LOWER MILFORD TOWNSHIP

LEHIGH COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS - WORKSHOP MEETING

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2006

MINUTES

PRESENT:  Richard D. Harris, Chairman; Arland H. Schantz, Vice-Chairman; Donna L. Wright, Supervisor; Ellen Koplin, Manager; Richard Kinsey, Public Works Director, Zoning/Planning Administrator; John Dondero, Police Chief and 11 members of the audience. 

- The meeting was called to order by Chairman Harris at 7:34 pm.

- Kinsey explained the need for a Stormwater Easement for Elm Road.  He stated the property owner is in agreement.  Costs for maintenance would be minimal.  An engineers description would be necessary at an approximate cost of $2,000.  Koplin stated it must be determined by the solicitor whether Lloyd Walters easement, along with the landowners property, would need to be included.  An authorization for the expenditure will be addressed at the regular meeting on September 21, 2006.

- A 2007 Model 7400 International 4x2 replacement truck for the 1978 Mack Dump truck with a cracked frame was proposed for purchase at $63,603 with partial payment from Liquid Fuels funds and the remainder on loan from Navistar.  The 2004 diesel engine in the proposed vehicle would not require the new low sulfur diesel fuel.  A resolution to piggyback on the Capitol City Program to purchase accessories for the truck may be necessary should the Board decide to go that route.  The specifications of the International truck were discussed.  

Kinsey asked for a decision tonight to avoid losing the opportunity, as there is only one for sale and other municipalities are looking at it.

MOTION was made by Schantz to purchase the 2007 Model 7400 International 4x2 for $63,603.  Seconded by Wright.                                                          Unanimous

- Kinsey requested authorization to take an in-bed pick-up truck cinder spreader to sell at municipal auction.  An unsuccessful attempt was made to put it out for bid last year.  The Board will consider it at the regular September meeting.

- A letter from PennDOT, in response to the Spinnerstown Road Speed reduction request of 7/11/06, was read which required the township’s agreement to purchase, erect and maintain the appropriate speed limit signs before proceeding with the speed limit study.  Koplin wants to make sure we are in agreement with PennDOT concerning maintenance of the signs.  The Board must then decide if they are willing to purchase signs if necessary.

- The Borough of Emmaus Zoning Map Change was discussed.  Koplin stated she never received the map showing the change which was intended to be enclosed in the correspondence. As part of the Regional Plan group a response is reasonable.

- Wright reviewed the Comprehensive Recreation and Open Space Plan for Upper and Lower Saucon.  She expressed its usefulness to Lower Milford Township.

- Police Chief John Dondero researched and explained the District Attorney Child Abuse Program.  There was a previous request for donations from municipalities to help fund this program.  Dondero suggested taking $500 from the police budget for this purpose.  The Supervisors were in agreement.

- The frequency of newsletter publication was discussed and compared with surrounding municipalities.  It was decided to publish newsletters in early spring and late fall and a late summer festival flyer or postcard.

- Schantz proposed payment of Wages for Township Officials Attending the PSATS convention in addition to paid expenses.  Wright volunteered to go since she does not receive wages.  Harris was hesitant to approve of making a policy approving this.  He stated once you make the policy it is hard to reverse.  It could become a political issue.

- The Archaeological Conservancy has appealed the Board of Assessment to avoid paying taxes on the parcel acquired in the Maplewood Development. 

- It was brought to the attention of the Board of Supervisors that the Historical Society is seeking to put out a publication and perhaps include it in the township newsletter.  It would include a petition for funds.  There was a concern with how far to go in what to include in the township newsletter.  There needs to be 15 – 20 people to incorporate an organization.  Koplin thought as long as the extra weight of the newsletter would not cost the township any extra and the Historical Society members would help insert and fold the newsletters.

- Fall Festival update was given by Shirley Selgrath and Donna Wright– there are over 102 items for the Silent Auction so far including signed flyers items.  There may not be a moon bounce ride because of insurance costs. 

- Harris announced the Curative Amendment Hearing on September 28, 2006.

- Meeting was adjourned at 9:53 pm.