Susquehanna Depot Borough Council held their August monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 13th. It was an evening that changed “scorecards” for the line-up of lawmakers. With a prompt 7 p.m. start Council moved to take care of the swearing-in of its newest member, Kaylin Lindquist. Mayor Nancy Hurly performed the duty of swearing in Ms. Lindqust, who promptly received an enthusiastic round of applause from those on hand. Councilwoman Lindquist fills the vacancy created when Jamie Koziol moved out of the borough and resigned his seat.

Roll call by Secretary/Treasurer Margaret Biegert verified, in addition to those previously mentioned, the presence of council members Sue Crawford, John Hendrickson, Roy Williams, and Debbie Zayas, along with President Joe Varsik. Councilwoman Roberta Reddon was absent.

Upon approval of the evening’s agenda, council moved, by separate motions, to approve the minutes of four previous meetings: June 18, July 9, July 18, and August 4. Why so many Minutes requiring approval? Well, as President Varsik explained it, “A mistake was made in the bid package prepared by PennDOT for the amount of material needed in one line item. The mistake was found by one of the contractors bidding on the job. The contractor contacted the PennDot representative who prepared the bid package [and] this information was passed on to the borough the day prior to the bid opening. Both the borough solicitor and DCED advised the package should be re-bid.”

It was because of the foregoing scenario that the bid awarded at the meeting held on July 9 had to be re-bid at the meeting of July 18 and the bid opening and awarding at the August 4 meeting. Ultimately, the same contractor, Wayco, who had won the bid on July 9, won the job yet again on August 4. Ultimate cost for the job: $167,995.62. Each set of Minutes voted upon brought an identical outcome: unanimous approval.

Moving on to the Treasurer’s Report, Treasurer Biegert took the floor in explaining the borough’s current financial state of affairs. Council discussed the benefits of paying off the remaining debt on the borough building two years early. The chief benefit is that early payoff places the borough in a strengthened financial situation and frees up cash flow in next year’s budget. Council then voted unanimously to make the $20,350 payment from the Capital Reserve Fund, thereby paying off the borough’s 51% stake in the building. It was noted that the Library, which owns the other 49%, would have remaining debt reamortized and payments lessened. Meanwhile, the savings accruing to the borough from the early payoff will be repurposed toward the Department of Public Works (DPW) per unanimous agreement of the borough council in a separate motion.

Next up on the agenda were “persons requesting time on the agenda,” followed by public input. Since the person who had requested time on the agenda was not present to speak, and since public comment was so brief, it was only a couple of minutes until Council moved on to Committee Reports. Mayor Hurley provided the Police/Mayor’s Report, which listed some 59 incidents to which Susquehanna’s Finest responded in July.

Councilman Hendrickson provided the Emergency Management Report. His remarks were directed toward the topic of Training and the requirements necessary to fulfill that obligation.

Councilman Williams provided both the DPW and the Codes Reports. East Church Street, Second Avenue, and Third Avenue are each in some stage of prep for road work and final paving. Expect completion of the trio by the end of next week. Meanwhile, PAWC is readying to replace main water line infrastructure along Main Street from Franklin Avenue going west. Digging along Main Street will commence the second week of September. While an inconvenience, this is, he stressed, necessary infrastructure improvement which absolutely has to be done. Also mentioned for construction work along Franklin Avenue is the section between High and Vine Streets—work tentatively planned for next spring.

Councilman Williams noted that the borough is busily accumulating all the necessary road materials for next winter, even as borough vehicles are being readied for winter. A reminder to grass-cutters along borough streets, it is very important that grass cuttings be kept out of the streets, or more particularly, the storm drainage system. Those cuttings and yard debris do serious damage to the system and will result in fines for culprits so careless as to allow this to happen.

Finally, in New Business, President Varsik read a letter of resignation from Councilwoman Roberta Reddon. After a pregnant pause Councilman Williams motioned to accept her resignation, as well as to thank her for her many years of public service to the borough. Councilman Hendrickson seconded the motion, and council voted unanimous agreement.

Councilwoman Reddon began her career in public service back before the turn of the century. Along with service as a member of Susquehanna Depot Borough Council, she also served as its President until recently. She also served previously as Borough Mayor, as well as a stint as County Commissioner where she served as the Chairwoman of the Commissioners. Asked if this was the end of her public service career, Ms. Reddon would not rule out further service should the trumpet sound recalling her to duty. Meanwhile she remains cheerleader supreme for her beloved hometown, Susquehanna Depot.

Councilwoman Reddon’s resignation was the first, the last, the only New Business. At 7:25 p.m. there commenced an Executive Session for the stated purpose of discussing legal and personnel issues. An hour later, the borough’s solicitor made his escape and claimed there was light at the end of the tunnel. Well, maybe, but at 8:45 this reporter left the building for greener pastures offering productive pursuits.

Secretary Biegert, on the morning after, kindly provided the following narrative of what official actions Borough Council took at the conclusion of its marathon Executive Session. Motions made after session: Motion 1—to have curb-side appraisal for property located at 351 Prospect Street approved unanimously; Motion 2—to advertise demolition for property at 351 Prospect Street with a separate quote for demolition for property at 207 Euclid Avenue approved unanimously.

The next official monthly meeting for Susquehanna Depot’s “marathoners” is scheduled for the second Wednesday in September. Quite likely another council member—replacement to fill the vacancy created by Ms. Reddon’s resignation—will be hailed at that meeting too. Record-keeping readers should keep their pencils sharpened and next to the scorecard for next month’s addition to the on-field lineup. Susky Depot Hails & Farewells.

At the beginning of the August 11 Montrose School Board work session, a board of trustees representative from the Susquehanna County Library and Historical Society spoke before the board.  In 2006 the district had deeded six acres of land to the library, with a stipulation that if they didn’t build in six years it would revert back to the district.  The building wasn’t built before that deadline- fund raising takes time- but Mr. Ognosky had written a letter recommending this agreement be extended.  The deed, however, had not been changed, and this had become problematic for the library’s plans.  Ms. Boyce recommended having the school’s solicitor talk with the library’s solicitor to address the issue, and put the item on the agenda for the next meeting.  It was hoped, the trustee member related, that the project could be completed in two years. 

Mary Lee Fitzgerald and J. Martin Comey were on the agenda as well, representing the Adult School.  They came every August to report on the school.  Ms. Fitzgerald related that the school was very successful.  It was solvent, and even gave money back to community groups.  That entity’s treasurer then spoke.  He said that enrollment told the story.  In the fall of the past year, they had 810 students enroll.  In the spring of that year 999 students had done so.  The school had partnered with the theater on a film series, the proceeds of which the theater was able to keep to upgrade to a digital system.  Another film series was being planned. 

The board was thanked for their support for the project.  Mr. Wilcox, in return, expressed a desire to thank them.  He said that people had thanked the district for the project when it wasn’t their doing, it was a plus for the district. 

Ms. O’Malley had sent out annual e-mails and letters with the free and reduced food applications. 

Mrs. Boyce asked Mr. Powers to talk about how they were using data for schedules.  He related that they had PSSA Remedial prep math classes for seventh grade, and were loosely sorting incoming seventh grades into reading classes as well.  They grouped incoming eighth graders into PSSA prep classes, and had some who struggled in team instruction.  There was also an advanced group.  He said that these were PSSA remediation in name only, as they had instructional components.  Also, the Jr. High kids had been put into instructor led study halls. 

Mrs. Boyce spoke of the wellness policy, which needed to be updated annually.  The administrators felt that wellness was fostered in a variety of ways.  The food program was in compliance with federal regulations.  The state, it was further noted, had decreed that there were to be no more open food sale fundraisers - these were to be restricted. 

A visitor stood up wishing to go on record against eliminating the writing lab aide (which was on the meeting agenda).  It was her belief that the loss of any support position hurt the kids. 

During the regular board meeting, a motion was made to accept the resignation of Chris Caterson from his roles as Board President and School Board Director retroactive to July first.  Mr. Wilcox said that this was with regret, calling Mr. Caterson a great asset and saying that he thought all of the board members present had benefited from his being involved.  A motion was then made to appoint Mr. Wilcox as Acting Board President and Acting Policy Committee Chairperson until the board reorganization on December first. 

Ms. Homan and Mr. Wilcox were appointed to be voting delegates at the PSBA Delegate Assembly held during the School Leadership Conference in October. 

Various contracts and agreements were approved.  These included a contract with NHS Human Services, a letter of agreement with The Meadows, a Dual Enrollment Agreement with Lackawanna College, and a Tech Prep Articulation Agreement with Pennsylvania College of Technology.  Ms. Boyce noted the latter was a new program to them. 

Some extracurricular positions were acted upon, including the appointment of Jon Carpenter as the School Newspaper Adviser and Duane Benedict as the Yearbook Adviser.  Resignations were accepted from Quinn Dempsey as the Assistant Soccer Coach and Barry Wheaton as the Assistant Golf Coach. 

A number of first readings of policy revisions were approved.  Mr. Jordan expressed a desire to note that the board spent a considerable amount of time reading these. 

A motion was made to abolish the writing lab aide position at the Junior-Senior High School which had been spoken of by the visitor.  Ms. Boyce said that it was felt by the administrative team that this was not a position covered in the contract.  The closest thing to it was an instructional aide position, and the motion was to change to that title.  This would give the district more freedom, and would bring the job positions into compliance with the contract.  It was a title change, she asserted, not a salary change or hours reduction.  The position in question would cover in the library at times.  Ms. Boyce thanked her for her service thus far in the lab. 

Donna Fasler was appointed to a half-time French position, and Melanie Major to a half-time learning support position. 

Near the end of the meeting, a motion was made to appoint Mr. Gregory Scheer as a School Board Director representing region two.  Mr. Scheer, it was said, had expressed interest in service previously, and had sent a letter as required.  He thanked the board for the opportunity to submit a letter.  He had met with Ms. Boyce, and likened it to pilot training.  He had minor children in the district.  It was noted that Mr. Scheer was the only one who had expressed interest in the position at that time.  His appointment was motioned and approved until the reorganization meeting in 2014.  Mr. Wilcox congratulated and welcomed him.

Tri-boro residents may soon be heaving a long-desired sigh of relief.  For what has seemed like far too many years of annoyance vehicular traffic has been constricted through downtown Susquehanna. But according to PennDOT’s Transportation Construction Supervisor, Joe Salak, the completion of bridge work is in sight.  In a recent interview Mr. Salak expressed a high level of confidence that the projected completion date of October 2, 2014 will be met. 

Although traffic lane closures have restricted traffic flow to one direction at a time for several years, it was only on February 27, 2013 that the notice to proceed was issued for the bridge construction currently ongoing.  The cost of this construction contract was $2,313,000--money well spent to restore normal passage through town. 

The project is behind its original projected completion date because of unanticipated complications encountered as the project proceeded.  Generally speaking, those complications involved the proximity of the many buildings in downtown Susquehanna. Mr. Salak stated that this project’s unique features required the construction team to take particularly meticulous care in consideration of the many structures and Drinker Creek’s flow. 

The concrete has already been laid, Mr. Salak stressed; what remains is the fine detailed work of the roadway and curbing.  Traffic jams in downtown Susquehanna may be relegated to a thing of the past soon.  Mark October 2nd a red-letter day. For drivers traveling through Susquehanna life will then have one less hassle. 

Near the beginning of the August 14th meeting of the Elk Lake School Board, Dr. Cuomo introduced Nick Sracic of JCI, who had been with them from the beginning of the energy improvement process.  He wished to give Mr. Sracic the opportunity to share with the board. 

Mr. Sracic said that he believed it had been a year ago to date since he first spoke to them.  He spoke of the work that had been done, which included a lot of energy improvement work, including the boiler plant.  He said that the next two weeks would focus on finishing the unit ventilators, the school would be ready for students for the first day of school.  He felt that the work should be rounded out In September or October- at least until the natural gas came through.  Dr. Cuomo said that he had met with an engineer for the project from DDS along with their architect, and they had shared their preliminary plans on getting gas to the school.  They had discussed how they would get gas onto the property, how they would get it across the property, and where the hookups would be.  Their goal was to get the gas to the school as soon as possible, preferably before the frost hit the ground.  That meeting had been Tuesday.  Dr. Cuomo said they were moving forward with natural gas, which was a giant component of the project.  He called it a major undertaking, opining that the workers and the supervisors had been fantastic.  Dr. Cuomo said that they would definitely be able to start school on time.  There might be some second shift work after the school started, but nothing that would disrupt instruction.  Mr. Curley said that it was an amazing amount of work that had been completed.  Mr. Sracic spoke of a construction savings report, which would quantify savings above and beyond projections.  It was estimated that this might be possible by December or January. 

During the administrators reports, Mr. Mallery spoke about the goals for the coming year and new initiatives.  Mr. Mallery and Mr. Weisgold had worked the previous year on parts of the new educators assessment framework.  A weakness that had been identified was informational text.  He said that it would be a three year initiative, where they would identify and create standards of writing at each grade level in every classroom.  They would utilize Wednesdays for this.  Also, for the coming year the district would not get out early in March for graduation projects. The students would remain in school until 2 o’clock that day, and utilize some of the Wednesdays for graduation projects.    The CSIU Student Informational System was a major change.  Certain staff had been attending trainings.  That day, for instance, there had been one for the parent and student portal, which would replace ed-line. 

Mr. Mallery noted that he wanted to thank Mr. Stang, Mrs. Heed, Mrs. Anderson, and Mr. Anthony.  The last two had been working constantly over the summer. 

The corn sale was in place, thanks to Mr. Place.  Mr. Mallery said he couldn’t wait to eat some of the corn. 

Athletics for the year had just begin, and he said that there was a new system on-line for eligibility. 

Mr. Weisgold spoke of two new systems at the elementary to strengthen the curriculum.  He had set curriculum night for September 11th, at which parents could come in.  He would address the parents, after which the group would break down and go to meet their educators.  He wanted to say Mrs. Gesford had been invaluable in helping him with scheduling.  Also, he wanted to thank maintenance, who he said had done a great job, and had added new paint to the hallways. 

Mrs. Staats said that she was part of all of that, and “dittoed” what the other administrators had said.  Also a representative from the state had been in, and she loved where the new classroom was to be located. 

A technology specialist position was motioned on.  Dr. Cuomo said they had been trying to fill it over the summer.  He recommended Mr. Mark Fenton to the position, the salary and benefits of which Elk Lake would pay 75%. 

Athletic salaries were different, Mr. Mallery explained when these positions came up on the agenda.  Because the school was in a contract year, and the contract had not been settled, the salaries of athletic positions couldn’t be set by years of service.  So what they were doing, then, was honoring the years of service and paying what the positions had made the previous year.  The positions were then reviewed, including four new staff members.   

There were two items under the Capital Project Payment agenda item.  One was to the company that provided the fuel tank and the fuel.  The second payment was to JCI. 

Dr. Cuomo spoke about conference travel meal reimbursement.  When staff traveled for a conference, reimbursement had been set at $5 for breakfast, $10 for lunch, and $15 for dinner.   That had been the rate, he said, he thought since he started.  He recommended raising each, by $5 a piece. 

A Leatherstocking Easement Agreement was motioned on.  Dr. Cuomo had met with a representative of DDS, a Leatherstocking subcontractor.  They had driven around to look at where the gas line was to come into the school , and how it would connect with the various buildings.  The company had asked for a 30 foot road easement agreement, which would run from the stop sign near the fuel tanks to the first driveway.  Dr. Cuomo asked that the board approve the concept of the easement, subject to review of the district’s solicitor and administration.  He wanted the company to know that the district would be open to the concept of an easement, but there was some language which they wished to review. 

Mr. Place said that there had been a couple tragedies in the Elk Lake family, one member had lost a home in a fire.  A retiree had also lost a family member.  He asked that they be kept in the board’s thoughts and prayers. 

A visitor asked about the royalty payments.  It was responded that under the treasurer’s report this information was available for public view. 

The meeting of the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center board opened shortly after the other closed.  Near the beginning of the meeting, it was announced that Sherrie Bazin had resigned from her position as LPN Program Coordinator.  Dr. Cuomo recommended that they accept the resignation with regret.  He said she had been very important to pulling the program together, and he spoke highly of her, stating that she had been very important to the center and the community.  He thanked her and wished her the best in her future endeavors. 

Since Mrs. Bazin was resigning, he explained, Dr. Davis had spoken to the nursing board and they knew how they needed to move forward.  An LPN Coordinator was needed, and he recommended posting the position.   In the meantime he asked the board to come back on August 25th for the purpose of hiring.  This would give the person who was hired enough time for two weeks notice.  In the interim, he recommended the appointment of an interim LPN Coordinator.  They were hoping the permanent person would be on site no later than September 10th.  Mrs. Rebecca Drost was recommended to fill the position until the permanent LPN Coordinator could be hired.  Mrs. McGee asked if there was a willingness of the temporary coordinator to stay on if the position weren’t filled as quickly as expected.  She had indicated that she was willing to help out as necessary, Dr. Cuomo replied, but had also indicated that she didn’t want it to last too long.  Another staff member was to help her out.   

A visitor spoke up who had a question;  she was one of the students currently in the program.  She was concerned that the program would be in jeopardy for her graduation date.  Dr. Cuomo replied that this was a very valid question.  His number one concern was for the students and participants.  The last thing the district wanted to do was jeopardize that, he asserted.  By making the appointment, however, they were taking the necessary steps required by the state to fill the role.  There was to be no interruption in program operation.  They hoped to have the personnel on board to continue the program and not interrupt student learning.  The visitor said they had been getting  a lot of dissenting information, and she was concerned because she had given up her life for a year.  Dr. Cuomo reiterated their intent to move forward in a way that the students’ plans would not be interrupted. There were already people who had expressed interest in the position, he noted.  There had been some changes planned anyway, but at that point their goal was that student education would not be impacted and their future goals would be pursued on the time line expected. 

As a student class, another visitor said, they encouraged the board to carefully examine the regulations.  They didn’t want anyone to lose their license. Dr. Cuomo said that he believed dropping two of the courses had come at the recommendation of the current LPN coordinator.  He fully agreed with the visitor, about considering regulations. 

Mr. Mark Fenton was again recommended to be the Technology Specialist, with 25% of his salary and benefits coming from the career center. 

Mr. Curley announced a board meeting for August 25th at 7 pm.  The meeting was adjourned shortly thereafter.

Think living is expensive now? It could become even more costly if Lanesboro taxpayers have to pay for the dead also. That befuddling bombshell landed unexpectedly at Lanesboro Borough Council’s August monthly meeting, causing expressions of shock, dismay, and outrage.

Present for the Tuesday, August 12th meeting were Council members Dan Boughton, Regina Dilello, Dale Rockwell, Jason Fissel, and David Glidden, along with Mayor Chris Maby and Police Chief Jim Smith. Councilman Tom Nitterour and Secretary/Treasurer Gail Hanrahan were absent. Vice-President Dan Boughton called the 50-minute meeting to order promptly at 7 p.m.

After perfunctory approval of the Minutes from council’s last meeting, held on July 9th, Mayor Maby read the borough’s correspondence, and VP Boughton read Council’s resolution to fill the council seat vacated by Councilman Todd Glover. Upon passage of that resolution Council agreed to immediately take up the duty of filling the vacancy created by Mr. Glover‘s resignation. Having properly advertised the vacancy and receiving only one letter of interest and resume for the position, Council members reviewed the qualifications of said candidate and voted unanimously to elect him. Welcome to Ed Arzoulian, newest member of Lanesboro Borough Council. Mr. Arzoulian will fill the seat through the first Tuesday in January of 2016 in accordance with the Commonwealth’s Borough Code. Mayor Maby immediately invited Mr. Arzoulian to step forward and join Council in its continuation of the meeting.

As per the next item on the agendum, Bill Kuiper, speaking on behalf of the Lanesboro Cemetery Association, was granted time to speak. The object of his request was to inquire as to the borough’s interest in taking over the care and maintenance of Lanesboro Cemetery. Council expressed its united and immediate response without equivocation, “We’re not in the cemetery business, and we’re not interested in getting into the cemetery business.” “Well, that’s unfortunate,” Mr. Kuiper responded. He went on to explain that the Lanesboro Cemetery Association was down to its last $15,000, and with annual maintenance costs running five to six thousand dollars, he and the Cemetery Association could read the handwriting on the wall. There were only two members beside himself who showed up at the last Association meeting. And with only two plots sold in the last year there wasn’t a whole lot of income from new “customers.” Additionally, with the continued suppression of interest rates in the seventh year of the Greater Depression, the Cemetery Association has suffered the natural result of the Federal Reserve’s disastrous economic policies: an inability to earn a reasonable rate of return on capital.

Mr. Kuiper’s bomb shell was a statement to the effect that if Lanesboro Borough Council did not take over the care and maintenance of the cemetery voluntarily, then the soon-to-be-dissolved Cemetery Association would sue Lanesboro to force the municipality to do that which it refused to do voluntarily. To drive home his point, Mr. Kuiper produced a copy of “the law” under which he intended to sue the borough.

For legal beagles interested in the details, the law referenced by Mr. Kuiper reads in part, “Whenever any burial ground, incorporated or unincorporated, is being neglected so as to become a nuisance, the court . . . may direct that such burial ground be placed in the care of the borough. . . .” Mayor Maby and Council Vice-President Boughton strenuously indicated that the matter would be reviewed by the borough’s solicitor, Attorney Myron DeWitt to determine how the borough would proceed. Mr. Kuiper, having completed all that he could complete at this meeting, departed posthaste. Obviously there will be much, much more to this story over coming months.

Public input dovetailed nicely with an update on the Streets Report. A Side Avenue resident inquired as to when work would commence on what now passes for an unforgiving excuse for a road through which even professional drivers would it a challenge to traverse. Mayor Maby explained that the state STILL has not released the funds from the May 2013-approved street grant. Nevertheless, the borough is aware of how desperate the situation has become on Side Avenue and Council will have Harmony Township’s road crew begin patching as soon as humanly possible.

With borough council members cognizant of winter’s approach a motion was approved to advertise for quotes on other necessary road repairs. Councilman Rockwell agreed to coordinate the road work being done at the intersection of Jefferson and Main Streets; and it was noted that roadwork at the base of Grand Street had been completed.

Chief Smith provided the Police Report for the month of July. Among the lowlights of community crime was one each of the following: criminal mischief, harassment, noise complaint, suspicious vehicle. Police made 67 traffic stops in the borough, resulting in the issuance of 39 citations and 28 warnings. Lanesboro PD hours for the month of July totaled 220, with 27.5 of those contract hours for Thompson, with 10 hours billed for the Thompson Fire Department Picnic. Chief Smith’s report also listed a barking dog complaint, “unfounded” he noted, since the dog exited the area (Went on the “lam?”) before police arrived on-scene.

Chief Smith also noted that he is interviewing a candidate for Lanesboro PD employment (90-day probationary period required). The new officer will be needed because Officer Rhonda Smith is currently on administrative leave. The Chief does have a bit of a balancing act to perform in the near-term as school is about to open. But patrol hours will be covered, he stressed.

During the Parks & Recreation Report bids for property mowing and upkeep were opened. The borough had received two bids. The first opened was from Stony Mountain, bidding a charge of $900 for EACH time the firm maintained the borough’s eight properties. The second bid, submitted by Dan Boughton, was to charge a TOTAL of $1,400 for maintenance/lawn care of all eight of the properties for the time period of August 12 to November 30, 2014. With VP Boughton abstaining from the vote, Council otherwise agreed unanimously to accept Mr. Boughton’s bid for the maintenance and lawn care duty.

Lanesboro resident Amanda Cook reported there were no rentals upcoming for the Community Center. She further related an anecdote concerning a recent renter, who had expressed discontent; but the complaint had been investigated, found to be unsubstantiated, and the complainant mollified. Miss Cook also suggested that the filling of the vacancy on borough council warranted a new photo for the borough’s website. Council agreed and designated September’s meeting as the date for the group photo.

At 7:50 p.m. Regina Dilello moved for adjournment, VP Boughton seconded, and Council unanimously agreed. Next meeting will be on the second Tuesday in September, when hopefully, more light will shine.

At the August 7th meeting of the New Milford Borough Council, the resignation of Mr. Michael Dopko as zoning codes officer was accepted. It was suggested by a council member that they send him a thank you for his many years of service.

Ms. Lempke said she read in the newspaper about the concerns regarding whether the pool would be open another year. She questioned if that was something that had just come up, and wondered over the purchase of a robotic vacuum for the pool. Mr. Carey said that if they’d used the filtration system as a vacuum system, the pool wouldn’t have finished the season. They had purchased the smallest unit they could for the pool as well. If they had looked at a filtration system that could also be a vacuum it would have significantly increased cost; as was they could get estimates on just a filtration system. They had pursued the most cost efficient option; Mr. Ainey cited that in the long term they had saved $1,100. Mr. Cary stated that the Park and Recreation Board met every fourth Monday of the month, and suggested that anyone could feel free to attend.

It was announced that a hearing pursuant to zoning ordinance was scheduled for August 26th at 6 pm regarding the Monteforte complaint.

Council had received notification that the 2014 upset tax sale was scheduled for Monday, September eighth.

The Historical Society and Free library Association had written a letter to municipalities to raise awareness of the services the association provided to local residents. Mr. Carey breezed over some of the programs the letter outlined. The Association was offering to send representatives to the municipal meetings if council so desired. The letter also related that it had been necessary to reduce their hours of operation.

The Susquehanna County Recreation Center had sent a mailing asking every entity to make a $500 donation toward the feasibility study. There was a list of those who had already supported it. The mailing related that it was uncertain where the facility would be located, though a land donation might influence this decision. Mr. Ainey noted that the borough had just under ten acres that they were never going to use. He said that he wouldn't hesitate to donate it to someone while retaining the mineral rights. Someone asked about the $500 donation. Council decided against that as of that time, though it was suggested that if they did decide to offer to donate the land it would be worth more than that. Mr. Ainey asked if anyone else had an idea for that land, opining that the borough would want to do something recreationally oriented with it. He made a motion that they contact the organization planning the facility to show their interest in possibly donating property.

A letter had been received from Representative Sandy Major, regarding a letter the borough had written in opposition to the potential legislation which would mandate contraction with two codes officers. The bill had still not been formally reported on at committee, it said, along with further discussion. Representative Major had provided a copy of the letter to the chairman. She said she would keep their concern in mind if and when the bill was brought before the House.

The previous Tuesday night had been the National Night Out, and Mayor Smith said that it had gone very well given the weather. He had been told by a few of the officers that they appreciated the borough letting them use the park. He said he would like to see it become bigger in the future. It was pointed out that there were other groups who were set to come, but hadn't because of the weather. It was suggested that perhaps the event could also have been advertised better. The mayor said they had some nice ideas, some nice things were done. He wanted to thank Council for allowing them to come in and do that.

He also said that he had heard a lot of positive feedback about the natural gas meeting Monday night.

There had been a question raised at a previous meeting about the north end of Church Street, where Vestal Asphalt sealed previously. Mr. White had gone and looked at it, and said that they had sealed one section and then overlapped. He had spoken with one representative, and told him they had received some complaints on that section, and asked him to come and look at it. The street was covered in that location, but unevenly.

During the Planning Commission portion of the meeting, it was stated that Carson had filed the application. Council had to wait then to see if they would receive the grant.

There had been only one inquiry regarding the office space the borough had for rent, Ms. Hine related, but the woman had wanted a waiting room (which wasn’t there).

There was a discussion regarding the natural gas conversion. It had been suggested in the past that perhaps gas lamps could be put into the park. This needed to be looked into further before a commitment letter was signed.

On July 23rd the American Lung Association had come and done a presentation in the pool park. The representatives had given the borough 10 signs, which were to be put up the following weekend. The signs declared that there were young lungs at play. They wished the park to be a tobacco free area. Ms. James suggested that signs should also be hung in the men’s and women’s rooms. Some were slated to be hung in the Midtown Park as well.

In reference to the sidewalks in town, those involved with Economic Development were waiting for the comprehensive plan. It was noted that there would likely also have to be at least one town hall meeting.

It was asked if all of the police officers were still employed. One had been arrested, and Mr. Ainey thought that if the officer were still employed they might want to have her under suspension. Mr. White didn’t know if this particular officer had been working in the borough in a while anyway.

Mr. White spoke of the stormwater drainage and the CDBG project. It was 95 or 96% done, he stated, reviewing various details, though if it rained hard it might wash materials back down again.

A resume had been received regarding the codes/zoning officer position. An interview had been done that day. It was stated that the man was a very impressive candidate. He worked for COG, and as a codes officer. Mr. Ainey said they hadn't known that they did codes over there. He also called the candidate very professional, and said he thought all three on the personnel committee thought he was worth the salary increase he was requesting. It was recommended, then, that council hire Gregory Scheer at a rate of $25 an hour. This motion passed.

Mr. Ainey made the motion that they terminate the employment of Amy Hine as the deputy codes officer. Ms. Hine, far from being hurt, uttered an audible “yes”, and quipped that she wasn't opposed. Mr. Smith asked why they would have to terminate her. The attorney had said that there was a conflict with her being the zoning board secretary and the zoning officer. Mr. Smith asked what would happen, though, if the newly appointed zoning officer went on vacation for two weeks and something needed to be processed while he was away. Mr. White suggested they could appoint someone anytime someone went on vacation, and Mr. Ainey suggested that they could come up with a process.

Mr. Ainey said that he wanted to call attention to the PA Planning Code section 907. He wanted everyone to look at the zoning hearing board’s budget and google that planning code, and then they could discuss it after everyone did some research.

There had been a work session where they discussed the international property maintenance code. The discussion at that time was that the council felt that they didn't want that code. So the suggestion was that they not do anything with it, and when they did the comprehensive plan update, that could address some of the issues as far as property maintenance. These could be put in the zoning code. Ms. Cosmello said that the night they met with Carson he had stated that the borough did not need IPMC.

Council spoke briefly about the event that previous Monday- the natural gas vendor fair. Mr. Ainey felt there was a good turnout, and said there had been 36 properties reflected at the meeting that hadn’t filled out applications previously. They had 25 commitment letters. Leatherstocking had changed the date these needed to be in by to January 1st of 2015. Mr. Carey wondered if, as a community they showed the commitment letters by October 1st, Leatherstocking might move ahead sooner.

In one way or another, roads were the focus of attention at the meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors on August 12th.  There were, however, other minor disasters that made a show.

The Supervisors opened bids for a project to renovate Goff Road.  One, from a local contractor, did not have a clearly defined bid price and so was eliminated.  The low bid was incomplete, lacking a bid sheet and other documentation.  So the Supervisors awarded the work to Barhite Excavation for a total of $10,750.  The project was thought too big for the township crews to handle and still be able to deal with normal summer maintenance.

Trees overhanging the roads cause problems in many ways, so the Supervisors examined bids by 2 contractors to trim along 3 roads, remove some whole trees, and perform some cleanup from the recent tornado damage.  The work will go to Four Seasons Tree Service and Landscaping of Scranton.  The Supervisors agreed to allocate up to $10,000 for the work, to be paid at the hourly bid rate of $125.99.  The contractor will be asked to coordinate with the pipeline companies to determine the locations to be addressed.

The tornado that took out a few barns and sheds in the Kingsley area – not to mention a days-long area power outage – occasioned a disaster declaration, which will allow the township to recoup some of its expenses.

There will be no recompense for the repairs to the sewer system that broke down in the Tingley Lake area over the Independence Day holiday weekend.  The bill list showed at least $5,000 spent for excavations and sewer line cleaning.

Over $23,000 was expended from “impact fee” money in July, mostly for road materials.  The impact fee account is replenished annually by funds paid to the state by the natural gas exploration companies and distributed to the counties and municipalities.  Harford’s account still shows a balance of almost $343,000.

The damage caused to School Street in Harford village last year by a logging truck equipped with chains will be repaired as a result of a settlement with the trucker’s insurance company.  The street will get a micro-paving treatment followed by tar and chips.  Former Supervisor Garry Foltz said that he had been contacted by the insurance company during the investigation.

An observer with an interest in the safe movement of school buses, asked about the status of the bridge over Butler Creek at the end of Lower Podunk Road.  Supervisors Conrad Owen and Doug Phelps said that they are trying to get some answers from PennDOT about increasing the permitted loading capacity of the bridge, now only 4 tons and too low for legal use by a school bus.  The bridge recently received some temporary repairs at a cost of some $15,000; the township is seeking grants to help with a more permanent replacement.

The Supervisors gave final approval to 3 ordinances that rescind the township’s participation in the county Council of Governments (COG) in favor of an agreement with the JHA Company, a local engineering outfit that is offering its services to municipalities to supplant the code and sewage enforcement services of COG.

The township is still in discussions with its insurance company trying to have dismissed a lawsuit related to the injuries caused by some bulls that got loose during the Harford Fair 2 years ago.

And Mr. Foltz continues his campaign against his former colleague, Supervisor and township Secretary Sue Furney.  Commending the minutes of the July meeting for including public comments, he asked if this would be the policy for the future.  Ms. Furney replied that if she is asked by her colleagues to include something, she would.  Mr. Foltz for some reason presented a copy of minutes from Old Mill Village.  Ms. Furney protested that she has nothing to do with their minutes.  Mr. Foltz persisted in asking why public comments cannot be routinely included in the minutes.

So it goes.

The next meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2014 beginning at 7:00pm at the township building on Route 547.

The title may sound like a truism. Every Miss America contestant jumps through the mandatory hoop of wishing world peace; Christmas brings tidings of peace and good will; and peace is the voiced goal of every tin-pot dictator and pacifist. But Oaklanders are independent, self-reliant types who give expression to peace on multiple other levels.

Oakland Borough Council came together for their monthly meeting at 7:02 p.m. on Thursday, August 14th at Lanesboro’s Community Center. Present for the meeting were Councilmen Dave Trevarthan, Jack Agler, Gary Boughton, Nelson Towner, Doug Arthur, President Brian Rhone, Secretary/Treasurer Flo Brush, and Mayor Ron Beavan. Councilman Eric Page was absent.

Council dashed through their routine monthly motions before finally taking some extended time to examine the Police Report presented by Mayor Beavan in his Mayor’s Report. Mayor Beavan, having arrived half a dozen minutes late, was literally recognized to speak as he walked through the door. Nonplussed and being well-prepared, he made distribution of the Police Report and commented on the overall pacific nature of life in Oakland. The road warriors (four-wheeler youths) had been tamed and were continuing to mind their “p’s” and “q’s.” And only 17 incidents were documented on the July Police Report!

As Councilmen reviewed the report, it became clear that, in fact, there was only a baker’s dozen of incidents within the borough, as Oakland Police had responded to four incidents in surrounding municipalities--not Oakland. Of the 13 borough cases, three pertained to simple traffic stops, one to an erratic driver, one to a burglar alarm sounding, one to a barking dog, and one a “miscellaneous” event. The more serious reported crimes in the borough were incidents of criminal mischief (3), harassment by communication (2), and disorderly conduct (1). “Things are peaceful,” opined Mayor Beavan.

Next up, President Rhone had a short, sweet Codes Report: “No major changes.” Monitoring is ongoing at one particular property. And the bank which has foreclosed on a troubled property has finally gotten around to having the property’s lawn mowed. While it’s nice they finally did it, it’s unfortunate the job performed is of such poor quality, Mr. Rhone said in words to that effect. Nevertheless, at least it finally got done and life is peaceful on the Codes front--for now.

The Parks Report provided Councilman Boughton an opportunity to explain that not all was at peace in the borough’s park. Mr. Boughton’s observation of evidence indicated that a bear, having intruded in the borough’s park, had explored the contents of garbage cans at the park. Garbage is now strewn helter-skelter. Councilman Boughton suggested council and volunteers get together to do the necessary clean-up. He also reported that the garbage cans were “destroyed” and would have to be replaced. Whether “the bear” or juvenile delinquents are culpable, he could not be certain.

Councilman Arthur observed that “he liked to watch bears, but only from a safe distance--not as they saunter through the borough.” He and others shared a recent anecdote of five boro boys with flashlights chasing a bear through Oakland. Fortunately for the boys they never cornered or caught the bear in their pursuit. Hopefully they’ve had a “talkin’ to” and won’t be repeating their bear-chasing exploits. Otherwise things might not end so peacefully.

Councilman Boughton also explained in his Parks Report that work on the faltering retaining wall had not yet been started, let alone completed. A question concerning construction had arisen, and until he has a definitive answer, work cannot proceed. Council agreed that the work must be completed as soon as possible and the construction question will be resolved “very soon” so all necessary work on the retaining wall can be finished.

Under Old Business, President Rhone reported that his previous efforts concerning construction of a “Welcome to Oakland Boro” sign at the end of the bridge had not panned out. However, he had another avenue to pursue and would report back to council next month, hopefully with more felicitous news. Also reported under Old Business were the deposit of the PUC check in the Capital Reserve Fund, and the sending of a letter to PennDot regarding the problems of subsidence and potholes on State Street in the stretch of blocks from Chestnut to River Street. Council took note, with a modicum of pleasure, that PennDot had just recently done quick-fill work on State Street’s potholes.

Under New Business, Secretary Brush read a letter from the PSAB (Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs) advising the borough of a newly proposed rule which would, if effected, expand EPA and Army Corps of Engineers regulation of “water” under The Clean Water Act. Councilmen and Mayor Beavan discussed the issue at length and identified some of the many problems the newly proposed rule would create for Oakland borough.

For readers unfamiliar with the newly proposed rule, here’s a primer. The EPA’s website states that “streams” that could be covered by this rule include “a drizzle of snowmelt that runs down a mountainside crease, a small spring-fed pond, or a depression in the ground that fills with water after every rain and overflows into the creek below.” According to the EPA, 59% of the “streams” the agency may claim to regulate are not always wet. The EPA states that these places often only become wet after rain events and in some cases are so tiny or temporary that they don’t even appear on maps.

Mayor Beavan explained how federal bureaucratic authorities had already complicated life for Oakland Boro by requiring frequent costly and burdensome tests on potable water to prove its safety. “If EPA gets this rule through,” he said, “It will be able to regulate every mud puddle in the borough and force us to pay for permits to ask to do anything regarding the least change or cleaning of any ditch.” So it was clear that Oakland wishes to be left in peace to make common-sense local decisions unhindered by a distant federal government unfamiliar with local circumstances.

With Borough Council and Mayoral sentiment unanimously and adamantly opposed to the federal government’s power grab through the EPA rule, council passed a resolution stating its opposition. Secretary Brush was directed to so notify both U.S. Senators and House Representative Tom Marino of the borough‘s position on this issue.

Councilman Doug Arthur requested a short Executive Session (with no official action to be taken afterward). So ended the regular meeting at 7:50 p.m. The next meeting of Oakland Borough Council is scheduled for the second Thursday in September at the Lanesboro Community Center. May peace continue to break out in Oakland.

Theft from Motor Vehicle: Between the 3rd and 4th of August, a resident living on SR 374 reported that someone entered two of his vehicles in his driveway. Both vehicles were unlocked. He reported the following items missing: Sig Sauer pistol in 45 ACP, Savage 17HMR rifle, Tomtom gps unit, dell laptop computer, titanium wedding bands (quantity 2), $500 cash, a cell phone charger, a pink camouflage pocket knife, and a wallet containing his driver's license.

Criminal Mischief: Someone struck the bottom panel of an overhead garage door in Jessup Township, causing damage to the door panel between July 28th and August 11th.

Burglary/Trespass: Between July 30th and August 15th a Great Bend Township residence was entered by means of a door on the structure. Once inside the residence a bottle of dog yeast was taken without the victim's authorization. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

Crash: On August 15th at 7:45 am Taylor McKeeby of Montrose was traveling south on Sr 29 in Dimock Township when, as her vehicle was approaching a crest and curve in the roadway it went into the oncoming lane and back into the south lane, spinning clockwise and impacting an embankment. The vehicle came to a rest facing a northerly direction on the embankment. Springville Volunteer fire company assisted at the scene. The operator was not injured in the incident; a seat belt was in use.

Retail Theft: The police arrested David Calla of Hallstead for reaching through the drive-thru window of the Great Bend Sunoco and stealing a pack of cigarettes on August 13th at 1 am.

Crash: On August 9th at 9:30 pm an unnamed juvenile was traveling in a south-eastern direction on SR 2014 in Clifford Township when his vehicle failed to negotiate a right curve in the roadway, traveling off the shoulder of the highway, striking a tree, and coming to a rest. The youth was not injured; a seat belt was in use.

Criminal Mischief: A Harmony Township man related that between the 11th and 12th of August his mailbox had been damaged. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

Theft/Criminal Mischief: Guild Flag Stone of Harford and Lopke Stone of Harford discovered damage done to equipment at the Lopke/ODell Quarry in Harford Township. Taken at the time of this incident was a Cat Brand 24 volt radio from within one of the pieces of quarry equipment.

Crash: On August 11th at 10:40 am David Grosel of Uniondale was traveling north on North Main Street in that borough when his vehicle lost control and traveled off the eastern shoulder. The vehicle continued to travel north before crashing into a fence with its front end. After impact, it continued to travel north. It then sustained a secondary collision when it struck a tree with its front end. The vehicle came to a rest approximately 45 feet east of North Main Street, facing west. After coming to a rest, the vehicle became engulfed in flames. Police were assisted by Uniondale Fire Department. Grosel sustained minor injury; a passenger sustained moderate injury.

Crash: On August 12th at 11 am Curtis Spila of Montrose was traveling south on Sr 3001 when his vehicle lost control and drove off the east shoulder of the road, in Bridgewater Township. The Ford F-150 continued to travel in a northern direction off the shoulder before spinning clockwise and striking a guide rail with its rear end. After impact, it continued to travel in a northern direction through a field before coming to a final rest in the field, facing north. No injuries were reported at the scene.

Crash: On August 8th at 5 am Set Delvillano of Binghamton, Ny was traveling northbound on Sr 11 when his vehicle went off the east side of the roadway into the dirt on the edge. It then went across the roadway and struck a guard rail on the west side with the front passenger side of the vehicle, before spinning 180 degrees and coming to a rest on the west side of the roadway facing north. It sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene. The driver was not injured in the crash; a seat belt was in use.

Criminal Trespass: On August 9th at 4:30 pm a 28 year old from Clifford Township entered a vacant property without being licensed or privileged to do so. The accused was charged with criminal trespass via non traffic citation.

Crash: The police were investigating a one vehicle crash that occurred on S848 in New Milford Township. The vehicle was attempting to negotiate a right hand curve in the roadway and veered off the left side, subsequently impacting a tree along the roadside just off the north berm. The operator of the vehicle fled the scene in an unknown direction by an unknown means. Injury was listed as unknown; seat belt use was listed as unknown.

Murder Arrest: PSP Gibson is announcing the arrest of Dylan Robert Schmiel, 23 years old, of Glen Falls, NY. A warrant was issued on July 31 for his arrest relating to a crash on August 10th on SR 81 where David Decker of Endicott, NY was killed. Schmiel was arrested in New York and was being extradited to PA on August 8th. His arrival at the Troop R Gibson station was expected that day. Schmiel was charged with Murder for operating his vehicle under the influence of marijuana, passing vehicles on the right shoulder of the interstate, traveling at a sustained high rate of speed, and striking a Chevrolet Traverse and David Decker while he was outside his vehicle that was parked off the east shoulder of the interstate. Schmiel is also charged with Homicide by Vehicle while DUI, Aggravated Assault by Vehicle while DUI, Homicide by Vehicle, Involuntary Manslaughter, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and other charges.

Crash: On August 4th at 11:50 pm Dakota Watkins of Tunkhannock was traveling north one Road when he failed to negotiate a left hand curve. The vehicle exited the west side of the roadway and struck a tree in the Fairdale Methodist Church's front lawn. The vehicle impacted the tree with its left side. He then attempted to drive west on Sr 706 when his vehicle traveled off the north side of the roadway and came to a final rest against a utility pole.

Access Device Fraud: On July 31st Joy Keene of New Milford reported that one or more unknown perpetrator(s) had gained access to her credit card, and made unauthorized charges to her bank account.

Crash: On August 6th at 11:10 am Robert Samanas of Shavertown was traveling north on Sr 29 near Lake Walter when he swerved to avoid a deer. The vehicle exited the roadway to its right, shearing two utility poles and side swiping another. It came to a rest off the east side of the northbound lane. No fire or EMS responded. The owners provided their own tow. The driver sustained minor injury. A seat belt was in use.

Criminal Mischief: On August 5th a 17 year old took his dad's 2003 Jeep to a party at Acre Lake where the accused intentionally scratched the pain causing damage. The accused was to be summoned to appear before the District Judge to answer for his actions, according to report.

Theft: A hayfield along Sr 2015 in Lathrop Township was entered, and various engine parts removed off of a New Holland LX985 skid steer that had been parked in the field since the previous fall. The property owner reported that a hay wagon that was also parked in the field was taken as well.

Burglary: Between August 1st and August second, one or more burglar(s) gained entry to the Springville Baptist Church by smashing a ground level window into the secretary's office. Various items were knocked over or damaged in the office. The burglar(s) apparently left by the window entry point. It was determined by evidence on the scene that an animal, apparently a deer, had accidentally broken through the window and gotten into the office, causing the damage.

Theft: Between July 11th and August 2nd a Elk Lake man reported that someone stole a boulder off his property.

Criminal Mischief: Between July 30th and August 4th unknown perpetrator(s) drove through the yard of a residence at the intersection of Tingley Lake Road and Stephens Road, causing damage.

Controlled substance, drug, device, and Cosmetic act: On August third a Meshoppen man discovered marijuana plants growing on his property. It was apparent that someone had planted the plants, in a wooded area, in an attempt to hide them. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Purchase, Possession, Consumption Underage: A 15 year old male was charged with violations of Underage Drinking Law when he was caught by his parents on August 3rd with three bottles of whiskey.

Crash: On August 4th at 2:06 am Tara Hopewell of Philadelphia was traveling southbound on Interstate 81 in Harford Township when, after completing a passing maneuver, she lost control of her vehicle and exited the travel lane to the east. The vehicle re entered the left most travel lane, crossed the right most lane, and began a clockwise rotation. It then exited the roadway, west of the travel lanes, continued up an embankment, and made rear impact with a tree. It then began a rolling maneuver towards the passenger's side, and came to a final rest back onto the right most travel lane, facing east. All occupants suffered minor injuries and were transported via Harford Ambulance Company to CMC Scranton Hospital for medical treatment. All were utilizing seat belts. The vehicle was towed form the scene by Marv's towing.

Crash: On August 2nd at 8:10 pm a man of Hop bottom was traveling south on SR 92 when, after negotiating a curve, his vehicle traveled into the oncoming lane. It exited the right side of the roadway and began to spin clockwise, impacting an embankment. It then continued to travel south and impacted a ditch, proceeding to roll over and impacting an embankment, coming to a rest on its roof facing a southerly direction. The driver was transported via ambulance to CMC Hospital in Scranton. Police were assisted at the scene by Hop Bottom, Factoryville, Nicholson, and Clifford Township Volunteer Fire Companies and Ambulances.

Missing Medication: Between the 29th and 30th of July, a woman reported that she had a prescription for Vicoden 5 mg pills and could not locate it. The pills and bottle were all missing. She did not know if it was lost or stolen.

DUI: On July 29th at 10:10 pm a 29 year old Hazle Township man was arrested for suspected DUI. He was arraigned before D/M 34-3-03 and remanded to the Susquehanna County jail.

Hit and Run: On August 1st at 10:55 am an unknown or unnamed person was traveling northbound on SR 3029 when his or her vehicle exited off of the east side of the roadway and struck a mail box on the east side of the road. It then continued northbound and did not stop to give information. No one was able to get any information off of the vehicle other than that it was a tan or brown winnebago type vehicle.

Anyone with information regarding any of these incidents is asked to please contact the police at (570) 465-3154.

Alexander Michael Romero, 22, of Clifford, PA to 6 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $350 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to transport consume or possession alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, to receive drug and alcohol counseling for Manufacture, Delivery or Possession with Intent to Manufacture or Deliver in Clifford Township on November 11, 2013.

Sandy M Theobald, 34, of Susquehanna, PA to 6 months to 18 months home confinement, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, receive random drug and alcohol screenings, not to possess controlled substances, not to have contact with anyone on supervision except James Theobald for Criminal Conspiracy/Contraband to Confined Persons in Bridgewater Township on February 8, 2014.

Michael John Hongach, 42, of Meshoppen, PA to 10 days to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, perform 50 hours of community service, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages for Simple Assault in Auburn Township on June 20, 2013.  Mr. Hongach also received 10 days to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, perform 50 hours of community service, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages, to continue with counseling for Simple Assault in Auburn Township on June 30, 2013.

Dylan Robert Blaisure, 21, of Montrose, PA to 30 days to 12 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to possess firearms, maintain employment, pay $250 fine, pay $100 Act 198, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee for Delivery or a Controlled Substance in Wyoming County on February 14, 2014.  Mr. Blaisure also received 30 days to 12 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to possess firearms, maintain employment, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee for Manufacture, Delivery or Possession with Intent to Manufacture or Deliver in Dimock Township on March 12, 2014.

Roger James Radakovich, 26, of Hallstead, PA to 9 months to 23 ½ months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, followed by 1 ½ years probation, pay restitution, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, receive drug and alcohol screenings, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to have contact with the victims, not to possess firearms, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Involuntary Manslaughter in Great Bend Township on January 15, 2014.

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:50 a.m. on August 15, 2014: Duane M. Aldrich, Brent V. Birtch, John R. Bush, Anthony M. Choplosky, Tina M. Clark, Christopher J. Clark, Christopher D. Cole, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, Jeremy W. Hall, Shannon J. Hollister, Nathan Hollister, Shawnay Hunsinger, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Casey M. Lehman, Derrick Lezinsky, Robert J. McCrone, Matthew S. Miller, Ronald N. Mitchell, Jordan L. Payne, Wallace J. Penny Jr, Vincent S. Perico, Matthew J. Peters, Vincent J. Petriello, Veronica D. Phelps, Eric A. Pike, Roy G. Rink, Anthony L. Smith, Frederick Swingle, III, Tessa E. Thomas, Kurtis Tracy, Kathleen M. Visavati, John H. Walter, Steven G. Warner. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.