The Blue Ridge Parent Forum on Facebook is usually most active around the beginning of a new school year when parents struggle to understand new bus routes and figure out new schedules.  This year a petition on the District’s “dress code” circulated by student Alicia Osterhout was added to the mix.  All of that boiled over at the School Board’s meeting on September 8th.

Considering the commentary on Facebook during the first week of school, surprisingly few actually attended the meeting.  Board President Laurie Brown-Bonner recognized the interest from the cards submitted requesting time to speak and pushed through the business agenda quickly in order to give time for anticipated discussion.

Most of the official agenda consisted of routine personnel matters.  The Board had met at a special session on August 29 for the sole purpose of hiring two teachers in advance of the opening of classes: Sarah Yeust is a new secondary math teacher, and Michael Courtright will teach computer and information technology.  According to the minutes, that meeting lasted all of 4 minutes.

This time the agenda included a donation to the Foster Grandparent Program.  The Board approved 159 lunches valued at $3 each, and a $200 cash donation, for a total of $677.  The Board also approved an agreement with the Children’s Service Center for “partial hospitalization” and “therapeutic educational services” on an as-needed basis at a cost of up to $145 per day to supplement Blue Ridge’s special education program.

The Board also accepted a recommendation to subsidize cellphone charges for the Athletic Director (Jill Hoffman), the Transportation Coordinator (Wanda Harris) and the Assistant Principal (Joe Conigliaro) at up to $50 per month.

Members made their selections for officers of their lobbying organization, the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) to be elected at the upcoming PSBA convention.  They are Charles Ballard (East Penn School District, Lehigh County) for President, Mark Miller (Centennial School District, Bucks County) for Vice President (unopposed), Otto Voit III (unopposed, Muhlenberg School District, Berks County) for Treasurer, and Robert Schwartz (Wallenpaupack Area School District, Pike County) for the At-Large Representative (East).  Ms. Bonner is the only member of the Blue Ridge board who knows any of these people, but did not recommend anyone in particular.

All that out of the way, Ms. Bonner first recognized Ms. Osterhout, who argued strongly for her recommendation that the dress code should allow shorts cut no higher than “mid-thigh … a point which is unchanging and easy to identify” and is a “more objective requirement that is fair for everyone regardless of arm or leg length” (from her post on change.org).  Thus ensued a spirited debate between members of the Board, parents and other students.  The notion of uniforms got only passing mention.  After all, the Board’s own policy manual (Section 221) starts off  recognizing “that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference.”  The current dress-code policy as published in the student handbooks requires shorts and skirts no higher than 3 inches above the knee.

Another student remarked that mid-thigh, 3-inches, fingertip length – they’re all distinctions without a difference because “students don’t find [the length of shorts and skirts] as important as you [the Board] do.”

The other issue about the dress code that seemed to vex most students and parents is the consistency – or lack thereof – in its enforcement, its “fairness” as some expressed it, including even enforcement in the Elementary School.  The policy allows administrators some discretion in enforcement.  Some see enforcement as arbitrary.

Superintendent Robert McTiernan was perplexed about the problem, without a good response to any of the complaints that would satisfy everyone.  He said that administrators do the best they can under the Board’s policy.  He suggested that a “dress-code check” once or twice a day could be implemented to minimize the perceived unfairness, but thought that would be disruptive to the schools’ mission.  And he said that such an approach would bring even more parents to Board meetings with complaints simply because there would be more violations.  Should there be “more rigid enforcement?” he asked.  A student replied that it shouldn’t be “rigid” but less arbitrary.  What would that mean?  “It is or it isn’t,” said the Super.

Asked what he would recommend, Mr. McTiernan said that he thought shorts and skirts no higher than the fingertips held at the sides would be easiest to enforce.

In the end, Board members did not seem inclined to change the policy.  Some may be in favor of uniforms; most, not.  Christina Whitney told Ms. Osterhout that she [Ms. Osterhout] had performed a service by “getting the community talking” about the issue.  However, she didn’t accept the argument and didn’t want to change the policy in any way at this time.

Busing was the other major topic of debate at the meeting, with parents complaining of hour-long rides for their children, or longer.  One pointed out that Mr. McTiernan had promised no route longer than one hour, but that such anomalies persist, with some buses seeming to roam all over the District.  Others complained that picking up at defined stops (“grouped” pickups) was a safety hazard, especially to younger children; buses used to stop at each residence.  Others noted the potential safety hazard of routes, for example, up the long, steep Franklin Hill, especially in winter.

Mr. McTiernan said that bus drivers always have the last word on safety, and have the discretion to refuse to drive a part of a route that they consider unsafe.  Board member and bus contractor Fred Lewis seconded that comment. Mr. McTiernan also noted that stopping at each house makes the rides longer for everyone.

Route development and scheduling require an exquisite balance of factors, said the Superintendent, which he and Transportation Coordinator Wanda Harris have spent many days trying to reconcile.

While at the same time trying to keep rides under one hour, the goals are as follows:

Safety, by having the fewest riders riding the longest, so that, in case of an accident, the fewest children will be involved – perhaps a hard-hearted, but realistic calculation.

More “loaded” miles than unloaded.  State reimbursements depend on that ratio, thus affecting the cost of bus transportation.

The contractors have to make enough to be worthwhile providing bus service at all.

 “The only way to fix all of these things is to throw more money at it,” said the Superintendent.  It is possible, for example, for the District to shoulder more of the cost of transportation by running more buses and thus reducing reimbursement from the state.  However, at a cost of $40,000-$90,000 per route, such an approach would undoubtedly bust the budget, requiring an increase in taxes.  A large tax increase would require a referendum; should the voters turn down the increase, then the District would be forced to live within the state-mandated index in one way or another.

Ms. Brown-Bonner reminded everyone that “transportation in this area is tough.”  She asked that parents with individual problems call the office; she said that the Board only makes policy; it does not run the schools, or the buses.  For his part, Mr. McTiernan said that the District does not monitor Facebook, and also asked parents to call in their issues.  He pledged that he and Ms. Harris would do their best to fix them. 

The evening closed with an executive session to consider the Superintendent’s evaluation.  The next meeting of the Blue Ridge School Board is scheduled as a workshop for Monday, September 29, beginning at 7:00pm.  The Board’s Facilities & Grounds Committee will meet at 6:00pm, and the Fund Raising Committee at 6:30pm that same evening.  All meetings are in the cafeteria in the Elementary School.  Let’s hope that the wonderful beef-vegetable soup becomes a tradition.

The major responsibility of a “2nd-class” township like Harford is always its roads.  With something like 61 miles of them to look after, the Harford Township Supervisors are trying to boost its image above the official “2nd-class” designation.  At their September meeting on the 9th, they approved spending as much as $55,000 on the roads in August alone (depending on how you add up the figures).  A near-record SRO crowd of 20 or more assembled in the little township office to hear all about it.

Over $44,000 of that spending came from accumulated “impact fee” distributions, the money that the natural gas companies pay for the privilege of perforating the hills with their drills.  Then the Supervisors went on to appropriate as much as $81,000 more for a variety of road projects.

With funds available, the Supervisors are contracting for much of the road improvement work in order to keep its own crew working at regular seasonal road maintenance.

The township is getting some additional help from one of the gas services companies, which agreed to replace sluice pipe on and re-grade Stevens, Grinnell and Miller Roads.  Another such agreement for similar work on Lower Podunk Road is expected.

To start off, the Supervisors approved a collection of bills from Barhite Excavating for work on Tingley Street, Goff Road, Wolf Lake Road, Orphan School Road and Bartholomew Road.  The township crew ran out of stone, so the Supervisors authorized a purchase from Lopke Rock Products at about $6 per ton to keep the work going, and hired Gary Blewett to haul it.  In the meantime, they solicited bids for up to an additional 1,500 tons of 2RC (or 2A) stone.  Among the 3 bids they chose Lopke again, for the lowest FOB price ($4.94 per ton for 2RC), expecting that hiring their own hauler at about $3 per ton would keep the cost per ton below either of the other “as delivered” prices.

The Supervisors went on to select Dale Payne as the winning bidder for a project to improve about 1,000 feet of Jeffers Road at a price of $6,000.  The project will build up the road and replace 2 sluice pipes.

On a request from Roadmaster Jim Phelps, the Supervisors agreed to spend up to about $9,000 for additional grading and rolling on other sections of Jeffers Road, on 9 Partners and Deer Trail Roads, 3 miles altogether, expecting the work to go to Barhite Excavating.

The Supervisors then opened the sole bid – from Barhite again – on a project to replace a culvert under Tyler Lake Road for $42,220.  The engineering for the project was done by JHA at a cost of about $17,000.  A complex project because of the lake, it involves erosion control, concrete headwalls; and the sewer line runs under the road through the project site.  Mike Barhite attended the meeting for the bid opening.

JHA (aka Joe Hunt and Associates) was officially hired as the township’s “engineer of record” and will handle all sewage and code enforcement for Harford, as well as act as the township’s “floodplain administrator.”  (The sewer system that serves the village and some outlying areas is not included; it is under the supervision of David Klepadlo and Associates.)  The Supervisors spent some time approving a series of resolutions that severed the township’s association with the county Council of Governments (COG) and hitched it up with JHA, signing a flurry of documents to make it all official.

A representative of Western Land Services attended the meeting to collect signatures on some affidavits declaring that the township indeed does own the land on which sit its office and garage.  Such documents are usually required as a gas company begins developing pooling and unitization plans.  He was first on the agenda, but he stayed for the whole meeting.  He said he was interested in local government and liked attending these meetings.  Go figure.

A representative of the Harford-Lenox Little League Baseball Association attended the meeting to thank the Supervisors for their support and assistance over the season just ended, and to ask for more.  For one thing, the new scoreboard needs to be added to the township’s insurance policy (the ballfield is on township property).

He then said that the Constitution Pipeline company has pledged $15,000 to help with the renovation of the ball club’s secondary field, and asked for a contribution from the township as a supplement as it begins to consider its budget for 2015.  Perhaps some of the gas production royalty money from the property could be allocated?

He also said that the group is considering the installation of a playground between the two fields, for younger children.

A big chunk of the latter part of the 2-hour session was devoted to the condition of Tyler Lake Road, and drainage into Tyler Lake.

Last Spring a project instigated and arranged by a Tyler Lake resident with help and funding support from the county Soil Conservation Service aimed to improve drainage on the road down the hill toward the lake.  The road was built up and graded, and ditches were cleaned.   A sluice pipe across the road that was in the original plan and intended to help drain excess water off to the side was not installed because the Soil Conservation engineer said it wasn’t necessary.  Representing the company that completed the original project, Mr. Barhite was able to offer additional commentary.

Last month some other residents of the area attended the Supervisors’ meeting to complain that the project seemed to have made the problem worse, flooding a driveway and still allowing a lot of sediment to flow into the lake.  They had photographs.  At the time the Supervisors agreed to take another look at the site.

That they did, and went ahead to begin installing the pipe that had been left out of the original project.  Following additional complaints that the situation was getting worse, Supervisor Doug Phelps halted the work.  Some of the same people – and a few more – showed up this time.  They had more photographs, lots more photographs.

This group now wants a comprehensive engineering study done on the drainage along Tyler Lake Road between Purdy and Reservoir Lanes.  They insisted that no further work on the road be done until such a study is completed.  “I would like nothing to happen” until a study can be done, said one.

As it happens, a representative of Penn State’s Center for Dirt & Gravel Road Studies was expected two days hence to review the situation.  Glenn Eby of JHA was at the meeting to see all those papers signed and resolutions passed, so he volunteered to show up at the site for the meeting with the Penn State folks to see what might be required, perhaps expecting to be asked for an estimate of the cost of such a study.

One visitor pressed the Supervisors for a timeline to make a decision about an engineering study, but Mr. Phelps was disinclined to commit to such a decision immediately, preferring to wait at least until after the meeting with the Dirt & Gravel folks.

Water: you can’t live without it, and you can’t live with it.  Hear more about water at the next meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2014 beginning at 7:00pm in the township office on Route 547.

There was big spending authorized at the Susquehannna County Commissioners September meeting held on the 10th. Commissioners Michael Giangrieco and Alan Hall were both in attendance for the monthly meeting.

The County Commissioners started off by recognizing several loyal employees. Sheri A. Minarsky from Veteran’s Affairs was recognized for having been an employee for five years, Erica Johnson from the District Attorney’s Office for fifteen years, and Teri M. Gulick in the Assessment Office for fifteen years.

There were, as usual, several seminar requests and payment for seminar requests. The requests included training for Child Passenger Safety, Living A Meaningful Life - Physical and Emotional Well-Being, Excellent Supervisors Seminar, USPAP & Legal Roadmap to Assessment Valuation, Resort Appraisals, and Basic Training. All of these training and seminars came in at a total cost overall of $4,124.90 to the County.

Commissioner Giangrieco then made a motion, to accept with regret, the resignation of Billy Conklin from Children & Youth, effective September 26th, 2014. There was also a motion made by Commissioner Giangrieco to acknowledge the resignation of Jaqueline Canfied, Corrections Officer, which went into effect on September 8th, 2014. Michelle Langabucco, a Corrections Officer, also made the status change from part-time to full-time, in a Motion made by Commissioner Giangrieco.

In the first of four rather expensive motions, Commissioner Giangrieco made a motion to purchase a new phone system for the Susquehanna County Courthouse, County Office Building, Montrose District Justice Office, and 88 Chenango Street Building, from Guyette Communications, in the amount of $96,383.00. However high this number sounded, it was nothing compared to the $222,846.00 purchasing for the cabling and fiber wiring for the Network Infrastructure to support the information technology at the Courthouse, also purchased from Guyette Communications. Commissioner Hall stated that the current wiring is simply outdated, having been there for around twenty years or so. Both Commissioners didn’t seem particularly thrilled with the pricing, as would be the same for the next two motions to follow.

The bid on Network Infrastructure and installation for the Support of the IT at the same building was awarded to Sirius, for another $226,918.53. This was followed by another motion to sign a five year maintenance agreement with Sirius, for the maintenance of this new phone system, at a cost of $84,995.05. Commissioner Giangrieco was particularly not pleased, asking why if the system itself costs more than $220,000, it would need such maintenance. Mr. McGrady from MCM Consulting was in attendance, and reassured the Commissioners that they had received the best possible pricing, after negotating for some time now. They are replacing years and years of technology and wiring, and also combining the phone system to cut the phone bill as well. Commissioner Hall stated that it would pay for itself in seven years.

The next few motions seemed small in comparison. Commissioner Giangrieco made a motion to sign the Customer Service Agreement between Susquehanna County and Cleveland Brothers, for the extended service plan, for three tears, for the Caterpillar Skid Steer, at $2,822.00. Then, a motion was made to approve the purchase of a lightning protection package for the Courthouse and County Office Building, which essentially would only be a design and review from ACE Lightning Protection, Inc., at a cost of $5,000.00. This Commissioner Hall stated was due to several issues the buildings have been having with lightning. In the last of a long list of spending for the County, Commissioner Giangrieco made a motion to approve a retaining wall extending the level area on the Northwest side of the parking lots, in the rear of the Courthouse, for the placement of the new generator and chiller. This work would be completed by Ken Rauch Excavating, at a cost of between $14-18,000.

Next, in a break from spending, the Commissioners made a motion to advertise for bids for the sale of three Weil-McLain 68 boilers.

Commissioner Giangrieco then made a motion to exonerate the Tax Claim Bureau from collecting delinquent taxes on a property in Lenox Township, in the name of Jamie Kelly, consisting of a trailer in Homily Trailer Park, assessed at $1,000. The trailer was deleted by assessment on the 28th of August 2013 as it was demolished.

In a final motion made by Commissioner Giangreico, they opened for review bids for the repair to the Columns in front of the Susquehanna County Courthouse.

Public comment was next and there was inquiry about the Enteroviris D68, which has been affecting people across the country. When asked if they were aware of any cases locally, the Commissioners stated that they were not aware of any. They were also asked if the County would be prepared if such an outbreak were to occur locally and it was outlined the procedure of alerting residents should there be a case of it locally.

The next Susquehanna County Commissioners is to be held the 24th of September 2014 at the Susquehanna County Courthouse meeting room at 9:00 a.m.

Lanesboro Borough Council has technically been without a borough council president since council’s close of business on July 9th, when Todd Glover vacated the position and resigned his council seat. At Tuesday’s September 9th meeting Lanesboro Council installed its new leadership team to take charge. By separate, but unanimous votes, Dan Boughton was elected President and Dale Rockwell Vice-President.

Council members present and voting to place Messrs. Boughton and Rockwell in charge were Ed Arzouian, Regina Dilello, Jason Fissel, David Glidden, and Tom Nitterour. Also present were Secretary/Treasurer Gail Hanrahan and Police Chief Jim Smith. Mayor Chris Maby was absent.

Council members took on public comment soon after the meeting’s commencement. The one voiced comment was a complaint that local taxes were too high and value was not being received for the amount of taxes paid. The taxpayer plunged into an interrogation of council members concerning how tax rates were set, revenues allocated, and priorities set. Various council members patiently attempted to explain tax and spending policies for the benefit of the taxpayer, though it appeared he genuinely found Pennsylvania’s property tax policies and the concept of millage incomprehensible. After more than five minutes of mutual frustration President Boughton brought down the hammer, figuratively speaking, and council moved on to take Chief Smith’s Police Report for the month of August.

The Chief’s report detailed some 230 hours of Lanesboro PD hours, with 23.75 of those hours billed to Thompson and 28.5 hours to the school district. Lanesboro Police made some 48 traffic stops in the borough, with half resulting in citation issuance and the other half resulting in sighs of relief amid sincere promises of repentance. The reasons for those 48 stops were recorded as follows: Speeding Violations (26), Inspection Violations (6), Stop-Sign Violation (1), Registration Violation (1), Equipment Violations (9), Failure to Signal (4), and Window-Tint Violation (1). Additionally six incidents, other than routine traffic, were handled by LPD.

Chief Smith also reported statistics for LPD’s patrol in Thompson Boro. Traffic violators in Thompson fared far less well than those in Lanesboro in avoidance of citation issuance. LPD made 45 traffic stops in Thompson, with 33 resulting in citations and 12 in warnings. Most noteworthy, 37 of the 45 stops in Thompson were for speeding violations. Among the three other than routine traffic stops was of a motorist passing a bus with lights on (charges filed).

Two last items topped Chief Smith’s police report. First the borough’s police will be operating a drug take-back program from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 27 at the Community Center. The take-back program allows anyone to turn in unused/out-of-date prescription drugs and is made possible by a grant from the Drug Enforcement Administration. Lanesboro‘s participation is in coordination and conjunction with the County Sheriff‘s office. Secondly, the Chief mentioned that he had a candidate in mind for service on LPD; with Council’s review and concurrence as soon as this evening the officer could be hired for patrol hours on the school district’s campus. Council agreed it would be conducting an Executive Session at meeting’s end.

The Streets Committee reported that state grant money STILL has not been received by the borough. Projects slated for completion based on grant monies consequently remain on hold. Side Avenue road repairs, though not dependent on grant money, have not been completed, nor even started at this point. But Councilman Fissel insisted relief is in sight, “Harmony road crew is working in the borough and will get to Side Avenue as soon as possible.” Councilman Rockwell reported that water drainage at the intersection of Jefferson and Main is greatly improved since the work was done there. And lastly, checks will be made as to the level of salt on hand, and stocks will be replenished for the harsh weather expected to arrive all too soon.

Councilmen inquired as to the level of participation in garbage pick-up from borough residents. No hard facts were offered, but President Boughton noted that there were a number of residences which formerly had garbage pick-up under the borough’s municipal service, but were not having their refuse picked up by Freddy’s, the contractor awarded monopoly service in the borough. Since residents are prohibited from hoarding, burning or transporting solid waste, a mystery arises as to its possible disposition or whereabouts. One speculation posited is that a black-market refuse hauler is operating in the borough under cover of darkness. President Boughton volunteered to look into the matter and to further determine what action the borough might take in response. Amateur sleuths, along with borough council, await Mr. Boughton’s investigatory findings.

No matters were discussed under the headings of Community Center, Website, or Old Business. In New Business council members approved a letter of recommendation in support of Canawacta Rod & Gun Club’s application for a grant from the NRA to update their range to make it ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. The Gun Club, Councilman Arzouian explained, needed three letters from area entities recommending approval in support of the NRA grant. Lanesboro council members were proud to express their support for this facilities upgrade. Support was unanimous and President Boughton immediately signed off on the letter of recommendation and passed it Councilman Arzouian to deliver to the Gun Club for submission as an attachment to the grant application.

At 7:37 p.m. Council went into Executive Session to discuss the hiring of a new police officer, as recommended by Chief Smith. Upon completion of the Executive Session council voted unanimous approval to hire Officer John Creamer, Jr., 90 day probationary period required. Council adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

Next council meeting is scheduled for the second Tuesday in October. With council members presumably better versed on the implications of housing illegal aliens in Pennsylvania, council may then take up a resolution, tabled at this meeting, to define its position on local residents’ rights to health, safety, and security in the face of borders no longer enforced at the federal level.

On the eve of the 13th anniversary of 9/11 Susquehanna Depot Borough Council gathered for its monthly meeting at the Borough Building.  While virtually all change pales in comparison to those wrought by the events and aftermath of 9-11-01, Susquehanna’s Borough Council braced for and embraced changes large and small coming to town. 

President Joe Varsik called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. and for the next 35 minutes dispatched borough business in efficient manner before council shifted into Executive Session for discussion of personnel and legal issues.  Council members present for the meeting were Sue Crawford, John Hendrickson, Kaylin Lindquist, Roy Williams, and Debbie Zayas. Also present for the meeting were Mayor Nancy Hurley and Secretary/Treasurer Margaret Biegert.

In short order Council approved the meeting’s agenda, minutes of their last meeting on August 13th, and the bills list.  The Treasurer’s Report was quickly approved also, but not without comment and commendation of Treasurer Biegert who laid out the various funds and accounts in a format making for a pleasant change in clarity and conciseness.

With the meeting not well attended by the public it was unsurprising that no public comment was forthcoming when President Varsik availed the public of such opportunity. And so council moved directly into committee reports. 

First up was Mayor Hurley who presented the Mayor’s Report.  Her Police Report detailed some 33 incidents to which Susky Police responded in the month of August.  Only seven of those 33 were traffic stops, the rest arising from a wide assortment of incidents. Beside the investigation of two motor vehicle accidents, police responded to the following: theft (3), harassment (3), assault (1), domestic dispute (2), criminal mischief (1), disorderly conduct (1), and a case classified only as involving a juvenile (1). 

Mayor Hurley added that everyone should be aware criminal elements have embraced a new ruse to break into people’s credit card accounts.  Their new modus operandi is to send text messages or emails to the target’s phone with an alert that one’s credit card account has been compromised, response required immediately.  Mayor Hurley advised that that is exactly the wrong thing to do; instead, anyone receiving such a message should immediately contact their bank or credit card company by way of the phone number provided by the credit card issuer.

Councilman Hendrickson provided the borough’s Emergency Management Report.  In a copy of his report provided to this paper, and read aloud in the meeting, he focused on the changing seasons and warned of Old Man Winter’s approach, “While there has (sic) been no incidents in the Borough that have warranted an emergency response from this Department I would like to remind you of the coming of colder temps and the use of your heating systems. Like most of us it’s time to clean the furnace and chimney, change filters air and oil.  Have a serviceman check that you’re getting a good burn nozzle igniters’ etc. and all piping is in good shape.”

He continued, “As we think about our homes lets not forget the car as well [including its] cooling system. How are those tires we put away last season? Don’t forget to put the winter kit back in the trunk [along with a] blanket, jumper cables, spare batteries, sand or other traction aids.  Maybe [you should include] a snack or two and a flash light.  Summer will be gone soon; weather will change and old man winter will be here again. Will you be ready?”

Councilman Williams provided the DPW Report.  He noted that a contractor for PAWC will begin digging up Main Street from Franklin Avenue going west.  The project is for replacement of deteriorating water pipes and will take two to three months to accomplish.  Also on Main Street, signal lights will be relocated on Friday, September 26th. Motorists should brace for problematic traffic patterns, though ultimately the borough will reap great benefit from infrastructure improvement.

Mr. Williams noted under old business that DPW will pick up leaves and smaller branches this year; residents interested in the program should contact the DPW office. Also, Councilman Williams made mention of the property at 416 Erie Avenue.  Property ownership has been transferred to the borough and he noted that it is the borough’s responsibility to secure and post the property within the next 48 hours. 

In other DPW discussion Councilman Williams noted that there was “nothing in the IPMC on dead trees.” Council had previously advertised for bids concerning the removal of dead trees: one on Grand Street and one on Willow Avenue.  The borough had received three bids, each of which was reviewed in turn.  The winning bid of $1,600 was placed by the low bidder, a firm with the handle “Out on a Limb.” Others noted that some new trees on Main Street “have problems.”  A census will be taken of problem trees requiring trimming. 

Code Enforcement Officer Hope Lyon delivered the August Code Enforcement Council Report.  Her report detailed some 38 violations of the IPMC (International Property Maintenance Code).  Twenty-five of the 38 violations involved weeds (9) or garbage: disposal of garbage (8), and accumulation of rubbish or garbage (8).  Only 12 of the 38 violations had been completely resolved, which the remaining 26 were pending reinspection. CEO Lyon noted that the borough has its share of violators who “play the system” by waiting until the end of the grace period (10 days) to mow their grass or otherwise take corrective action. She noted that properties with mowing violations were typically primary residences; residences with garbage issues were typically repeat offenders. Apparently some things never change. 

Council took up filling the vacancy created by Roberta Reddon’s resignation from borough council last month.  Two residents had filed letters of interest to fill the seat and in short order council decided the issue.  Councilman Williams moved to appoint Barbara Larsen, Councilwoman Lindquist seconded, and by a vote of 5-1 Ms. Larsen received the nod.  Councilman Hendrickson was the sole “nay” vote. It is presumed Ms. Larsen will be sworn in by Mayor Hurley at next month’s council meeting.  Her addition will return Council to full strength.

In New Business two actions were taken.  First council announced 2015 MMO (Minimal Municipal Obligation) of $12,147.  MMO disclosure is required of each municipality having a police pension fund, and the disclosure must be made no later than September 30th for purposes of planning for the succeeding year’s budget.  

The second action was passage of a motion to assign two council members as police pension trustees who will be authorized to make transactions and sign checks with authorization of the borough council.  President Joe Varsik and Vice-President Debbie Zayas were so designated to replace Ms. Reddon (resigned) and Councilman Williams (who no longer wished to retain his position as trustee). 

By 7:35 p.m. Council had completed all agenda business and went into Executive Session.  At 8:35 p.m. Council returned to regular order and adjourned without official action taken on any of the personnel or legal issues discussed in Executive Session. 

The next monthly meeting for Susquehanna Depot Borough Council is scheduled for the second Wednesday in October. 

Oakland Borough Council gathered for its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, September 11th, at the Lanesboro Community Center. Present for the meeting were Mayor Ron Beavan, Secretary/Treasurer Flo Brush, Council President Brian Rhone, and the following councilmen: Jack Agler, Doug Arthur, Gary Boughton, Eric Page, and Nelson Towner. Councilman Dave Trevarthan was absent.

The wide-ranging meeting kicked off at 7:02 p.m. and closed with near exhaustion at 8:47 p.m. In between Council covered a plethora of topics, several in detail so fine they displayed the speaker’s knowledge of minutia--or trivia, depending on one’s perspective. Why did U.S. Senator Pat Toomey commend Oakland Boro? We’ll get to that, all in good time.

The meeting’s early focus was centered on a guest delegation of three from the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association. President Rhone recognized Tom Kurosky, President of the aforementioned group; the organization’s Outreach Director Carol Carpenter; and Laura Nichols, Librarian in charge of the Susquehanna Branch Library.

Mr. Kurosky provided an overview of the Association’s structure (four libraries, Outreach Services, and the Historical Society housed on the second floor of the Montrose Library). He went on to explain how the Great Recession (or Greater Depression) had adversely affected the Association’s funding and level of services. Massive cuts made back in the Rendell Administration reduced the Association’s level of service and funding. They have never returned to 2009 levels. Mr. Kurosky estimated that it would take an additional $86,070 just to return to the level of five years ago. In a concerted effort to increase--or at least maintain--the current level of funding the Association periodically reaches out to municipalities within the county to make them aware of the many services available and to appeal for support from them.

Outreach Director Carol Carpenter noted the various services available, including story hour, home-school services, classroom delivery, books-by-mail (for the homebound), books for those in correctional custody, and inter-and-intra-library loan services which place virtually the entire library system at any card-holder’s fingertips.

Local (Susquehanna) Library Head Laura Nichols explained many of the services available at the Susquehanna Branch Library and reviewed its history since inception in 1974. She noted that currently 282 residents of Oakland Boro have library cards (There are 600+ residents in the borough.) For many people computer services are an essential component of library usage. The library’s existence makes internet accessibility possible for a significant segment of the population which would otherwise be relegated to the pre-internet world.

Oakland officials were not without appreciation for the many services provided by the Historical Society and Free Library Association. Without doubt the Association’s existence is a great blessing to the local community and makes possible a better-educated and better-informed populace. Upon completion of the delegation’s presentation, Secretary Brush presented Mr. Kurosky with the borough’s donation to help close the deficit gap. Delegation members thanked the borough for its generosity and for Council’s appreciation of the Association‘s mission.

With the Library Association’s departure from the meeting, Council turned its attention to more mundane matters. Approval of minutes, treasurer’s report discussion, review of time sheets, and Codes Reporting were all agenda items dispatched quickly and efficiently. The Codes Report consisted of the current status on five problem properties in the borough. Each was a property eyed in the recent past for code violations, and no surprises were sprung on Oakland’s cognoscenti.

Councilman Boughton presented the Parks Report. He noted that Mr. Towner and he had cleaned up the garbage at the park; the dented and damaged metal garbage cans had been disposed of to be replaced by virtually indestructible blue plastic barrels; a new basketball hoop has been installed; mulch has been ordered; and preliminary work has been completed on the retaining wall (old railroad ties pulled and dirt dug out) so as to permit contractors to make informed bids on the work remaining to be done.

Councilman Page presented the Building Committee Report. He noted that the committee is still in the very preliminary stages and only rough drawings (not architectural plans) were in the works currently, with advice being gathered on a pro bono basis from technical experts. The most recent meeting centered its discussion on the subject of sewer lines and the required number of restrooms. One school of thought was that a unisex restroom could save money and space, but contrary advice of a technical expert (who is assisting the committee) contended state regulations would require sex-segregated restrooms. One councilman, speaking from a very knowledgeable position, contended that a unisex facility may, in fact, be feasible and legal under the law. Preliminary planning will continue.

Mayor Beavan presented the Mayor’s Report. Four-wheelers operated by juvenile delinquents are brazenly cruising High Street again. Mayor and councilmen have a good idea of their identity, and the miscreants are hereby warned that police will be on the look-out to apprehend them should their misbehavior not be at an end. The Mayor’s Police Report for the month of August showed 20 incidents involving law enforcement intervention. Among them were the following: traffic stop (4), suspicious vehicle (1), harassment (3), domestic dispute (2), theft (1), theft/larceny (4), criminal trespass (1), burglary (1), and miscellaneous (2).

Under Old Business, Council noted that a “Thank You” had been sent to John Brown; the TV on the sidewalk at River Street had been “taken care of” by Mayor Beavan and Councilman Trevarthan; and the obstruction on High Street, noted by Councilman Towner at last month’s meeting, had been moved so as to permit vehicular traffic improved visibility.

New Business focused on two areas: the budget process now beginning for FY 2015, and mission prioritization for the Codes Enforcement Officer. Secretary Brush reminded council the top priority for this year had been unsafe structures. Secretary Brush distributed forms to each councilman for input on both budget and code enforcement priorities.

Councilman Boughton brought up the issue of Halloween observance. He proposed, and Council agreed, that Halloween be observed on Halloween (Friday, October 31st) from 6 to 8 p.m. for trick-or-treating. Plans for a Halloween event for the borough’s children will be firmed up at next month’s meeting

Finally, Secretary Brush brought up two items of correspondence. The first was a letter from U.S. Senator Pat Toomey. In his letter to the borough Senator Toomey commended the borough for passage of its resolution of August 14th in opposition to the EPA’s proposed rule change which would essentially regulate every drop of water. Senator Toomey agreed whole-heartedly with the borough’s resolution and committed himself to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with all who oppose this massive over-reach by the federal government. What Senator Toomey was referring to was an expansion of federal power under the Clean Water Act that includes within the definition of streams “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.” And according to the EPA, 59% of the “streams” the agency may claim to regulate are not always wet because they often only become wet after rain events (and in some cases are so tiny or temporary that they don’t even appear on maps!).

Secretary Brush’s second item of correspondence was an urgent email from PSAB (Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs) advising boroughs of a bill originating in the Pennsylvania Senate, SB-1023, which is scheduled to be voted on by the House Labor and Industry Committee on Tuesday, September 16. According to the email from PSAB, “the bill will MANDATE all opt-in municipalities that use third-party agency for an (sic) UCC service to retain at least two third-party agencies. This will result in a permit applicant/contractor having a choice of at least two third party agencies for every plan review or inspection discipline where a third is used. If the Building Code Official (BCO) is a third party agency, then a choice of at least two BCO’s must be provided! Additionally, time and cost to administer more than one third-party could change and injects (sic) confusion into the process.”

The email went on to advise, “Borough officials are urged to contact both their State Representative and State Senator to immediately to (sic) oppose the new building code mandate.” Representative Sandy Major and Senator Elizabeth (Lisa) Baker represent Oakland Borough. The inference of the PSAB message is that the state is instituting a cumbersome (bureaucratized) system which is inherently more expensive (and thereby likely to increase the level of taxation).

Before closing, Mayor Beavan mentioned he would be attending a Pipeline Safety dinner and meeting at Montrose Bible Conference on the evening of September 15. He noted that some day the borough will be piped for natural gas.

Next meeting of Oakland Borough Council is scheduled for the second Thursday in October at Lanesboro Community Center.

Theft:  The police are investigating the theft of a purse and its belongings at a Ray's ShurSave in Bridgewater Township on September 7th at 5:15 pm.  The perpetrator, Kory Sorensen of Binghamton, grabbed the purse from the shopping cart of the victim, and ran out of the store. He then proceeded to drive away and disable the vehicle a short distance away.  The perpetrator then fled on foot.  As of the time of report, he was sought in questioning for the incident. Charges were to be filed in District Court 34-3-01. 

Theft-Fraud:  On September 11th the victim, Gibson Exxon of New Milford, discovered counterfeit monies.  The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. 

Criminal Mischief:  South Western Energy of Tunkhannock reported that a slight oil haze was observed upon standing water around a well site, between the 9th and 11th of September.  The victim suspected a small amount of oil was dumped around the well site.  The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. 

Possible e-mail/text scam:  the Pennsylvania State Police has received notice of several persons receiving a suspicious email/text message.  The message is instructing people to contact a telephone number after a problem was encountered with one of their credit cards.  Once the telephone number is called (through mechanical prompts) the person is asked to enter the social security number of the account holder, their date of birth, and other private information.  At the end of this message the person is advised that the problem with the account is resolved.  The Pennsylvania State Police would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to safeguard all their private information.  Only divulge such information to legitimate companies that have an acceptable reason for requesting it.  Prior to responding to any such requests verify its legitimacy.  Examples of steps you can take to verify legitimacy would be contacting your local financial institution, or making telephone contact with a customer representative through a number provided on a previous account statement that you have utilized in the past with success.  If you feel your private information might have inadvertently been compromised it is suggested you contact your local financial institution and the three credit reporting agencies with your concerns;  Equifax/Experian/TransUnion. 

Criminal Mischief:  Between September 8th and 9th Eagle Pipeline Construction reported that a Hitachi Excavator cab window had been damaged.  The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. 

Crash:  On  September 7th at 11:47 pm a crash occurred as William Dejessa was traveling southbound on I81 at approximately 65 miles per hour in the left lane when it was struck with a fire extinguisher that was on the roadway in the middle of the two lanes of travel.  The fire extinguisher went under the unit and caused disabling damage to the undercarriage of the unit and rolled to a rest on the east side of the roadway, on the shoulder.  The vehicle pulled to a controlled rest on the west shoulder of the roadway.  The driver was not injured;  a seat belt was in use.  The driver was not injured in the crash, and the vehicle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene. 

Theft:  One or more unknown person(s) removed a 2000 Yamaha “big bear” ATV from under a tarp on the property of a Bridgewater Township man.  The ATV is described as drab olive green in color.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. 

Crash:  On August 4th at 3:15 pm Mason Webster of Hop Bottom was traveling north along SR 167 near Turnpike Rd when he observed a deer in the roadway and swerved to avoid the animal. The vehicle traveled off the road to the right.  It then went into a ditch and continued into a utility pole.  The operator was not injured in the crash;  a seat belt was in use. 

Crash:  On September 7th at 1:34 am a 16 year old was operating a Ford Ranger at a slow rate of speed southbound on Hunsinger Road when a second juvenile male attempted to jump onto the rear bumper of the vehicle.  The boy then slipped off of the bumper and fell backwards, striking his head off of the ground and sustaining serious injury.  The truck sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.  The driver was not injured. 

Crash:  On September 8th at 10:20 pm Jodi Seiff of Bergenfield, NJ was traveling southbound on interstate 81 in Lenox Township when her vehicle struck rocks and gravel that was strewn across both lanes.  The vehicle suffered three flat tires and a ruptured gas tank.  The driver was not injured;  a seat belt was in use. 

Crash:  On August 25th at 6:15 pm Mark Tallia of Montrose was traveling southbound on SR 29 at the same time as Caleb Tunilo of Montrose.  Tunilo attempted to turn around at the driveway of Delaware Quarries, in order to go back north.  Tallia's Harley-Davidson FLSTF struck Tunilo's Elantra in the right side front door.  Tallia sustained moderate injury.  Tunilo was uninjured. 

Burglary:  The police are investigating an attempted residential burglary that occurred between August 9th and September 6th.  The burglary occurred on Stevens Point Road in Harmony Township.  The perpetrator(s) gained entry through a front window and exited through a rear door.  The following items were stolen:  20 inch Vizio Television- unknown serial number, Green Poulan Chainsaw-  unknown serial number, Red Craftsman Air Compressor- unknown serial number.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. 

Theft:  Between August 30th and September 6th a Montrose man reported that two older style metal hay elevators were removed from his property without his authorization.  The elevators were approximately eight feet in length and rusted.  The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. 

Crash:  On September 5th at 2:45 am Travis Ivey was traveling eastbound on Sr 706 in Bridgewater Township when his Dodge Ram pick up truck went off the south side of the roadway and struck a utility pole with the front driver side of the vehicle.  After initial impact with the utility pole the vehicle proceeded north across the roadway and came to a rest on the north side of the roadway facing north.  The driver sustained moderate injury and had someone take him to the hospital prior to police arrival.  The truck sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene. 

Theft:  Between September 1st and 2nd a Montrose woman reported that during the overnight hours, one or more unknown person(s) entered her unlocked car, which was parked in her driveway, and removed the following:  a wallet with credit cards, and ipod, and a charger. 

Theft:  Between the 17th and 19th of August a gas can and two rims were stolen from the front yard of a Montrose man.  Anyone with information is asked to contact the police. 

Theft:  On August 27th between 8:30 am and 2:30 pm a Nicholson man reported that a WEN 5500 watt generator was stolen from his yard. 

Burglary:  Between August 26th and 27th one or more perpetrator(s) broke into a single family residence, pulled down the basement ceiling, and stole all the copper pipe.  The pipe was identified as mostly ½ inch flexible copper of an old age that was very oxidized and would be able to be identified. 

Scattering Rubbish:  The police were investigating the illegal dumping of garbage at a location in Choconut Township.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. 

Reportable Crash:  On August 31st at 3:26 am a one vehicle crash occurred in Hallstead Borough on SR 11.  At this time Rebecca Collins of Susquehanna was traveling southbound on that road when, for unknown reasons, she lost control of her vehicle.  The vehicle subsequently left the right side of the roadway and proceeded to crash into Maloney's Pub and Restaurant. The investigation was continued as of the time of report.  The driver was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital by Great Bend/Hallstead EMS and was listed in stable condition.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. 

Burglary:  Between August 28th and 29th unknown perpetrator(s) arrived at the scene of RW product in New Milford, forced entry through two exterior doors, stole a red Milwaukee drill and two De Walt reciprocating saws, and fled the scene. 

Burglary:  Between August 23rd and 29th the home of a Hallstead man was entered, and jewelry and several guns taken from within.  Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. 

Crash:  On August 28th at 8:59 pm a one vehicle crash occurred in Bridgewater Township in which the driver was attempting to turn left onto SR 706 from SR 167 when, for unknown reasons, he lost control of the Acura GS, which impacted the guide rail off the north berm.  The driver fled the scene on foot immediately after the crash. 

Burglary:  Between June 17th and August 20th a Hop Bottom man reported his blue 1998 Yamaha Warrior stolen from his yard, and his home burglarized.  Also stolen were a Wal-mart type camo 12 ga. shotgun with sling and a .22 Marlin rifle. 

Update-Missing Person-Endangered:  PSP Gibson was investigating and searching for the following missing person:  Shelby Colwell of Hallstead.  Collwell suffers from dementia, and uses a cane to walk.  Colwell left her apartment at the Howard Emerson Apartments in Hallstead on August 26th at approximately 3:55 pm.  She was believed to be seen walking north on Main Street in Hallstead Borough at approximately 4:00 pm that day.  She was located on August 27th at approximately noon.  She was unharmed and in good physical condition approximately two miles north of her residence in an area between the railroad tracks and the Susquehanna river by a watercraft rescue team from Conklin, Ny.  The positive outcome of this search was a result of an extensive multi-agency effort.  The community response and citizen volunteers were a great asset in covering a vast area in an organized, systematic search. 

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

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:15 a.m. on September 12, 2014: Shawn J. Bedford, Brent V. Birtch, Anthony M. Choplosky, Tina M. Clark, Christopher J. Clark, Christopher D. Cole, Eric J. Darde, James W. Donahue III, David J. Fischer, Jeremy W. Hall, Nathan Hollister, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Derrick Lezinsky, Robert J. McCrone, Ronald N. Mitchell, Jordan L. Payne, Vincent J. Petriello, Veronica D. Phelps, Roy G. Rink, Anthony L. Smith, Frederick Swingle, III, Tessa E. Thomas, Kurtis Tracy, John H. Walter, Steven G. Warner, Jamie L. Williams Sr., Richard D. Williams Sr., Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals. 

DEEDS

Russell & Jean Very to Janet Very Schoffstall &  James A. Schoffstall,  in Jessup Township & Bridgewater Township, for $1.00.

Nathan R. & Courtney Place to Dakota & Elizabeth Berg, in Montrose Borough, for $135,000.00.

Richard W. & Carole K. Rose to Richard Thomas Rose & Steven Kenneth Rose, in Dimock Township, for $1.00.

Willard C. & Kimberly H. Anglemyer to Willard C. & Kimberly H. Anglemyer, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Thomas M. Pinto Jr. (Estate AKA) & Thomas M. Pinto (Estate) to Stephen L. & Colene J. Baker, in Lenox Township, for $189.500.00.

Jesse J. & Barbara T. Hinkley to Jesse J. Hinkley, Barbara T. Hinkley, Clayton T. Hinkley & Kara L. Hinkley, in Harford Township, for $1.00.

Jesse J. Hinkly (aka) Jess J. Hinkley & Barbara T. Hinkley & to Jesse J. Hinkley, Barbara T. Hinkley, Clayton T. Hinkley & Kara L. Hinkley, in Harford Township, for $1.00.

Raymond Thomas Giblin, Gerard John Giblin, Elizabeth Maureen Bradley, Edna Cecilia Sullivan, Genevieve Mary Sullivan & Ruth Mare Chamberlain to Giblin LLC, in Silver Lake Township for $1.00.

Gordon J. Van Vleck  (a/k/a) Gordon J. Vanvleck & Kathleen J. Stevens to Kathleen Stevens, in Liberty Township, for $1.00.

Gordon J. Van Vleck  (a/k/a) Gordon J. Vanvleck, to Gary L. Van Vleck, in Liberty Township, for $1.00.

John W. & Carol A. Ross to John W. & Carol A. Ross, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Homer C. (Estate) Ross to Homer C. Ross Family Limited Partnership, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Homer C. (Estate) Ross to Homer C. Ross Family Limited Partnership, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Homer C. (Estate) Ross to Homer C. Ross Family Limited Partnership, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Homer C. (Estate) Ross to Homer C. Ross Family Limited Partnership, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Homer C. (Estate) Ross to Homer C. Ross Family Limited Partnership, in Jackson Township, for $1.00.

Gregory & Jennifer Rebello to Gregory & Jennifer Rebello, in Silver Lake Township, for $1.00.

Sandra W. Balzhiser to Sandra W. (TRUST) Balzhiser, in New Milford Township, for $1.00.

Sandra W. Balzhiser to Sandra W. (TRUST) Balzhiser, in New Milford Township, for $1.00.

Sandra W. Balzhiser to Sandra W. (TRUST) Balzhiser, in New Milford Township, for $1.00.

Patricia Clapper to Patricia J. (TRUST) Clapper, in New Milford Township, for $1.00.

Patricia J. Clapper to Patricia J. (TRUST) Clapper, in New Milford Township, for $1.00.

George L. Capwell  Jr. & Jenna A. Capwell to Peter C.  Capwell Sr. & Mary H. Capwell, in Silver Lake Township, for $0.00.

George J. Capwell Jr. & Jeanne A. Capwell to Patrick C. Capwell, in Silver Lake Township for $1,000.00.

Edward & Catherine Whitman to Henry Yeska III & Patricia A. Yeska, in Harmony Township for $28,000.00.

Richard S. & Eloise W. Masters to RSM Property LLC, in Harford Township for $1.00.

Colleen Rafferty Schake & Robert Schake to ESE Equity LLC, in Montrose Borough, for $35,000.00.

David & Helen Coyle to Ernest J. Sebastianelli & Angela Sorcinelli, in Gibson Township for $249,000.00.

RH and RA LLO to Fiondi Inc., in Herrick Township & Ararat Township for $350.000.00.

Kevin Dwyer, Florence D. (Estate) Dwyer, Brian Dwyer, James Dwyer, Mark Dwyer, Shawn Dwyer, Chris Dwyer, Elaine Dryden & Cathy Lindsay to Kevin Dwyer, in Forest Lake Township for $1.00.

Shirley A. Washburn to Robert Bryce Powers III & Robin Lynn Cobb, in Ararat Township for $86,000.00.

Frederick D. Lewis Jr. & Lavone Lewis to Brooke M. Slocum, Jackson Township for $1.00.

Richard Masters, Eloise W. Masters & Carol M. Masters to RSM Property LLC, in Harford Township for $1.00.

Helen A. Janesky to Janesky Irrevocable Trust, in Lathrop Township for $1.00.

Mathew M. & Jessica Payette to Kyle J. Snell, in Oakland Borough for $89,900.00.

William H. Kelley (aka) William H. Kelly Sr. & Patricia Kelley to PW LP, in Bridgewater Township for $1.00.

Helen Ann Janesky to Janesky Irrevocable Trust, in Lathrop Township for $1.00.

Blake A. & Andrew J. Kelly to Chad R. & Jennifer S. Hall, in Apolacon Township for $24, 900.00.

U S Bank to Mark C. Andrews, in Silver Lake Township for $7, 556.00.

Mark & Emilia A. Birtch to Federal National Mortgage Association, in Great Bend Township for $10.00.

Bruce O. & Sandra Barrett to William R. & Sandra L. Tripp, in Forest Lake Township for $225,000.00.

Joseph L. Bodnar to Joseph L. Bodnar, in New Milford Township for $1.00.

John Lachovicz to Consolidated Partnership (of the County of Lackawanna) Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in Herrick Township & Ararat Township for $500.00.

Larry P. Schaefer to Larry P. Schaefer, in Dimock Township for $1.00.

Michael J. & Bernadette Franceski to Joesph E. Slick, in Forest City for $6,800.00.

Andrew & Dolores Boisselle to Werdnah Lands LLC, in Auburn Township for $10.00.

Robert A. & Donna C. Coleman to Smiley Hollow Minerals LLC, in Gibson Township for $1.00.

Robert A. & Donna Coleman to Bowtie Minerals LLC, in Oakland Township & Great Bend Township for $1.00.

Linda J. Rose to Brian D. & Carolette Naylor, in Springville Township for $91,675.00.

Patrcia Ann & Byron C. White to Paul B. & Theresa M. Barnes, in Susquehanna for $1,000.00.

David L, Burman, Dianne L. Burman, Roland L. Crawford & Susan Crawford to Andrew Crawford, in Susquehanna for $80,000.00.

Charles & Phillip Mazza to Charles & Phillip Mazza, in Clifford Township for $1.00.

Charles Mazza to Charles & Philip Mazza, in Clifford Township for $1.00.

Thomas P. Kurosky, David L. Kurosky & Helen E. Walsh to HTD Kurosky Family Limited Partnership, in Bridgewater Township for $1.00.

Debra Ball (NKA) Debra Whiting to Paul Whiting Jr. & Jason Whiting, in Herrick Township for $1.00.

Andrew Wyzykowski to Wescott Major Family Limited Partnership, in Clifford Township for $292,000.00.

Harvey Krasnegor & Sally Tilghman (NKA) Sally F. Martus to Harvey Krasnegor & Sally F. Martus, In Springville Township for $1.00.

Mary Jo Warner to John H. Hart (TRUST) & Cheryl C. Hart (TRUST), in New Milford Township for $20,.000.00.

Kenneth R. Bush & Kelly Bush (AKA) Kelly M Bush to Darrin R. & Patrcia A. King, in Forest Lake Township for $177,000.00.

William Vansteenburg to C. J. Gosselin, in Silver Lake Township for $78,000.00.

George R. & Marjorie L. Petro to Donald R & Kathryn A. Gitto, in Silver Lake Township for $340,000.00.William M. Ewing to Scott Petroleum LLC, in Rush Township for $10.00.

Diana L. Burridge to Colin R. Burridge, in Rush Township for $1.00.

Colin R. Burridge to Diana L. Burridge, in Rush Township for $1.00.

Judith A. Tagler to Leeann Moffatt, in Herrick Township for $225,000.00.

Adam M. & Julie E. Diaz to Marty G. & Bridget Lee Evans, in Brooklyn Township for $650,000.00.

Mark Warren Associates LP to Timothy J. Gow Jr. & Janet A. McDonough, in Apolacon Township for $90,100.00.

David S. & Michele A. Hesse to David S. & Michele A. Hesse, in Franklin Township for $1.00.

Michael D Carns (AKA) Michael D Carns Sr. to Simmons Rockwell Realty of Pennsylvania LLC, in Great Bend Township for $1,790.00.00.