Wednesday's Commissioners meeting was at it opening like any other. Opening just after 9:00 am Chairman hall and his members approved training, chose to put out some vehicles for bid, and with the exception of a point about new software and hardware required for access to legal databases unanimity was as usual the order of the day.

Before public comment was opened, the historical society was pleased to give an update on the operations of the county library system. Service cuts were explained as a means to help keep operating expenses low. Fund raising was discussed with a focus on a requested adjustment to the tax assessment for the library to more then double it's current rate. Library representatives also were asked by Commissioner Warren how funding was used once obtained. It was further explained that specific fund arising events stay local where others are pooled for the general usage of the library and the historical society

They additionally request a grant in the area of a quarter of a million dollars to assist with the building of a new library. The point was raised that these funding measures were necessary not due to the usage of gas researchers but to be in par with other regional library systems. as the library has accrued the responsibility to visit shut ins, nursing homes, penitentiary inmates, and day care providers, they believe the actual value is far beyond the monetary investment.

The counsel was again addressed under the public comment period about health code enforcement/water standards for facilities of public accommodation, and what if any thing could be done to assure the safety of the drinking water of these locations. The gentleman raising the question provided counsel with documentation from several state and federal offices providing no help in this area. The council concerted that this would require further investigation.

Additionally several citizens from different locations came forth with stunningly similar problems. It appears that some locations are receiving large quantities of felled timber, fill dirt, and stone from projects around the county. These make shift holding areas are in the opinion of some, not up to the standards of public safety. Additionally it was reported that some gas companies had no soil erosion plans in place for the sites they were cultivating as waste collection areas. The commissioners were quick and thorough in their assertion that when and if the right departments were notified of the complaints, inspections would be done in a timely manner to maintain the safety and beauty of the county for its residents. Concealer gregario was also quick to point out that violations of the law are a concern for the county, and that individuals will not be burdened by paying to litigate issues which are under the county enforcement standards

Near the end of the meeting a concerned citizen of the Binghamton area traveled to address the commissioners. Tense from the start he claimed that the board were ignorant to the damage being done to the county, and even went so far as to point out that the Binghamton water system, built in 1905, could not handle the level of toxins the county was exporting via runoff to the waterway. Civility and decorum are the true tell of a persons intent. Sadly strong words would turn heated and raised voices and tempers lead to a need for the sheriff to occupy a corner in the already standing room only chambers.

Commissioner Hall used his ability as chair to ask the gentleman be removed by the sheriffs office after a second outburst, then called the meeting to an abrupt halt and closure at 9:58.

Susquehanna Borough had all of it’s members in attendance at 7:03 when the meeting was called to order. The sparse agenda covered the acquisition of new doors and subsequent rewiring which had been required for the security system. The heating system had been repaired and with its increased output would require additional venting to keep heat controllable in the winter.

It was further discussed that Halloween should in fact be held on Halloween. The Transcript should have time details before the date. In public comment it was discussed that the construction around Pennstar Bank had caused some disruptions, among the moving of power lines and insertion of new catch drains the construction company has sole control over traffic at the site. This caused concerns as to whether a private company had in fact taken over all traffic control, or if it was their responsibility to provide safe passage for vehicles during working hours. On the topic of traffic control it was explained that after a recent non local case the community was seeking answers in regards to off duty personelle, or volunteers. It appears that lacking an emergency tone these personnel may not be covered under the insurance policy. The public should expect congestion around Pine Street as construction will move there in the next few days.

Several locations around town are due for a sidewalk facelift in the near future. Funds were procured to allow 2 sections of walkway to be updated to conform to the new sensibility and style of other recent work. Civic pride is after all a concern of the council, and be it updating public facade or walkways every little bit helps with safety and appearance. Clearly as the year starts to come to an end, promoting the borough is still being worked on even if in small ways.

The mayor was pleased to report that police had converted over to low band transmissions in all vehicles, and this would free up the concern of highband rights for private parties. The end of month meeting will include a discussion of the water tower and the public should also expect budget concerns to be addressed. Until January all committee meeting dates will cover some aspect of the budget. The meeting was recessed into executive session at 7:35.

Barely a month ago the Bluestone natural gas pipeline project was still in prospect, awaiting a decision by county planning on a wetlands swap on the southern edge of the township. A month before that Mike Armiak, representing Bluestone, promised an “open house” for interested residents that would lay out the plan.

In the interim, the construction company for the pipeline, Price-Gregory, has wasted no time making an open house moot, having already created a snaking trail of almost 30 miles across the county, diagonally across Harford Township from Loomis Lake into New Milford Township and beyond. Mr. Armiak, attending the October Supervisors’ meeting on the 9th said simply, the open house “ended up not happening.”

The state has reportedly already collected some $200 million of “impact fees” from natural gas operations for 2011 under Act 13 of 2012. The money is supposed to trickle down through all levels of government through the state Public Utilities Commission, each level siphoning off a portion for its own use, with local municipalities like Harford at the end of the distribution pipeline. The Harford Supervisors don’t expect to see much of it this year, since at best count only 2 wells had been drilled in the township before 2012.

Act 13 is a complex mix of demands placed on the impact fee revenues, with the total amount collected depending on a number of factors, including the current market price of natural gas, which at the moment is very low. Some of that is also in dispute, and until the disputes are resolved, nobody (but the state) gets anything. Depending on how you count it, the state will ultimately take between 25 and 40 percent off the top anyway. The counties then get a chunk, only some of which will be shared with local municipalities. To top it off, a township like Harford can’t get more than half of its prior-year budget.

So the Harford Supervisors probably won’t be factoring impact fees into the budget they are preparing for next year. They have scheduled a series of additional public meetings through the end of the year that will focus on the budget: October 23, November 13 (regular monthly session), November 20, December 11 (regular monthly session), with formal passage of the budget expected on December 18. All meetings will begin at 7:00pm at the Township office.

The Supervisors are still struggling to get some loan paperwork in order. The latest set of documents for a loan to pay for improvements at the sewer plant were rejected by the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) because the dates were out of sync. So the Supervisors passed another set of ordinances to set the record straight.

Yet the sewer plant project continues nonetheless. Supervisor and Township Secretary Sue Furney said that new valves, conduit and a touch-screen control panel have been installed at the plant. She said that Joe Sheposh, the operator of the plant through David Klepadlo & Associates is “thrilled” with the new system that will “make his job a lot easier.” There will be a brief interruption of plant operations when new blowers are installed.

During a discussion of delinquent sewer accounts, Ms. Furney said that the owners of the Liberty Truck Stop were given the choice of paying for half of the installation cost, but instead chose to boost the allocation of that business by 10 EDU’s (equivalent dwelling units). Liberty isn’t delinquent, but several others are, 9 of them already encumbered by property liens. Ms. Furney says that she has received payments on some of them. Supervisor Garry Foltz wants to accelerate collection on some of the other deadbeats by “executing” the liens, which presumably means foreclosure.

Harford’s road crews are gradually preparing equipment for the coming winter. Mr. Foltz pronounced the new Dodge a sterling addition to the fleet.

He also declared Wilcox Road, recently barely a track through the wilderness, now suitable for a Sunday drive. And the project to repair a section of Mill Street in Kingsley is nearing completion. A resident of Kingsley attended the meeting to thank the Township for getting the street fixed, referring to the Masters concrete company in Kingsley as a “good neighbor.” The Masters company provided the concrete for the project at half price.

Mr. Foltz also recommended that new “Road Closed” and “Men Working” signs be purchased. Along with street signs like “Podunk Road” and “Beaver Meadows,” they tend to disappear overnight.

The Township has accumulated a large number of tires through its cleanup program, as well as castoffs from Township equipment. Since the pipeline project goes through lots of tires regularly, perhaps the contractor wouldn’t mind adding a few to the pile – like about 90 of them. Mr. Armiak said that he would see what could be done.

Some 400-pound equipment tires are to be “donated” to the Harford Rod & Gun Club to use as backstops for their shooting ranges. Unfortunately the club has no way to maneuver the monsters into place. Fortunately a member of the club is also a Township employee who knows how to run a backhoe. So, with the approval of the Supervisors, the Township’s backhoe will be used on an off day to rid the Township of the tires it would otherwise have to pay to have removed, and give the Rod & Gun Club something useful.

Mr. Foltz seems to be in a housecleaning mood. He would like to sell a small roller machine that is of no use to the township. Any takers?

When the Township upgraded all of its street signs a year or so ago, a pile of the old ones accumulated in the garage. The Kingsley resident added her bid for a bit of nostalgia, suggesting that the township auction them off.

Mr. Foltz said that the few problems encountered so far during the construction of the pipeline had been quickly resolved. Construction managers who attended the August meeting said they expected to be finished by the end of the year. They have promised to resurface township roads damaged during construction. Residents can hope that promise at the end is more valuable than the one at the beginning.

DEEDS

Jeffrey Scott & Ann Louise Empfield to Empfield Realty LLC, in Rush Twp., for $25,000.00.

Anthony J. Conigliaro to Anthony J. Conigliaro (trust), in New Milford Twp., for $1.00.

William F. (estate), Thomas J., Florence, Sean, AnnMarie, Patrick & Kevin McCarty, Sally Oconnell, Ellen McCarty, and Michael Rubin to Thomas J., Sean, Patrick & Kevin McCarty, Sally Oconnell & Ellen McCarty to Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

William F. (estate), Thomas J., Florence, Sean, AnnMarie, Patrick & Kevin McCarty, Sally Oconnell, Ellen McCarty, and Michael Rubin to Thomas J., Sean, Patrick & Kevin McCarty, Sally Oconnell & Ellen McCarty to Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

Paige E. Krishnamurthy & Mark M. Capofari to Ronald & Susan Crawford, in Oakland Twp., for $77,000.00.

Marion E. Taylor to Jeffrey Taylor, in Apolacon Twp., for $1.00.

Sommerville Land Development Inc. to Blue Ridge School District, in New Milford Twp., for $6,700.00.

Brian Mark Decker (by sheriff) to LA Commercial Services LLC, in Harmoney Twp., for $4,055.80.

Willis E. Roosa (estate) to Bryan J. & Candy S. Roosa, Bonnie J. & David A. Bothell, & David C. & Jay J. Roosa (trust), in Great Bend Twp. & Hallstead Borough, for $1.00.

Sandra M. Kazinetz to Terry J. Delousia Jr. & Melinda S. Delousia, in Great Bend Twp., for $116,000.00.

Stephen H. Fraser, Kara Passarella (nbm) Kara Fraser to Daniel R Ricci Jr. & Karen D. Ricci, in Bridgewater Twp., for $295,000.00.

Emory R. Stanley to Emory R. & Park Stanley, in New Milford Borough, for $1.00.

Millicent Jane Fruehan (estate aka) Millicent J. Fruehan, Bonnie Teed, Stacey Teed, Ralph T. Fruehan (aka) Ralph Timothy Fruehan & Sarah Fruehan to Bonnie & Stacey Teed, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Millicent Jane Fruehan (estate aka) Millicent J. Fruehan, Bonnie Teed, Stacey Teed, Ralph T. Fruehan (aka) Ralph Timothy Fruehan & Sarah Fruehan to Ralph T. Fruehan (aka) Ralph Timothy Fruehan & Sarah Fruehan, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Thomas L. Dublin & Kathryn Kish Sklar to George R. Petro, in Silver Lake Twp., for $405,000.00.

Robert J. Mansfield (estate) to John Hranyczny, in New Milford Twp., for $40,000.00.

Thomas J. Lopatofsky Jr. & Donna Fekette to Steven & Tiffanie Champang, in New Milford Twp., for $122,570.00.

John G. & Virginia Treichler (estate by tax claim bureau) & Susquehanna County Tax Claim Bureau to William D. Kieswer, in Liberty Twp., for $43,600.00.

Kenneth & Zina Odowd to Michelle C. Odowd, in Rush Twp., for $1.00.

Judy M. Homan (by sheriff) to James F., Marlene, Joseph L. & Mary Homan, in Little Meadows Borough, for $7,929.93

Bruce L. & Marion E. Seamans to Bruce L. & Marion E. Seamans, in Harford Twp., for $1.00.

Bruce L. & Marion E. Seamans to Bruce L. & Marion E. Seamans, in Harford Twp., for $1.00.

Gene M. & Patricia E. Litz to Adrian A. Balfour & Melanie S. Cosklo, in Clifford Twp., for $238,000.00.

Robert & Laura Schneider, William Kenneth, Elizabeth Lillian & Benjamin Wood to Bluestone Pipeline Company of Pennsylvania LLC, in New Milford Twp., for $370,000.00.

George & Norma McNeal to Jeremy J. Kuntz, Jamie M. Shave & Holly M. Thomas, in Rush Twp., for $1.00.

John & Bonnie Davis to Justin & Kimberly Fletcher, in Clifford Twp., for $1.00.

Cemetary Association of Brooklyn & West Side Cemetary Association to West Side Cemetary Association, in Brooklyn Twp., for $1.00.

Sandra I. & David P. Wood to David P. Wood, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Robert W. & Janet Mead to Maerog LLC, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Robert W. Annese to Robert W. Annese, in Lathrop Twp., for $1.00.

Harold & Audrey Wheeler to Audrey M. Wheeler, in Harmony Twp., for $1.00.

Carol Hinds (estate aka) Carol W. Hinds (estate) to Helm Investments LLC, in Montrose, for $1.00.

Honesdale National Bank to David & Linda Hanf, in Forest City, for $40,000.00.

Katherine Sterling (by poa) to Janet Sterling, in Bridgewater Twp., for $1.00.

Donald & Marjorie Smith to Sherrie Roberts & Jeff Mennig, in Clifford Twp., for $1.00.

James K. & Paula F. Adams to James K., Paula F. & James M. Adams, Julie M. Grove & Paul W. Adams, in Harford Twp., for $1.00.

Dorina Meszler, Theresa Andrews, Patricia Bean & Paula Karwan to Andrew Anderson & Lynn A. Racht, in Forest City, for $36,024.00.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:13 a.m. on October 12, 2012: Elbert G. Allen, Jeremy E. Anderson, Jason J. Carroll, William J. Casey, Chad C. Chauncey, James W. Donahue III, Thomas D. Earley, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, James Gerard, Keith R. Hurd, John J. Jenisky, Jr, Richard E. Kalinowski, Kay L. Knolles, Lee Labor, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Derrick J. Lezinsky, Michael Maryasz, Joseph M. Rhodes, Perry Rohan, Bruce A. Schurr, Christie L. Sheptock, Desiree L. Shifler, David J. Shiner, Tina M. Smith, Eric J. Snell, Timothy M. Taylor, Justin S. Thompson, Earl H. Thompson, Jr, Ryan Warnagiris, Steven G. Warner, Jamie L. Williams, Sr, Dennis Wisniewski, Kelly Lynn Yarbrough, Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.

At the October 8th meeting of the Montrose School Board, the work session was held first. This was to be the new normal procedure.

The first order of business was reviewing the summer camp. Christine Casey gave a presentation about the subject. The presentation covered camp programs from 2008 to 2012. During that time the program had enrolled a total of 372 students. The program was focused toward students receiving interventions in Math and Reading, progress monitored students, and economically disadvantaged student, etc. Subjects covered included Reading, Math, Character Education, Arts & Crafts, Technology, Sports and Recreation, Writing, and Math and Reading, though not every topic was offered every year. Staff included educators, specialists, a nurse, a cook, general counselors, technology specialists, a sports and recreational specialist, and 2 EMT’s (again not all positions were utilized every year). Ms. Casey asked those present if they had any ideas how to cover more of the district. Mr. Caterson asked if these were students not attending camp, and if camp would have room for them if they attended. Affirmative responses were given for both questions. The students were provided lunch, snack and drink, and water stations throughout the day. Despite the budget cuts the last year, Ms. Casey said that transportation and food were non-negotiable items. The number of students had been reduced however, as the number of staff had been reduced for funding reasons. Field trips had also been removed.

A second presenter, the writing instructor at the camp for the last few years, introduced a video of students doing a camp newscast. Those present couldn’t get the sound to play on the video, so the screening was postponed.

During the administrator’s reports, Mr. Ognosky reviewed items of importance from the various administrators as none were present at the meeting. All reports were listed as having been electronically submitted.

The coming Friday night’s game was to be called the Battle of the Bluestone. A trophy had been created by one of the companies. This was the first time the game was to involve four of the local schools, Elk Lake and Montrose against Blue Ridge and Susquehanna. The event was planned to be an annual event, with the trophy residing in the winning district(s).

Leatherstocking had reached out to the district regarding the transportation of gas. The PUC had licensed that company; Mr. Caterson said that the district would have gas for the next school year. It was thought that there should be a public building and grounds meeting to discuss the matter.

Mr. Ognosky then reviewed questions regarding the agenda.

The dual enrollment agreement at Keystone College was discussed. It was $75 a credit, and 9 courses were approved for credit. Mr. Ognosky reviewed how many credits some of the courses were worth. AP Biology and AP Chemistry were 8 credits. It was clarified that the students would receive credit for these courses at Keystone, but the credits could be transferred out to other schools.

Mr. Caterson brought up the turnover rate for food service workers. He said that the turnover rate had to be affecting the quality of product for food service, not necessarily the quality of the food but the ability to produce it. There was a contract, but he wondered if there was any room to reopen this for reconsideration. It was felt that it was the rate of pay coupled with the number of hours which led to the turnover. The board was basically discussing resignations and postings at every meeting. Ms. F said that it was affecting the kids, which Mr. Ognosky agreed with. Mr. Caterson said that this could open up a can of worms, as they had to be careful with reopening part of the contract without wanting to open up the entire contract. It was suggested that perhaps someone be spoken with to see if opening the contract would be problematic. Mr. Ognosky also suggested that perhaps another option would be to try and keep all workers working the maximum 4 and a half hours, rather than leaning toward the minimum.

Mr. Ognosky then spoke about the problem of asking the board to approve people who were already working. This situation occurred when the district had a need between meetings, as was the case with the hiring of a half time ESL worker during the month of September. Mr. Caterson said that he didn’t have a problem with that so long as they were informed along the way. Mr. Ognosky said that what he wanted to emphasize was that he tried to get the files to the board before the employee began working. If the board had a serious concern, he really wanted them to let him know so that he could stop the process.

There was a memorandum of understanding with the MEA regarding the part-time permanent professionals. Currently there were part time French, ESL, and Gifted educators. In those situations they were required to be present for full-days due to in-service. As he was requiring them to be present, Mr. Ognosky explained, he would like to pay them their professional rate, for the entire day.

The regular meeting began right after the work session.

The 2012-2013 transportation contracts were motioned and approved as submitted. The contracts ran from October to October, Mr. Ognosky explained, as they used the month of September to work on this based on that year. Mr. Ognosky said that $1,892,193.06 was the total contract amount for busses, vans, and car contracts.

Various extracurricular items were dealt with. These included the resignation of Justin Marbaker as Junior High Assistant Boys’ Basketball Coach, and the appointment of Jeremy Dibble as Assistant Football Coach and Caitlyn Ely as Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach.

Lois Nagy resigned as census taker in Silver Lake Township. Two food service workers resigned as part-time food service workers. This left the district with only two census takers remaining. Two part time food service workers were approved as well.

Quinn C. Kenahan was appointed as a half-time ESL instructor for the district. Courtney Hoffa was employed as a long-term substitute autistic classroom instructor at Choconut Valley Elementary School.

A visitor brought to the board’s attention that October 22-27th is National School Bus Safety week.

Note: There is no Griffis Street in New Milford Borough. A previous article referred to Griffis Street, when I thought to have referred to Montrose Street. This reporter would like to apologize for the error.

The New Milford Borough meeting on October 4th covered a wide range of topics. Lasting nearly two and a half hours, it contained discussion on matters ranging from natural gas to the Parade of Lights.

Vicki Drake, the borough’s tax collector and a representative of the Parks and Recreation Committee, had spoken with the borough council before regarding whether they wanted the committee to do anything with the pool or not. She spoke regarding some of the upgrades which were desired, if everything on the wish list were realized it would be around $120,000. A handicap lift was required by codes, she stated, the pool couldn’t open without it. Essentially the idea would be to give the pool a facelift, with a new liner etc. It was thought this could tide it over for perhaps 20 years. She asked if the Parks Association had permission to go about seeking funds. It was responded that the pool could use the work, and the Parks Association was given permission to explore the matter. Mr. Ainey asked her to give council members an action plan, and present before council what she was proposed.

The Economic Development Committee had discussed the Constitution Pipeline company grant. Mrs. Drake had asked if she might want to apply for that, but it was stated that the Committee had already discussed it.

Mrs. Drake was also going to the tax collector’s convention. She didn’t know if there would be any funding for the registration fee or not. She also asked about her dues, which she thought to be in the budget. Ms. Gulick responded that there was no money for the convention. Mr. Ainey said that the local tax collection law and borough code didn’t really authorize those expenditures. Mrs. Drake thought it did in the township or borough code. Mr. Ainey responded that it wasn’t in the borough code but was in the second class township code. Ms. Gulick stated that the reason it had been paid for in the past was because they had money, but they did not now.

The school had called council members into a meeting regarding the parks at the ball field. They were concerned about the amount of money they were expending on the town’s field, Mr. Ainey mentioned. It was to be discussed later in the meeting.

Mr. Ainey wanted to hear information regarding the meeting with the township. The township supervisors had responded that they had no ordinance for animals. Afterward, however, Ms. Wages had been told that they would look into the matter, she explained. Ms. Cosmello reported that she had a meeting with Mr. Conroy scheduled.

Mr. Ainey had gone to the county assessment office regarding how the campers were taxed. First of all they had to have a recreational vehicle campground, after that they assessed them by lot. Also, the tax collection law stated that anyone moving a mobile home was supposed to get a permit from the tax collector, he related.

Mr. Ainey, during the treasurer’s report, wished to make a motion that the borough include the Columbia Hose Tax Payments in the list of bills which were regularly paid. This was unanimously approved.

Ms. Gulick asked how council felt about paying the bill Vicki Drake submitted. This was a $50 reimbursement for dues for the tax collector. Both Mr. Ainey and Ms. Cosmello felt it should not be paid.

Mrs. Lempke had told the Endless Mountains Business Association that she would bring a concern before council. They were very concerned about the traffic at the corner of 11 and 492, and felt that a traffic light should be there. This had been considered in the past, it was responded, and it was prohibitively expensive. The borough would have to pay for everything, unless there had been enough fatalities to warrant it. This was what Ms. Gulick had been told. The last time it had been looked into, the cost was close to $125,000 for everything. Council members agreed that they would like to see one. Mr. Ainey, however, said that he couldn’t believe that New Milford businesses would be happy with what their taxes would be to support it. Ms. Gulick said that she was sorry, they couldn’t help them.

Ms. Cosmello had been approached by a townsperson that when traffic was bunched up cars flew through Summit Street. Church Street was the same, it was stated. Someone had asked if stop signs might be put in. Speed bumps and speed humps were also mentioned as options. The council had looked into speed bumps, but insurance had told them it would have to be permanent.

A letter had been received, written to Karen Allen and regarding the housing development. Ms. Gulick had run into Ms. Allen, who explained that DEP had requested another soil test on the area now that the business was demolished. They were doing it.

A letter had been received from the PUC regarding the application filed by Leatherstocking. Leatherstocking had been granted a public conveyance of gas for the 13 municipalities they had applied for.

The interim bridge inspection on the Church Street bridge was reported on. Someone asked if there were any deficiencies, it was responded that there were no more than normal.

The mayor, during his report, had a problem with the garage. Currently there was only three quarters of a tank of oil. The borough had granted the Municipal Authority use of their garage until theirs was built. Mr. Taylor said that the authority was charging the borough for an edu. The authority had been in the building for six or seven years. The borough was paying the oil, and the other expenses. He suggested that perhaps if the authority could pay something for being there, the borough could afford fuel.

Mr. Ainey said that the borough did not pay for water for the garage, office, or park. This was based on a verbal agreement some time ago. The tap in fee for the new concession stand was donated by someone, and the tap in fee for the bathhouses were paid for by someone else. The monthly fee, 1 edu, was paid for by the borough, and had been for years. Mr. Ainey had been asked regarding sewer. Ms. Gulick offered to go and ask for help paying the fuel.

During the COG report Mr. Carey said that a representative was really excited about discussing the lease. He had responded that they were two reasonable groups who would discuss this in reasonable fashion. Mr. Ainey suggested that Mr. Carey respond that the borough had a committee who would meet with COG’s committee. The lease was to be up in July of 2013.

 There had also been a discussion of the RV setup from a codes standpoint and a sewage standpoint. They were looking at whether it should be controlled from a county or municipality level. Mr. Ainey said that he had done a lot of research on the campers, and that there were few regulations regarding it.

Ms. Gulick asked if it took a permit or anything to hook into a fire hydrant and fill water trucks with it. It was said that someone did it every morning on their way to Montrose. The day before the meeting there had been a water main break. It was responded that the party had an agreement with the municipal authority and were buying water.

Peck Hill drainage was discussed. Mr. Ainey had given everyone a copy of the letter he sent to the planning commission, and the response. Now that they had a response he suggested that the borough send a letter to the Planning Commission that they had a concern, asking for a copy of filed documents for Peck Hill Road. If there none had been filed, he suggested filing a complaint. The motion to send the letter was passed.

Ms. Hine and Mr. White were working on the FEMA and PEMA permits. The South Church Street bridge was where the water main break had been the day before. The property owner had put a concrete retaining wall in. He was trying fix the bank. That was one of the projects which the borough was planning to have done. Ms. Hine said that the problem was that what he did was not going to hold. Mr. White said that it was better than what it was before. Mr. Taylor stated the reason it had to be done was that the trucks driving through there were pushing the blacktop down. It was suggested that PEMA be notified that a property owner had worked in that location. This would document.

A bid had been received for the Maple Street bridge work as well. The bid came in around $7,000 and the borough was being allowed $2,160 plus an additional $396.76. The rest would have to be borough money. This was the only bid which had been received for the project.

It was hoped that perhaps the money saved by the property owner fixing the other section could be transferred to the Maple Street bridge project. Previously, Mayor Taylor stated, the entity had been unwilling to touch repair which the property owner had already begun.

Mr. White gave a report on Peck Hill, where the water had diverted into a woman’s house when it rained. A visitor said that the alleged offending property owner was working on top of the hill again. Mr. White had noticed that there were stacks of stone piled up. Nothing had changed with the dam that was built, he explained. A visitor explained that the stone had come from a creek, but it had been there since 2006. Mr. Ainey made a motion that council accept the bids for review, which was passed.

A letter had been received DEP stating that there was nothing they could do about the water flow on Peck Hill. A visitor asked if they could do anything regarding the dam. Basically, Mr. White responded, the property owner had told the DEP representative that the dam had been there for many years. DEP had then spoken to Conservation, who agreed that there had been something there for many years, but they could not say how long. Mr. White suggested that what was needed was to look for anyone who could say that the dam wasn’t always there, someone willing to testify by notarized letter. A visitor felt that she could find this.

Mr. Ainey asked what the codes officer needed from a resident. Policy stated that someone needed a signed complaint form for the codes officer to investigate a matter. Ms. Hine asked if an e-mail counted as a complaint form, and it was responded that it was not.

Ms. James suggested that if someone wanted to file a complaint on the weekend, a few council members should go up to see it. At least one council member responded that they didn’t want to become involved in such a process.

The matter of a School Bus Stop Ahead sign on Sr 492 was broached. It was queried as to whether there was enough room for a pull off. A suggestion had been received from PennDot, that the school be contacted and a request made to move the bus stop. Mr. Ainey made a motion toward this effect, that a letter be written. He recommended that a pull off stop be put in.

A letter had been received from a property owner near the new housing development, regarding drainage from the development. Mr. Ainey had gone up there, and it looked like they had built put something on the front for drainage. He suggested that the letter from the resident be forwarded to the Housing Authority asking them to respond to the complaint and copy the borough.

Everyone had been given a copy of a driveway permit ordinance to look at. Mr. Ainey didn’t think it covered stormwater under the driveway. Proper drainage would need to be involved with the driveway. Otherwise, Mr. Ainey said, the driveway permit was worthless.

The ordinance draft would be sent on to the solicitor. Mr. Ainey asked if they could write something up and send them to him. Ms. Gulick said that they used to, but a few solicitors ago it had changed as the solicitors would look up different items and change what they had worked on. Mr. Ainey said that he hated paying lawyers. It was decided that it could be sent on to the planning commission and then sent on to the solicitor.

An agreement with the school was discussed, as related to parks and rec. Mr. Ainey said that they got his goat. The school had sent everybody a letter. Ms. James and Mr. Ainey had attended. The school had concerns about the use of the ball field, and what they were spending to maintain it. They wanted an agreement which listed the duties and responsibilities of each entity. A comment had also been made that it wasn’t fair for the taxpayers in Jackson to pay to maintain the park in New Milford. The concern was after the ball season ended. School representatives had claimed that they mowed the lawn there once a week after the season ended. Council members argued however that they no longer did so.

Ms. Gulick said that she was kind of offended by this, as there had been compliments regarding how well it was maintained. The school was complaining about a field which was free for them to use. They had a wonderful park, and they had a beautiful building there. The school had mentioned the men’s league, and someone giving pitching instruction. Ms. James pointed out that it was a public park. Mr. Ainey pointed out that there were two leases there, one for the Little League and one for the Tripletts.

Ms. Guick said that she could understand if it was after season and the school was expected to maintain it, but this wasn’t the case. The school had also asked council members to return the ball field to PIAA standards for spring. It was felt that this was not the borough’s responsibility. Mr. White pointed out that while the school did the mowing in season, and did a good job keeping the field up, they did not do all of the maintenance even then. Out of season neighbors volunteered and mowed it sometimes. Ms. Gulick opined that the borough should probably think about what they wanted in an agreement. Ms. Wages suggested that the school be asked to create an agreement, and they could then present it to the borough.

The new Borough Code allowed for a Recreation Board, Mr. Ainey stated, and he wanted to formally create one. This would be a borough board. Ms. Cosmello related a time when the Parks and Recreation committee had wanted to apply for a grant, and she had said it would have to go through the borough as the committee was a non-entity. It was decided that they would look into the creation of the board. Mr. Ainey said that they needed to make it clear to the volunteers on the committee that this would not be infringing on them, but rather could protect them in a litigious society.

A meeting had been held regarding the Constitution pipeline. Since Leatherstocking was coming in, it was thought that perhaps they could look again at sidewalks and maybe even streetlights. This would be a project which could take years. Mr. White pointed out that this was a safety issue. Mr. Ainey thought that perhaps they could apply for a grant for a consultant, to lay out a plan.

A license plate was excellent in reporting someone who was violating traffic laws, it was reiterated during a discussion of speeding on Church Street. The time of day, and make and model of the vehicle would also be excellent to report.

The junkyard ordinance was altered. All that would be done was to remove council from review in section six. This change was to be advertised.

An Ordinance of Records Committee meeting had been held to discuss the Flood Plain ordinance, as requested by the National Flood Insurance Program. The borough needed to have a flood plain ordinance which met with that entity’s approval, or it could lose the ability for certain funding. The question had been raised who would enforce it, whether it would be at the local level, etc. The most controversial item discussed had been recreational vehicles. There was one option within the plan which would state that recreational vehicles should be prohibited in flood plain areas. Another option was to allow people to apply for a variance within this restriction. Zone X was the only zone not in a flood plain.

The question was asked as to what the timeline would be. Mr. White felt that council had to make sure that residents knew this was part of a national program, and not something the borough was creating. It came from the governor’s office. There were parts of it which were mandatory, but there were also options. The borough went with the ones which best fit the borough in their opinion. It was decided that the documents would be scanned some of the notes and send it to everybody, and it could be discussed further at the next meeting.

The finance committee meeting had also met. In a nutshell, Ms. Guluick stated the borough had no money. Mr. Ainey had taken the borough’s existing balance. He factored in the regular bills, multiplied out, and come up with about $24,000 worth of regular bills through the end of the year. He reviewed his numbers for those present. At the end of his figuring, the borough had between four and five thousand dollars for the remainder of the year, without including unexpected expenses. Even then, there would be months before tax income was received. Mr. Ainey suggested that the borough take the bridge CD and give the finance committee the authority to cash it in when the time came. He summed his report up by saying that they were out of money, and that it was not a matter of if they were going to have to make cuts but where. He said that payroll would have to be cut again. The money could be taken from the gas money, if it was dealt with like a loan and paid back. Mayor Taylor said that they couldn’t cut back much more without cutting services. Ms. Gulick pointed out that they also had to start working on budget. Ms. Gulick asked if anyone had suggestions regarding where they could cut back. The previous year the heat had been cut back on. Mr. White asked if they had ever visited repairing the heating duct on the rental. There was a problem with it, and they were using an electric heater.

It was suggested that every person should come up with a suggestion for where to cut for the next meeting. Ms. Glulick said that it was scary enough that they might have to shut the doors for a while. Mr. Ainey said that if they shut the door they would save about $17,000 for the rest of the year. It was asked then how things would be run then. The borough wasn’t going to do this; it was just an illustration of how drastic things were.

The topic of the Parade of Lights was raised. One of the firemen had contacted Ms. Gulick and asked her if they were all set for the Haunted House, since the borough was doing it. This was also brought to Mr. White, when he was asked what they were doing. Someone else had been told that it was not happening. Mr. White had said that he would help in a way they needed. It was thought that perhaps a school group could help out.

Ms. Hine asked if the borough was putting the truck in. It was responded that the borough would do so. Certain council members said they would donate some money for candy.

Mr. Ainey made a motion that the borough list the tax collection property on their insurance to cover its operations and records, as they had a borough official doing business on a property which probably was not insured. There were records which that office kept which the borough would have to pay to replace. He also made the motion that they require the tax collector to name the borough as an additional insured on their insurance for the same purposes. Both motions passed.

The Borough of Oakland meeting would open on its traditional manner of taking a moment of silence for reflection. Sadly it was mentioned that the borough had suffered a house fire earlier in the day and that the building had been a total loss. The thoughts of all in attendance were with the family.

Among the few other matters of concern was the flood insurance plan requiring massive ordinance verification and it seemed to be a point of concern. Not only is the council already tackling the lengthy budget process with year end approaching, but the sheer scope of the document would possibly require the entire council to be involved in compiling and checking the document. Councilman Dibble offered to assist in the preliminary compiling of data if he could get clarification on exactly what was required. With a need to submit by mid April this should be completed shortly after the holidays.

Chair Beavan also brought to the floor that they had limited bids on the project to paint the cruiser for the police. This would cause a delay until at least next month’s meeting. He went on to comment on how several campers related to fuel workers had begun to sprout up around town. It was explained that campers which are self contained, and have no water or sewer needs which would require connecting to the borough supply lines, would be inspected for habitability only. Once any of the units were connected to water or sewage they would be considered a taxable entity.

During public comment the council was asked to consider assisting a member of the community in a pending matter with the inspector Shane Lewis, and her neighbors. After moving to executive session for a handful of moments the council reconvened and explained that it is not within their scope to make determinations on matters between neighbors which are of a litigious nature. It was suggested the mater be turned over to legal council to seek a resolution as the council cannot at anytime make demands on the public that infringe on their legal rights.

Before the adjournment at 8:11 p.m. it was explained that with construction in the area of the meeting hall next month the location may have to change; if any change needed to occur the public would be notified in advance. Additionally there is an opening on the council and any interested parties should make their desire to serve known to the council.

Armed Robbery: On October 5th 2012 at 1:30 am a man entered the Pump and Pantry in Lenox, displayed a pistol, and demanded money from the clerk. The suspect then removed an undisclosed amount of money and fled the scene on foot. The subject was roughly around 5’10” and about 160 lbs. He was wearing a spider man mask concealing his face; he was wearing a white hooded sweatshirt and jeans. Spider man has been unmasked! A warrant for the arrest of Louis Sherman has been issued; Sherman is wanted for Robbery and is considered armed and dangerous. He is possibly driving in a white 2 door Chrysler Sebring unknown Pennsylvania Registration. Anyone with information in regards to Sherman’s location is asked to contact the State Police at Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

Burglary: This station is investigation a burglary that occurred on 10/11/12 between the hours of 0900-1400 hours at 586 TR Williams Road in Clifford Township. Unknown person(s) arrived at a residence by unknown means. While there, the unknown person(s) made entry through the front unlocked door to the residence and stole the following items from the two bedrooms to the residence: 1.Gold men’s wedding band valued at 200.00, 2.Men’s gold wedding band with diamonds valued at $500.00, 3.Men’s gold Rolex watch valued between $600-$800, 4. 17” Acer laptop computer valued at $75.00, 7. Women’s jade and gold earrings valued at $50, 8. 60 Hydrocodone pills. Once items mentioned were obtained the burglar(s) fled the scene by unknown means and direction. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

Hit and Run: A crash occurred on October 9th at 7:20 pm when a Pontiac G6 was traveling east on Sr 492. The vehicle lost control, traveled across the west bound lane, and struck a guide rail on the north shoulder of the highway. The vehicle then fled the scene. Anyone with information concerning this crash is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

Burglary: Sometime between October 8th and 9th unknown person(s) forced the dront door open to Tubby’s Deli to gain entry by pushing it open with blunt force. Once inside the deli, the unknown actor(s) stole various items consisting of: approximately 10-12 cartons of cigarettes of various brand names, approximately 180 packs of cigarettes of various brands names, approximately $150 worth of US Currency, three boxes of brand name cigars (Game Green, Game Whitegrape, and White Owl Peach), three sleeves of smokeless tobacco (Grizzly Wintergreen, Wintergreen, Skoal Wintergreen longcut, and Skoal Wintergreen finecut), and approximately 12 cans of Red Bull and Monster. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Fatal Crash Update: Samba Doucore was charged with Homicide by motor vehicle, Involuntary Manslaughter, Aggravated Assault by motor vehicle, along with numerous other charges as a result of a fatal crash on July 18th at approximately 1:47 pm on Sr 81 north at mile markers 209. The accused was the operator of a 2002 Freightliner tractor trailer entering a work zone when the crash occurred involving seven vehicles. The accused turned himself in to MDJ Brainard’s office on October 10th based on a warrant. He was arraigned and released on $50,000 dollars bail.

DUI: On September 25th at 3:45 pm Melissa Pierce-Kairis of Nedrow, Ny was traveling south on Hawleyton Rd. when her vehicle lost control and exited the roadway. The vehicle traveled for approximately thirty feet down an embankment, striking several trees until it reached a final rest facing an easterly direction.

Robbery/Theft: On October 7th at approximately 9:55 pm a perpetrator arrived at the Family Farm Store and removed cash from the register as a victim was attempting to close the store for the evening. No weapon was displayed. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police at Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

Commercial Vehicle: On October 9th at 12:35 pm a vehicle was traveling northbound on Sr 11 when it exited the roadway off the east berm, struck a traffic sign and then a guide rail. The 2012 Kenworth T800 then went down an embankment and struck several trees, before coming to a rest. The driver was transported to Montrose Hospital via ambulance for treatment. Police were assisted on the scene by Hallstead Fire/EMS and Kozlowski Towing.

Crash: On October 7th at 1 pm a crash occurred as Joseph Rogers of Susquehanna was traveling east on Sr 171 in Oakland Township. Rogers swerved to the right to avoid a deer in the roadway, and struck a ditch on the south side of the roadway with its front end. The vehicle overturned and came to a final rest on its wheels facing south.

Retail Theft: On September 17th at 7:23 am Kathy Curry of Binghamton, Ny is charged with pumping $50.25 worth of gasoline and driving off, failing to pay for it. The accused committed similar acts on September 7th and September 9th. Curry was charged with retail theft. A criminal complaint was filed in District Court 34-3-02.

Assault-Harassment/Disorderly Conduct: On October 4th at 11:45 pm Any Travis of Hallstead PA reported that while at the Country Lounge Bar in Great Bend Borough, Daryl Ellis became threatening and tumultuous when being ejected from the bar. During the occurrence, Betty Ellis struck the face of Travis. Charges were pending for violations of PACC.

Burglary: Between September 28th and October 2nd, between 1 and 1:30 pm, one or more burglar(s) arrived at a location in Auburn Township and proceeded to enter the residence through an unsecured side window. Once inside, the burglar(s) proceeded to the basement where they removed a water filtration tank and a twenty food piece of copper piping. The perpetrator(s) exited the residence through a side door. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police.

Hit and Run: On October 4th at 2:30 pm police interviewed one Post Master Cathy Frederici of Gibson PA at the scene. Frederici advised that she witnessed a Silver, sedan style vehicle, strike a fence and a postal box on SR 546 in front of 7568 Sr 547, and flee east on that road. Frederici added that she only saw the operator for a brief time and described him as being a white man between 18 and 20 years old. No injuries were reported occurring during this collision. It was driven from the scene. Patrol of the area and direction the vehicle was last known to travel yielded negative findings of the vehicle.

Criminal Mischief: On September 27th a Simpson area man called the state police at Gibson and reported that a window had been smashed at a property that he owns located on Tirzah Road in Herrick township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

Crash: On October 3rd at 9:53 am James Henry of Montrose was traveling eastbound on Tr 718 in Jackson Township. At the time of the collision the roadway was wet from a recent rain weather event occurring. The vehicle was traveling east on TR718, drove off the right berm, and overturned. The driver reported that he encroached upon the right shoulder and slid off the roadway, overturning. He advised that he suffered no injuries during this collision. The truck was towed at the scene by Kozlowski Towing Co. A seat belt was in use.

Hit and Run: On October 3rd at 1:05 am an unknown driver was traveling north on Sr 81 in Lenox Township when he or she lost control of the vehicle, which exited the roadway from the east berm and traveled approximately 50’ before striking a Penn Dot sign. The vehicle then continued onto the exit ramp, and left the scene. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Burglary: On October 1st one or more person(s) forcibly gained entry through the bedroom window of a Lenox Township residence, and removed a jewelry box with various jewelry items, glass jars containing various amounts of change, and a pillow case from within. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Scattering Rubbish: On September 23rd between 6 and 6:15 pm several bags of residential trash were dumped at a location on Airport Road, at the Green Valley Mobile Home Trailer Park.

Criminal Mischief: On September 30th, between 1 and 2 pm the cab of a Massey Ferguson mowing tractor belonging to PennDot was entered. The glass in the instrument cluster was broken.

DUI: On September 30th at 2 pm Michael Groover of Susquehanna was traveling south on Sr 0171 in Lanesboro Borough when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle exited the roadway from the west berm and traveled 30’, then struck a guardrail with its front end. It then traveled over the guardrail and continued approximately another 75’ before striking a utility pole with the front end. The vehicle then rotated counter clockwise and traveled approximately another 5’ from the second impact point, coming to rest facing a northwesterly direction. Seat belt use was listed as “None used/Not applicable” for Groover and two passengers. Both passengers sustained minor in jury; Groover sustained injury of unknown severity. Members of the Susquehanna Fire Department assisted at the scene. AS a result of the investigation, Groover was arrested for DUI.

DUI: On September 28th at 10:50 pm Fernando Chipelo of New Milford was traveling north on Sr 11 in Great Bend Township when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle exited the roadway from the east berm and traveled approximately 175’ before striking a large rock. It then continued to travel north approximately another 65’, where it struck a guard rail with the front end, pushing the guard rail into a utility pole. It then rotated in a clockwise direction and traveled approximately another 70’, coming to rest partly in the center turn lane and the northbound lane, facing in a southeasterly direction. Members of the Hallstead Fire Department assisted at the scene. As a result of the crash investigation Chipelo was arrested for DUI. Seat belt use was listed as “None used/Not Applicable”; he sustained injury of unknown severity.

Crash: On September 30th at 1:45 pm Cody Kopcha of Noxen crossed the roadway on Route 29 in Dimock Township and struck a utility pole. Kopcha was utilizing a seat belt; he sustained minor injury.

Burglary: Between the 29th and 30th of September, unlawful entrance was obtained into a Thompson man’s residence, which was then rummaged through. Approximately $585.00 worth of valuables were stolen from the residence. The valuables consisted of the following: a 25 caliber COLT pistol, 3 pieces of jewelry, a bottle of vodka, and a bag of frozen chicken wings. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.

Theft: PSP Gibson is investigating an incident that occurred on September 29th in which unknown perpetrators stole a 55 year old West Chester man’s laptop, kindle, and back up hard drive from his vehicle in Jackson township. Anyone with information is requested to please contact the police.

Criminal Mischief: Between the 20th and 27th of September an excavator bucket that was left at a Pipeline Construction Site was damaged, appearing to have been shot at. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Underage Drinking: Four 20 year olds from Philadelphia were charged with underage drinking at a party located on Harmony Road in Great Bend Township. Summary charges of Underage Drinking Non-Traffic Citations were filed on all four persons.

Rape of a Child: John Katchmore of Hallstead was arraigned before District Justice Cordner in New Milford. Katchmore was charged with Rape of a Child, Aggravated Indecent Assault, and Indecent Assault. The alleged incidents of sexual abuse were reported to have happened during the years 2006 and 2009. The victim at the time was between the ages of 8 and 11 years old.

Anyone having information on any of these incidents is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.