company that serves the surrounding area would be. Residents pay a fixed fee, not one based on the amount of water used, and the boro does not have to pay hydrant fees. It was also noted that the monthly fee is considerably less than Oakland’s neighbors on the public system pay. And, if the system were to be sold, approximately $500,000 in grants that the boro obtained to construct the system would need to be repaid, regardless of how much the system was sold for. A list of current codes violations was reviewed, and the meeting adjourned to a brief executive session to discuss one matter. Work on the park improvement project is progressing, and is expected to be completed by the end of the week. There was some discussion as to whether or not a ribbon cutting or grand opening ceremony will be held once it is complete; it is a possibility but plans were not definite as of this time. A motion carried to add Officer Bill Moran to the boro’s police department. Mr. Moran, who is from Scranton, is an officer in Susquehanna’s department and would make the fourth officer on Oakland’s roster. He was welcomed by council. Mayor Glover reported that the boro department had responded to 35 calls during the last month. The police car had been serviced and got new brakes and rotors. He is shopping for a second car, which would be needed if the merged department with Oakland Township comes to fruition, and if the department contracts out with other municipalities to provide services. At last month’s meeting, two items had been discussed due to complaints received. One was people allowing their pets to defecate on property other than their own, both private and public, and not cleaning up after them, and vehicles parked too close to an intersection, limiting sight distance. The boro does have a nuisance ordinance, which would cover the pet situation. The police will be keeping an eye on both situations, and tickets will be issued where necessary. River Bounty has approved a lease proposal for the hydro electric plant on the Susquehanna River, and will be meeting next month to finalize an agreement. An audience member said that there are a number of parents who are concerned about proposed bus stop changes for next year; a stop will be relocated to the intersection of Walnut and State Streets, and there is said to be a blind spot there that could be a hazard to children waiting for the bus. Council was asked if they could send a letter to the school district; although it is not exactly a council responsibility, they agreed to do so. Concerned parents are urged to contact the school directly. And, council members were given quarterly budget reports for the general fund and the water company to review and discuss at the next meeting, which will be on Thursday, June 9, 7:00 p.m. at the Lanesboro Community Center.
PennDOT Reviewing Oakland Twsp. Roads were the main topic of discussion at the May 10 Oakland Township Supervisors’ meeting, beginning with notice that PennDOT will be conducting a road review in the near future, which will include surveys to update road maps and mileage and to check road names. No date was given for the review, but PennDOT does require that roads be free of grass and vegetation, and that no roads be closed by gates. There was some discussion about the condition of Bedbug Hollow and Skinner Hill, particularly the portion of Bedbug Hollow that is under water due to a beaver dam and a sluice plugged by the beavers. It was noted that the review might be a good thing, as the township might learn what recourse they might have regarding the beavers and the damage they have been causing. Other correspondence reviewed included notice that Conservation District dirt and gravel road grant applications are due May 20; information from the Susquehanna County Tax Collection Committee regarding earned income tax (the township does not have one); information from PEMA on a proposed property buyout (flood plain); notice of a workmen’s comp increase; a notice regarding an unemployment compensation payment; and, notice of a meeting regarding the former Boughton’s salvage yard property. The property has been purchased by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and the meeting will be held with the county Planning Commission. There was some discussion about the site’s infrastructure, as it is reported that a church will be erected on the property. And, there was discussion as to whether or not a church would be a commercial development. The 2011 road review is still in progress, and prices are being obtained for patchwork and tar and chipping. There was discussion about hiring a part-time road worker, and it was agreed that it is necessary. There was some discussion of the township’s amusement tax, which has been in place for about twenty years. From time to time, some of the businesses subject to the tax have been delinquent in their payments. Supervisor Cy Cowperthwait commented that the township does have the right to audit the books of businesses subject to the tax. A meeting is being set up with one of those business owners, all three supervisors and the tax collector to discuss the tax. During approval of the bill list, it was noted that the donation for the Friends of the Viaduct Valley Way Scenic Byway has been processed now, rather than waiting until next year. The supervisors have submitted a proposed contract to Oakland Boro for the merged municipal police department, but have not yet heard feedback. It calls for a six-year term with a three-year cancellation clause. The police committee has recommended that bylaws be drawn up (for the committee itself); Mr. Cowperthwait said that both the township and the boro need to enact ordinances to authorize the committee to run the department, and the ordinance should outline the committee’s responsibilities. The target date to start the regionalized department is November 1; both ordinances would need to be enacted before then. And, there is a mystery in the township. Someone has been mowing the township building lawn, but no one seems to know who it was. It was noted that he/she has been doing a good job. The next meeting will be on Thursday, June 14 at 7:00 p.m.
News
|
Living
|
Sports
|
Schools
|
Churches
|
Ads
|
Events
Military | Columns | Ed/Op | Obits | Archive | Subscribe
|
