The Blue Ridge School Board meeting on April 2nd opened with recognition of some of the district’s outstanding athletes. In each case, Board President Laurie Brown-Bonner read out a resolution naming each of the students who were also awarded a certificate. All were warmly applauded by board, administrators, parents and coaches for their achievements.

First up were the members of the 5th and 6th grade girls basketball team, who finished the season with a record of 10 wins and only 3 losses. Ms. Brown-Bonner proudly noted her own daughter as a member of the team.

The Blue Ridge 5th and 6th Grade Girls Basketball team, with coaches and Board president Laurie Brown-Bonner (at right).

Sophomore Zachary Edwards, Jr., District II wrestling champion in the 120-pound class got a resolution and certificate all his own, which he accepted in the company of his mother, and his father, who happens to be the Blue Ridge head wrestling coach.

Champion Wrestler Zachary Edwards, Jr., with his dad, coach Zachary Edwards, Sr. and his mom.

Blue Ridge archers have been at or near the top for a couple of years now. This time they were second statewide and received not only a resolution and certificate from the school board, but another from County Commissioner (and former Blue Ridge board president) Alan Hall, along with tournament certificates, and day-glo orange hats from the state game commission.

The Blue Ridge Archery Team, with coach Joe Conigliaro (far right) and Athletic Directory Jill Hoffman (far left).

The evening actually got an early start when the Board’s Policy Committee met to review several policy changes that would come before the full board at the business meeting.

The Board later passed two revised policies that had been updated a month before, concerning documentation of psychological illness or disability for eligibility for homebound instruction; and a formal definition of the district’s “open forum” policy on “relations with special interest groups,” particularly religious groups.

The newest policy changes, according to Superintendent Robert McTiernan, are intended to “tighten some things up,” to bring them more in line with recent legislation and regulation. They include a more precise definition of “Parent/Guardian” in an age when more students are under the care of guardians; more detailed guidelines on recording meetings between parents and administrators; more detail about relations with law enforcement; clearer rules for reporting weapons violations and tobacco use by students and staff; and more detail about family leave for staff. Another offered more precise rules for graduation requirements and notifications; Mr. McTiernan said that this one would remain in a “state of flux” until the statewide Keystone exams regulations are stabilized.

Mr. McTiernan told the committee that he would soon provide the Board with copies of policy changes of a more substantial nature, including an entirely new policy on confidentiality in special education. Other policy changes in prospect include measures on “terroristic acts and threats;” on student discipline, particularly on the buses; organization and responsibility of the district as a “municipal government;” electronic devices; controlled substances; and searches. Later, Board member Shane Rumage would ask administrators to review enforcement of dress codes for better consistency.

Immediately following the policy discussions, Ms. Brown-Bonner took up the looming budget, due to be finalized by mid-May so the Board can adopt a formal spending plan by the end of the fiscal year in June. Business Manager Loren Small didn’t have a lot more to say on the budget than he presented a month prior except to emphasize the sharp rise in expected expenditure over flat revenue growth in the next 4-5 years. According to his projections, with no increase in local revenue rates, by the 2016-2017 school year the district will spend about 80% of its property tax revenue on salaries, pension contributions, debt service and health care. Mr. McTiernan tried to focus attention on a more immediate shortfall of some $900,000, and asked the committee and the Board to provide direction about how to deal with the squeeze.

Ms. Brown-Bonner has said that “everything is on the table,” but clearly Board members have their own priorities. Mr. McTiernan asked specifically if the Board would consider retrenching to half-day kindergarten. Mr. Hall remarked that studies have shown the positive effect of early-childhood intervention, and that every dollar spent (or lost) in the early years is reflected up to 5 times years later.

For some time the Blue Ridge Board has considered switching from a “two-tier” busing plan to a single tier. Under the current two-tier system, younger children are transported separately, which some consider safer. A single-tier system may be less expensive, but, according to Board member Lavone Lewis whose family operates buses for the district, aides would need to be employed on the buses to maintain order. The administration will be having discussions with bus contractors to try to work out a plan, with the understanding that the contractors must have enough miles on their routes to make the operation worthwhile.

Members will also consider reverting to purchased health-care coverage, rather than trying to fund the program entirely within the district. Presently Blue Cross administers the program for about $170 per covered employee. The self-funded plan has been trying to build up its own backstop fund to insure itself against catastrophic losses. Mr. Small’s plan calls for annual increases of about 10% in health-care spending.

Perhaps the biggest single component of the sharp rise in spending will be the mandated increases in contributions to the state retirement system. Blue Ridge now contributes about 8% of gross salaries to the system, about $641,000 this year. By 2017-2018 that will top out at over 31% of gross salary expense, or about $2.8 million, an increase over 5 years of over $2 million or over 300% to the Blue Ridge budget.

With the preliminaries out of the way, the Board had yet another preliminary to endure: a lengthy presentation by a representative of Leatherstocking Gas Company that would have been even lengthier but for Ms. Brown-Bonner’s request to cut it short.

Russell Miller introduced the Board to a proposal to bring local natural gas to the campus. His company is a new joint venture of Corning Natural Gas Corp. and Mirabito Energy Products, and is headquartered in New York state where Corning and Mirabito have both been operating since early in the last century. He said that in 2011 64% of the gas the company handled came from Pennsylvania.

Leatherstocking was created as a distribution utility, regulated in Pennsylvania by the state utilities commission (PUC). It would sell only the transportation of the gas by providing the infrastructure. It has identified an area in Susquehanna County to begin operations ranging from Oakland/Lanesboro/Susquehanna through Great Bend, New Milford and Montrose, all the way out to a new asphalt plant on the western edge of Forest Lake Township. Naturally it would like to interest the largest potential customers, which, in the New Milford area for now means the Blue Ridge campus.

Mr. Miller said that the 4 or 6-inch “high density polyethylene” pipeline would tap gathering lines running across the county and ultimately run up School Road past the campus. He didn’t seem particularly precise in his response to a question from Mr. McTiernan about who would pay to bring the gas from the road into the school, but tried to be reassuring.

Leatherstocking had been in battle with UGI Penn Natural Gas for the right to supply domestic gas in the area. That dispute now seems to have been settled, with both companies agreeing to share the job in some unspecified way.

Mr. Miller offered some, mostly illegible, preliminary estimates of savings to the district by shifting from woodchips, oil and electricity to natural gas. The savings would appear to be enormous. The company was not prepared to offer financial assistance to convert the district’s HVAC equipment, but Mr. Miller suggested that grants for such projects are available and offered to help find them.

With the meeting already going long, Mr. Miller was directed to work with Mr. Small, who could bring any more information before the Board.

And with that, the Board proceeded to dispose of 17 points of its business agenda in a single motion. (Mr. McTiernan asked that another 3 items on the printed agenda be held out for a later meeting.) Among other more routine personnel actions, Mr. McTiernan took note that Guidance Director Jamie Torrence recently received a PhD degree, leaving Ms. Torrence the only “Doctor” on the staff.

Among the items approved was an amendment to a copier lease that will add color to one of the district’s copiers, and at a lower cost than originally expected. Members also added Tyler Drake and Jessica Jhingoor to the pool which will be divided at the end of the school year among students who request assistance with special programs. Mr. Drake made his pitch earlier for a mission trip to Paraguay. Ms. Jhingoor will join the “American Music Abroad Red Tour” this summer.

The Board also approved a contract with Donna Brink to provide as-needed occupational therapy services at $75 per hour for the next school year.

A measure that would provide a contribution of $1,600 to the “Summer Arts Alive” program sponsored by the Intermediate Unit was added to the agenda but failed to get a motion. In addition to the district contribution to support the program generally, student participants would be required to pony up between $250 and $400 more to attend classes. Apparently the Board, in the throes of considering an already tight budget, decided not to bother.

On the other hand, the arts are still alive at the school anyway. Middle/High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski said that the band is planning a spring concert in the park in New Milford, perhaps in May. Details to follow.

And finally, 2 members of the school board will travel to Boston to attend a national conference of school boards. Some questioned the expense, but Priscinda Gaughan said that the conferences she attended several times over her 17-year tenure were well worthwhile. She will be going again this year, not least to accept, with 14 others nationwide, an award for the work her Wellness Committee does to inform about and promote health, nutrition and physical fitness in the schools.

The next scheduled public meeting of the Blue Ridge School Board will be on Monday, April 30, a workshop, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Committee meetings are also scheduled for that evening, beginning at about 6:30 p.m. There may be additional meetings, particularly on the budget, so watch the district’s website, where meetings are posted on the home page. All meetings are held in the cafeteria in the Elementary School.

Roads and road maintenance were subjects not unfamiliar in occupying the attention of Supervisors Joe Gaughan, Sheila Guinan, and Ron Cranage, Jr., at their Monday night meeting on April 2. But whether it was road concerns or matters of miscellany, the Sups were “on it” with diligence and decisiveness during their 7 to 7:30 p.m. meeting.

Before supervisors approved Supervisor Guinan’s Treasurer’s Report, she brought to their attention that the township had, on March 20, received $10,287.95 from FEMA for expense reimbursement. With the receipt of those funds, the $10,000 which had been temporarily transferred to the General Fund last month, to cover day-to-day expenses, was repatriated to the Machinery Account.

Supervisor Gaughan delivered the Roads Report. He noted that the one-ton truck had “about had it,” and the township is in the market for a new truck. Supervisor Cranage is gathering information to obtain a new vehicle to meet the township’s needs. Meanwhile, road maintenance personnel are keeping busy filling potholes and performing maintenance on equipment and vehicles. If the favorable weather holds up, spring maintenance will be commencing shortly - about a month ahead of schedule.

Under the topic of permits, Supervisors discussed the need for appointment of a representative to the Hallstead-Great Bend Joint Sewer Authority. Supervisors have a candidate in mind, but as the prospective candidate was not in attendance at the meeting, appointment was not made immediately. Supervisors also by motion approved a Subdivision Plan for Sommerville Land Development, Inc. And in another permit matter they noted that “George Haskins and David Knott are applying for a GP7 Minor Road Crossing Permit to replace the sluice pipe in their driveway.”

Correspondence received by the township included notice that “Mr. Michael Booth, owner of Hallstead Foundry Property, has submitted a combined Remedial Investigation Report/Cleanup Plan to the PA DEP.” Other correspondence advised “there was a kick-off meeting … to begin updating the Local Hazard Mitigation Planning process on Thursday, March 22” in the County Office Building. Also, the Consumer Advocate Attorney advised that “there will be a pre-hearing conference on UGI Penn Natural Gas, Inc.’s application on Thursday, April 5, at 1:00 p.m. in Harrisburg.” Supervisor Guinan reported that UGI’s and Leatherstocking Gas Co.’s applications are currently at a standstill. The township has the docket number for the case and can follow progress by way of internet access through the appropriate website.

In unfinished business, Supervisor Gaughan reported that permission slips are still being accepted for debris clean-up of the creeks on private property. He reminded those present that the county program hires the unemployed and trains them to remove trees and brush from creeks.

In new business, the township needs an Emergency Management Coordinator. Anyone interested in applying should contact a Supervisor for consideration. Supervisor Guinan announced that the township had received and advertised the 2011 Annual Audit and Financial Report. That report showed that the township finished 2011 with a surplus of slightly more than $2,000.

Lastly under new business, Supervisors passed Resolution 04-02-12, stating that Great Bend Township is a governmental agency and its pension plan is not subject to ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974). Resolution passage was deemed necessary to comply with state law.

And the resolution’s passage essentially wrapped up all agenda items, but for public comment, at 7:20 p.m. Two Great Bend Township residents were in attendance and each had a comment. The first took note of a property routinely in bad shape. He mentioned he would take a closer look at it this week and report back to supervisors on his findings. The second noted unsatisfactory road conditions and he discussed a turnaround designed for gas company truck usage. Apparently, a number of truck drivers are unaware of the turnaround’s existence and fail to utilize it to maximum advantage, thereby increasing roadway wear-and-tear. Supervisor Gaughan was cognizant of the situation and reassured the constituent he would take a look at the situation this week.

With the meeting nearing adjournment, Supervisor Cranage had a public comment of his own. His was an inquiry concerning how the revenue raised from gas taxes might best be used. What followed was an animated exchange of views concerning the possible benefits that might accrue to the township as a result of the Act 13 impact fees levied by county commissioners. Property tax relief appears a high priority.

Whatever the challenge in their township, Great Bend sups showed they are “on it.” Their next scheduled meeting is at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 7.

The Great Bend Borough Council meeting for April was a day early due to a scheduling conflict that might have made it difficult to collect a quorum on the usual first Thursday of the month.  So, on Wednesday, April 4th, Council took up the usual broad range of issues of interest to the little town in the big bend of the Susquehanna River.

Of great interest to many is a project to re-pave some of the streets, this year Church Street and parts of Hayes Street.  A resident attended the meeting to ask Council to consider adding his stretch of crumbled asphalt to the project, a street that he said was the worst in the borough.

There may be some dispute about that distinction, but Council has been advertising for bids for the project for a some time.  A review with a PennDOT representative yielded an estimate that exceeded what Council thought it could afford in a single year’s budget, so they decided to concentrate on the worst areas.  Council president Rick Franks offered to add the appellant’s piece of roadway to the bid to see what turns up.

Then Borough Secretary Sheila Guinan reported that on closer examination, drainage on Church Street would need some work before paving it.  So Council added that to the bid, too.

Bids on the project are due on Friday, April 13.  Council scheduled a special meeting for the following Monday, April 16, to open the bids.  All meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Borough Building at Franklin and Elizabeth Streets.

Road & Parks Superintendent, council member Mike VanGorden, had a list of items that needed attention, not surprising with the onset of warmer weather.  He said that, thanks to the mild winter, he didn’t suppose the streets needed sweeping this year.  He did ask for permission to replace a broken grinder in the shop for about $79, and received permission to purchase mulch for the parks as well.

Mr. VanGorden then noted that a drain at the intersection of Maple Street and Randolph Road “needs to be addressed” quickly, as a hazard.  Randolph Road is a state thoroughfare, but nobody was expecting PennDOT to do anything about it.  Mr. VanGorden will try to get the help of Hallstead’s backhoe for half a day, and will purchase a pipe and a load of stone to get the thing fixed.

He will be looking for help to string a rope on the flagpole outside the Borough Building, and will purchase a new flag to hang thereon.  The borough also wants to replace the flags along Main Street.  Ron Hall, Sea Scout Commodore, is offering flags, poles and brackets for $50 a set.  Council will count the number of flags it wants, and try to find a better price.

Mr. VanGorden asked for guidance on the ballfield fence in Veterans of Foreign Wars park, which he said needed some heavy-duty cleaning.  As for the fence along the river, it is simply gone.

The Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau requested a donation.  Last year Council appropriated $78, but member Jerry MacConnell couldn’t see that the money ever did the town much good.  And no one wanted to deny maintenance man Dick Button his grinder.

On the other hand, Council did allocate $100 to a request for support from the Blue Ridge Summer Adventures program.

Council member Bret Jennings offered a report on the financial troubles of the Hallstead-Great Bend Joint Sewer Authority.  He said that the Authority is facing a $70,000 loan payment for the plant renovation, and is negotiating with the New Milford Municipal Authority for a donation.  Under their contract with the Sewer Authority, New Milford is obliged to contribute for “certain capital improvements.”  The New Milford Authority, however, is thought to be nearly $60,000 in arrears to the sewer system for rate payments that have not kept up with the rates everyone else pays.

Mr. Jennings also reported on discussions at the Council of Governments related to the size of trucks allowed on our narrow rural roads.  PennDOT has placed many of their roads off limits to trucks as wide as 102 inches.  While the debate is of less interest to Great Bend at the moment, the town does see increasing traffic from large vehicles associated with natural gas development in the area.

Council adopted a resolution that allows members of the local fire company to participate in county-wide mutual aid, training schools and the like.  The resolution is necessary to ensure coverage of the volunteers under the borough’s insurance policies.

The fire company also reported that they are considering a fund drive.  This will be a first for the Great Bend Hose Company #1 for many years.  Declining revenue from bingo is causing some financial strain.  Mr. VanGorden said that local residents hadn’t been very generous during prior fund drives, some figuring that they’re already taxed for fire service anyway.  So Council may have to consider increasing the fire tax component during budget discussions for next year to ensure that the fire company remains solvent.

The Hallstead-Great Bend Volunteer Ambulance Service isn’t directly related to the fire company, but they’ve had their own stresses in recent years.  Tony Conarton almost single-handedly brought it back from the brink, signing new members and getting it recertified and supported by a stronger board of directors.  Now they want to replace the existing ambulance garage on Carroll Street.  Appearing before Council, Mr. Conarton said members had tried everything they could think of to squeeze a new building of useful size onto their lot between the cemetery and the railroad tracks.  They need 5 more feet.  So he asked Council to grant a variance of 5 feet out of the customary 15-foot setback from the tracks.  Council granted the variance, even though the owner of the tracks couldn’t be easily reached to solicit acquiescence.

Police Department Officer in Charge Jon Record presented a report covering the department’s activities during the month of March.  Officers billed for 57 total hours, handled 6 incidents other than routine traffic matters, issued 3 traffic citations and 4 warnings.  They also spent 4 hours painting speed lines with the help of Mike and Dawn Crook.  They made one arrest, for “fleeing and eluding,” and driving with a suspended license.  In February, officers charged 79.5 hours, including 16 for training for Officer Tom Golka; made 2 arrests, issued 8 traffic tickets and 18 warnings.  The police department also bought some minor office equipment, and a chronometer (for speed checks) to replace a donated model that didn’t work.  More troubling, one of the 3 officers, Tim Cramer, resigned effective April 1.

The next scheduled monthly meeting of the Great Bend Borough Council is expected to be on Thursday, May 3, 2012.

With Forest City “officially out to bid” on the sewer project, a business meeting April 2 focused largely on sewer-related matters. In his report, solicitor Paul E. Smith announced that the Susquehanna County Soil Conservation Agency had approved an area by the municipal lot for storage of dirt dug during construction of the sewage lines.

With the assistance of Smith, council compared two sewer project loan proposals. A loan from Fulton Bank offered a 2.3 percent interest rate on a two-year loan but required approximately $97,000 in upfront costs. The other option, proposed by Landmark Bank, offered a 3.5 percent interest rate on a three-year loan. Although the Landmark interest rate is higher, it was pointed out that Landmark requires just $2500 in upfront costs, and no bonds are required, as Landmark is offering a full construction loan. Smith stated that Landmark has worked with the USDA for over twenty years, “doing just these type of projects.” Council voted unanimously to approve the Landmark loan.

Aspects of lateral testing and replacement were considered at length, beginning with Roto-Rooter presented as an option for camera testing of laterals. However, it was noted that a KBA engineer had suggested that Mr. Rehab might be “better able to handle the job.” Council is awaiting a bid from Mr. Rehab. It was noted that a public forum will be scheduled once a bid is approved.

During public comment, John Kameen of the “Forest City News” asked council about aid with lateral replacement costs, stating that fees could have a “huge impact on a number of people.” Kameen reported spending about $4,000 for an external sewer line replacement on his property and noted, “A homeowner could very well see… $2,000-$4,000” replacement costs.

It was stated that USDA funds are available to low income families at a rate of 2.75%. Kameen responded that he had been thinking of loans with an interest rate of 1%, “just to service the loan.”

A member of the public asked for confirmation that a water bill service covers laterals up to $8,000, with an eight or twelve dollar monthly fee added to the water bill. “It would have to be verified,” the woman commented. Provided that the program will meet the financial needs of residents, Kameen called the program a “gift.” Meanwhile, Trusky promised that council would “research it.”

Also of relevance to homeowners, a yard waste pick-up is scheduled for Monday, April 23.

Truckers transiting Lanesboro off-course, over-weight, or with loads overweight are in the crosshairs of boro authorities and residents. That’s the message Lanesboro boro council and State Police want to get across to would-be lawbreakers, be they driving for gas industry or stone quarry companies. In their regular monthly meeting of Tuesday, April 3, Council President Todd Glover, and council members Dan Boughton, Dale Rockwell, David Glidden, and Colleen Wilkes sought advice from and strategized with Pennsylvania State Police Officer Jeff Burman on how best to enforce traffic laws. Voluntary compliance is the ideal, but flouting and evasion of the motor vehicle code appears to be an all-too-frequent occurrence on boro lanes.

In a meeting which found boro government a bit thin, council member Regina Dilello excused herself just prior to the meeting’s start due to a family emergency. Councilman Jason Fissel and Mayor Chris Maby were absent. With the meeting’s agenda and police report in Mayor Maby’s possession, council proceeded by using a boilerplate agenda, and had to make do without the March police report.

Perhaps the presence of PSP Officer Burman more than compensated for the missing police report. Officer Burman has been making the rounds of boro and township municipal meetings to liaise with local government officials and to share the gospel of cooperative law enforcement. In Lanesboro he found a receptive audience. His message followed two tracks: local crime, and motor carrier law enforcement.

As concerns local crime, he noted that a gang responsible for a crime wave in northern Wayne County had recently been apprehended in Thompson. For that he commended neighborhood residents who noticed “things that just didn’t look right.” Officer Burman noted that the best crime-fighting tool is your next-door neighbor. Watchful eyes to spot those things or people who are “out-of-place or don’t belong” are integral to crime control. He also observed that many state troopers assigned to the Gibson or Honesdale Barracks are native to this area and their familiarity with the locale gives them an edge against criminals.

In his second track, Officer Burman identified himself as the “Oil and Gas Liaison for Susquehanna County.” In that capacity he attends twice-monthly meetings with PennDot and gas industry representatives. PennDot maintains a list of which gas or quarry company bonds each section of road. Those bonding agreements determine company responsibility for road maintenance, and are especially important when multiple companies make continuous use of a particular road. That commercial truckers have the necessary permits, use the designated routes, and are not overweight or otherwise dangerous are key metrics the State Police use for enforcement.

And for that enforcement council and audience commended Officer Burman, even as they shared anecdotes of perceived speeding, over-weight trucks, and off-hour and off-route trucking to evade enforcement efforts. Also, Councilman Rockwell voiced concern about the dust problem (created by truckers) in the boro. Officer Burman shared the State Police barracks’ interest in working with the boro police to improve motor carrier enforcement and suggested a number of strategies to track rogue truckers and improve safety of residents. Council President Glover indicated he would have Chief Jim Smith maintain a close working relationship with the State Police and PennDot to improve motor carrier enforcement efforts. Council thanked Officer Burman for his informative presentation and receptiveness to assisting with the problems noted in and around Lanesboro.

In Parks & Recreation matters, Council President Glover discussed the cumbersome process of working with PEMA/FEMA to change out the boro’s mulch. Councilman Boughton reported that he had completed brush removal from the park, and that the area was ready for mowing. He further added that a park picnic table was beyond repair and should be removed and replaced.

In Garbage & Sewer matters, Councilman Boughton is looking into the possibility of scheduling a tire pick-up. President Glover, while noting that Lanesboro is a client - not an owner - of the sewer system, mentioned the possibility of the system’s sale to PAWC. He will keep council apprised of developments.

Regina Dilello, while not present for the meeting proper, turned over $500 in March community center rental fees to boro Treasurer Gail Hanrahan just prior to the meeting’s start. Other community center matters related to refinishing of the center’s concrete floor. One bid for $2,000 is in; council would like to obtain at least one, if not two more bids, to get the best price. How that funding will be provided and the timeline for floor refinishing will be considered at future meetings.

President Glover reported that Mayor Maby had completed his review of three volumes of boro ordinances. Those ordinances will be up for review by council at next month’s meeting. President Glover expressed the view that council will likely repeal a number of obsolete ordinances, many of which date to the nineteenth century and are quaint or even humorous by today’s standards.

Finally, council discussed how best to collect information from boro residents for emergency notification. After much back-and-forth, consensus was reached to include a form with monthly sewer & garbage statements. Residents will be requested to voluntarily provide their name, address, and contact phone number so that the boro can call them, in the event of a disaster or emergency. Residents desiring to opt-out of emergency notification may do so simply by not returning the emergency notification form.

At 8:31 p.m. Council adjourned from their evening’s work. Before doing so, a meeting attendee related an anecdote of harrowing travel on Damascus Road. Travelers of that route to the New York State line are well advised to exercise caution and vigilance due to the hazards of rogue truckers with wide loads on blind bends. Residents, pedestrians, and motorists who observe what they perceive to be motor carrier code infractions are encouraged to report details to police.

Lanesboro Council will next meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1 at the Community Center.

The Susquehanna County Literacy Program announces the award of an extraordinarily generous and timely 2-year grant of $50,000 per year from The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation of Owings Mills, Maryland.  The “non-challenge” grant of unrestricted funds will help the Literacy Program to continue providing adult-education programs to disadvantaged persons in Susquehanna County.

The Literacy Program last year lost all of its state and federal funding and was forced to layoff its staff at the end of 2011 in anticipation of disposing of assets and preparing to continue operations on a “virtual” all-volunteer basis.  The program was facing the loss of its space in the District Justice building in New Milford, which also houses its partner, the Susquehanna County CARES program for early-childhood education.  The space offers volunteer tutors and GED instructors a safe, well-lighted and convenient place to meet with students and hold classes.  The grant will help the program to keep the center open.

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation “assist[s] financially disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals and families through nonprofit grants to direct-service providers and programs.”  The grant will “provide general operating support for this organization that improves literacy through one-on-one tutoring, life skills instruction, and GED preparation to residents of Susquehanna County” and “promote[s] life-long learning to residents” of the county.

Literacy Program Board President Dodi Davis, nearly speechless at the reprieve offered by this unexpected award, said she was “thrilled and excited by this opportunity to continue” the work that the program has been doing in the county since 1982.

ABANDONED VEHICLE

On March 5 Officers were dispatched to the area of 8341 State Route 374 for a vehicle into a tree, airbags deployed, but no one around the vehicle. While Officers arrived on scene the vehicle registration was ran to make sure the vehicle was not stolen. The vehicle came back to National Auto Sales, Clifford Township. During the investigation the driver of the vehicle, a Mr. Paul Meslar of Herrick Township called 911 to notify Police. While interviewing Meslar he stated that the accident actually happened the evening before but he did not notify Police. Meslar stated that a large deer ran out in front of him causing him to crash. Meslar did have his vehicle towed by a private tow service hours later. Property owner did not want any charges filed for property damage. No charges were filed.

THEFT BY UNLAWFULL TAKING

On March 7 a Felony Warrant was issued for a Mr. William Ethan Pruden of Creamery Road, Greenfield Township for theft of a motor vehicle. A Mr. Donald Edwards Jr. of Clifford Township contacted Police just days prior reporting that his 2001 Ford F-350 was stolen out of the parking lot of the Clifford Hotel located at 1500 Main Street. Mr. Edwards stated that there were several firearms located inside the vehicle when it was stolen. Mr. Edwards could not provide Police with serial numbers or the Vehicle identification number to his vehicle at that time. Witnesses stated that they seen a Mr.William Pruden whom was staying at the hotel get into the vehicle and drive off. If anyone has any information on Mr. Pruden’s whereabouts please contact Police.

TRESPASS

On March 7 Officers were dispatched to the Kipp residence located at 370 Owego Turnpike Road for the report of a tresspass. While on scene Officers spoke to the property owner, Mr. Ronald Kipp. Mr. Kipp stated that he noticed while walking on his property that one of his gates which is used to enter his pastures was tampered with. Mr. Kipp stated that the locked end of the gate remained secure while the end which had the hinges was removed and pulled apart so that a person or vehicle could enter his property. Mr. Kipp also stated that someone had placed orange colored ribbons for surveying on some of his trees located inside the pasture while relocating his electric fence. Unfounded at this time.

DOMESTIC

On March 9 Officers were dispatched to the Pappas residence located at 33 Jones Drive for a Domestic in progress. Caller was a James Pappas whom stated that his Nephew Adam Pappas had just assaulted him and fled from the residence with possibly a shotgun. While on scene there was no sign of Adam. Caller stated that just before Police had arrived Adam dropped his shotgun off at a near by neighbors and fled the scene in a white tinted out Ford Crown Victoria which looked similar to a Police cruiser. James stated that the two began arguing over some books which where left on the kitchen table. Shortly after the argument continued and James called 911 Adam then punched James in the side of his face while he was sitting at his computer. At that time James placed his second call to 911 while Adam fled the residence. Charges were filed.

HARASSMENT BY COMMUNICATION

On March 15 Officers were dispatched to the Twist residence located at 145 Taylor Farm Road for Harassment by Communication. Caller was a John Twist whom stated that his Juvenile step Son has been receiving several harassing emails from a female located in Valley Forge, PA. on his Face book account. Twist went on to state that he did not think the person emailing his step Son was who they said they were. Twist was advised to delete or block the person sending the emails. Cleared at this time.

BURGLARY

On March 19 Officers were dispatched to the View Inn located at 1818 Main Street for a possible Burglary in Progress. Caller stated that he heard a loud bang just underneath his apartment which sounded like a door possibly being kicked in. When the caller walked outside to check he noticed a white male wearing a baseball cap standing next to the callers vehicle while opening the drivers side door. At that time he dialed 911. Just before Police arrived on scene the suspect fled on foot while getting into a Mini Van and fleeing east on Main street towards First National Bank. The caller was able to drive behind the said vehicle while getting the registration. Vehicle continued to travel at a high rate of speed towards the City of Carbondale. Police were able to communicate with Carbondale Police and were able to apprehend the suspect. Suspect was a Mr. Timothy Priest of Carbondale City. Priest was arrested at that time then released after processing. Charges pending at this time.

DOG CALL

On March 20 Officers were contacted by a Dr. Gary Latimer in regards to a dog bite. Dr. Latimer stated that his Juvenile Son was bit by a dog the night before while riding his bike on Red Abbott Road. Police did make contact with the dog’s owner, a Ms. Laurie O’Neil. O’Neil was very cooperative with Police. O’Neil did posses all documentation for her dog showing all shots and vaccinations. Caller refused to prosecute. No charges were filed.

POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHANALIA

On March 23 Officers were assisting Susquehanna County Probation on Red Abbott Road when Officers noticed a white male walking west on Red Abbott Road which fit the description of a male possessing a current warrant. The male was identified as Christopher Malone of Nicholson, PA. While running Malone for wants and warrants Malone was confirmed as wanted. While Officers were placing Malone in custody Malone was in possession of drug Paraphernalia and an unknown small amount of a possibly controlled substance. Malone was transferred over to County Probation for his transport to the County Prison while Officers filed pending charges. Charges pending at this time.

DOG CALL

On March 21 Officers were dispatched to the area of 800 TR Williams Road for the report of a dog stuck in an under ground pipe located in a sink whole in the roadway. While arriving on scene Officers could not locate that dog. The local humane society along with the County Dog Warden and the Township DPW were dispatched at that time. After some time Barhite Construction arrived on scene to dig out the dirt covered pipe. After a couple attempts of digging, Barhite Construction did manage to locate the dog and it was rescued without any injuries. The dog did not have a collar and an owner could not be contacted. The dog was described as an older male from the hound or beagle family. Officers made contact with dispatch asking if anyone reported the dog missing but there were no reports of a missing hound dog in that area.

BURGLARY

On March 27 Officers were contacted by the President of the Union Dale Fire Department, Kevin Durko in regards to a theft of wire at the Union Dale Picnic Grounds located on 5385 Union dale Road, Clifford Township. Kevin stated that just over the weekend while he and his crew were at the grounds they noticed that some of the copper wiring was missing. Most of the wire was located inside the several pavilions located on the property. Some wire was cut and left hanging. This is the second time the picnic ground has been burglarized in the past year. Investigation pending at this time.

POLICE ASSIST

On March 27 Officers assisted Greenfield Township Police in Lackawanna County with an arrest warrant for a Mr. Carl McCalister, Alexandria Drive, Greenfield Township. When Police arrived on scene Mr. McCalister complied with no resistance. Officers then transported McCalister to the Lackawanna County processing Center where he is currently incarcerated.

PROPERTY DISPUTE

On March 27 Officers were dispatched to the Malone residence located at 1353 Jones Road to speak to a Ms. Rebecca Fiore about her laptop computer. Fiore stated that she had left the laptop with Mr. Richard Malone but Mr. Malone was currently incarcerated. A Mr. Zachary Gana was currently residing at the Malone residence at that time. Fiore stated that she asked Mr. Gana for her computer just before calling Police when Gana told Fiore she could not have it back. Fiore told Police that Gana was highly intoxicated and acting irate. When Police confronted Gana, Gana was very compliant. Gana did let Police inside to locate the computer. Gana stated that there was no computer on the premises. Fiore was advised to file with the local Magistrates Office the following day for her property.

BURGLARY

On March 28 Officers were dispatched to the Union dale Picnic Grounds located at 5385 Union dale Road, Clifford Township for the report of a theft of wires. While on scene Officers spoke to the caller Mr. Joseph Lee a volunteer member of the Union dale Fire Department. Lee stated that over night someone had entered the property while stealing over 500 feet of copper wire. This was the second time that week Officers responded to the Picnic grounds for a Burglary. Fire Department Officials stated that they were saddened by the incident and are hoping they can rebuild by summer. The recent incident was the third theft reported in the past year. Investigation pending at this time.

Message from the Chief:

Reminder to all residents to comply with the County wide burn ban which started on March 24, 2012 and ends on April 23, 2012. We have had several Burglaries in the Township in the past month, some of which we did not add to our Public Crime report due to the fact they are under investigation. Please be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for suspicious activities.

Starrucca Borough Council meeting was called to order on Monday, March 5, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. by Vice President Jack Downton.

Council members present were Robert Martin, Louis Gurske, Barbara Glover, Arthur Kopp and Mayor Mary Ann DeBalko. President Paul Everett was absent.

The minutes of the previous meeting held on February 6, 2012 were presented. Motion to accept the minutes as presented passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report as of February 29, 2012 - Motion to accept the Treasurer’s report as presented passed unanimously.

Bills to be paid - Motion to pay the March bills passed unanimously.

PERSONS TO BE HEARD - The Annual Auditor’s Report for 2011 was presented by Auditor George DeBalko. The report will be posted at the Community Hall and sent to the Wayne Independent for publication.

CORRESPONDENCE

Statement Of Financial Interest for 2011 - distributed/to be returned at the April meeting.

Wayne Co. Bd. Of Elections – Use of Community Hall on April 24, 2012. Motion to permit the Wayne Co. Bd. of Elections use of the Community Hall on April 24 2012 passed unanimously.

Wayne Conservation District - Dirt & Gravel Road Program (Application) – Following discussion, motion to submit the application for the improvement of Cemetary Road and the guide rails passed unanimously.

DGK Insurance - Selective Ins. Regional Pool return for 2008 – Filed.

Penndot re Liquid Fuels re-allocation for Kellogg Road and Penn Hill Road – VP Downton discussed bridge inspections. Mayor DeBalko volunteered to be the contact person for bridges. Motion to have Mayor DeBalko as the contact person for bridges passed unanimously.

Penndot approval of Liquid Fuels report for 2011 – Filed.

OLD BUSINESS -

Council vacancy - Jason Heeman - Following the February meeting when Council appointed Mr. Heeman, it was determined that he was not a registered voter in Starrucca. Mr. Heeman is now a registered voter in Starrucca and Council instructed the secretary to contact the Board of Elections regarding procedure.

Building permit Status - Jason Heeman - The secretary reported information contained in Article VI –Borough of Starrucca Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance regarding minimum set-back requirements. Mr. Heeman’s request is not in compliance and he will need a variance or approval from Council. Council recommended that Mr. Heeman obtain written approval from the landowner bordering his property.

NEW BUSINESS -

Investigating Committee - The Committee met and determined that a Special Meeting should be held so that the Borough Solicitor Briechle could be present for advice on legal issues. Motion to hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. passed unanimously. The meeting was to be advertised.

Haynes vs. Starrucca Borough - A Status Conference will be held at the Wayne Co. Courthouse on April 11, 2012 at 11:30 a.m.

Buck/Rhone sub-division - A request for approval regarding an acreage increase due to Clean & Green regulations was discussed. Council tabled the matter until the April meeting. The secretary will advise Atty. Davis’ office.

Spring Road work - Motion to advertise for Spring road work noting that liability and workman’s comp insurance must accompany the bid passed unanimously. All bids to be received by the April 2nd Council meeting.

Mowing - Following discussion, motion to advertise for mowing of the ball field and the Community Hall grounds passed unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS -

Shadigee Creek Wall - VP Downton commented on an article appearing in the PSAB March Update regarding Round 2 HMGP (Hazard Mitigation Grant Program) and that there could be possible funding for the creek wall. The secretary will research the information and retrieve the application . Mayor DeBalko volunteered to file the application.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – None

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Starrucca Borough Council Special meeting was called to order on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 7:00 PM by President Paul Everett.

Council members present were VP Downton, Robert Martin, Louis Gurske, Barbara Glover, Arthur Kopp and Mayor Mary Ann DeBalko.

Buck/Rhone sub-division (acreage increase)

Motion to approve the increased sub-division acreage on condition that a revised scale map be submitted to the Wayne Co. Planning Commission and that the Borough receive notification from the Planning Commission that they have received a corrected scale map passed unanimously.

Council seat vacancy

The secretary read correspondence received from the Board of Elections regarding the council seat vacancy and referring the matter to the Borough Solicitor. The Borough Solicitor advised that a Vacancy Board consisting of all members of Council with the exception of the Mayor must be established with a registered elector of the Borough presiding. Peter Frank, a resident of the Borough, former councilman and registered voter expressed his interest in presiding over the Vacancy Board. Motion to appoint Peter Frank as registered elector to the Vacancy Board passed unanimously.

Motion to recess from the Special meeting in order to go to the Vacancy Board business and then return to the Special meeting passed unanimously.

The Vacancy Board was called to order by Peter Frank. Mr. Frank requested Solicitor Briechle to address the Court of Common Pleas regarding the vacancy on Council. Motion to recommend appointing Jason Heeman to Council passed unanimously.

Motion to have Solicitor Briechle file a petition with the Court to fill the vacancy on Council passed unanimously.

Motion to adjourn the Vacancy Board and return to the Special meeting passed unanimously.

President Everett called for Executive Session at 7:25 p.m.

Solicitor Briechle stated the purpose of the Executive Session was to discuss:

Current legal actions against the Borough relative to Darl Haynes’ law suit filed last year.

Potential litigation matters involving the Shadigee Creek Wall.

Potential litigation matters involving borough boundaries.

Litigation involving the resolutions passed by the former Council extending or bringing into the Borough street system both Kellogg and Penn Hill roads.

Potential litigation involving the alteration of Borough Minutes.

Potential litigation involving the conduct of former Borough Council members relative to certain projects within the Borough.

Executive session ended at 9:35 p.m. and the regular meeting resumed.

DGK Insurance - Motion to have the secretary contact the insurance carrier regarding Mr. Chernakoff passed unanimously.

Solicitor Briechle - Motion for Solicitor Briechle to engage in Discovery regarding the boundary line issue and the resolutions that were passed relative to Kellogg Road and Penn Hill Road. Further to determine whether to bring a legal action to have the Court of Quarter Sessions determine the boundary lines of the Borough passed unanimously.

Missing/altered Minutes - The Committee will further identify what Minutes are missing and gather information from various sources to establish corrected Minutes for the Borough.

The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

The New Milford borough meeting (sort of) began when Phil Hari, the Vacancy Board Chairman, opened a vacancy board hearing. Ms. Kathy Wages had expressed interest in the position. After a motion was made and approved, Ms. Wages was sworn in by the mayor. After this, the borough meeting itself was opened and an executive session immediately called for pending legislation and personnel purposes. This session lasted for some time.

When council and the borough's solicitor reemerged, Mr. Briechle publicly gave a report. He stated that he had received a request from the Susquehanna County Housing Development Corporation's attorney to bring to the attention of borough council a request to modify the zoning ordinance in a manner that would allow for apartments and conversions to be permitted use under a D1 zoning district. A draft ordinance was forwarded to Mr. Briechle a few days ago, and he had provided his opinions to the council regarding the ongoing litigation with Wayne Bradley. He would hear from council, he said, if there was anything they would wish for him to do in relation to that request. Mr. Ainey expressed his desire that council direct the solicitor to respond to the inquiry for clarification, and to discuss with the other solicitor the implications of the request. After the discussion, Mr. Briechle could give his findings to council for discussion. Council motioned to this effect.

There was discussion then regarding payment of bills. If council paid the lawyer bills for the month, it was said, the borough would be in the hole for more than $17,000 dollars. In the last 12 months, Mr. Ainey stated, council had paid $15,078.30, and that was before the approximately $10,000 worth of bills on the agenda that evening. Ms. Gulick suggested that the borough pay half of each solicitors salary. Mr. Ainey responded that they could not afford to do this. He then discussed the checking account. He said that the council could not vote on paying bills that they did not have money for. He asked if, in good faith, council should pay each attorney $1,000, saying that they had to look ahead as there was April's payroll and an auditor's bill to consider as well. The suggestion was reiterated then, paying $1,000 until more tax money could be brought in. The suggestion was approved.

Ms. Gulick asked if Penelec had even acknowledged the fact that there was an issue with the pole over Kerr's parking lot. She called it a strobe light, explaining that when someone she knew had a problem with their street light the electric bill had skyrocketed. As council's electric bill had been high, she wanted this looked into. She said that they had asked repeatedly about the pole, and asked if there was any way an energy audit could be completed. The town hadn't heard back regarding these matters. Mr. Ainey suggested that the secretary write a letter to Penelec about the matter, and copy the PUC.

Roughly $10,000 worth of tax money had come in. Mr. Ainey wanted to make a commitment that the next month council would try to pay the solicitors more.

The other bills were paid as listed.

The Blue Ridge Recreation had sent a request to council for funding for Summer Adventures. Ms. Gulick said that council did normally donate, typically in the amount of 150 dollars. Various council members stated that it was a good program. When asked, Mr. Ainey said that the program attendance averaged between 100 and 150 children a day. Given the borough's current financial situation, it was questioned what they wished to do. One council member quipped that it was one hour of a lawyer's fee to help a lot of kids. After a little talk on the subject, various council members volunteered that they would donate $25 of their own money. Enough spoke up that the $150 donation was attained. Mr. Ainey explained that the school had asked for the programs creation 22 years ago. He said that New Milford borough was one of the few who had donated for near 22 years. The program cost around $7 or $8,000 a year. Two of the largest donors were the Northeast Pennsylvania Telephone Company and the Blue Ridge School District.

Liquid fuels money had been received, it was announced.

A request for the fire police to assist the Montrose Fire company for the Memorial Day parade had been received. Council would have to approve the assistance, as the fire department was covered under council's insurance. Mr. Ainey said that he felt the New Milford Fire Company should be making the request. The borough was responsible for the firemen's workman's compensation, but there were restrictions. He did not know if the fire company was aware of the restrictions. Council had to approve any non-emergency participation. He suggested the request be sent to the fire company to inform them of this. He motioned that the request be approved pending a request from the fire company. Ms. Gulick said that the fire company had been very good about working with the council.

A letter was received from DEP that an exemption from sewage facilities planning had been approved for the New Milford Housing project.

The 2011 audit had been completed for the borough. It was clean. The auditors needed to be paid. This motion was made and seconded.

Mr. White opined that at some point the borough ought to look into updating its website. Mr. Ainey said that Act 13 required them, if he wasn't mistaken, to put information regarding expenses on the website yearly. The secretary said that they were supposed to collaborate on the website with the township, she was to check with the township's secretary.

Mr. Taylor reported that FEMA had contacted him the week prior, and come to look at problems left from the storm event six months ago. Three of five problems, the representative thought they could help with. One was on Maple Street, another on Church Street, and the third on Peck Hill. The fourth the property owner had begun to fix, and the fifth was deemed a preexisting condition from the 2006 flood, so FEMA was not going to fix those. The other three fixes the borough would have to pay for up front, but they would be reimbursed. Mr. Taylor said that the borough didn't have the money to pay up front right now, and asked what council wished to do. It was suggested that liquid fuels money might be able to be used. It was estimated that the fixes might cost around 13 or 14,000 dollars. It was suggested that they call someone to investigate this. Mr. Ainey suggested that they could probably get a loan on anticipated funds as well, should the liquid fuels option fail.

A bid had been given regarding the cost of fixing the situation on the preexisting condition as well. It was suggested that they take care of the three which FEMA would help with first. Mr. Ainey recommended that they authorize the finance committee to take care of the necessary actions to arrange the financing for the projects, upon approval.

A visitor asked if council owned 50' up from the bridge. Ms. Gulick stated that this was only for state bridges. That they did not own further. The visitor also asked if the water authority could help take care of it.

The mayor was thanked for doing the walk through with FEMA.

The street cleaner was being lined up for the second full week in May. Hot patch was also being worked on. Ms. James had been going around looking at what streets needed to be repaired. She guessed that some property owners would have to be contacted as some of the potholes were going into the streets.

Ms. Gulick had spoken with the municipal authority, and they had broached the subject of a shared garage again. The mayor asked what they would do with cinders and salt; opining that putting cinders and salt in that junkyard would cost money. The municipal authority was going to build a new garage regardless, Ms. Gulick said. They wanted the borough to share the garage, and get rid of the property they used now. Mr. Ainey felt this should be revisited. It was decided that the buildings and equipment committee could talk with them about it.

The parks and recreation department had been contacting the gas industry council for a little bit of help with the pool, Mr. Carey reported. It would be pretty much a remodel of the pool. Some landscaping work for the park had already been completed. Junior council member Troy Carey related that a Blue Ridge band concert was to be held in the park on May 23rd at 7 pm, to increase community involvement.

The midtown festival was scheduled for June 2nd.

The county passed the impact fee bill, it was announced. There were certain things which the money could be spent on. Mr. Ainey suggested that there were all sorts of grants which were to be available in the beginning. He felt that council should apply for everything that they could.

Work was progressing on the community project to clear up the creek at the end of town.

Mr. Carey said that he had a rough draft of the PowerPoint presentation on an Earned Income Tax complete, and that he received permission from the school district to borrow a projector for the work session. A Centax representative would be available for the next voting meeting if council wished it as well.

The topic of the natural gas service agreement received from Leatherstocking was discussed. Each council member had received a copy, and the solicitor's response. There was a committee for that, and they were to meet before the work session.

The borough had signed a gas lease, it was announced. They had signed roughly 17 acres with Southwestern, for $4,000 an acre, signing for $67,400 in total.

At the April 2nd meeting of the Montrose borough council, a few tripod televisions cameras were again set up at the back of the room. Though attendance was less than that of previous months, there were still more visitors present than was standard prior to the recent controversy. There was less of this controversy, and of objections than at recent meetings. This may have been due to the enforcement of the new meeting regulations, to the presence of fewer vocal parties, or a combination of the two.

Ms. Skinner asked about the correspondence contained in the packet. She asked if action had occurred on any of them, in particular the UGI hearing scheduled for April 5th. She wondered if this had been addressed. Mr. Lamont said that UGI was just applying for the right to serve Montrose, along with other portions of Northeastern Pennsylvania He believed that they were trying to get LeatherStocking thrown out. He thought, based upon his reading, that it was just a hearing on their application. When asked, Ms. O'Malley said that she had just learned of it. Ms. O'Malley was to look into it further.

Though absent, the street department foreman Ken DiPhillips was granted permission to purchase cinders and buy another set of brooms. One of the local contractors, CGE, had allowed the borough to borrow a power washer. It was decided that they ought to be sent a note of appreciation.

During the zoning report, nothing of vital importance was discussed.

A police officer was present at the meeting, in the stead of the police chief. A request was lodged to purchase another portable breathalyzer test for the cars. It was motioned and approved that the police be allowed to purchase one. There were two already in use.

Mr. Pickett asked if the new car had been ordered. The officer did not know. Ms. Skinner asked if a determination had been made with respect to signage. The matter had been turned over to a committee. She then queried as to whether or not committee reporting had a procedure. Mr. Lamont said that there had never really been committee reports, except that the committee usually gave a report at the next month's meeting. Mr. Schuster reported that the suggestion was made that it be left blank. This would bring the number of cars up to two marked and two unmarked, until one was retired. It was confirmed that it met all the legal requirements.

Prior to the voting in of Planning Commission members, an executive session for personnel purposes was requested. Mr. Lamont asked that a few minutes for legislation be included as well. A reporter present asked if Planning Commission members were considered personnel. Mr. Granahan asked her to hold her questions to the end of the meeting. The council exited to room for the executive session.

Upon their return, Craig Stephens tried making an objection, asking why he was listed in personal communication between council members. His objection was interrupted, when a council member stated that he was neither a tax payer nor a resident. He objected that this was a story broken by a television news station. Ms. O'Malley and Mr. Lamont stated that they had an agenda, and that he was not allowed to speak out. They proceeded with the meeting then, despite the objections.

It was announced, as a result of the executive session, that the matter of the Planning Commission members was tabled. Ms. O'Malley then stated that as per the matter of litigation against the borough, she had been instructed to follow up with another solicitor.

A resolution to add and delete signatories to all Montrose borough bank accounts was discussed. It dropped Todd Chamberlain as a signatory and added Tom Lamont, due to the switch in presidents. The first resolution was to add and delete signatories to all Montrose borough bank accounts. The finance committee was to remain the same however.

Mayor John Wilson was appointed to the County Communication Committee. Mr. Wilson agreed to serve in this capacity.

The Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau appropriation was discussed. Borough had traditionally given the organization $150, and it was decided that this course would be followed again.

A representative of the construction company contracted to do the 706 project, Pat Resti of Leeward Construction Inc., was present. He stood up, introduced himself, and passed around business cards. He stated that if there were any questions he could be contacted right away. It was asked when work would be starting, he responded that they had already begun with clearance and environmental controls. There were restrictions on traffic stoppage, he stated. They would mostly be working between 9 am and 4 pm. Mr. Lamont asked if he would be opposed to an informational session in the future, and he responded that he would not.

A private contractor wanted to rent the borough's street sweeper. Various council members uttered the word “no” aloud, and Mr. Lamont stated that had been his first reaction as well. It was opined that the sweeper was not new, and parts were being replaced from just borough use.

Northeastern Security had given council a quote on regarding security cameras in the park. The estimate was about $8500, though he wished to solicit a second quote.

Mr. Pickett stated that the lot behind the now vacant Montrose Publishing was turning into a parking lot for tractor trailers. He asked what council wished to do about it. Some wondered how the trucks were getting into that space in the first place. Mr. Lamont stated that his concern was the weight limit coming into the parking lot and on the parking lot itself. The police were to follow up on the matter.

The meeting was then adjourned.

THEFT/CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On April 3rd Dimock Township Supervisors reported the theft of two signs. The signs were posted on Sr 29 between Sr 3010 and Troy Road, and on Sr 29 between Charles and Wooden roads. The signs were taken sometime between March 25th and April 1st. They read “Welcome to Dimock Township”. Anyone with information is asked to call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

THEFT

A 17 year old juvenile is accused of taking a jar of change from a Hallstead Borough location on April 1st at 11:00 a.m. A charge of Theft by Unlawful Taking was filed with the Susquehanna County Juvenile Probation department.

CRASH

On April 2nd at 8:05 a.m. two unnamed people were traveling east on Sr 0492. One, driving a Nissan Sentra was slowing down to make a left turn when the other, operating a Toyota Prius, rear ended it.

Criminal Mischief: The mailbox of a Nicholson woman was damaged on April 1st at 9:04 p.m. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

Harassment/Disorderly Conduct: On April 1st at 5:30 p.m. James Coan of South Gibson and Donald Glover of Thompson entered into a physical altercation at Arlo's Bar in Ararat Township. Charges were filed on both parties at District Court 34-3-02.

DUI RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY

On March 26th at 8:37 p.m. a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle driven by Mark Meyers of Pompton Plains, NJ, for driving erratically. The incident occurred on I81 south. Further investigation revealed that the accused was in possession of a stolen New Jersey registration plate. Further tests also revealed that the accused was under the influence of alcohol while operating a vehicle. The defendant was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Hollister and was placed in the Susquehanna County Prison in lieu of $2,500 bail.

DUI

On March 28th at 1:55 pm Adam Burridge of Montrose, Pa was traveling west on Sr 706 in New Milford township when, while negotiating a right hand curve, he crossed through the apex of the curve, through the oncoming lane, across a lawn, and into a barn, coming to rest facing a southerly direction. Burridge fled the scene prior to trooper arrival. A short time later he was discovered in Montrose, near the Emberz bar parking lot. He was treated at the scene and transported to the Endless Mountains Health Systems. Charges were pending the result of a blood test as of the time of report.

BURGLARY

PSP Gibson is investigating a burglary in which, between the 30th and 31st of March, one or more unknown person(s) entered a Kingsley pole barn and stole tools and gas cans. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE CRASH

On March 31st at 6:58 a.m. Donald Mayo of Montrose was traveling south on Sr 4007 in Forest Lake township when, while negotiating a left hand curve, the vehicle exited the right side of the roadway and came into contact with a tree. The Freightliner truck tractor then traveled down the embankment and came to a rest facing a southerly direction. No injuries were reported to the trooper; a seat belt was in use.

SIMPLE ASSAULT

On March 29th at 9:30 p.m. Eric Blanco is accused of striking a young child victim in the face with a slipper, leaving a bruise imprint of the slipper. The accused was arrested for simple assault, Endangering Welfare of Children, and Harassment.

ACT 64 VIOLATION (DRUG PARAPHERNALIA)

On March 30th at 1:45 p.m. Zachary Ord of Susquehanna, along with two other students who were unnamed juveniles, were found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia at the Pa Treatment and Healing in Bridgewater Township. The items found included synthetic marijuana and a glass pipe. Charges were pending as of the time of report.

DUI

On March 12th at 7 p.m. an unnamed driver was traveling north on Sr 3025 in a Ford F-150. The driver failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway, at which time the truck exited the roadway and struck several trees, causing damage to the trees. The truck was able to be driven from the scene. It was towed however, because the operator was placed into custody for suspicion of DUI.

HIT AND RUN

On March 13th at 6:20 p.m. Jason Westbrook of Meshoppen was traveling north on Sr 29 when he lost control of his Tracker for unknown reasons, at which time it traveled across the opposing travel lane. The vehicle overturned on the west shoulder of the highway, at which time it rested on the passenger side. Westbrook then fled the scene, traveling west through a wooded area.

ASSAULT

On March 28th at 12:15 a.m. troopers responded to the Country Lounge in Great Bend and a private residence in Hallstead Borough for a domestic dispute. As a result of an investigation, Stephen West was arrested for attacking a woman. West allegedly repeatedly struck the woman in and about the face. He then pointed an assault rifle at her head and told her he was going to kill her. He then removed her from his residence by dragging her by her hair. The woman was transported to Endless Mountain Health Care for treatment. The accused was arraigned before Judge Jeffrey Hollister, District Court 34-3-01. Judge Hollister set bail at 10% of $100,000. Hollister remanded the accused to the Susquehanna County Jail for failing to post bail.

THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

PSP Gibson is investigating the theft of batteries from the Brooklyn Township Truck, and the attempted theft from another. The incident occurred at the Brooklyn Township Building. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police station.

THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING

A Susquehanna man reported to PSP Gibson that an unknown person stole an old metal toolbox from his front porch. Anyone with information about this incident, which occurred between the 25th and 26th of March, is asked to please contact the police.

ACCESS DEVICE FRAUD

Between March 22nd and 23rd, unauthorized charges were made to the debit card of a unnamed 65 year old man. The investigation was continuing as of the time of report.

THEFT

Between the 27th and 28th, a Montrose woman discovered that her prescription medication was taken without her authorization. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE CRASH

On March 27th at 1:20 p.m. Jenna Dippel of Dunmore was traveling northbound in the right lane of 81, at the same time as Ivan German of Ridgefield, Wa was traveling in the left lane. Dippel changed lanes, then attempted to pull into a crossover in the median directly in front of German. A collision occurred partially in the travel lane and partially on the dirt portion of the shoulder/median. Dippel and a passenger, Annette Boyko, were transported to the hospital for treatment; no one else was injured. All but one passenger (not the injured passenger) were utilizing seat belts. Dippel's vehicle was towed from the scene by Kozlowski Towing; German's was driven from the scene. Police were assisted on the scene by Clifford Township, Greenfield Township, and Harford Fire/EMS units.

CRASH

On March 27th at 1:20 p.m. Brandon Sullivan of Vestal was traveling northbound on Tr 643 in Forest Lake Township when he drove his vehicle off of the roadway, which struck an embankment, overturned, and came to a rest upon its passenger's side in the travel lanes. Sullivan suffered minor injuries during this collision and was transported to Wilson Hospital. The vehicle was towed form the scene by JD's Towing.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On March 26th a 6”x6” pane of glass was broken, while in the front entry door of a residence in Ararat township.

BURGLARY

A residence in Lenox Township was entered by means of either the front or rear unsecured door. Copper pipe and the kitchen cabinets were removed from within. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

CRASH

On March 26th at 7:22 p.m. Diego Marino of Springville was traveling north on sr 3017 in that township when his vehicle traveled off the east side of the roadway, striking a tree with its passenger side, then continued to travel north, striking a second tree on the same side, and then coming to a rest facing north.

ACCESS DEVICE FRAUD

On November 8th a blender was purchased on the internet utilizing the credit card and biographical information of a Kingsley man. The investigation was continuing as of the time of report.

BURGLARY

Between the 17th and 18th of March, the entrance door to the trailer of a Clifford Township man was forced open, breaking the door jam.

CRASH

On March 26th at 6:50 p.m. Jose Lemus of Scranton was traveling south on Sr 367 in Auburn Township when he failed to negotiate a left curve in the highway, at which time his vehicle exited the travel lane and struck a tree on the west shoulder of the highway. It continued to travel for approximately 100' through a grass area, impacting another tree approximately 15' west of the berm. The vehicle then reached a final rest.

THEFT

On March 17th at 2 p.m. the Motorola Android cell phone belonging to an 18 year old Jackson man was stolen from a residence in Hallstead borough. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

RAPE

The Pennsylvania State Police received an allegation, through Susquehanna County Children and Youth Services, that an 18 year old male divulged that he was sexually molested on multiple occasions by a man when the victim was 11, 12, and 13 years old. During the course of the investigation it was determined that the allegations were in fact true. Kyle Cobb of Uniondale was arrested on Saturday March 24th, for Rape, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, and Aggravated Indecent Assault. He was arraigned at District Court in Montrose, and bail was set at $100,000. Cobb failed to post bail and was remanded to the Susquehanna County Correctional Facility.

HIT AND RUN

On March 25th at 12:15 a.m. Brady Goldsmith of Montrose was traveling west on Sr 1022 in Liberty township, when he lost control of his vehicle and it traveled off the north berm. The vehicle traveled down an embankment, resulting in it rolling over. It came to a rest on its roof facing in a westerly direction. Goldsmith fled the scene without reporting the crash. Citations were filed with District Court 34-3-01, against the operator, for Roadways Laned for Traffic and Failing to notify police.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

Between the 23rd and 25th of March, one or more unknown person(s) arrived at a New Milford residence and put a small hole in the ground floor window with an unknown object. Once the damage was done, the scene was fled. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

UNDERAGE DRINKING

On March 24th three 19 year old local youth, a boy and girl from New Milford and boy from Hallstead, were found in possession and consumption of Budweiser Beer at the Sunoco Store Parking Lot in New Milford, while being less than 21 years old. All three individuals were arrested for underage drinking, and were released to the sibling of one of the boys, who came to the Sunoco parking lot to take them home.

MISSING PERSON

On March 22nd at 3 p.m. a 16 year old boy ran away from his parents New Milford home after an argument with them.

BURGLARY/THEFT

On March 22nd at 5:21 p.m. James Theobald and Sandy Theobald of Susquehanna parked their 1998 Ford F-150 in the driveway/property of Ace Bat and Wildlife Control in Great Bend. The two then began to walk around on the property, and in the garage that the victim owned. They began to remove various scrap metal items, a plow, and various aluminum panels and assorted industrial equipment from the property. They were observed on video surveillance placing the items in the back of their pickup truck, and then drove away from the scene on Sr 171. The accused were charged with Burglary, Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition, Receiving Stolen Property, and Criminal Trespass. Both individuals were incarcerated at the Susquehanna County Prison to await a preliminary hearing.

BURGLARY

The side door to a two car garage in Harford Township was forced open when the door jam was broken. The screen for the opposite window may have also been removed.

BURGLARY

Sometime between the 15th and 20th of March, unknown persons entered the old Allied/Bendix plan in South Montrose and stole copper from within. The investigation was continuing as of the time of report.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

On March 22nd at 4 p.m. Kenneth Richner Jr. of Hallstead punctured the front tire of a vehicle belonging to a juvenile Hallstead boy, while the vehicle was parked at the McDonald's parking lot. Richner Jr. admitted to committing the crime and was charged with Criminal Mischief.

HIT AND RUN

On March 18th at 11:30 p.m. Donald Oakley of Carbondale and passenger Dylan Peaks of New Milford were traveling southbound on Sr 2061 when Oakley failed to negotiate a left hand curve, causing the vehicle to exit the road off the west berm and strike some trees. After initial impact it spun clockwise approximately ninety degrees, traveled approximately ten feet, and came to a rest at that location facing north. The operator and passenger fled the scene prior to police arrival. The operator was interviewed the following day. Neither man was injured.

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

DEEDS

Kevin J. and Eileen Moore to Kevin J. Moore, in Gibson Twp. for $1.00.

Daniel L., Thomas P. and Patrick K. Murphy to Murphy Brothers Farm Family Limited Partnership, in Apolacon Twp. for $1.00.

Stepehn M. (aka) Stephen M. and Joan Levene, to Louis S. Levene in Silver Lake Twp., for $10.00.

Gregory Neil Powers to Scott P. Baldwin, in New Milford Twp., for $1,000.00.

Florence Trowbridge to John B. and Sheila M. Trowbridge, in Springville Twp. for $30,000.00.

Robert C. Wert to Walter T. Williams, in Montrose, for $57,000.00

Alexey Y. and Anastasia Karlgut to Robert J. Wilkes Jr. (trust), in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Barbara Winnie to Donald, John, Bernard, William and Robert Griffin and Catherine Hardy, in Apolacon Twp., for $1.00.

Eugenia H. Leonard to Eugenia H. Leonard, in Thompson Township, for $1.00.

Darlene J. Robbs to David C. and Harriet L. Bolles, in Great Bend Twp., for $52,000.00.

Eva Mae Olin (aka) Eva Mae C. Seely (aka) Eva Mae Olin-Seely (estate) to Ellen Ely, in Montrose, for $130,000.00.

Chester E. (aka) Chester E. Jr. (estate) and Janet Kilmer to Gracon LLC, in Great Bend Twp., for $142,164.00.

Christopher George and Cynthia K. Calafamo to Annie May Hunsinger, in Rush Twp., for $59,900.00.

Kevin W. Dougherty to Kevin W. and Barbara A. Dougherty, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Frank R. Riedlinger to Michael and Linda Como, in Gibson Twp., for $145,000.00

John L. and Barbara S. Wilkerson to James A. and Katherine R. Ring, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Robert C. Guy to Deborah L. K. Guy, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Robert C. Guy to Deborah L. K. Guy, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Edmund J. Piasecki III to Edmund Piasecki Jr., in Lenox Twp. for $ 1.00

Dorothy Turner to Darrin Derose, in Liberty Twp., for $65,000.00

Daniel J. and Gretchen P. Backer and Albert G. Jr. and Bonnie S. Platt to Daniel J. and Gretchen P. Backer, in Montrose, for $1.00.

Camp Chen-A-Wanda Inc. to BAHS Holdings LLC, in Ararat Twp., for $1.00.

David and Karen Grizzanti to Karen Grizzanti, in New Milford Twp., for $1.00.

Daniel F. Jr. and Linda N. Janda to Gregory and Jennifer L. Stewart, in Montrose, for $200,000.00.

Barbara Melville (Rev Indenture of Trust) to James and Maria Melville (trust), in Auburn Twp., for $1.00.

Leon H., Marsha and Charles Burts to Charles Burts, in Forest Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Jean Sharon Steele (estate) to Kimberly Ann Steele, in Brooklyn Twp., for $1.00.

JM Renovations LLC to John P. Tosi III, Marisa D. Kensinger-Tosi (aka) Marisa D. Kensinger Tosi, in Lenox Twp., for $10.00.

JM Renovations LLC to John P. Tosi III, Marisa D. Kensinger-Tosi (aka) Marisa D. Kensinger Tosi, in Auburn Twp., for $10.00.

Dennis J. and Lori A. Ahrens to Michael A. and Sharon M. Grushinski, in Clifford Twp., for $170,000.00

John M. Atkinson and Dawn L. Davis to John M. Atkinson, Dawn L. Davis, Mark and Denise Atkinson, in Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has outstanding bench warrants for the following individuals as of 1:57 p.m. on April 5, 2012.

Christopher Brenner, Michael Robert Brown, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, Nichole M. Jones, Kay L. Knolles, Lee Labor, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Derrick J. Lezinsky, Michael Maryasz, Matthew S. Miller, Connie M. Mitchell, Ronald N. Mitchell, Perry Rohan, Bruce A. Schurr, Christie L. Sheptock, Desiree Shifler-Ferraro, David J. Shiner, Eric J. Snell, Jermaine J. Stanfield, Sr., Justin S. Thompson, Robert J. Twilley, Ryan Warnagiris, Steven G. Warner, Jesse J. Yachymiak, Kelly L. Yarbrough.

Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.