LOWER MILFORD TOWNSHIP

LEHIGH COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS - WORKSHOP MEETING

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2005

MINUTES

PRESENT:       Richard D. Harris, Chairman; Arland H. Schantz, Vice-Chairman; Joan B.         Dreibelbis, Supervisor/Treasurer; and Approximately Twenty-Two in the Audience.

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Harris at 7:35 pm.

Comments were received throughout the meeting.

Schultz Bridge Road Update:

Harris stated everything is in place for the project to start and will be completed within 120 days of the signing of the contract.  Scour repair will be completed by August 31, 2005 according to the contract.  The Bog Turtle situation is taken care of.

Police Update:

Harris stated background checks were received for the two remaining candidates.  An executive session will be held to make determinations. A proposal will be put on the table to move forward on this.

It was asked if they are both PA certified and who would pay for certification if they are not and will he be paid a salary while he is being certified.  Harris stated one is certified the other is not.  It will be part of the agreement upon employment, if necessary.

A letter from the DCED was received confirming approval for a Police Management Study. 

It was stated that Upper Saucon has turned down requests for a regional police agreement but requested we apply for a DCED study.

Township Vehicle replacement:

The possibility of replacing the Ford Crown Victoria was discussed, perhaps with a small pick-up truck, for use by the township office employees.  Harris stated in times past employees were reimbursed for use of their own vehicle.           

            A resident suggested the Public Works Director use the F350 already in use with the Road Department.

Harris stated the old pick-up truck replaced by the F350, when not in use, could be utilized by the Public Works director.

Walking Trail:

Ann Frey stated the Planning Commission recommends applying for the Grant for the walking trail on Township property.  The Planning Commission will distribute a letter, in conjunction with the Township, to inform surrounding residents of the walking trail in fulfillment of a grant requirement.  Harris encouraged they include in the letter an invitation to the neighbors to attend the Planning Commission meeting when trail discussion takes place (September).

Dreibelbis expressed concern over mischief, which may be enabled by the walking trail and how it may affect the neighbors.  She asked what costs will be incurred in security and upkeep.  Harris stated the Planning Commission will address that issue and should be well informed before deciding to apply for the grant.  He has noticed vandalism problems occur mainly on satellite walking trails. 

Harris addressed the need for having a Solicitor present when things such as the Agreement with Lehigh County Water Authority are on the table.  Dreibelbis agreed that the Planning Commission solicitor be present at the meetings as he requested in correspondence. Harris told the Planning Commission members present that it is the responsibility of the Planning Commission Chairman to set the agenda and inform the solicitor of items which he should be present for.  Harris will be present at the Planning Commission Workshop on Monday, August 15, 2005 and requested a quorum be present in order to vote effectively.

Fall Festival Update:

Donna Wright was prepared with a list of completed items and those which need to be accomplished for the Fall Festival this year.  These items were discussed.

Citizen Comments:

Lloyd Ohl pointed out that according to the state law vehicle code you cannot restrict trucks on (Kings Highway) a state highway as long as they meet 80,000 lbs or less. 

Harris stated 120” width is the limit also.  He stated there may be other reasons why trucks are put on alternate routes such as noise level, congestion or a bridge.  It was mentioned that any alternate route for Kings Highway would be a township road.

Harris stated Keystone Consulting Engineers is looking into weight restrictions for Schultz Bridge Road bridge.

Harris adjourned the meeting at 8:29 pm.