BoS Meeting 2/21/2008

Regular Meeting (agenda)

The Board of Supervisors was asked by Police Chief Dorney to appoint three new police officers. Two will fill vacancies created by recent resignations and the third will fill a new position called for in the department five-year plan. Two other officers were promoted, one to Captain and one to Detective. Read more below and in articles by JD Malone (Express Times) and Madeleine Mathias (Morning Call). The police department appointments were moved from the NEW BUSINESS section of the agenda to the beginning of the OLD BUSINESS section at the request of Chief Dorney.

Supervisors' Comments

Chairman Howell said that he attended the hearing held by Representative Freeman on H.B. 2018, the bill to allow municipalities with greater than 17% tax exempt properties to share in monies collected for a liquor tax (that currently goes into the PA general fund). This (now) 18% liquor tax was originally enacted to help with the 1936 Johnstown flood. It was never repealed. Large amounts of tax exempt properties put an inordinate burden on the infrastructure to serve all the citizens. Howell provided the Board with some examples and cited Gettysburg, where 79% of the property is tax exempt because of the Gettysburg College. He said that Gettysburg would be entitled to a $702,000 payment. Howell said that Finance Manager Farley is putting something together for the Finance & Administration Committee to determine whether the proposed legislation may benefit Forks. Forks has schools, churches, parks, the Municipal Complex, the airport, etc. that are all tax exempt. At the least, the committee will determine whether or not to recommend that Forks endorse the legislation through resolution. The endorsement would be passed on to Reps. Grucela and Freeman to show support for their efforts.

Supervisor Miller updated the Board on the Bushkill Streams Conservancy's work to thwart further destruction by the two beavers that have been spotted near Lion's Park. Eighty seven (new) trees now have wire fencing around them.

Miller also said that an Antique Knife & Sword Show is coming to the Community Center September 27-28. There will be exhibits of military swords, antique daggers, and more. The show's sponsor is printing 10,000 flyers.

Supervisor Nicholas reported that she attended Boy Scout Troop 29's meeting and gave a talk on "their constitutional rights." She said that she was approached by at least five potential Eagle Scouts who are looking for projects. One of them, Sterling Pennington (sic) has volunteered to "do the parking lot at Gollub Park." Nicholas said that his good ideas include putting in a guard rail, a retaining wall, and a trail map. Nicholas said, too, that she asked DPW Director Roberts for ideas and he said the parking lot by the catch & release looks "ratty." Nicholas will try to get one of the scouts to improve it.

Nicholas said that she and Howell walked Gollub Park last weekend just to check it out. She noted that there are remnants of a pavilion there and that it, too, may be a good Eagle Scout project.

Treasurer's Report - Egolf detailed the debits (cash paid out) since the last Supervisors meeting. The debits and transfers were approved with a 5:0 vote. Current outstanding debt is $7,927.858.

Standing Committee Reports (meetings are open to the public - see the Township calendar for dates and times)

• Public Safety - Supervisor Chuss - reported that Chief Dorney is still gathering information on modular furniture for the Police Department. Chuss said that the committee has items on the agenda.
• Public Works - Supervisor Miller - said that he was not at the Public Works Committee meeting. Township Manager Schnaedter reported that various options for a new public works building were discussed - size/bays/land. Schnaedter said that the discussion is very preliminary.
• Parks & Recreation - Supervisor Howell - said that the committee will meet next Thursday at 4 PM.
• Community Relations - Supervisor Nicholas - reported that because advertisement purchases have been slow as business are still getting their (advertising) budgets together, the new edition of the Forks Quarterly will come out in mid-March. She said that the rest of this year's editions will be on time.
• Finance and Administration - Supervisor Egolf - said that the last meeting was canceled because of ice and that the next meeting will be next Wednesday at 5 PM.

Township Manager's Report - Schnaedter - reported that to date no action has been taken on the Gollub Park emergency access road but work should begin on Monday. Roberts (not present) has obtained a cost estimate. Nicholas asked if something could be done about the PRIVATE DRIVE / NO TRESPASSING sign on a tree there. She asked Kline if the Township can take it down. Kline said that it is misleading and that someone should first talk to the residents and tell them they need to take it down. Schnaedter has been assigned the task.

Schnaedter reported that he has received the DCNR grant application. He hopes to have a recommendation to the Board at the first meeting in April. He and Miller are working on it.

Also, Schnaedter commended the work done by the employee run "resurrected" Safety Committee. All departments are represented on the committee. The charge is to identify potential workplace hazards. He cited Pete Gheller (last year's chairman), Sean Quick (this year's chairman), Irene Hess, Loretta Fuehrer, Don Miller, Steve Nicholson, Jim Seiple, and Tim Weis. Acknowledgements (of appreciation) were presented to all. Weis and Miller received theirs at the meeting.

Schnaedter said that on February 13th he received a fax from Northampton Emergency Management Services asking that he select one of two proposed projects for funding consideration. Forks will have to provide a 25% match. He said that he only had until 4 PM that day to respond and consulted with (assistant Emergency Management Coordinator) Tim Weis. They opted for a new drainage pipe in the 100 year flood plain area of Kesslersville Road. The estimated total cost of the project is $250,000. The other project offered was to replace and install new culvert in the 2900 block of Sullivan Trail. Weis explained that these projects were identified by the Lehigh/Northampton Joint Hazard Mitigation program that he was involved in last year. Projects were identified in the event that Federal money became available. Some funds are now available - but receipt is not guaranteed.

Engineer's Report - Hay - asked the Board for permission to put the fire training facility specs out for bid. The facility will be located on Glover and Kuebler Roads. Egolf asked what the building will look like. Chuss gave him a sketch.

Resident Sandy Hanks asked why Forks needs its own facility when there is one ten miles north in Washington Township? Fire Chief Bryan Weis explained that the entrance is narrow and they can't get all the vehicles in there, in particular the ladder truck. Chief Weis added that the ten miles creates a significant response time delay should they be needed in Forks. He said too, that there has been a 337% increase in calls in the past eight years and that the new facility will also bring in outside agencies for training.

When questioned about the estimated cost ($350,000 to $400,000), Weis said that the fire company has been planning for it for several years (it is in the five-year plan) and has committed to pay for half of it. The company has received many grants and has more grant active applications in the works.

It will be a state of the art facility. The next nearest comparable one is in Bucks County. Chuss added that the facility is budgeted and because it will not be for exclusive Township use agreements will be worked out to recoup the money.

Ms. Hanks said that the PA State Planning Board report recommends shared municipal services. Howell said that it is virtually impossible to get the COG (Council of Governments) to do anything regional. He said that within the Two Rivers COG different municipalities have different kinds of fire companies or none at all. Some of the companies are union, some are paid, some are volunteers - "a hodgepodge of incorporated departments." Howell said that at the PSATS meetings, "regionalization" is a very easy thing to say but it is extremely difficult to accomplish.

Weis added to that the Washington Township facility is operated by and used by Northampton Community College.

Nicholas asked Hay to put a price hold time limit in the bid package. The Board approved the solicitation of bids in a 5:0 vote.

Solicitor's Report - Kline - agenda items only.

Comments from the floor - None.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Hiring of (3) New Full Time Police Officers - Chief Dorney nominated three individuals to fill the two vacancies created by resignations and the one vacancy already in the budget. The Board accepted all nominees in a 5:0 vote. The new officers are James Rovinski, Joe Kizer, and Brandon Schippers. For more details, please read the February 22, 2008 articles by JD Malone (Express Times) and Madeleine Mathias (Morning Call). The new officers begin their jobs on March 2. Chuss expressed thanks to Chief Dorney for his extensive work to find and field the candidates.

Promotion of Police Captain - The Board approved the promotion of corporal Richard Griffo to captain. The position, last held by Lou Coxe, has been vacant since 2003 when Coxe resigned. The promotion is effective March 2nd. The vote was unanimous.

Promotion of Police Detective - In another unanimous vote by the Board, officer Joe Effting was promoted to detective. This promotion is also effective March 2nd.

Recreation Path - (This is for a recreation path plan for Riverview Estates.) Howell said that the Planning Commission (PC) has considered three options and settled on one to recommend to the Board. In the PC recommended plan the path runs along the north side of Winchester from the nature trail to Broadway where it continues west on the south side of Winchester. Howell added that the PC is considering a broader trail system and that will be presented at a later date.

Chuss said that his thought is that since the revised Comprehensive Plan is so close to being adopted that the Board should wait until it is adopted. Winchester Drive is to be a minor arterial road and he thought that the Board should designate a recreation path on both sides from Frost Hollow to Richmond, putting it on the map (in the Comprehensive Plan) so that residents know that the path may be built.

Howell noted that discussion should be limited to Riverview and asked, "What is Strausser's responsibility? Hay explained that the sidewalks (per plan) will be on the south side of Winchester from Iron Run to Ramblewood and then (west) on both sides. There is still a gap from Broadway to Iron Run.

Chuss offered that per the new zoning ordinance there will be sidewalks on both sides of newly approved developments. John Ackerman (former Supervisor) commented that sidewalks are added when land is developed and not on undeveloped land.

Dean Turner (Planning Commission Chairman) clarified that the Comprehensive Plan will undergo final PC review at the workshop next week (February 26th at 7 PM). The PC public hearing is scheduled for the PC workshop in March. The Comp Plan then goes to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC). Chuss said that the Board of Supervisors will review it at their first meeting in April.

Nicholas offered a motion that the Board look at the entire recreation path system and prioritize sections for action. She noted that there are gaps.

Howell clarified that it is a motion to table until after the approval of the Comp Plan after which the entire trail system will be prioritized. In discussion, Egolf asked, "Who will prioritize?" Howell answered that the Parks and Recreation Committee standing committee will do that. Egolf remarked that he would like PC participation as well. Miller said that the Recreation Board cannot be left out either and they should have a part in this. Howell said that the motion is simply to table this agenda item and reconsider it after the Comprehensive Plan has been approved.

Egolf thought the motion too complicated. Kline suggested that it be two motions.

So, the Board voted 5:0 to table any consideration of the recreation path system until the Comprehensive Plan is approved by the Board. Next the Board voted 5:0 to determine the input it will receive from the PC and Recreation Board in order to prioritize the building of the recreation path system - after the Comprehensive Plan adoption.

Turner said that in the past, PC workshops were used to prioritize projects. He suggested that all three groups, the PC (at workshops), the Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Recreation Board use their meetings to put together a priority list. Howell said that the Board will do its best to coordinate the PC, the Recreation Board, the Parks and Recreation Committee, and any other interested citizens.

Resident Gretchen Gerstel commented that the Forks Township "should have told the developers where Forks wanted the paths and not let the developers say where they wanted to put them."

Penn's Ridge/Commercial Land Development - Kline explained that the developer was before the Board at its last meeting and that everyone is familiar with the proposal. He said that the developer is agreeable to the all the conditions. (For more details on the Penn's Ridge commercial project - a 10,000 sq.ft. strip mall on Bushkill Drive near the Kesslersville Road entrance to Penn's Ridge, see the FAC Projects page, Penn's Ridge.) The land development was conditionally approved (to include the engineer's letter and the PC recommendations) in a 5:0 vote.

NEW BUSINESS

Ordinance 309 - Farmland Preservation Tax Millage Freeze - Howell introduced this item by recalling that at the last meeting, Maria Bentzoni, Farmland Preservation Program Administrator was before them and outlined Act 4's provisions and that the Board asked Kline to prepare this ordinance.

In review, Kline said that "the ordinance will establish a real estate millage rate freeze on certain eligible property" in Forks and that there are four conditions that must be met:

1. Act 4 must be approved by all three taxing bodies, Northampton County, Forks Township, and the Easton Area School District (EASD). To date only Northampton County has approved it. Kline noted that the EASD has the most to gain by preventing further development.
2. What is exempt is real property for land (or easements on land) acquired by the county.
3. The ordinance applies to eligible property whether it meets the criteria before or after adoption of the ordinance.
4. The Board must notify Northampton County with the exact rate/amount of the millage, the date frozen, and the parcel(s) included.

Kline noted that there is nothing in Act 4 that says that the freeze "runs with the land forever."

At this time only one farm in Forks has been acquired by the County, the Elsie Louis Brown farm. Egolf asked Kline how the properties are identified. Kline explained that the County is trying to acquire properties but has a limited amount of money. In an effort to get the "most bang for the buck," they may be trying to preserve more farms to the north of Forks where the land is less expensive. Kline added that there are two farms in Forks that have submitted applications. Chuss commented that he thinks this is a great thing to do to help preserve farmland in Forks.

Ackerman said that there is one farm in Forks that has an application in but although he knows who it is, he is not going to say. He said that applicants are not identified because it may cause other farms to submit applications and mess it up for the ones already on the list. "...they don't have enough money to go around."

The Township will send a letter to the EASD telling them of the new ordinance. In a 5:0 vote the Board authorized the advertising of the ordinance. It will be considered for adoption at the March 6 meeting.

Fire Department Presentation - Fire Chief Bryan Weis presented the Fire Department 2007 Year End Report. It is available for download on the fire department website. Weis said that he has been a member of the fire department for fifteen years, the last seven as an officer. Weis said that he works from home for a company that does database design and is in the Township most of the time - and can respond to calls.

Weis said that of last year's 564 calls, the majority (26%) were for vehicle accidents. On average 500 hours a month are spent on incidents and another 500 are spent on other activities (training, maintenance, fire prevention, etc.)

Calls in Forks were 82% of all calls. Stockertown calls totaled 55 (or 10%). There are mutual aid agreements in place and last year, outside agencies came in 16 times. Two thirds of the calls are daytime calls (between 6 AM and 6 PM). The fire company has 60 volunteers and is second in size (for volunteer companies in Northampton County) to Bangor.

Last year the company totaled more than 6600 hours in staff training, or 110 hours per firefighter. The average response time is 5.5 minutes. Forks' Incident Command System (ICS) is now the County standard.

In addition, Weis said that the company has an EMT (who can begin care before an ambulance arrives) and conducts fire prevention sessions at schools and daycares. In 2007 they addressed 1500 kids. The company is striving toward State accreditation by the end of 2008.

Weis said that another of the goals is to achieve and maintain an ISO (Insurance Services Organization) Class 1 rating. Right now Forks' rating is 5/9. The 5 is in areas with hydrants and the 9 is in areas without hydrants. Among other things, a Class I rating will result in reduced insurance premiums for all residents (and businesses).

In a community outreach program to businesses, the company is compiling a database (of maps, floor plans, hazardous materials inventories, etc.) so that it can do its job more effectively.

In the third quarter of 2007, the department applied for $291,000 in grants from the Department of Homeland Security. A grant for $22,000 was awarded by the State. The Forks Township Volunteer Fire Department Relief Association, which gets money from outside the State, has provided the department with equipment, training funds, life insurance premiums, insurance physicals (the cost of), etc. Fully 75% (or $135,000) of the department's operating costs have been paid for with funds from outside of the Township.

Executive Session - An executive session was to discuss a personnel issue and matters involving potential litigation. After the (one hour and twenty minutes) executive session, the Board voted 5:0 to grant an employee's request for extended bereavement leave - from the normal four days to six days. The meeting was adjourned.

Our objective is to relate what is experienced at Forks Township meetings for those who cannot attend. We are attempting to be as factual as we can. If we make a mistake, tell us via email or COMMENT here in the blog, and we will do our best to correct it. We are not perfect. We want to get it right.

BoS Meeting 2/7/2008

Workshop

Board Vacancy Interview and Discussion of Commission Vacancies - Scot Abert was interviewed for the opening on the Recreation Board.  He has been a Forks resident since 1999 and is active in the Athletic Association.  He grew up in Williams Township where his father served on the Williams Recreation Board for thirty years.  Mr. Abert said that he likes to think he can make a difference and that more can be offered in the way of recreation programs for older residents.

Planning Commission (PC) Chairman Dean Turner reviewed the process used by the PC to arrive at the two applicants the PC recommended to the Board, from PC participation in the formal interviews, to a PC workshop and executive session, to the final selection(s).  (Note: The two recommendations were announced at the PC workshop, Nicole Viscomi Alexander and David Billings.)  An email was sent to the Supervisors with the names and reasons for their selections. 

Supervisor Chuss noted that the criteria used by the PC included "participation and leadership" in the Comprehensive Plan subcommittees and that the large younger population in Forks should be represented.

Read more in Madeleine Mathias' Morning Call report.  The Express Times was not represented.

Regular Meeting (agenda)

Supervisors' Comments

Supervisor Nicholas announced that Boy Scout Troop 29 is looking for Eagle Scout projects and asked that anyone with ideas for the troop call her at 484-239-0866.  Chairman Howell asked what kinds of projects are being sought and Nicholas said that in the past the Eagle Scouts have done landscaping, bat houses, pathways and basically "projects where they build things."

Nicholas said too, that the next Community Days committee meeting is set for March 17th at 7:00 PM in the Community Center.

Supervisor Egolf said that he and Township Manager Rick Schnaedter attended the Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania (full day) workshop.  Edward McMahon was the speaker.  Egolf said of McMahon that he is very active in the state and nationally in getting communities to look at different ways of approaching development.  Egolf said too, that the Township has several copies of McMahon's book and that if any PC member or (the general public) would like to read it, a way can be worked out to loan it.  Nicholas said that she also has a copy that she will loan if needed. 

Treasurer's Report - Robert Egolf detailed the debits (cash paid out) since the last Supervisors meeting. The debits and transfers were approved with a 5:0 vote.  Current outstanding debt is $7,929,292.

Standing Committee Reports (meetings are open to the public - see the Township calendar for dates and times)

• Public Safety - Supervisor Chuss - reported that the February 5th meeting was very productive.  Topics discussed included: 
  • The status of the police department new hires (for several vacancies).
  • Police department modular furniture purchase and installation planning.
  • A communication issue with Northampton County that will be resolved shortly.
  • The fire department site plan sketch of the new tower/training facility.
  • Security cameras - a committee will be headed by Schnaedter to look into this issue across the municipal complex.
  • Heating and ventilation issues in both the fire and police departments.  The FD issue is resolved.  Correction of the PD issue is in progress.
  • Emergency operations procedures.
• Public Works - Supervisor Miller - announced that the first committee meeting is scheduled for next week.
• Parks & Recreation - Supervisor Howell - reported that the committee held its first meeting the last Thursday of January.  Egolf was introduced to the committee.  Discussed were a review of the finances of the Community Center for the five-year plan (being prepared by the Recreation Board), the priorities of capital improvements throughout the park system, and the very serious gym #1 (the largest of the gyms) air conditioning issue.  Schnaedter is working on specifications for an upgrade to the AC system. 
  • Resident Gretchen Gerstel asked Howell if he planned "on doing something about adult recreation... when and what?"   Howell said that adult recreation is a community priority and that the committee is waiting to hear from the Recreation Board.  He suggested that she can attend the Recreation Board meetings on Sunday nights or the Parks and Recreation standing committee meetings to give her ideas. 
  • Undeterred, Ms. Gerstel produced sample program publications from Forks, Palmer, and Bethlehem townships for comparison.  She said that Forks single sided sheet of paper is a disgrace and that she worked on the Comprehensive Plan and "nothing is ever done."  Ms. Gerstel said that she has been screaming for four or five years about getting a dog park.  She said that it's time for Forks to do something.
  • At this point Miller said that the Community Center has a lot of adult programs and that the building was built for a lot of different programs.  He said that both yoga and a senior exercise program by Easton Hospital were tried but there was no interest.  Miller said that the Senior Citizens met there today and had a guest speaker, an artist from Forks and it was well attended.  Gerstel said that it wasn't advertised and Miller said that the group does its own advertising. 
  • Howell noted that perhaps she should address her advertising issue as an agenda item at the Community Relations standing committee meeting. 
  • Resident Sandy Hanks said that she attended a Finance and Administration standing committee meeting and was not given a chance to talk. 
• Community Relations - Supervisor Nicholas - reported that the Township website updates are in progress and among the improvements, is the new calendar.  She said it looks great, "like a regular calendar."  (See it here.)  Schnaedter said that the new edition of the Forks Quarterly and the new Township map (the last one was done in 2002) are at the printers and should be in residents' mailboxes within 30 days.  Nicholas asked that anyone with ideas for the website contact her. 
• Finance and Administration - Supervisor Egolf - said that the committee met on January 23rd and reviewed the goals and objectives for each department.  They also had updates on the the email system and the meeting room projector system.  A major committee concern (and now goal) is the way legal and other important documents are stored. 
  • Egolf addressed Sandy Hanks' (above) issue about not being allowed to speak during the meeting she attended.  He said that he was there early and that at the end of the meeting he asked if anyone had anything to say.  No one did.  Egolf explained too, that the standing committees are administrative committees and although their meetings are open to the public, they are not public meetings. 
  • Howell explained that they are working committees and the public may attend as witnesses, not as employees of the Township.  He said that at the end of the meetings there may be an opportunity to speak with the chairman and that the other committee members (township employees) may leave as they have other things to do.  Howell noted that the public cannot expect to attend "public administrative meetings" in Easton or Northampton County and be a participant.  He added that this is open government and that there is plenty of time to comment - at the end of the meeting to the chairman - not during the one hour work meeting.
  • Ms. Hanks said that when she attends Board of Supervisors meetings she knows that if she has a comment to make and it's not on an agenda item, she must sign up before the meeting.  She wondered, however, when she could comment on things under discussion that are agenda items.  Howell said that she may make her comment at the appropriate time but it is to be a comment and not a discourse or accusatorial.  Howell said that if she attended the Easton City Council meetings she would see that Forks is much more transparent and allows for much more interactive comment.  Howell added that the Board, however, "cannot allow comment to get to a point where it takes over the whole meeting. We just won't get anything done." 

Township Manager's Report - Schnaedter - said that he received a letter from Senator Rob Wonderling announcing that Forks was awarded $58,870 for its recycling program.  He commended both Finance Manager Farley and Sharon Fisher for their efforts re. obtaining the grant.

Schnaedter also reported that a public works employee submitted his letter of resignation and that the position will be advertised. 

The Historical Society has requested that their restored merchant's wagon be displayed in the Municipal Building lobby.  After much discussion about the pros/cons - the size, insurance, how to keep people/kids off of the wagon, where it should be located, egress, the time period for display - it was decided in a 5:0 vote to have Schnaedter prepare a letter of agreement to the Historical Society (and submit it to Kline for review.)  The letter will state the Historical Society's responsibilities. 

Supervisor Egolf was elected in a 5:0 vote as the alternate representative to the TRCOG (Two Rivers Council of Governments).

Schnaedter reported too, that Congressman Dent sent a notice that 2009 grant applications for up to 55% funding of a project are due February 29th.  Schnaedter recommended that the Township submit an application for funding of the amphitheater (bandshell) project.  Nicholas asked if there is a time limit to use the grant money since the Township also needs a public works garage.  Schnaedter said that the grants are for things in wide use by the public and that it's a "stretch to think we'll get it."  He will prepare the grant and ask for $150,000 for construction only.  It will not include the sound system or anything else.  Confirmation that the application has been received will be in March and notice of award will be in December 2008.

Howell asked Engineer Hay about the specs for the air conditioner in gym #1 and whether the compressor will be internal or external.  Hay said that first the load must be determined and then its location will fall from that. 

Engineer's Report - Hay - no report.

Solicitor's Report - Kline - agenda items only.

Comments from the floor - None.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Executive Session - to discuss the applicants for the Recreation Board and Planning Commission vacancies and a personnel matter.  Kline reported that no action was taken by the Board during the executive session.

Appointments to fill vacancies - Recreation Board and Planning Commission - The first appointment was to the Recreation Board.  Miller made the motion to appoint Scot Abert.  It was seconded by Egolf.  In a 5:0 roll call vote, Scot Abert was appointed to the Recreation Board. 

Planning Commission - Chuss made a motion to appoint Sharon Davis.  Egolf seconded the motion.  The roll call vote was 2:3 with the nay votes coming from Miller, Nicholas, and Howell. 

Miller then made a motion to appoint David Billings.  Nicholas seconded and the vote was 4:1 with Egolf casting the nay.  David Billings was appointed to the Planning Commission. 

NEW BUSINESS

Northampton County Farmland Preservation - Speaker Maria Bentzoni - Schnaedter introduced this agenda item and the speaker, Maria Bentzoni, Farmland Preservation Program Administrator. 

Ms. Bentzoni said that they are requesting that the Forks Board of Supervisors support Act 4 and HB 87.  Act 4 allows for a millage freeze for preserved property at the rate in effect at the time that the last entity signs on.  Three entities must sign - the county, the township and the school district.  So far the Northampton County is "on board."  She is currently working with both the EASD and the (Nazareth) NASD.

At this time there is only one preserved farm in Forks, 103 acres of the Brown farm.  Ms. Bentzoni said that another Forks farmer has filed an application for preservation.  She said that the dollars removed from taxation are far less than the costs associated with development and additional children in the school system - a $6,000 deficit per child per year.  In Northampton County that deficit is $9,000 on average. 

Howell asked if there was an impact with Agricultural Security Areas (ASA - Act 43) and was told that there is no impact because ASAs designate a use - agricultural - and does not mean that the farm is preserved.  Farmland Preservation is Act 149, a different program.  The Act 4 program is strictly for farms that have sold their development rights to the State, County, or Township.  However, a farm must be in an ASA in order for the county to purchase its development rights.  It's the "starting point."

The Board learned that there are 84 farms preserved in Northampton County and that Lower Mount Bethel Township (LMBT) has the most preserved acreage - 2,603 acres.  The Bangor Area School District passed Act 4 in 2006.  Pen Argyl School District has passed it as have Williams/Wilson and Saucon Valley. 

There are six other townships that have passed it:  East Allen, Plainfield, Lower Saucon, Lehigh, Upper Mount Bethel, and Bushkill is expected to pass it this night. 

Kline asked if the millage freeze is forever.  The answer was that the Act is not specific and that as long as the law is active and not amended, there is no sunset clause.  Kline also asked if the easements are in perpetuity and yes, they are.  Bentzoni said that the farmland preservation easements cannot be reversed.  Kline remarked that "forever is a long time." 

Chuss asked about the size of the farms acceptable for preservation and was told that 25 acres is the minimum - or 10 acres contiguous to other farmed acreage is eligible. 

Jim Wideman (former PC member) asked if there were instances were a smaller parcel producing $2,000 in receipts would qualify and was told that unless it is attached to a larger tract, it would not qualify for preservation.  Wideman also asked if there were programs to extend county monies so that farms could be preserved today?  Ms. Bentzoni said that there are three and five year installment plans and that the interest rates are paid based on market rates. 

John Ackerman (former Supervisor) recommended that the Board approve the freeze because "you hear so many times that you want to preserve farmland - and this here should not even be a question.  This should just be voted in because if you want to really preserve farmland then help the farmer out."  Ackerman also said that the farmer has to pay capital gains on the money given (the easement purchase) to them so anything the Board can do to help the farmer is the way to go.

Ms. Bentzoni said that they are working with the federal government to reduce or eliminate capital gains on development rights purchases.

Howell remarked that it's a "no brainer" to help Forks farmers who've resisted the "lure and gold and continued to farm." 

Nicholas made a motion to have Kline write an ordinance to support Act 4 (was House Bill 87).  Chuss seconded the motion.  The vote was 5:0.  Applause!

Center for Animal Health and Welfare/2008 Service Agreement - Schnaedter said that the Center for Animal Health and Welfare changed the contract from previous years and in addition to raising the per animal fee from $40 to $50 (per day per animal), added "cats" to the list of eligible animals.  The attorney for the center was contacted and he said that concerned municipalities can simple remove the term "cats" and initial the change and return the signed contract along with a cover letter indicating the Board's direction.  Chuss' motion that the Board go with the recommendation of the manager and include the cover letter was approved in a 5:0 vote. 

Correspondence - Howell said that the Board received a letter from Alan McFall (solicitor for the EAJSA) stating that Wilson Borough intends to sell capacity to Williams Township.  Howell asked, "Are we interested or not?" Kline commented that the Board looked at its needs last year and acquired 150,000 gallons per day capacity from Wilson. 

Our objective is to relate what is experienced at Forks Township meetings for those who cannot attend. We are attempting to be as factual as we can. If we make a mistake, tell us via email or COMMENT here in the blog, and we will do our best to correct it. We are not perfect. We want to get it right.

BoS Meeting 12/20/2007

Forks Township's Board of Supervisors last meeting of 2007 was well attended. Almost everyone seeking appointment to the 2008 vacancies was there. Both Supervisors-elect were there. Outgoing Supervisor John Ackerman was not. He was on vacation. Discussion of Forks EMS' request for payment of the $20,000 earmarked (for the squad) in the Forks 2007 budget was covered by both JD Malone (Express Times) and Madeleine Mathias (Morning Call). Read on for more on the rest of the meeting.

SUPERVISOR COMMENTS

Supervisor Nicholas asked about General Codes (item in packets). She said that she thought that the codes were recently updated. Solicitor Kline offered that the Board should set a schedule for updating the codes. After discussion, it was decided that the codes should be reviewed every year for substantial changes and if there are any, then General Codes will be used, if not, the process will be contracted the following year, thus insuring that the codes are updated every two years at a minimum.

Supervisor Howell expressed his thanks to (outgoing Supervisors) John Ackerman and David Hoff for running for office and in particular for their years of service to the community. Howell said that in the two years he witnessed, the Township made significant progress in bringing a lot of professionalism to the office/procedures, a director of finance was hired, and the director of personnel position was improved - all things in which they were involved.

Chairman Hoff announced that this was his last meeting and that he was very happy. He said that he was on the Board for 12 years and spent a total of 25 years serving the township in various capacities. During that time, he said, he "met a lot of incredible people." He said that these people are truly committed to Forks. Hoff said that his time was a learning experience and that he enjoyed. He hopes that Erik (Chuss) and Bob (Egolf) find it enjoyable as well. Hoff added that he feels good "about where things are at" now and he thanked his family - especially his wife - for putting up with his township time. (appplause)

Supervisor Miller reported that winter sports are "half started" and that the majority of the 25 teams will start playing in January (through March). He added that the Community Center is busy seven days a week.

TREASURER'S REPORT - Secretary/Treasurer Howell detailed the debits (cash paid out) since the last Supervisors meeting. The debits and transfers were approved with a 4:0 vote.

Standing Committee Reports (meetings are open to the public - see the Township calendar for dates and times)

• Public Safety - Supervisor Nicholas - said that the committee had not met but that she had a report from the Fire Department. Nicholas reported that up through November, the FD went on 527 calls. Of that number, 430 were in Forks, 52 were to calls in Stockertown, and the rest were miscellaneous. She thanked the FD for their work.
• Public Works - Supervisor Ackerman - absent, no report.
• Parks & Recreation - Supervisor Miller - no committee report - see Supervisor Comments above for the park sports/activities news.
• Community Relations - Supervisor Howell - no report
• Finance and Administration - Supervisor Hoff - reported that the committee met and discussed what they had been working on for the past two years. He thanked the committee - Tim Weis, Barb Bartek, Jim Farley, & Rick Schnaedter - for the tremendous amount of work they did and for the lively discussions. Hoff said that he enjoyed his time on the committee.

TOWNSHIP MANAGER'S REPORT - Schnaedter - said that in addition to the items the Board had in front of them, he and Finance Manager Farley will be meeting with EZ Micro and the existing IT service provider to start the transition. Schnaedter said that the it is a long, cumbersome process and that Farley has done a good job "mapping out" what needs to be done. Schnaedter added that both parties have assured their cooperation.

Schnaedter also said that he received an invitation to participate in the Municipal Leaders Workshop at DeSales University on January 25th from 7:45 AM to 2:30 PM. He said that he will be attending and that he will give a registration form to any of the Supervisors who want one. Nicholas asked that he send her an email.

Nicholas asked Schnaedter about the bandshell information that was in the packet. She said that one had no prices and another had questionable acoustics. Schnaedter said that this was preliminary information - a first step - and that he intends to have the companies make a presentations to the Parks & Recreation Committee. So far, the low end bandshell costs $53,000 - plus construction. Nicholas asked to be notified when the presentations are scheduled.

ENGINEER'S REPORT - no report.

SOLICITOR'S REPORT - Kline - informed the Board that he received a letter from officer Jeremy McClymont dated 12/17/07 offering his resignation effective immediately. It was accepted in a 4:0 vote.

Kline also reported that officer Ernest Fimiano - who was charged with speeding on Route 80, refusing a breathalyzer test and who was suspended without pay - has filed for unemployment compensation. The hearing is coming up in January and the Township will contest the case.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Adoption of Ordinance #308 - Chapter 12 Fire Department Job Qualifications - Kline said that this was properly advertised. The Board voted 4:0 to adopt the ordinance.

Penn's Ridge PRD - Developer's Indemnification Agreement for Phases 13 & 14 - Kline explained that this agreement allows the developer to begin work on the infrastructure for phases 13 & 14. He said that everything is signed and that the escrow is posted. The vote was 4:0.

Award Bid - VISTACOM Audio/Visual Communications Systems - Zoning Officer Weis said that everything needed for the installation is already in place and that there will be no additional charges to the township for the installation and equipment. He added that the monitors will be 17". Nicholas said that she expected a presentation to the Board. The vote was 3:1 with Nicholas voting nay because she felt that she did not have enough information.

Job Descriptions - Changes in Positions - This was a discussion item only. Schnaedter said that in 2006 the Administrative Assistant's job description indicated that she was to act as Secretary to the Board of Supervisors. Howell expressed his concern about the "production of minutes." He suggested that the Finance & Administration Committee explore ways to keep the minutes in-house. Nicholas agreed. Hoff said that Bartek had been doing the minutes for over 20 years and in that time her job responsibilities expanded to the point where she can no longer do them. Nicholas asked that dates be added to the job descriptions so that scheduling reviews will be easier. Schnaedter said that a procedure is in place for annual job description reviews.

Resident Sandy Hanks asked if a draft version of the minutes could be put on the township website before they are approved by the Board. Howell explained that the review of the minutes is an official function of the Board. Kline agreed and added that the minutes become public records once they have been approved by the BoS. He said that if information was put out and subsequently corrected by the Board, it could cause people to become upset. Hoff added that it only takes a word to change the entire meaning of something.

The new Board will make a decision on the production of the minutes and until then, (beginning Jan 08) Barb Margolese will write the minutes.

Employee Manual Discussion - Proposed changes from 2003 manual (Updated) - Hoff said that the Schnaedter and Bartek worked hard on the new employee manual revisions. Howell asked how the manuals will be disseminated and was told that meetings will be held with employees to explain the changes. The employees will then sign-off. Schnaedter said that the revision to the arbitration policy was reviewed by Kline. The new manual was approved in a 4:0 vote.

FTEMS Financials/Breakdown of intentions to spend $20,000 earmarked in 2007 budget - Hoff reported that the Board received the November financial report from Forks EMS along with a letter requesting payment of the budgeted $20,000. Nicholas detailed the debt to Suburban at $17,550 and said that $12,450 of that is over 60 days. She also said that $1,820 is owed to Medic-9. Hoff said that the letter indicated how the money would be spent and that $6,420 would go to workers benefits, $3,080 to auto/building insurance, and $10,500 to Suburban.

Howell said that the letter stated that November was one of the better months and he asked Mr. Keifer (President of the Forks EMS Board of Directors) about the changes in the escrow item from October to November. Howell said that it decreased from $18,000 to $4,000. He asked if the numbers represented subscription funds, in particular, the $10,000 in subscription funds collected in November. Keifer said that they did and that those funds as well as funds from the line of credit were used to pay payroll, tax withholding, and employee benefits. Funds from medical services were used to pay bills.

Keifer added that as of November the squad is all caught up with back taxes to the State and local authorities and now only owe Federal taxes. The squad had hoped to receive a $15,000 State grant for payroll and employee benefits but it is delayed because of the tax arrearage. (The grant was awarded by Representative Grucela's office.) Keifer also said that "there is nothing written in stone that everything must be divvied up 1/12 per month. The squad will be having a "bucket drive" this weekend, they are still selling the Forksopoly games, and they are in the midst of a second mailing to residents who have not yet paid.

Keifer said that they are asking for the $20,000 to pay bills. Howell asked if every EMS squad in the region depends on donations to pay salaries? Keifer said, "Yes." He added that "everything is guesstimates" since the number of calls cannot be predicted.

Keifer said the financial report he gave the Supervisors has yet to be approved by the EMS directors.

Hoff said that in his opinion, there is not enough call volume in Forks to support a business (an EMS squad is a business.) He said that the release of the $20,000 has not been approved because the Board is looking for financial stability. Hoff said that he does "not want to send the money into a black hole that it just can't be recovered from." He said he would not recommend to the current BoS anything other than paying Suburban for the services they have provided to the Township thus far. And, he added that the money (in the budget) is intended to be used to make the squad a better squad and not just to keep it alive one more month.

Township resident Nicole Alexander offered that because of the squad's financial irresponsibility, many residents will not donate. She said that the BoS should shut down Forks EMS and bring in Suburban.

Nicholas thanked the Forks EMS members for all their hard work trying to put the company back together.

Howell said that he has spoken with Suburban and they are not making a plea/request for the funds from the Township. They simply ask that their debt be honored first. Howell recommended carrying over the $20,000 to 2008.

The vote to carry over the money to 2008 and, if it is disbursed, that Suburban be paid first, passed 4:0.

NEW BUSINESS

Northampton County Farmland Preservation - Act 4/HB 87 - Kline provided East Allen Township's ordinance for the Board's review (as a sample ordinance) and suggested that Maria Bentzoni (of the Northampton County Agricultural Land Preservation Board) be invited before the Board to explain Act 4. Kline said that it involves approvals by three different taxing bodies - the county, the school district, and the township. He also said that "it seems to be permanent" and, Kline added, "Forever is a long time." Kline said too, that at this point in time he is not aware of any farm in Forks that has been preserved through the county. The vote was 4:0 that Ms. Bentzoni be invited to address the Board. Schnaedter will contact her.

Final Adoption - 2008 Budget - The budget was adopted with a 4:0 vote. Forks residents will face a 1/2 mil property tax increase. This represents a 10.8% increase. (read Madeleine Mathias, Morning Call, 12/24/07 for more on the budget.)

2008 Committees - Our new Supervisors-elect, Erik Chuss and Bob Egolf, came very close to flipping a coin to see which committees they would be on in 2008. They came to an agreement before the toss we were told. The 2008 standing committees will be chaired by the *first name listed (one year assignment) and the second Supervisor will be on the committee for two years - in their second year, they will chair the committee.

• Public Safety: *Chuss & Howell
• Public Works: *Miller & Chuss
• Parks & Recreation: *Howell & Egolf
• Community Relations: *Nicholas & Miller
• Finance & Administration: *Egolf & Nicholas

Hoff asked that the chairperson of each committee talk to the members and settle on meeting days/times so that only one advertisement need be published (to save money).

Nicholas said that there is no real structure for the committee meetings but she thought that notes of the meetings should be e-mailed to all Supervisors and that agendas should be available three days before the meetings. She also said that both Supervisors should decide the dates and times of meetings and that the schedules and agendas should be on the website. Nicholas thought that the meeting times should be at hours when the public can attend. She was told that the meetings are on the website. As to agendas, they are often changed up to the last minute. Howell suggested that Schnaedter could perhaps create some uniform standards.

Plaques presented to outgoing Supervisors - Miller presented Hoff with a plaque for his 25 years of service. He said that Hoff began as a baseball coach, that he coached basketball, he was President of the Athletic Association, and that he was President of the Recreation Board - all before his twelve years as a Supervisor. Miller also had a plaque for John Ackerman (absent). Miller said that Ackerman was born in Forks and spent most of his life in Forks as an active farmer and successful businessman - who has "also given 6 years of his life to the Township." Miller thanked both men on behalf of the Board of Supervisors, the staff, and residents of Forks for their dedication and years of service to Forks.(appplause) Hoff said that it's "been a fast 25 years" and that he was glad to be able to participate in all the changes. He wished Erik (Chuss) and Bob (Egolf) the best of luck and his hopes that things go well for them.

There was no Executive Session and the last meeting of 2007 was adjourned.

Our objective is to relate what is experienced at Forks Township meetings for those who cannot attend. We are attempting to be as factual as we can. If we make a mistake, tell us via email or COMMENT here in the blog, and we will do our best to correct it. We are not perfect. We want to get it right.

BoS Meeting 12/6/2007

Forks Township's Supervisors discussed a range of topics, not the least of which was the EMS request for the budgeted 2007 funds. Read JD Malone (Express Times) for more. For the rest of the meeting, read on. (Six items are to be added to the December 20th BoS meeting agenda. The date, December 20th, is in blue so that the items will be easier to follow.)

SUPERVISOR COMMENTS

Supervisor Ackerman remarked that the new issue of the Forks Quarterly contains an error. He said he didn't know who wrote the piece that said that the 2007 Comprehensive Plan had been adopted but it has not been adopted. It is a work in progress.

Supervisor Nicholas requested that the entire text of the Zoning Hearing Board reports be included in the Supervisors' packets. Currently they get only the first page. Zoning Officer Weis will be asked to do that. Nicholas also requested that the Northampton County information included in the packet be posted (or linked) on the Township website. Township Manager Schnaedter will see that it happens.

Nicholas noted, too, that the Supervisors received a letter from Stockertown (to the Easton Area Joint Sewer Authority). Supervisor Hoff said that the Township requested the letter, at the advice of Forks' EAJSW representative, Henning Holmgaard, so that (engineer) Fred Hay could review it. Hay explained that he will develop parameters for the Board's consideration.

Nicholas asked, too, that Act 4 (Northampton County Farmland Preservation) be included on the December 20th meeting agenda and that, for informational purposes, ordinances and resolutions be posted on the Township website for 30 days.

Supervisor Miller reported that winter sports are in full swing. The first wrestling meet is this Sunday. There are 30 basketball teams and two or three more coaches are needed. He asked for volunteers.

TREASURER'S REPORT - Secretary/Treasurer Howell detailed the debits (cash paid out) since the last Supervisors meeting. The debits and transfers were approved with a 5:0 vote.

Standing Committee Reports (meetings are open to the public - see the Township calendar for dates and times)

• Public Safety - Supervisor Nicholas - reported that the committee discussed the Fire Ordinance; it is an agenda item. The committee also discussed CPR training for staff. (Township Manager Schnaedter will look into the cost of CPR training and when it could be done.) Nicholas also said that Forks EMS financial reports were reviewed and that Forks EMS asked her to bring the subject of the EMS money in the 2007 Forks budget to the Board for discussion. Supervisor Hoff explained that $20,000 is in the 2007 budget and that this will be an agenda item at the December 20th meeting. Supervisor Howell asked if the request from Forks EMS was in writing and Nicholas said that it was not. Howell asked that it be in writing and that the letter discuss how the squad intends to disburse the money. Hoff instructed Schnaedter to write a letter to the squad requesting that the information be provided by the 17th - so that it can be included in the Supervisors' packets for the meeting on the 20th. Supervisor Ackerman said that he thought the Board of Supervisors should decide where it (the money) goes or should pay bills directly.
• Public Works - Supervisor Ackerman - said that the committee held its last meeting of the year two weeks ago. He added that since the last meeting, the new salt bin was installed. Also, he said that there was a sewer main leak last weekend and that the "guys" did a good job taking care of it. DPW Director Roberts said that in addition to the sewer main break, the crew has been busy with leaf collection. The leaves are finally off the trees and the department has logged 565.5 hours on leaf pick-up - in November. Roberts also said that the DEP and EPA have approved demolition of the house on the corner of Newlins and Richmond. The asbestos (a small amount in the basement) will be removed on December 19th, the air quality tested, and then the house can come down on December 20th.
• Parks & Recreation - Supervisor Miller - no committee report - see Supervisor Comments above for the park sports/activities news.
• Community Relations - Supervisor Howell - no report
• Finance and Administration - Supervisor Hoff said that the committee met on November 28th and the items discussed - IT support, audio/visual systems, and the employee manual - are on the agenda.

TOWNSHIP MANAGER'S REPORT - Schnaedter - had nothing to add to his written report. Nicholas asked about the two job descriptions (in his report) and said that she was not aware that the Board had discussed them. Schnaedter said it is his understanding the job descriptions have been an ongoing topic for two years. To that Hoff stated that there was no change. Nicholas said that there is a realignment of duties and she would like it added to the December 20th agenda - for discussion. Again, Hoff said that there was no change and that currently the jobs are "taking place" as described. He said that when the Board voted to change Barb's position (to HR Manager) that "Debbie took over some of those responsibilities right then." Nicholas said, "Okay, if no one else cares, fine." Howell said that he does care and commented that the Board's meeting minutes will no longer being prepared in-house by staff, but by the same person who is contracted to do the Planning Commission minutes. Howell further noted that the PC minutes in the Board's current packet were from the November 8th PC meeting. He asked that the minutes be prepared by in-staff people so that the expense of using outside persons can be avoided. Howell also noted that he would like to have the minutes sooner so that items on the agenda that are referred from the PC are known to the Board before those items appear in front of them for discussion. He asked that the issue of minutes be discussed at the next meeting and that Schnaedter explore other alternatives to producing minutes - preferably in-house.

ENGINEER'S REPORT - Hay - agenda items only.

SOLICITOR'S REPORT - Kline - agenda items only.

COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC (NOT AGENDA ITEMS) - Forks resident Sandy Hanks asked Police Chief Dorney if PA State law gives pedestrians the right of way where there is a hash-mark across the road? Dorney said that it is a newly passed law. Hanks said that she witnessed vehicles not stopping for a runner at the crossing on Zucksville Road (from the Community Center). Hanks said that the crossing needs signage. Howell offered that the Comprehensive Plan subcommittee report indicated that all the recreation path/trail crossings will be reviewed and signage will be recommended. Dorney said that he will look into the new law and that he thought that hash-marked crossings with yellow signs indicate that motorists must stop for people on the path. Dorney added that in the specific area that Hanks mentioned, signs are a good idea. Nicholas observed that there are four speed limits on Zucksville - from 45 to 35 to 25 to 35. Dorney noted that this is a question for PennDot.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Forks IT Support - Award Bid - Finance Manager Farley said that the Finance & Administration Committee reviewed the five bids and recommended EZ Micro Solutions for the next three year contract. This was approved with a 5:0 vote.

Audio-Visual Systems Proposal - Board Room / Award Bid - Farley reported that Vistacom was the only bidder ($12,363.30 to install the projector and hardware). Nicholas asked about the length of the project, the sizes of the screens, and the number of screens. She said that the proposal states that the owner is responsible for conduit, paths between the devices, and drilling holes in the dais. She noted, too, that "minimal feedback" is mentioned but the amount of "feedback" is unknown. Also, she asked about warrantees. Because of all the unknowns, it was decided in a 5:0 vote to table this item until the December 20th meeting when Zoning Officer, Tim Weis, will be in attendance. Also, a spokesperson from Vistacom will be invited to do a presentation.

Ordinance 306 - Local Services Tax / Adoption - Kline said that this was properly advertised and ready for adoption. Effectively it is a name change from the EMS Tax to the Local Services Tax. The amount remains the same at $52 per year for employees working in the Township. It was approved in a 5:0 vote and will be effective on January 1, 2008.

NEW BUSINESS

Resolution for (6) Street Lights / The Estates at Bushkill Creek - Hay reported that the lights have been inspected and everything is in order. He recommended Board approval. The Board agreed. The vote was 5:0.

Resolution for (15) Street Lights / College Park Development - Hay reported that the lights have been inspected and everything is in order. He recommended Board approval. Howell asked if the lights are all the same style as the rest of the Township lights and Hay said that they are. Hay added that Riverview is the exception (in fixture styles). The vote was 5:0 in favor of the resolution.

Employee Manual Discussion - Hoff asked the Board to review the changes (all are highlighted) in the manual and suggested that any questions be addressed to Schnaedter and Bartek (since they worked on it). Some of the changes are mandated by changes in State and Federal laws and others because of contract agreements. Discussion and action will be added to the December 20th meeting agenda. Howell asked how the manual will be disseminated and was told that it will be distributed to employees and that they will sign that they have received it.

Advertise Fire Department Ordinance - Nicholas reported that the Public Safety Committee has reviewed the ordinance and that it is in front of the Board for comment and reviewl. Nicholas noted that there is some confusion as to the setting of rates vs. the timing of the annual budget. Hoff explained that the IRS provides the reimbursable mileage figure (this year it is $.505/per mile) and that FEMA provides the maximum (reimbursable) idle time figure as a guideline - although the FEMA maximum does not have to be used - it can be less. Kline asked if the rates will always be available in January (before the re-organizational meeting) and Hoff said that the IRS rate will be. Hoff also said that this is the first time the ordinance has been updated in eleven years and that the Township has changed a lot in that time. Some of the changes include changing the line officer service requirement from three years to five years - but with prior experience, eligibility can be shortened to four years. Ackerman said that he wanted a copy of the old ordinance to compare with the new one. The Board voted 4:1 (Ackerman) to advertise the ordinance. It will be discussed and voted on at the December 20th meeting.

Executive Session - called by Supervisor Nicholas to discuss a personnel issue. No action was taken.

Our objective is to relate what is experienced at Forks Township meetings for those who cannot attend. We are attempting to be as factual as we can. If we make a mistake, tell us via email or COMMENT here in the blog, and we will do our best to correct it. We are not perfect. We want to get it right.

Candidates On the Issues! - The League of Women Voters Forum

The Lehigh Valley League of Women Voters threw a party and no one came! Well, a few intrepid Forks voters were there and they did learn some things too. What follows is our attempt at a summary of the questions and answers from the April 22nd League of Women Voters Candidates Forum at the Faith Lutheran Church. The candidates - in alphabetical order - are John Ackerman (R), David Billings (R), Erik Chuss (R), Robert Egolf (D), Leon Fisher (R), and James Wideman (D).

Opening Statements (in brief):

• Ackerman - Born in Forks - enjoyed his six years as Supervisor - sees role as that of a "watchdog" for the people - says he answers almost all residents' calls and helps solve their problems - involved with soil & water conservation and conservation director for 35 years.
• Billings - Key issue facing Forks is "quality of life" - how to preserve open space - candidates must have strong ethical backgrounds -believes in open/transparent government, including online access to public documents - would like the Supervisors meetings broadcast - believes Forks needs fiscally responsible planning as well as sound traffic management - wants to maintain recreational opportunities and public services.
• Chuss - Lived in Forks for 15 years - on the Planning Commission since 2000 and currently Chairman - served on economic development subcommittee for the Comprehensive Plan - served on Northampton County Planning Commission - learned about the history of Township issues and the options available to address them - asked that the candidates track records on issues be looked at and said that "we are on doorstep of the future of Forks Township."
• Fisher - Lifetime Forks resident with an investment in the Township - former fire chief - lifetime member of the fire department - former police chief - remembers sewers first coming in - says that with rapid growth the fees from developers are enough for now but will stop and Forks needs a plan to pay for future repairs when all the developments need them (all at the same time) - wants to promote industrial park with industries "we want."
• Egolf - Lifetime Lehigh Valley resident - on the Zoning Hearing Board since 2004 - recognizes the importance of being vigilant and doesn't want to see Sullivan Trail become another MacArthur Road - said Forks needs balance in its growth with infrastructure - believes in researching for better solutions and cooperation to get things accomplished.
• Wideman - Former Planning Commission member and current business owner - does not want school tax burden increased - sees the needs for industrial growth (the promotion of the new Fort James III industrial park and redevelopment of the old Laneco site), infrastructure strength (support for PD, FD, DPW, and Parks & Recreation department) and integrity in government (public access) - all public documents should be available on the Township website - vowed to endorse sustainable and sensible development and to uphold Township policies and be guided by the Comprehensive Plan.

Creation of an Environmental Advisory (EAC) Committee in Forks - LoWV: Each of the candidates was for it.

• Billings thought that partnering with Northampton County and the State on greenways and open space issues would bring positive results. He feels that the impact of development on Forks' greenways and open space should be monitored. He said that now we are "reacting" to things and not planning them.
• Chuss noted that there are local organizations like the Northampton County Soil & Erosion Committee and the Bushkill Conservancy that the Township already works with but that he thinks Forks can do a lot more and that a focused EAC would be very beneficial.
• Fisher said that there's a water run-off problem and that the growth has changed the Township. He felt that an EAC committee would help, as best as possible, to keep the Township the way it is.
• Egolf noted that committees are often formed but given no clout and he thought that this one should have powers to suggest and recommend solutions.
• Wideman said that "green is the new red, white, and blue in America" and added green technology could be introduced into the industrial parks and that the Township could begin to purchase hybrid vehicles. He said too, that the storm water maps/plans should be reviewed. He felt that the committee should be set up much like the Planning Commission in an advisory role to the Supervisors.
• Ackerman thought the committee should be a watchdog committee because a lot of things go on in the Township that the Supervisors do not know about. He added that the COG (Two Rivers Council of Governments) has talked about it (an EAC) on a regional level as a way to keep townships under control.

Plans for managing growth - Coutney Lomax, Express Times:

• Wideman noted that the Township has committees in place to handle each department and said that the Board must hold strong to its zoning laws and meet challengers head-on.
• Egolf said that there is definitely growth - traffic, development, business - and that the Supervisors will need a fair and equitable method to manage it.
• Ackerman stated that the Township must abide by the laws, the zoning and the SALDO (Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance) to manage growth and that good industries must be found to provide jobs for local people.
• Billings offered a revenue stream from increased real estate transfer taxes to fund open space, working with the county and other municipalities to identify and purchase prime lands at fair prices, and creation of an open space policy. He suggested changing the FP zoning from 3 acre minimum lots to 5 acres per house.
• Chuss noted that the the focus of growth issues is development and the pressures it brings on services, roads, schools, flood plains, and taxes. He suggests that the Board approach the pressures in a fiscally responsible manner and surround itself with good people (in the Township), let them do their jobs, and manage them appropriately.
• Fisher noted that growth management is very difficult and that there must be compliance with the zoning and SALDO. He believes that the courts are stacked against the townships. He said too, that plans must be formed to deal with the issues the growth has already caused.

The vacant LANECO building and the roll of the Board of Supervisors to call a developer to task - Courtney Lomax, Express Times:

• Egolf said that the Supervisors must stay on top of blight and do their utmost to hold people responsible.
• Wideman noted that the building is slated to come down and reminded all that its a difficult site because the strip mall next to the LANECO has a different owner and that development will require a lot of cooperation between the two owners. He said too, that the Supervisors should get a professional survey done to get ideas for the property.
• Chuss agreed that it is blight and that it is supposed to be knocked down. He said that the first proposal for the property was apartments and that he "went ballistic." The developers came back with another less disappointing plan. He added that the property's deed restrictions are a problem and that the Township needs to work with and encourage the developer.
• Fisher said that it's been empty a long time. He said that the Supervisors should keep the developer's "feet to the fire" and work with the developer to get him to build other buildings there or to get other businesses in the existing building.
• Ackerman thought that the property owner should be encouraged to get something done as soon as possible.
• Billings stated that the Supervisors should be a responsible watchdog and be pro-active and work with the developers to get something done.

Raising the EIT to purchase open space - Robert Orenstein, Morning Call:

• Billings said that he was in favor or raising the Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT)to fund open space, not in favor of raising the Earned Income Tax (EIT) for it.
• Chuss said that he thinks raising the RETT to fund open space is a great idea. He noted that pressures are there to raise the EIT and that there are a lot of other options that should be explored.
• Fisher said that if farmland is to be preserved it must be purchased. And, that funds must be raised for open space either through the EIT or the RETT.
• Egolf agreed as well and added that in order to preserve open space, money is needed. He thought that both ways (EIT and RETT) should be examined.
• Wideman said that he favors using the RETT because it doesn't effect people until they sell property where it can and added into the selling price. This money would supplement the county open space money for open space.
• Ackerman is not in favor of taxes on residents for farmland. He said that 60% of the FP is under contract to developers and "there's not that much farmland left anyway." He thought that the burden of providing open space should go to the developers so the Township doesn't have to buy it.

Police department expansion because of growth - Robert Orentstein, Morning Call:

• Fisher said that as the population grows the police department (size) as well other departments must grow.
• Egolf said that Forks has an "absolutely fantastic police department" and that he never want to stand in the way of public safety (by not expanding) - with personnel, equipment, and other things that the police chief feels necessary.
• Wideman expressed support for the police department and noted that in the police department five-year plan "the force is supplemented over time as the population increases." He said that Supervisors should strive to maintain the population at a sensible rate and that they should not "densify" any current zoning. He added that 5-acre zoning in the FP would help to control growth.
• Ackerman thought for 2007 that the level is adequate and that when the budget comes up again he'll see how much more the chief asks for.
• Billings said that the force should be expanded as needed and that the Township should "think outside the box" and perhaps look to regionalization with Palmer and Easton. He thought although it's adequate for today, with the growth, it may not be for tomorrow.
• Chuss said that the police department is excellent and doing a great job. He said too, that the pressures are on them as well as on the fire department, emergency squad, public works, etc. and that their plans for growth must be examined. He said that the all the emergency services must work together for the good of the Township.

Position on Kings Mill and its 3042 units - Audience Question:

• Ackerman said that he did not agree 100% with the proposal presented.
• Billings does not agree with the proposal and he said that the Supervisors should have the political will to fight it through the courts. He said his fear is that the developers will try to get a compromise.
• Chuss said that not one more house than is allowed should be built and pressure must be put on the State and elected representatives to stop the imbalance in favor of developers. He added that the "3000 homes proposal is preposterous."
• Fisher noted that the "zoning is the zoning." He added, "Unfortunately, the courts haven't been very favorable to the townships" and that before it's done "the Township will probably end up with some sort of negotiated plan."
• Egolf was not able to comment because he is on the Zoning Hearing Board and the issue is in front of the board.
• Wideman said that Forks does not need Supervisors who are not wiling to stand behind the zoning laws. The zoning laws in the FP allow three acre lots or 1 acre lots (in a cluster) with equal open space. He said too, that in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania farmland is "developed land" and this project would require "redeveloping" the land. He added that the Kings Mill proposal, per Superintendent Riker, will result in a minimum increase in school taxes of 21 mils.

Votes for grocery in the EC - Audience Question:

• Egolf noted that the Zoning Hearing Board voted 4:1 and affirmed that it is not spot zoning. He said, "...it looks like a train that's on the track and it's going towards a Weis Market."
• Wideman said that Ordinance 298 simply added a conditional use to the EC (Economic Center) and that the Board arrived at its decision after numerous public open meetings. He added that it conformed to the MPC (Municipal Planning Code), the Zoning Ordinance, and the SALDO. As a Planning Commission member, he supported the ordinance and feels that it will lead to substantial improvements to the intersection. He said that the uses contained in the grocery store were all allowed as stand alone uses in the EC district.
• Ackerman said that although he is in favor of the grocery use in the EC, he is against the configuration of the right-in/right-out on Sullivan Trail.
• Billings said as a Supervisor, he would have voted two ways, one FOR the Ordinance 298 adding a grocery use in the EC but against the Weis market in its intended location (Uhler/Sullivan) - because of the "unresolved traffic studies" and traffic safety. He said that going from a low F rating to a high F rating wasn't sufficient. He added that he would support a second supermarket in Forks and that he believes the Supervisors have the right to establish the zoning laws.
• Chuss noted that residents who spoke with him were overwhelmingly in favor of the grocery. He added that by bringing in competition against the Giant, the cost of living for every Forks resident can be lowered by a few percentage points - food and gas prices will be lowered and it will be a big help to people on fixed incomes. "The traffic issue is huge." Eventually though, he sees the intersection improvements as sufficient.
• Fisher said that a second supermarket is "definitely needed" in Forks, that residents are in favor of it, that the procedures to change the ordinance were proper, and that he has some concerns are the traffic. He hopes that as the intersection is developed some of the issues will be fixed.

Changing ACT 537 (the sewer plan) in the FP (Farmland Protection) to accommodate high density development (Kings Mill) - Audience Question:

• Billings stated that it would not be good for Forks and that there should be no compromises - that the impact on the police department, roads, schools, etc., should not be discounted.
• Chuss said that there is a line in the sand and that there should be no sewers north of Newlins Road. He said that there are pressures from the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, from developers, and from landowners but Forks should stick by the "line in the sand" or else the entire northern end of the township will be opened up for dense development. Opening it to sewer will exacerbate the existing rapid growth problems because of the high density that will come with it.
• Fisher expressed concern over prohibiting sewers in the FP because (he said) it will be developed and that the land has been purchased by developers. He thought that the developers should pay now for the sewers instead of the Township paying later after the DEP finds problems there.
• Egolf recused himself because of the Kings Mill suit before the Zoning Hearing Board.
• Wideman agreed with the line drawn by Act 537 at Newlins Road and added that the new industrial park will use almost all of Forks' remaining sewer capacity. The developers knew what the zoning was when they bought the property. He is against allowing developers to bully the township while they "line their pockets" and apply the "royal screw to us" with the school tax increases and the infrastructure costs that will follow. He feels that Forks needs to uphold the zoning laws and keep Act 537 as it is.
• Ackerman said that although he is not in favor of putting sewer above Newlins at the present time but if, "through the courts," the developer goes ahead with the plan (and the Supervisors cannot stop it "for some reason") he would have to look at it again. He said that water is needed in the FP more than sewers right now and that his well, and other wells, are polluted because of septic systems. Water yes, sewers... he'll have "to look at when the time comes because it's a hairy situation."

Building in the flood plain - Audience Question:

• Egolf said that as Supervisor, he would go back to the PC. He said that since he's not on the PC, he has no idea why they allowed it.
• Wideman stated that as a PC member, he was very much against the Courts at Newlins even though the Township's engineer and solicitor told the PC that DEP permits allowed the project. He added that the PC is only an advisory committee to the Supervisors and cannot make final decisions on anything.
• Ackerman said that the developer (Newlins & Sullivan) is not putting the houses in the 100 year flood plain and that it was approved by FEMA and the DEP.
• Billings stated that the township must proceed cautiously with development near or around the flood plains.
• Chuss said that this is the worst plan that ever came before him on the PC and that he totally agrees with Wideman. In the SALDO revision, structures will be moved out of the flood plains. He added that when it rains, the flood plains are a mess and that major arteries are shut down. He thinks that the township has been waiting for developer money but that without it, the township must do it on its own.
• Fisher agreed that the PC is merely an advisory committee and that this should be resolved with the zoning laws.

Single most important Forks issue that has not yet been addressed - Audience Question:

• Chuss answered that the underlying goal is to run the township as efficiently as possible and to keep tax burden down in the face of the growing pressures to increase services, improve roads, etc. - to be "fiscally responsible and legislate in an intelligent manner."
• Fisher said that down the road, the expenses to maintain what is already here is one of his biggest concerns. He said that the township must look for industries that will create jobs, expand the tax base, and not be harmful to the community - offering incentives to get them.
• Egolf said that everything talked about depends on the "education and the quality of if for our children." It's overlooked because of being "blindsided" by development, long range planning, etc.
• Wideman said that he thinks a business advisory committee and green industries - "industries that we like and are friendly to our environment" - that will hire as many Forks citizens as possible - are important and that public transportation in the township should be addressed.
• Ackerman said that many things to make it better in the township are already being addressed. He said that the DPW is headed in the right direction. He said that next year, he will really take a look at the financial situation of the township because the budget is "right on the line."
• Billings said that open access and transparency in the local government is needed. He said that the meetings should be broadcast and that documents should be available on the township website. He felt too, that one or two meetings should be held on Saturdays - Supervisors and residents currently have little interaction.

Closing Statments:

• Wideman said that his Planning Commission experience showed him that unchecked development will adversely affect infrastructures and taxes. As a Supervisor, he will strive to maintain and improve the infrastructure, find sustainable and sensible development that will not place a burden on the school system, and promote the integrity of open government via public access to public records.
• Egolf said that if elected, he will do his best to insure that we are not satisfied with "adequate" - in the school system, the zoning laws, etc. He said, "Forks Township deserves a lot more than adequate."
• Fisher described Forks as a very nice community that people are flocking to and he want to maintain the quality of services at the most reasonable cost possible. He added that Forks should get together with its neighbors for some solutions because problems, like traffic, do not stop at the border. He said too that the industrial parks should be promoted in order to provide the means for services in the future.
• Chuss spoke of his years serving the Township - mostly with volunteer hours - and that he's learned about of lot of issues, particularly traffic, preservation of farmland, and controlling development in the FP. He agrees that economic development is needed. He stressed that the candidates' backgrounds and track records should be considered.
• Billings said that this election is about hope - hope for a better quality of life, hope for a better quality of government... He said that he's walked the neighborhoods with his message that "we can do better" - we can manage growth better, manage traffic better... He pledged to openly and honestly represent the people of Forks and to "be an independent voice of reason on the Board of Supervisors." He added, "It's time for a change."
• Ackerman thanked his supporters (of the last 5+ years) and said that he has a very good track record. He said that he bases his decisions on what "would the people want" and "what's best for the Township." He said, "That's the key to the whole thing."

We are not perfect and hope that we got it right! Please let us know if we did not and we will try to correct it. And, do visit the FAC Primary 2007 page and the Candidates' blog to learn even more about the candidates.

You have choices to make on May 15th!