LOWER MILFORD TOWNSHIP

LEHIGH COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS - WORKSHOP MEETING

THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2008

MINUTES

PRESENT:  Richard Harris, Chairman; Donna Wright, Vice-Chairman;  Arland Schantz, Supervisor; Ellen Koplin, Township Manager; Emil Kantra, Solicitor; John Dondero, Police Chief and approximately 9 members of the audience. 

–      Chairman Harris called the meeting to order at approximately 7:33 pm.

OLD BUSINESS:

–      Cowan Associates Engineering Services Contract for Limeport Sewer Project

Attorney Kantra summarized a 5/1/08 memo to the Board of Supervisors in review of the Cowan Contract.  He explained the format and made suggestions for changes.

Koplin suggested Attorney Kantra go over his suggestions with William Kee of Cowan Associates to revise the wording and she will contact the insurance company for their comments.

Michael Snovitch, who was asked to review the contract as an engineer, read his comments.

–      Draft Fire Safety Ordinance

The draft Ordinance was revised according to Attorney Kantra’s suggestions.  Things covered in state codes were removed to alleviate repetition.  The ordinance follows DEP regulations for burning outside of an airbasin. 

MOTION was made by Wright to authorize advertising of the draft Fire Safety Ordinance provided the Fire Dept. Chief and Emergency Services Advisory Committee do not have any further changes.  Schantz seconded the motion.                                            Unanimous

NEW BUSINESS:

–      Police Youth League –

Police Chief John Dondero mentioned the youth of the Township expressed an interest in being part of a Police Youth League.  A representative from DARE is willing to give a presentation.  Other possibilities would be to have the district’s school police officer, a representative from DCNR and hold a government workshop at monthly meetings.  He needs an avenue in getting the word out to township youth and others who would be interested in taking part and a place to hold meetings.  Harris asked him to prepare a plan in writing and it will be addressed at the regular meeting. 

–      Wireless Authorizations-

A resolution outlining the procedures of wireless bank transfers will be drafted and addressed at the next meeting.

–      Delinquent Tax Returns – Recent Case Law

Koplin mention correspondence received concerning possible action taken against municipalities which do not report delinquent tax returns to the County Tax Claim Bureau.  Since Lower Milford has always reported to the County as required, no action was necessary.

–      Stream Signage Survey-

Southeastern PA Resource Conservation & Development Council’s offer to provide stream signs to the township once again.  No participation was necessary since all stream signs are still in place.

–      Township Office Reception Window-

Quotes on having the opening at the reception area closed off with either large windows framed in aluminum or wood panels with a sliding glass door for customer access.  Koplin mentioned the Public Works Director, Richard Kinsey’s recommendation made after he interviewed each contractor and considered their experience and quality of work. The supervisors will consider the quotes and address it at the regular meeting. 

–      Announcements-

Wright reminded Supervisors she needs Park Recreation and Open Space Plan comments by Monday.

Evelyn Yost inquired about the proposed Youth League and told what the oldtime “Summer School” educational activities included.  Dondero said he would like it to be something other than what other groups are doing, other than sports.   Funds would be sought from other than the Township. Lowell Linde suggested the Liberty Trail. 

–      Harris adjourned the meeting at 9:41 pm.