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MINUTES OF NOCKAMIXON TOWNSHIP
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
MAY 17, 2007
The regular scheduled meeting for May was held in the Township building in Ferndale, PA. Chairman J. Litzenberger opened the meeting at 7:18 PM with a salute to the flag. Other members present were Vice Chairman K. Gross and Supervisors H. Gawronski and B. Keyser. Supervisor N. Janyszeski was not in attendance. Solicitor T. Clemons and S. MacNair as well as Township Engineer, S. Baluh were also present.
Chairman J. Litzenberger commented that the Board of Supervisors met in Executive Session from 6:35 PM to 7:16 PM to discuss real estate and personnel.
Chairman J. Litzenberger requested a moment of silence for H. Yarmark, a Palisades High School Junior, daughter of S. Mendelson and the step-daughter of J. Mendelson, who passed away on Friday.
The Board thanked the volunteers for their assistance during Clean-Up Day, Saturday, April 21, 2007.
SCHEDULING:
The schedule for the month was referred to by Chairman, J. Litzenberger.
MINUTES OF MEETING:
A Motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by B. Keyser, to approve the April 17, 2007 minutes as presented. The motion carried 3-0-1. K. Gross abstained. He did not attend the meeting.
REQUEST TO BE ON THE AGENDA:
- Lance Arbor – Letter to PHS requesting no increase to Teacher’s Salaries.
L. Arbor was not in attendance.
REPORTS:
A. Road Report – A motion was made by K. Gross seconded by H. Gawronski, to approve the April Road Report as presented. B. Keyser commented that he had spoken to G. Housworth concerning the repairs needed for the 1987 Ford truck #1. It was the consensus of the Board to proceed with the repair of the truck up to $3,000.00. The Board discussed the age and repairs needed for this truck and it was the consensus of the Board to have the Road Master research the cost of truck models from the year 2000 and newer. The motion carried 4-0-0.
BID AWARDING: Award Bids for Tar / Chip
Ads for the installation of approximately 68,200+/- square yards of double bituminous seal coat with E-3M ran in the Delaware Valley News on Thursday April 26, 2007 and Thursday May 3, 2007.
Unit Price Total Price
Asphalt Maintenance Solutions LLC $2.39 sq.yd. $ 162,998.00
Asphalt Industries, Inc. $2.45 sq.yd. $ 167,090.00
A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to award the seal coat bid to Asphalt Maintenance Solutions LLC for 68,200 plus or minus sq.yds. of the double application bituminous seal coat with E-3M at a unit price of $2.39 sq.yd., a total price of $162,998.00. Work to be completed by September 1, 2007. Per Township policy, the award will be based on the conditions that upon investigation of all possible bidders they have met all the requirements and are the lowest responsible bidder. The motion carried 4-0-0.
BID AWARDING: Road Material Bids
Advertisements for FOB Road Materials Aggregates and ID-2 and ID-3 Bids ran in the Delaware Valley News on consecutive Thursdays April 26, 2007 and May 3, 2007. A mileage requirement of 40 cents per mile one way was advertised as an additional cost factor with number of miles to be calculated from plant to township building. Bidders were asked to provide the number of road miles one way from their plant. Bids were sent to Gorecon, Blooming Glen and Hanson Aggregates BMC. One bid was received from Hanson Aggregates BMC as follows:
100 Tons More or Less of ID-2 WEARING MATERIALS $42.50 Unit Price
200 Tons More or Less of ID-3 WEARING MATERIALS $41.00 Unit Price
400 Gallons More or Less A/C Oil No Bid
450 Tons More or Less of Superpave $42.50 Unit Price
One bid was received for Road Materials Aggregates from Hanson Aggregates BMC as follows:
2,500 Tons More or Less 2A Material Crushed Aggregate $ 8.25 Unit Price
400 Tons More or Less 3A Modified Crushed Aggregate $ 8.25 Unit Price
200 Tons More or Less #1 Ballast Crushed Aggregate $ 9.25 Unit Price
400 Tons More or Less #8 Crushed Aggregate $12.25 Unit Price
800 Tons More or Less Fine Aggregate Screenings $ 6.50 Unit Price
200 Tons More or Less ¾ Inch Clean Crushed Aggregate $ 9.50 Unit Price
400 Tons More or Less 1 ½ Inch #3 Crushed Aggregate $ 9.25 Unit Price
300 Tons More or Less R-4 Rip Rap Crushed Aggregate $11.20 Unit Price
200 Tons More or Less R-6 Rock Lining $15.95 Unit Price
A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to accept the bids from Hanson Aggregates BMC for the Crushed Aggregates and Wearing Materials as indicated. The motion carried 4-0-0.
B. Zoning Report – The Zoning Officer, P. Bent, gave the April/May report to the Board. He commented that ten zoning permits were issued during the month and the status of the enforcement notices. Temporary community event permits were issued for Country Drive-In and The American Grill. No response has been received from J. Andre, 29 School Drive, regarding the Civil Action filed with District Court. S. Bush sent his monthly progress report for the clean up of the property at 8476 Easton Road. A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by K. Gross, to accept the Zoning Report as presented. The motion carried 4-0-0. Due to a prior engagement the Zoning Officer requested that the Board review the following subdivision:
A. Gartner-Lake Warren Subdivision – Paving of Wood Stream Road. J. Gartner commented that he is requesting permission from the Board to proceed with road improvements to Lake Warren Subdivision. He received correspondence from two land owners stating that they will not be constructing a house for four to six years. S. Baluh commented that it is Township policy to hold final paving of the road until the project is complete however he had no objection to cleaning up the rest of the development. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to move forward and finish the improvements as deemed necessary by S. Baluh to the Lake Warren Subdivision. The motion carried 4-0-0.
C. Emergency Management – E. Mocarsi, Emergency Management Member, gave the monthly report. He commented on the following items: the Township Disaster Recovery Plan; the existing Township PC’s and data network; emergency fuel reserves; a web page for the EMA; and the Town Watch Account. The EMA recommended additional tanks for fuel reserves should there be a power outage for an extended length of time. The EMA will create a sample web page to present to the Board with limited memory/disc space resources to link to Township website. The Town Watch Committee was never formalized as a 501(c)3 and they may have more latitude when closing out. It was noted that it may be a municipal account. J. Litzenberger commented that in order to do a more comprehensive review of the Disaster Recovery Plan it was requested that small segments (sections) be presented to the Board.
D. Environmental Advisory Committee – J. Petersen, EAC member, gave the report to the Board. He questioned if Arbor Resources had submitted any plans to the Township. T. Clemons commented that a recent letter to Arbor advised that they will have to comply with the most recent Township Ordinance. B. Keyser commented that information concerning the Township and Environment should be copied to the EAC. It was the consensus of the Board that information pertinent to a Committee should be copied to their folder. J. Petersen requested a Cabot site visit. S. Baluh commented that there is no regular schedule. It was the consensus of the Board to have P. Bent set up a meeting for an on-site visit at Cabot for the Board and EAC members. J. Peterson wanted to know what requirements the Zoning Officer follows in relation to Riparian Buffers when site inspections are done for proposed houses. It was noted by S. Baluh that Riparian corridors are in the Stormwater Regulations, along with various other setbacks in the Zoning Ordinance. S. Donovan commented about the status of the Well Protection Ordinance and that they are prepared to move forward with the Solicitor. A copy of their suggestions will be forwarded to the Board. The proposal received from M. Mulhall, P.G. of M2 Associates to complete an evaluation of the proposed Quarry Rezoning will be addressed during the Solicitor’s Report.
E. Open Space Committee – S. Tenney, Co-Chair, gave the report to the Board. She introduced the newly appointed Co-Chair, N. Alessi, who will complete the remainder of R. Hansen’s term. The Forum held on April 26, 2007 was well attended. The Board thanked the Committee and volunteers for their hard work in organizing the forum. S. Tenney presented a news article to the Board which explains how landowners can conserve property in Open Space. The Board suggested a couple of changes. It was the consensus of the Board to authorize the press release, include the word ‘Nockamixon’ in the headline, add to the website and include in the next newsletter.
F. Recreation Board – In the absence of the Chair T. Keebler, B. Naska, Rec Board Member, gave a report to the Board regarding the events scheduled for ‘Rapp Creek Park’. Dates have been set for nature hikes for the following Saturdays: June 16 and July 21, 2007, 8:30AM to 11:00AM, limit 20 people; Stargazing Friday June 29, 2007, 8:30PM to 11:00PM, limit 30 people. No rain dates at this time. A. Morales contacted the insurance company and since this is a Township/Committee sponsored event, it is not covered under the Township umbrella policy. A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by K. Gross, to approve the expenditure of $408.00 to cover the hiking and stargazing events scheduled by the Park & Rec Board at ‘Rapp Creek Park’. The motion carried 4-0-0. K. Gross commented that T. Keebler had indicated the extension of the ball field at Veteran’s Park and that brush and trees would need to be removed. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to remove/clear the cedar trees and brush where indicated on the ball field at Veteran’s Park with the assistance of B. Keyser. The motion carried 4-0-0.
B. Keyser commented that when the fence is ready for installation he would be available to assist in the clearing. K. Gross noted his concern and believes that an outside contractor should be hired to clear the field. After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to have the road department remove brush/trees under the supervision of B. Keyser.
G. Community Day – C. Hall, Chairman, gave the report. He requested Board approval to sign the contract for Dick Rainer, an entertainer for Community Day. The bill is payable on Community Day, September 22, 2007. A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by K. Gross, to approve and sign the contract for Dick Rainer in the amount of $350.00. The motion carried 4-0-0. C. Hall commented that everything is moving forward, letters will be sent out, money has been received for postage and one organization has responded. A motion was made by J. Litzenberger, seconded by H. Gawronski, to direct the Treasurer to open a separate interest bearing checking account for Community Day. All funds will be deposited to that account. It was noted that Community Day money will remain in that account. The motion carried 4-0-0. K. Gross suggested that vendor and donation checks be brought to the Township office in a timely manner. E. Gawronski wanted to know when the Township donation would be placed into the account. The Board discussed when and how funds would be added to the Community Day Account. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to transfer $5,000 of the $10,000 budgeted for Community Day into the account. Under discussion, E. Mocarsi commented that he would like the Board to put a cap on that account, so that it doesn’t become extraordinarily large. J. Litzenberger commented that the amount added to the account will depend upon the donations received and funds needed. It was noted that very little money would remain at the end of the event. The motion carried 4-0-0. C. Hall requested the cost for the checks.
H. Treasurer’s Report –
Permission to pay the bills for May, 2007
Permission to pay for Appraisal listed on bill list, due to motion to approve payment not being made at the 10/30/2006 meeting after the executive session.
QUOTES: Traffic Signal Annual Service Contract Quote: C&R Electric – Proposed Contract Price is $6,000.00 per year for a one year contract. -- Armour & Sons Electric, Inc. – Has 2 plans, one for an annual rate of $400.00 per permit and a semi-annual rate of $700.00 per permit. The Board reviewed the proposed annual contracts received for traffic lights. A. Morales did a five-year synopsis of signal repairs during which time the Township spent $5,200.00. The Board asked for a recommendation from S. Baluh. He commented that currently the Township has several school signals and two traffic signals and there should be no need for a contract at this time. He also explained that Armour & Sons Electric, Inc. does annual maintenance on all signals.
UNIFORMS – Met with Unifirst uniform services Representative Laura Bilger. The services and rates are quite competitive. The Road crew met with the sales representative and their needs were discussed. A. Morales explained the problems that have been occurring and the reason for the cost increases with the current uniform supplier. A motion was made by J. Litzenberger, seconded by K. Gross, to move forward with Unifirst as the uniform supplier for the Township, terminate the current Aramark contract. The motion carried 4-0-0.
ESCROWS: Kintner Hill Stabilization Grant – Second release of funds received and amount of release requested is $67,748.63, $48,801.38 needs to be transferred to General from Grant account and the remaining $18,947.25 is to be charged to the Township and will be reflected as budget line item 233 “Kintner Hill” $100,000.00. Grant account will have a balance of $3,205.14, which represents the interest gained from multiple grants. S. Baluh recommended payment of the bills and noted that the final bill will be presented next month.
TRANSFERS: Permission to transfer $61,113.38 from the Grant account to General funds to cover expenses paid for the Kintner Hill Stabilization project. A motion was made by J. Litzenberger, seconded by H. Gawronski, to transfer $61,113.38 from the Grant Account to General Funds to cover expenses for the Kintner Hill Stabilization Project. The motion carried 4-0-0.
VOIDS: 3358 Stopped Payment, due to loss. Payroll check stopped and all administrative/bank fees reimbursed, check replace number 3360. Check Numbers 553 and 554 voided due to printing error.
BENEFITS: An AFLAC representative stopped in the office on May 9, 2007. After reviewing and distributing the brochure and discussing it with the employees, an appointment will be set for Beth A. Ambrusco to return with a presentation and answer questions they may have. This benefit will have no cost to the Township.
OSHA: Material Safety Data sheets received and distributed to employees with acknowledgement form.
A. Morales noted that, according to PSATS, any expenditure or over-expenditure to the budget should be added to the Treasurer’s Report.
BUDGET: Line 52 gaming commission funds for gambling law this amount was increased from 372.92 to 745.92 –- Line 96 income received from bills paid in a prior year that funds were refunded to township due to overpayment –- Line 114 over expended from 0.00 to $2,300.00 for open space appraisal –- Line 222 increased due to a purchase that was under $500.00 for a fire proof (2) drawer cabinet over expended that line item by $203.68 –- Line 160-163 added as per DCED amended Chart of Accounts increased from 0.00 to $865.60 which covers computer/software related expenses and supplies –- Line 181 increased due to the monthly cost of Township recycling of about $334.12 per month should be moved to line 427 solid waste sanitation –- Line 205 was left at 0.00 but had $916.80 in advertising for various zoning issues –- Line 209 increased due to the New International Building Codes book being purchased in the membership through the building and zoning –- Line 260 was at 0.00 but a PO Box was approved and the expense was $46.00 –- Line 292 was approved at $2,200.00 for the reimbursement to Riegelsville for the Workers’ Compensation Policy, but the policy increased for 2007 by $642.00.
We have $ 38,877.92 left in the Checking Account after payment of bills.
We have $ 89,558.35 left in the Escrow Account after bills and releasing funds.
We have $ 216,858.05 left in the State Account after the payment of bills.
We have $ 3,205.14 left in the Grant Account after transfer of funds.
We have $ 75.18 left in the Petty Cash Account after reimbursement and deposits.
A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to approve the May 17, 2007 bill list and Treasurer’s Report as presented. The motion carried 4-0-0.
B. Keyser requested information concerning overtime for office workers and Road Crew. A. Morales will have the information at the next meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
-B. Fontenot commented that Open Space considered an ordinance that was proposed to the Board a) to protect well water and b) open space and the status. In response, S. Donovan noted that a rough draft to protect well water is in progress.
-H. Nast wanted to know when the blinking signs would be removed from Kintner Hill. S. Baluh commented that work has been completed and will be removed soon.
-B. Keyser commented about the erosion of SR611 near the Kintner Hill intersection.
T. Clemons noted that R. Martin from PennDOT should be contacted as well as our State Representative. S. Baluh added that he called R. Martin and is awaiting a response. He understands that PennDOT is proceeding with an ‘emergency contract’. It was the consensus of the Board to instruct S. Baluh to attempt to contact PennDOT over the next several weeks, and then have him inspect the roadway. This will be based on the response from PennDOT.
-B. Lippincott was concerned and disheartened about the property that was bought by a developer on Frogtown Road and it was her understanding that the Township was considering purchasing the property. J. Litzenberger gave a short explanation of what may have happened, nothing definitive, only discussion.
-M. Adler thanked the members of the Board who gave him the opportunity to retire in the Township. Considers this area of the country very special and would like his quality of life to remain as it is now. Make the best decision possible.
-S. Tenney requested an update on the driveway on the Sibre property. S. Baluh will send out the proposal/plan for the 450’ of driveway, which serpentines 200’ into the area.
-B. Keyser commented about the amount of funds needed to purchase the Frogtown property.
-N. Alessi commented about steps that need to be taken in order to control development. She suggested a moratorium on permits. J. Litzenberger commented on the progress that the Township has made in the last few years regarding the SALDO and new ordinances.
-A resident wanted to know if there is a way to fast track ordinances or institute a building moratorium.
-S. Donovan noted that Hilltown initiated a six-month moratorium on building permits in order to enact ordinances. Would anything be gained by doing that in this Township, time advantage? T. Clemons commented that a resolution, known as a municipal curative amendment, had to be adopted declaring that their ordinance had some imperfections and they intended to correct and identify those issues for corrective actions. For six months no one can challenge the ordinance as stated in that resolution. This can be done once every three years. You are not subject to a challenge on the basis of what is announced as the defect that will be addressed in this ordinance.
-A resident wanted to know if there was a consensus on the Board if this is something important enough to pursue within the next 30 days. J. Litzenberger and H. Gawronski would consider pursuing.
-B. Naska commented that the owner of the Frogtown property may have had the choice to preserve his land and wanted to know if the sale was final or negotiable. - He suggested that a letter be sent to the County, the District Traffic Engineer and copied to the Governor’s office regarding the maintenance of State roadways. - Speeding is a concern through Ferndale, he suggested that the speed wagon be brought in to monitor traffic. J. Litzenberger commented that this area is constantly being monitored.
-R. deSoccaras cautioned the Township concerning the water ordinance and the results if the County or State agrees when or if they become aware of this problem. The Township could be mandated to construct a water tower or run lines from Lake Nockamixon throughout the township. The cost may be more than the average household could afford.
J. Litzenberger closed public comment. It will be entertained prior to adjournment.
SUBDIVISIONS:
A. Gartner-Lake Warren Subdivision – Paving of Wood Stream Road – This was addressed earlier in the meeting.
B. Glazier/Prime Properties O&M Agreements – Lots 1 thru 10 – Approval – T. Clemons commented that he has not seen the executed copies and noted that their attorney, E. Tobin has requested to be on the June 19, 2007 meeting. He noted that there are several outstanding issues with the plan. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by B. Keyser, to table the Glazier/Prime Properties O&M agreements until the June meeting. The motion carried 4-0-0.
C. Benedict 3-Lot Sub. grants a 30 day extension to June 30, 2007
The Board acknowledged receipt of the extension.
-T. Clemons commented that perhaps there should be a policy in place, regarding extensions granted by applicants, that identifies the property, name of applicant and other pertinent information. It was the consensus of the Board to use the forms provided by the Solicitor.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Palisades High School Renovations – Motion to accept improvements – S. Baluh commented that outstanding items on the site have been addressed and he had no objection to waiving the maintenance provisions. Any Board recommendations should be conditional upon them becoming current with their fees. The Township executed the land development, but did not require an escrow account. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, that once the High School is current with their account, that the Township waive the maintenance provision.
The motion carried 4-0-0.
- Service Contract for Traffic Signals – Addressed earlier in the meeting.
C. Participate in “Delaware River Comprehensive PA” Feasibility Study – H. Gawronski attended the “Friends of the Canal” meeting. In order to move forward with the feasibility study each municipality would be required to donate $15,000 from Lower Makefield up to Riegelsville. A $42 million dollar State Grant (DEP) and Federal Money will be used to repair the Delaware Canal.
D. UBREMS Donation – B. Keyser updated the Board with regard to changes that have occurred with UBREMS including the hiring of new personnel and the outsourcing of billing. He requested that the money budgeted be sent to them. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to donate $32,000.00, as allocated in the budget, to Upper Bucks Regional Emergency Medical Services (UBREMS). The motion carried 3-0-1 with B. Keyser abstaining. He is on the Board of Directors.
A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to transfer $32,000.00 from the High Yield Money Markey Account to the General Fund Account. The motion carried 3-0-1 with B. Keyser abstaining. He is on the Board of Directors.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Proposed Realty Transfer Tax Ordinance – Approval to advertise – T. Clemons commented that this Ordinance will authorize the Department of Revenue to collect interest on any delinquent Real Estate Transfer Tax owed to the Township. A public hearing is scheduled for the June 19, 2007 Board meeting. A motion was made by J. Litzenberger, seconded by H. Gawronski, to advertise the proposed Realty Transfer Tax Ordinance in the Delaware Valley News. The motion carried 4-0-0.
B. UCC Board of Appeals – Wehrung’s – T. Clemons commented that there are several issues with the 8,000 sq.ft. proposed building that will house woodworking equipment. 1) The Code Inspector has determined that this type of use requires a water sprinkler system to prevent fire. The variance requested by the applicant believes that due to the lack of public water, large pumps/tanks would be required. They are proposing to install in its place a ‘dry’ sprinkler system along with an outside fitting that would enable a fire truck to pump water through the system. 2) The code inspector has recommended a fire lane between the two buildings however the applicant notes site constraints which would not allow a fire lane. They are requesting a fire hydrant and fill pipe. Due to amendments to the Uniform Construction Code, a hearing is required in thirty days as opposed to sixty days. A decision has to be made within five days of the hearing. The appointed Solicitor will request an extension from the applicant.
- Amendment to Fee Schedule $600/fee and $500/escrow – A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to adopt the same fees as the Zoning Hearing Board, $600/fee and $500/escrow, for the UCC Board of Appeals. K. Gross amended his motion, seconded by H. Gawronski, to adopt the change to the fee schedule as Resolution #5-17-2007. The motion carried 4-0-0. Under discussion, the Board reviewed the applicant’s request regarding the fire system they would consider installing in the building, and what systems are currently being used at businesses throughout the Township. It was the consensus of the Board to move forward with Item #1, a monitoring system for this land use. The Board was not in favor of eliminating the fire lane. T. Clemons suggested that the Board authorize his office to contact Wehrung’s attorney to explore what the applicant is requesting for the fire lane. K. Gross entertained that as his motion, seconded by H. Gawronski, to authorize the Solicitor to contact the applicant’s attorney regarding the last two items on the variance request. The motion carried 4-0-0.
- Board of Appeals Members – The Board discussed meeting pay for each member of the Board of Appeals. A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by K. Gross, to pay each Board of Appeals Member $75.00 per hearing. The motion carried 4-0-0. The Secretary was directed to call the Board of Appeals members and advise of the upcoming hearing.
C. Appoint UCC Board of Appeals Solicitor – J. Litzenberger had requested that the Secretary contact P. Harrison regarding this appointment. A. Eichlin explained that P. Harrison had commented that in order to move forward with the appeal a solicitor would have to be appointed. A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by K. Gross, to appoint Peter Harrison as Solicitor for the UCC Board of Appeals. The motion carried 4-0-0.
D. Hanson Aggregates BMC – Petition for Rezoning
J. VanLuvanee, attorney for the applicant, requested that the Board consider authorizing a public hearing for the Quarry rezoning in July and forward information to the B.C. Planning Commission to begin the formal process. All application and escrow fees have been paid. K. Gross voiced concerns regarding the rezoning which included limiting the depth of the quarry, and the gas tanks at Harrow Station. He suggested that only ten acres be rezoned in addition to the sixty-eight acres currently in use. T. Clemons commented that the BOS can entertain an ordinance that would rezone all, some or none of it. The Board can advise the applicant of what they would like included in their presentation e.g., limitations of mine depth, agree to replace any water supply within a certain radius (e.g. 2,500’), appropriate setbacks and the tree line that extends north to south on the property. These conditions would be accepted and memorialized. T. Clemons commented that the applicant is entitled to a hearing and a decision. Hanson has filed the petition and the Board needs to address the application. Hold a hearing, advertise, notify the surrounding property owners and let the applicant present his case. J. VanLuvanee commented that a Ground Water Pumping Evaluation Report is being prepared that will address the projected impacts.
-S. Donovan commented that a quote was received to evaluate the proposed quarry rezoning from M. Mulhall, P.G. and, based on $135.00/hr, the final cost would range from $2,500-$5,000. The concern is the impact on the ground water, and protecting the surrounding property wells. The EAC and BNTJGWC briefly reviewed the preliminary report and found some issues. Earlier in the meeting the Board discussed the feasibility of hiring a hydro-geologist. When asked why P-Hydro could not prepare the report, it was noted that M. Mulhull does their hydro-geologic evaluations. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to hire M. Mulhall, amount not to exceed $5000.00 to prepare a hydro-geologic report to the Board, prior to the public hearing for the Quarry. Under discussion, it was confirmed that the report will be available for review by the Board prior to the public hearing. J. Petersen requested that the report be included in the advertisement for the public hearing. T. Clemons commented that the report should be available before you act, the notice would advertise the public hearing for Hanson. There is no time frame in the Municipal Planning Code explaining when a hearing can be held. No decision would be necessary, if enough information is not available. The motion carried 4-0-0. The Board discussed and set a date for the hearing. Under discussion, the Board commented that it should be held at another venue. A. Santopietro wanted to be sure that the Board of Supervisors were aware that the Planning Commission recommended that the Commercial area not be rezoned to Quarry. A motion was made by K. Gross, seconded by H. Gawronski, to advertise in the Intelligencer for a public hearing for the proposed Quarry Rezoning on August 30, 2007 at 7:00 PM. The motion carried 3-1-0 with B. Keyser voting nay. Contact the schools for the availability of the auditoriums.
-K. Gross left the meeting at 10:12 PM.
SOLICITOR’S REPORT:
Arbor Resources LLC - T. Clemons commented that a packet of correspondence was copied to the Board that had been sent to Arbor regarding their application for a NPDES permit. A. Morales noted that the Solicitor has been submitting bills for Arbor, but that no escrow has been established. He believes that the Township may want to maintain as a separate account.
B. Keyser noted that some of the planners were quite verbal about getting information too late for meetings. He requested that the Planning Secretary e-mail paperwork to the Planners A. Santopietro explained that the Agenda and Minutes are e-mailed and that any additional reports would be a plus. J. Litzenberger commented that it would be ancillary, if something comes in and can be e-mailed it would still be copied to the folders. More administrative time would be involved. He wanted to know how difficult it would be to contact each member by phone when something of importance is in their folder. A. Eichlin commented that a call could be generated every Friday, if needed.
-A. Eichlin requested permission from the Board to advertise changes/additions to Township Committee meeting dates and the June 11, 2007 Work Session to discuss Township Ordinances. A motion was made by J. Litzenberger, seconded by H. Gawronski, to advertise for changes to Township Committee meeting dates and Work Session of June 11, 2007 to discuss Township Ordinances. The motion carried 3-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
-R. de Socarras commented about the Frogtown Road property, the cost to acquire and the amount that the Board had intended to get for the Gorham and Sibre properties. He wanted to know how the Township could afford this property. He does not want to see the Township to go into debt. T. Clemons explained what would have been involved in the transaction for the Gorham/Sibre properties. The Board commented that the anticipated amount for the sale of the properties would have covered the cost, plus the money budgeted in the Open Space Account.
-N. Alessi commented that these deals take a long time. Property owners have the choice of developing or not developing their land.
-A resident commented that the truth is that growth is going to come to the area. An increase in population will increase the cost for schools, roads, sewage and water treatment plants. As taxes increase residents will not be able to afford to stay. Be pro-active in protecting the land.
-Another resident wanted to know how much money has been accumulated over the past two years. It was noted $350-400,000.
-S. Tenney addressed R. de Socarras comments regarding the use of the funds. Information should be presented to the community explaining how the process works. Utilize what we have in a smart way. J. Litzenberger commented about the County referendum and the matching funds that would be available. He noted that the Open Space Committee has been working very hard in education, identification and execution in presenting opportunities to the Board.
ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by H. Gawronski, seconded by B. Keyser, to adjourn the Board of Supervisors meeting at 10:40PM. The motion carried 3-0-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
Arlene Eichlin
Township Secretary
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