It was quite business as usual at the November 5th meeting of the Montrose borough council. During the street department report, Mr. DiPhillips said that he would continue trying to get a price from Leeward, as far as the job discussed on South Main Street. The leaf collection was going well. Mr. Lamont opined that perhaps the borough could have started a little earlier. Mr. Reimel pointed out that there were early leaves and late leaves.

The truck was in the shop being built. A fireproof blanket was the first on Mr. DiPhillips “needs” list, for welding. The cameras were functional at the park, it was also noted. Signs were to be erected on the premises toward that effect.

Luther Giordano came before the board, stating that the zoning hearing board had no permanent storage facility for its documents. He was requesting before council that a secure cabinet be provided somewhere so that the documents could be stored and be accessible to the right-to-know officer. He said that several people had been of the opinion that the board would only meet three or four times a year, but this had not been the case. It was thought that a four drawer filing cabinet could be provided. Ms. Skinner asked if the board was going to consolidate any documents form the previous zoning hearing board. It was replied that this had not yet been discussed, but Ms. Skinner suggested that it be looked into.

It was stated that there would be a zoning hearing on the fifteenth of that month. This was to discuss a spigot situation.

Also, he wished to ask how council was doing with the new zoning. Mr. Reimel said that they now believed that by law council did not need to mail as much as was originally thought, as the regulation applied to properties within the D1 and M1, though there was still a 30 day wait period. Maps were being worked on. Ms. Skinner brought up the fact that a public hearing still needed to be held; it was confirmed that they still hoped this might be held in early December. There was some further discussion regarding requirements. The new zoning ordinance was advertised for public hearing on the 17th of December at 7:30 p.m. The ordinance was to be available for public review.

The contributions to the fire company and the library were discussed. The motion was made to contribute to the fire company $30,000 as budgeted, and to the library $1000 as budgeted.

Mr. Reimel requested that drug testing be discussed. He spoke of a woman from Kingsley who had experience with drug testing. In the past there had been an experience where they had to find a certified drug tester, and it had been discovered that some things were out of date. He suggested that the borough contract with the woman. A drug testing company had been in place for the CDL program, which had stated that they would come on site, which was what the borough contracted for with them. In the fine print, however, it was stated that there did not need to be someone put on site, and the closest places for testing were Scranton and Binghamton. Rather than someone driving a CDL person to one of the labs, this would allow them to have someone come on site. Currently there were two active CDL drivers. Normally anyone driving a borough vehicle needed to have a med card, though not necessarily a CDL license. The motion was made to contract with the woman to update policies and CDL requirements.

Mr. Lamont broached the topic of leaves again, saying that the borough had two years of not starting leaf collection until the end of October. Mr. Granahan said that during the storm he and others had been working on cleaning up. He stated that there were various options, one of which would be to farm out the leaf collection. His plan would be to have a rolling leaf collection throughout the month of October, especially as leaves didn't always fall at the same time. Alternately he said that maybe the council should take control of the matter, and schedule it. He didn't have anything against Mr. DiPhillips, who was only doing what he was trained to do. Mr. Reimel said that they had tried doing the collection earlier, but it led to hop skipping from property to property as the landowners would put them out at different times. Mr. Lamont opined that he didn't think it needed to be a set schedule, but he thought that as the leaves were starting to go down the street department could make a pass and get the leaves which were piling up. It was suggested that council talk with Mr. DiPhillips during the second month of September about taking care of the large piles, in the future. Mr. Lamont felt that Montrose was what, a mile long, so if Mr. DiPhillips hopped, skipped, and jumped for the first two weeks, people might put them out. There was further discussion on the subject.

Mr. Pickett had requested that parking and streets be discussed. Specifically, he asked what should be done about the east side of Grow Avenue. Signs had been put up, but the borough had gotten lax again. Wood was piled on the borough street, a truck was there etc. It was said that regulations had to be enforced. Mr. Lamont stated that he didn't think it was being done intentionally.

Mr. Pickett had also been asked, and in turn he asked Chief Smith, if they had ever given a jake brake citation. Chief Smith said that there had been people stopped and warned, but no citations. Mr. Pickett said that there had been multiple complaints brought before him, from those hearing the sound. It was suggested that this be better enforced, and that the police start talking to drivers.

An executive session was then held to discuss a personnel issue and pending litigation. The executive session ended about 8:34 pm. Mr. Lamont entertained a motion to recommend to the mayor that Sergeant Walker's temporary suspension be lifted and an indefinite suspension be put in place, pending the outcome of his criminal proceedings. No one made the motion at first, until Mr. Granahan, saying that he didn't think any of them wanted to make the motion, but it needed to be made, said that he would do so. The motion was carried.

Ms. O'Malley said that she was provided a pleading from the PUC regarding the UGI application, by the borough secretary. There had been a note attached asking if there was anything the borough needed to do. UGI Penn had come to an agreement with Leaterstocking, it was explained, to provide gas to the same area. However, the agreement was not approved by the PUC. UGI had put in an application to withdraw, and was given leave to do so.

Also, an individual had approached Ms. O'Malley and ask why the borough was not doing anything about various buildings in town which were residential in nature but appeared to be apartments with considerable numbers of residents in them. It was explained that a person had to come before council and let them know of the situation, after which they could send the zoning officer out. A resident had to either come to a borough meeting or contact the zoning officer, who could be reached at 278-2442 extension 4.

There was a proposed budget based on the previous year's millage available. It proposed roughly a mill and a half surplus. Mr. Reimel said that he would like to contemplate reducing the millage by one mill, or perhaps two. The 1% earned income tax was designed to take the place of property tax and phase it out. That was coming he thought, and he felt that the borough would be doing their duty by considering this action.

The Blue Ridge School Board did have a workshop on October 29, but because of hurricane Sandy, and a mixup on the district’s website, some people who might have attended did not. One who attended – by letter – was Priscinda Gaughan, who offered her resignation after 18 years of service, effective October 15.

The workshop apparently considered the only available candidate for the open seat from Great Bend/Jackson, Jennifer Merrell-Mess. At the business meeting on November 5th, when Ms. Merrell-Mess’s appointment came to a vote, Board member Shane Rumage expressed some concern that the Board needs to show more transparency in such things. While not opposing Ms. Merrell-Mess herself – he in fact voted to seat her – he objected to the process that was used to bring her appointment to a vote.

Board President Laurie Brown-Bonner accepted responsibility for the action. She said that she was pressed for time (the Board has 30 days to name a replacement) considering her attendance at an upcoming state school boards conference. She said that attorneys advised her that the public presentation and review of candidates for open seats on a school board, a procedure Blue Ridge has consistently followed in the past, is not necessary.

Ms. Merrell-Mess is the second new board member in 2 months (Michael Detwiler replaced Lavone Lewis last month). She is a graduate of Blue Ridge whose children attend the district’s schools. Following the vote, Ms. Brown-Bonner said that “nobody else is allowed to quit.”

New Board Member, Jennifer Merrell-Mess

The evening session actually began an hour early when members of the board’s Fundraising Committee gathered to continue deliberations. In fact, the first result of the committee’s operations took place at the business meeting when Student Representative Sawyer Dearborn drew a ticket from a vase awarding a $50 gift card from Price Chopper to Patty Cramer.

Outstanding Senior for October and Student Representative to the Board, Sawyer Dearborn

The Committee will continue to sell tickets for gift card drawings as well as the grand prize of a gas grill. A drawing for a $100 card from Rob’s Market will take place later this month, with subsequent drawings monthly. All tickets that haven’t yet won anything will be in the basket for the gas grill drawing at a golf tournament at Conklin Players Club on April 27. Ms. Brown-Bonner said that $200 had been collected so far.

The Committee proceeded to discuss plans for the golf tournament next Spring, an 18-hole affair for which the Committee hopes to see 36 teams of 4 each. Most of the plans so far are tentative, but members seemed to agree on a $75 charge for each player, which will include a meal. Ms. Brown-Bonner said the cost of the golf will be about $55 per player, for a net of $20.

The big money is expected to come in the form of sponsorships. Each Committee member was given a list of potential sponsors from area businesses. The Committee will also be developing gift baskets for auction, and deciding on prizes. Sponsors may be expected to pony up $75-$100 for either a tee or green sponsorship, with the name of the business prominently displayed on the course, as well as in a variety of district publications.

With the holidays fast approaching, most of the effort to find sponsors and players will commence in January. The Committee wants everyone to understand that the funds raised by the committee are for district students, to help support extracurricular activities, field trips and the like. The Committee tentatively decided that half of all contributions would be designated for scholarships, whether for college or further vocational training.

Once the business meeting was called to order, Middle School/High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski got to introduce 3 of his high-achieving seniors. Jessica Jhingoor wants to be an environmental lawyer, Sawyer Dearborn looks to be a physician’s assistant, and Jake Hinkley will attend East Stroudsburg to study for athletic training. Mr. Hinkley is the first Blue Ridge student to make the state cross-country championships 3 years in a row. Another student to be recognized, Shanyn Mattocks, could not attend.

Outstanding Senior for October and PSBA conference attendee, Jessica Jhingoor

Outstanding senior for November, Jake Hinkley

Ms. Jhingoor and Michael Gathany were also introduced to describe their experience at the recent state conference in Hershey sponsored by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association. They presented at the conference on school dress codes, and Mr. Gathany even said how much he appreciated the relatively lax dress code at Blue Ridge. They both exclaimed over the opportunity to meet students from all parts of the state. It was the first time that students from Blue Ridge had attended such a conference, and Ms. Brown-Bonner expressed her pride in their performance.

PSBA conference attendee, Michael Gathany

Mr. Nebzydoski then presented a certificate to Alicia Ross recognizing her commendation for instructional excellence by the Pennsylvania School Study Council (PSSC). According to its website, the PSSC “is dedicated to improving public education in Pennsylvania by providing up-to-date research information [and] professional development activities.”

Alicia Ross and High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski

Aside from the resignation of Ms. Gaughan and the seating of her replacement, the Board’s business agenda was fairly routine, including some policy changes, some personnel appointments and a student disciplinary action. One item that would have contracted for distance learning services with an outside firm was tabled. Superintendent Robert McTiernan said that the teachers’ union, the Blue Ridge Education Association (BREA), had some concerns about who would be doing the teaching under the program. The measure will be on hold until discussions with the BREA are resolved.

One of the policy measures defines the reporting responsibilities of the district’s tax collectors. Another new policy defines the competitive bidding process for goods and services to be purchased by the district. A third policy change clarifies some definitions of “harassment,” including bullying.

During his report, Elementary School Principal Matthew Button took the opportunity to thank the New Milford Rotary Club for the 9 years that it has furnished dictionaries to 3rd-graders. He also reported that the weekend backpack program began on October 26, and is providing food in take-home backpacks to as many as 125 students each week under the leadership of the High School Leo Club.

Mr. Nebzydoski said that Blue Ridge had been nominated for a $500 grant by Liberty Exxon for use in science, math and engineering. He said that the money would be used for equipment in robotics.

Mr. Dearborn, the Student Representative to the Board, reported a “very beneficial” reaction to the “Bring Your Own Device” program on campus. Students may use their own electronic devices – smartphones, tablets, pads, etc. – on the district’s wifi network for classwork. He – and Mr. Gathany – said that the laptops were often too clumsy for looking up something quickly. He said that he could easily look up class notes and homework for his advanced placement calculus class on his phone. The campus wifi network filters and restricts access to time-wasting social sites like Facebook and Twitter, in an attempt to focus student access on academic pursuits.

Ken Carey attended the meeting to thank the Board and the district for supporting the area Youth Soccer program. He said that this would be his last season, after 13 years, and the facilities that the district provides for play, practice and meetings were all made possible by the School Board.

With a difficult budget season looming, Ms. Brown-Bonner got her colleagues to agree to another workshop on the budget to be held on Wednesday, November 28. The Finance Committee will meet at 6:30pm, with the full board gathering at 7:30pm. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Blue Ridge School Board would have been on Monday, November 26, but school is out that day for the beginning of deer season. All meetings are held in the cafeteria in the Elementary School.

Oakland Borough council gathered for their monthly meeting and quickly set to the numerous reports that would fill the night. The parks committee was pleased to report that the Halloween parade had been a success. Four prizes had been awarded To the community children at the event. Jack Fabrizi was chosen as the cutest costume for his lion. Dylan Crawford turned heads with a scary zombie doctor. The most original costume of the day was Thomas the tank engine as worn by Liam Albert.

Jack Fabrizi, winner for cutest costume

Dylan Crawford, winner for scariest costume

Liam Albert, winner for most original costume

While boys swept the costumes the winning pumpkin carving was a great hello kitty as carved by Molly Griga. The event drew around 40 people, many in costume, and with its success it was decided to again hold a holiday decoration contest for borough homes to be judged December 15th. The top five houses will receive awards. The council seemed pleased to have such support from the community and commended the committee on their hard work.

Code enforcement officer Shane is busy with numerous projects. The bumper crop of campers sprouting up around town is only one concern.

It was explained that if there is more then 1 camper per lot, additional units would require the planning board to be involved. Many campers are not prepared for a true northern PA winter. As such it was mentioned that property owners are responsible for campers on their lots. Freezing septic tanks are a concern, as are water supplies via garden hose.

Secondary on the topic was tax assessments. Is the borough generating revenue on these units or are they exploiting a hiccup in the system? Sadly these units are only "on the books" if they have a sewage hook up. The lack of a borough tax assessor makes this a complicated issue which the council will continue to look into.

The mayor provided a report on police activity and with a heavy heart was forced to admit that driving under the influence is still a problem. He was glad to admit that in the last 60 days the number of unleashed dog calls had dropped and thanked the community for their continued support of the ordinance to leash and clean up after our canine companions. Feral and stray cats are still a concern. To assist with this it was discussed that contact had been made with a specialist who would assist in rounding up cats which had no owners. The intention is to have them made sterile and moved to shelters for adoption. Cats with no microchips or tags would be subject to this enforcement program. Additionally the police force is looking into new technology to allow the cruiser to access the J-net system for processing forms and summons.

Act 13 monies will be directed thru the water department via a motion made at the meeting. While water was open for discussion a question was raised about creating a skate rink at the park. This had been done in years past and if possible would be done again this year if the weather would cooperate. Next months meeting will be a public forum on the conversion to a "water authority" as well as the borough budget. All residents are invited to come out and have their voices heard on these topics. One council position is still open and the chair invited anyone with an interest to communicate it to the borough council for consideration.

DEEDS

William K. & Sandra L. Wilson to Robert J. Perini Jr. & Nicole R. Perini, in Gibson Twp., for $90,000.00.

Pamela Schleif, Thomas W. Rutherford, Mallory R. Phelan & Vivian Rutherford to Joseph S. Phelan & Mallory R. Phelan (fka) Mallory Rutherford.

Anne T., Patrick & Michael F. Dalton to John E. McNamara, in Silver Lake Twp., for $130,000.00.

John H. & Karlene S. Sorber to Sorber Family Trust, in Little Meadows Borough, for $1.00.

John H. & Karlene S. Sorber to Sorber Family Trust, in Little Meadows Borough, for $1.00.

John H. & Karlene S. Sorber to Sorber Family Trust, in Little Meadows Borough, for $1.00.

Robert C. Wert to PA Treatment & Healing, in Bridgewater Twp., for $30,000.00.

Vincent J. & Susan t. Chiarmonte to Vincent J. Chiarmonte, in Jackson Twp., for $1.00.

Poppy Acres Inc. to Robert & Carol Deeley, Paul Derkotch, Kathleen Beringer & Virginia Derkotch, in Franklin Twp., for $1.00.

Poppy Acres Inc. to Robert & Carol Deeley, Paul Derkotch, Kathleen Beringer & Virginia Derkotch, in Franklin Twp., for $1.00.

Poppy Acres Inc. to Robert & Carol Deeley, Paul Derkotch, Kathleen Beringer & Virginia Derkotch, in Franklin Twp., for $1.00.

Evelyn Baldock to Evelyn V. Baldock (trust), in Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

Carolyn A. & Thomas D. Finch to Thomas D. Finch, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Joseph Hunt (aka) Joseph J. Hunt & Lori Hunt (aka) Lori A. Hunt to Joseph J. & Lori A. Hunt, in New Milford Borough, for $1.00.

Esther Organisciak to Raymond W., Connie J. & Paul R. Organisciak & Melissa G. Hitchcock, in Bridgewater Twp., for $1.00.

Mabel B. Gardner (estate) to Francis J., Francis J. Jr. & Michael J. Pinkowski, in Bridgewater Twp., for $238,000.00.

James A. & Carol J. Moran to Dale Norton, in Silver Lake Twp., for $154,000.00.

Mario Fasullo (tdba) & Upstate Green Energy LTD to Oil & Gas Real Estate Experts LLC, in Thompson Twp., for $1.00.

Gertrude Lorraine Shebeck (estate aka) G Lorraine Shebeck and Diane & Craig Mickel to Diane & Craig Mickel, in Brooklyn Twp., for $1.00.

Francis J. & Patronella I. McDonough to Francis & Patronella McDonough Trust (trust), Patronella I McDonough (trust) & Francis J. McDonough, in Gibson Twp., for $1.00.\

Francis J. & Patronella I. McDonough to Francis & Patronella McDonough Trust (trust), Patronella I McDonough (trust) & Francis J. McDonough, in Gibson Twp., for $1.00.

Charles D. Melhuish to Darren C. Melhuish & Tiffany A. Baxter, in Liberty Twp. & Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Freida S. Hall (aka) Freida Stein Hall to Eric Hall, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Lars Jentsch, Tracy Feller, Lucas & Sofia Jentsch to Kurt A. & Amanda J. Frey, in Franklin Twp., for $20,000.00.

Peter Barletto (estate) to Steven N. Barletto, in Auburn Twp., for $1.00.

Carl A. Zukus & Gertrude E. Conigliaro to Carl A. Zukus & Gertrude E. Conigliaro, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth Bach Jr. (aka) Kenneth J. Bach Jr. & Samantha Bach to Kenneth J. Bach Jr. & Samantha Bach, in Auburn Twp., for $1.00.

Warner A. & Margaret L. Burdick to Lanesboro Borough, in Lanesboro Borough, for $18,000.00.

Nancy W. Ross to B Elliot & Kimberly D. Ross, in Herrick Twp., for $1.00.

Rachael E. Hummel to Luce Family Trust, in Liberty Twp., for $30,000.00.

Carol M. Luce to Luce Family Trust, in Liberty Twp., for $1.00.

Mary Madigan (fka) Mary M. Beikirch to Richard J. & Kathleen M. Allman & Julianne Madigan, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Florence Colwell to Judy A. Colwell, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Florence Colwell to Jerry C. Dayton, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Florence Colwell to Clarence L. Colwell, in Great Bend Twp., for $1.00.

Marion Little to Harold V. Hartley Jr. & Carolyn J. Hartley, in Lenox Twp., for $1.00.

Harold V. Hartley Jr. & Carolyn J. Hartley to Carol L. Hartley & William J. Maitland Jr., in Lenox Twp., for $1.00.

Judith C. Keepers to Judith C. & John Keepers, in Thompson Twp., for $1.00.

Pamela R. & William A. Schleif, Thomas W. & Gunta E. Rutherford, Mallory & Joseph S. Phelam & Vivian J. Rutherford to Harford Water Association Inc., in Harford Twp., for $1.00.

Diana & Clarence Stone to David A. & Gail M. Stone, in Silver Lake Twp., for $30,000.00.

Patricia L. Novicke-Schwoebel (aka) Patricia L. Novicke Schwoebel to Charles Steigerwald (aka) Charles Staigerwald & Alberta Steigerwald (aka) Alberta Staigerwald, in Brooklyn Twp., for $1.00.

John R. Williams to John R. & Lynda S. Williams, in Clifford Twp., for $0.00.

Michelle M. & Joseph Woody to Michelle M. Woody, in Forest City, for $0.00.

Kenneth Brian Hauser & Patti Ann Hauser to Elizabeth Lillian & Richard Rocco Donvito, in Clifford Twp., for $188,500.00.

Allen J. Brozonis to Scout Petroleum LLC, in Rush Twp., for $10.00.

William J. Justin to Elizabeth F. Romanski, in Lenox Twp., for $1.00.

Clyde Payne (estate) to Robert R. Decker, in Hallstead Borough, for $69,000.00.

Vincent J. & Sharon C. Dallessandro to Vincent J. & Sharon C. Dallessandro & Denise Haberle, in New Milford Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth W. Gumaer (estate) & Kenneth J. & Darlene M. Gumaer to Diane M. Darrow, in New Milford Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth W. Gumaer (estate) & Kenneth J. Gumaer to Patricia A. Baker, in New Milford Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth Robert Zahora (aka) Kenneth R. Zahora, Wendy D. Zahora (aka) Wendy Darlene Zahora & Richard Kenneth & Sally A. Zahora to Kenneth Robert & Wendy D. Zahora, in Liberty Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth Robert Zahora (aka) Kenneth R. Zahora, Wendy D. Zahora, Ronald George Zahora & Sally A. Zahora to Richard Kenneth Zahora, in Liberty Twp., for $1.00.

Kenneth Robert Zahora (aka) Kenneth R. Zahora, Wendy D. Zahora, Ronald George Zahora, Sally A. Zahora, Ronald Zahora & Richard Kenneth Zahora to Ronald George Zahora & Sally R. Zahora, in Liberty Twp., for $1.00.

Scott J. Weston to Scott J. Weston, in Auburn Twp., for $1.00.

George A. Knapp (estate) to Pamela S. Knapp, in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Pamela S. Knapp to Pamela S. Knapp (trust), in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Pamela S. Knapp to Pamela S. Knapp (trust), in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

Pamela S. Knapp to Pamela S. Knapp (trust), in Silver Lake Twp., for $1.00.

LTC Associates, LTC 1 & Forest City LP to FCNRC LP, in Forest City, for $5,750,000.00.

Mary Louise Keenan to Katherine & Thomas J. Keenan, in Middletown Twp & Choconut Twp., for $1.00.

Katherine, Thomas J. & Kylie Keenan to Mary Louise Keenan, in Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

Mary Louise Keenan to James M. & Thomas Curley, in Middletown Twp., for $1.00.

Michael L. & Angel J. Hawley to Michael L. & Angel J. Hawley, in Bridgewater Twp., for $1.00.

James J. Kerper (aka) James J. Kerper Jr. to Cabin Hill Holdings, in Liberty Twp., for $1.00.

Stephen Borick to Dawn & Darryl Jaget, in Herrick Twp., for $1.00.

Dawn & Jerry Jaget to Stephen Borick, in Herrick Twp, for $1.00.

William F. Leahy (estate) to Carolyn Giunta, Robert K. & Daniel R. Leahy, Justin C. Mascenik & Crystal Cook, in Jackson Twp., for $1.00.

William J. & Bonnie Weightman to John D. Castagna, in Herrick Twp., for $275,000.00.

Timothy D. & Kelly J. Gaughan to Timothy D. & Kelly J. Gaughan, in Hallstead Borough, for $1.00.

Melvin Graham Jr. & Dixie Graham to Melvin Graham Jr. & Dixie Graham, in Rush Twp., for $1.00.

Melvin Graham Jr. & Dixie Graham to Michael C. Graham, in Rush Twp., for $1.00.

Melvin Graham Jr. & Dixie Graham to Robert L. & Susannah Graham, in Rush Twp., for $1.00.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:05 a.m. on November 9, 2012: Elbert G. Allen, Bryan G Bodie, Jason J. Carroll, William J. Casey, Thomas D. Earley, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, Jennifer D. Hazlett, Melinda D. Holbrook, Keith R. Hurd, John J. Jenisky, Jr, Richard E. Kalinowski, Kay L. Knolles, Lee Labor, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Derrick J. Lezinsky, Megan L. Moriarity, Anastacia V. Poff, Joseph M. Rhodes, Perry Rohan, Bruce A. Schurr, Christie L. Sheptock, Desiree L. Shifler, David J. Shiner, Brian R. Shio, Tina M. Smith, Eric J. Snell, Justin S. Thompson, Earl H. Thompson, Jr, 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.

The Susquehanna County Commissioners announce the Courthouse will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 22 and 23, 2012 in observance of Thanksgiving. All court related offices will be available.

The Great Bend Borough Council came together for a second time in November, on the 8th, to nail down a budget for 2013. At their regular meeting a week prior they had some problems with Police Department Officer in Charge Jon Record’s budget requests and since he missed that meeting, they decided to hash everything out later. Which they did.

According to some long-time witnesses, the Borough in the past went some 10-14 years without a property tax increase. Since 2007, however, rates have nearly doubled, from 7.88 mills in 2007. Council members agreed that it was better to increase taxes a small amount each year rather than save up for a big wallop later on. So this time the increase will be one-half mill, to 14.38. They will also increase the levy for the fire company by one-quarter mill, which will bring it to a full mill for the firemen alone, still only about $7,200.

The natural gas “impact fee” payment, expected to be about $16,000 and due “real soon now,” helped out. Council decided to place all of it against the $80,000 loan they took out this year to pave Church street. The same can be expected next year.

Altogether the Borough expects to spend a total of $174,700 next year. $20,700 of that will be for the police, and that was where most of the debate occurred.

Mr. Record asked for an increase of $1 per hour for each of his officers, which would put him at $12.00 and the other four at $11.00 per hour. He also “suggested” an increase in hours to 30 per week, but Council didn’t want to go much above what they budgeted for 2012, so they kept hours at 20. There were extra expenses during the 2012 startup that won’t be needed next year. On the other hand, fuel costs are higher, and during 2012 they spent over $1,400 for fuel for the police car, as against a budgeted $600. Some supplies can be expected to be reimbursed by miscreants forced to pay costs. And Borough Secretary Sheila Guinan estimated that fines might bring in $700.

Council boosted the amount for street repairs and maintenance from $36,300 to $52,300, considering the loan, and that there are still some difficult areas on the Borough’s streets. In particular, Borough Mayor Jim Riecke asked Council to give special attention next year to Mountain Vista Lane, which he said wasn’t built properly before it was turned over to the Borough by the developer and is now sorely deteriorated.

There was some debate about a raise for Borough employees. Ms. Guinan said that she wasn’t looking for a raise. But Council decided to give a 50¢ per hour increase to Borough worker Dick Button. Everyone praised Mr. Button’s work, noting that he knows what needs to be done, and does it largely without supervision.

The new expense budget is just under 14% higher than for the current year. Council is depending on a modest increase in revenue from fines, plus another “impact fee” check, and the increase in property tax rates to balance the expenses.

The new budget will be available for scrutiny at the Borough office until next month’s regular meeting on December 6. All meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Borough Building at Franklin and Elizabeth Streets.

Harassment: On November 5th at 11:30 p.m., during an argument which occurred at their mother's home in Auburn Township, a juvenile male subjected his sister to physical contact. There was no injury. A non-traffic citation was filed at MDC 34-3-01 in Montrose, charging the perpetrator with Harassment. The investigation was to continue as of the time of report.

Disorderly Conduct: On November 5th at 11 p.m. Anthony Baker of the Hop Bottom area caused public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm while in Susquehanna Borough by acting in a manner which served no legitimate purpose to him, causing the Susquehanna County Ambulance Company and the state police to be summoned to the area. Charges were pending as of the time of report for violations of PACC.

Theft of a motor vehicle: On November 4th Brian Tyler reported that someone had stolen his Kawasaki Mule UTV model 610 from his property. The UTV had an estimated value of $5,000. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

Crash: On October 22nd at 3 pm Ellen Johnson of Thompson was traveling westbound on Snake Hill Road in Jackson Township approaching the intersection of Snake Hill Road and State Route 92. She had a stop sign at the intersection. At that time Rufino Garcia-Lucero of Scranton was traveling southbound on State Route 91, and Joseph Castellani of Dickson City was stopped at the stop sign of State Route 492 and State Route 92. As Johnson began to cross Sr 92 to go onto Sr 492 she was struck in the right side back door by Garcia-Lucero's vehicle. This caused Johnson's vehicle to spin approximately 90 degrees in a clockwise direction and roll onto Castellani's vehicle. It then proceeded to come down off of Castellani's vehicle, and land on its left side. Garcia-Lucero's vehicle spun approximately 180 degrees in a clockwise direction and came to a rest in the southbound lane, in front of Castellani's vehicle. All involved were utilizing seat belts; only Johnson sustained injury (of unknown severity).

Crash: On November 4th Andrew Newitt of Bayville, Ny was traveling north on Sr 91 in Great Bend Township when a deer ran from the median and into the left lane; his vehicle struck the deer. Both the vehicle and the deer went to the right shoulder and came to a rest. Newitt was not injured; he was wearing a seat belt.

Criminal Mischief: PSP is investigating an incident in which a Montrose woman's mailbox was damaged in Forest Lake Township, between the 3rd and 4th of November.

Criminal Mischief: PSP is investigating an incident in which unknown perpetrator(s) damaged the vehicles, mailbox, and flags of a Springville Township elderly woman, and a man. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the police.

Collision-Traffic: On November 3rd at 10:30 p.m. an unknown driver was traveling east bound on Forest Lake Road, Sr 3029 in front of a Jessup Township home. The vehicle exited the roadway after negotiating a left turn onto that road. It made frontal impact with the right side of the metal bridge railing. The 2012 Dodge 1500 truck, black in color with PA Registration #YXA6449, was towed from the scene to the intersection of Sr 3029 and Sr 706 by a personal vehicle. The operator of the vehicle fled the scene prior to police arrival, leaving it parked/disabled roadside. It was towed from the scene by JD's Towing. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

Possession of Unstamped Cigarettes: On November 2nd at 7:02 a.m. a traffic stop was initiated on a 35 year old man from Utica, Ny's vehicle for numerous traffic violations. Further investigation revealed that the defendant was in possession of 99 cartons of unstamped cigarettes. He was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Suzanne Brainard and remanded to the Susquehanna County Prison in lieu of $5,000 bail.

Criminal Mischief: On November 1st at 10:30 pm someone intentionally drove through the yard of a Lenox Township man, causing damage. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Burglary: Between the 30th and 31st of October, a man's Harmony Township hunting cabin was entered through the rear door, which was kicked in. A 2011 Polaris Sportsman ATV was stolen. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. The vehicle was Hunter Green in color.

Burglary: Between October 28th and November 2nd a Hallstead woman reported two acetyline tanks and a welder stolen from a Liberty Township garage.

Commercial Vehicle Crash: On October 30th at noon a Freightliner Cascadia was traveling southbound on Sr 171 in Thompson Township when its driver failed to notice low hanging phone/cable wires crossing the road and struck them. The wires broke and fell to the road, causing a disruption of phone service to a Thompson resident. Both the driver and a passenger were uninjured, and the vehicle was drivable.

Criminal Mischief: Sometime between the 26th and 29th of October a fence and erosion sock belonging to Barhite Construction were damaged while located at a well site on EMR Paintball property. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson.

Burglary: Between October 30th and 31st unknown burglar(s) broke into White's Garage in Clifford and stole four shotguns and two rifles. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Crash: On October 25th at 12:42 a.m. an unnamed driver of a Ford F350 was traveling South along Sr 81, at the same time as a Fire Truck was parked along the shoulder/left lane engaged in active emergency operation at MM 218. The unnamed driver fell asleep at the wheel and drifted from the right lane into the left, striking the fire truck with its driver mirror and trailer as it passed.

Lost or Missing Firearm: Between September 30th and October 19th a Washington, NJ man lost or misplaced a Ruger Blackhawk revolver at or around Sr 2073 in Gibson township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Accidental Death: On October 29th at 5:28 pm an 8 year old boy and his dad were outside of a private residence in Franklin Township. It was not raining at the time of the incident. A strong gust of wind caused a limb to break from a tree. The limb fell and struck the victim resulting in fatal injuries. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Underage Drinking: On October 27th a 17 year old Hallstead girl was cited for underage drinking at a Chase Avenue location in that borough. Charges were filed at District Court 34-3-02.

Burglary: PSP Gibson is investigating (as of time of report) a burglary that occurred at a residence on Glenwood Switch Road, in which the barn of a Paoli, Pa man was entered and two motorcycles (dirt bikes), motorcycle helmets, two hunting blinds, and various fishing tackle and tools were removed from within. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Burglary: Troopers from PSP Gibson responded to Global Tobacco Outlet in Great Bend Township for a report of an activated alarm on October 28th at 12:40 am. Upon arrival, troopers located Joseph Scheland of Great Bend outside a broken window. It was determined that he was attempting to gain entry to the business when the troopers arrived. Scheland was lodged in the Susquehanna County Jail on a Susquehanna County Probation detainer. He was to later be arraigned on burglary and other related charges.

Theft: PSP Gibson is investigating the theft of approximately $16,190 worth of jewelry from an Ararat Township location. The victim's son, she being a Union Dale woman, took the jewelry from his mother and sold it to the Cash for Gold Store in the Viewmont Mall. Charges were to be filed against the son in District Court 34-3-02 as of the time of report.

Disorderly Conduct: On October 23rd at 11:30 pm Jeremy Schwartzrauber and Dylan Moore of Montrose went to the Elk Lake High School and pulled up temporary posts set up for a track event at the school. Both accused were cited at District Court 34-3-01.

Theft from a vehicle: On October 25th the vehicle of a Clifford Township man was entered in that location, and numerous items stolen from within. The vehicle was unlocked at the time.

Underage Drinking: On October 25th at 8:30 a.m. three juvenile males consumed alcohol on Blue Ridge High School property. All three were cited for underage drinking.

If anyone had information regarding these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.