Tables and Chairs

The date is confirmed for the new Municipal Building furniture presentations. Three vendors vying for your tax dollars will present their wares. This "show and tell" is open to the public on Monday, April 4th from 5-8 PM in the OLD Municipal Building. Everyone who wants to see where their money will go should attend.

BoS Meeting 3/17/2005

This well attended Board of Supervisors meeting was a long one. It began early (at 7:00 PM) with a Conditional Use Hearing (really a presentation) of Strausser Enterprises proposed (Riverview Estates private) Recreation Center and ended with an executive session to discuss a personnel issue. In between there were other important agenda items, including the problem facing Forks residents living near an abandoned rail line that Palmer Township wants for its rails-to-trails program. Joe Nixon's (MCall 3/18/05) report focused on the Strausser project and Chris Pollock's (Express Times 3/18/05) on the Palmer vs. Forks residents' bikepath mess. Both articles give excellent accounts and should be read. (We apologize for the filesize of the Express Times article.) We will try once again to fill in the blanks.

CONDITIONAL USE HEARING - STRAUSSER ENT/RECREATIONAL CENTER FOR RIVERVIEW ESTATES:

Solicitor Kline explained that Strausser Enterprises is proposing to construct a recreation center in the CR district. Its size has changed from 4.5 acres to 3.9.

Sal Panto, Strausser's representative stated that they were presenting "new urbanism" and advised the Board that if they didn't want it then it could be developed as a "cookie cutter" subdivision. (An idea of the layout can be found in this sketch done from memory by a meeting attendee.) Some of the points covered during Panto's part of the presentation included:

• Strausser Enterprises wants to redefine SUBURBIA
• There will be no "at night" golf on the practice range
• Over the winter, they constructed bluebird cages and bluebird houses on the golf course
• They have "encouraged the deer to stay"
• The Falk (sic) house has been restored
• They have employed "adaptive re-use" by using the stones from the 25th St. abutment as a retaining wall
• Strausser has paid $11 million in capital fees to the Township
• There will be an 8000 sf (square feet) limit on commercial space with 2000 sf on average
• The buildings will be 2-3 stories (although they prefer 4)
• The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission was positive about this project
• All the requirements for the CR district are met except for commercial

Strausser's professional land planner, Phil (sorry, we did not get the last name), added the following:

• There will be 2000 to 3000 homes within a 10 minute (1/2 mile radius) walk
• Forks' current Town Center is not suitable for pedestrian use
• There will be 22000 sf of offices with live/work condos above them
• There will be 59000 sf for commercial use
• There will be 29 townhomes and 17 village homes
• The townhomes will have 24' x 40' yards
• The senior living facility will be 3 stories high
• The office spaces will have loft/condos over them
• The village green will be 150' x 300'
• There will be a "transparent fence" (wrought iron) along Winchester Drive
• There will be wide sidewalks around the village green
• There will be 120 Senior "units" (apartments)

Mr. Panto went on to explain that the old Board and the old Township Manager (Gemmel) wanted this. And, that Strausser Enterprises wants the pool open by May 2006.

The regular meeting.................
REPORTS: SUPERVISORS, MANAGER, ENGINEER & SOLICITOR

• Supervisor Nicholas stated that the Sterling Hills detention ponds will NOT be dedicated to the Township (a correction to the previous meeting's minutes).
• Supervisor Hoff reported that there was an Emergency Services meeting last Monday.
• Nicholas reported that the new Dell 6000 PC for the Sewer Department will cost $1100.
• Supervisor Miller reported that basketball is winding down and that baseball has already started and that "spring is around the corner."
• Chairman Ackerman reported that he met with Pete Gheller and Chief Dorney about changing the location of the police firing range to a safer one (up one level).
• Township Manager Kichline reported that the Township got a performance grant for 2003 and that the monies will go the Sanitary Fund. She thanked Sharon Fisher for "keeping track."
• Engineer Hay reported that the Newlins Road bridge is now open and that the Frost Hollow pumping station is moving along.

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR (NOT AGENDA ITEMS)

1. Resident Terry McClane (sic) stated (in reference to the Strausser presentation) that she was glad to see what was happening and that she is disturbed by the plan since she already has a water problem created by the (Segal & Morel - Riverview Estates West) construction around her home. She said that the backfill is 5 feet higher than her level. Nicholas suggested that Fred Hay check the plans.
2. Fritz Weide addressed the Board commending it for holding the tax rate at 4.6 mil for the last 3 years. He said that there should be something in the Township bylaws dealing with nepotism. And, he told the Board that they should not meet with developers individually. He said that this is "bad government. Good government is open government." He thinks this should be in writing.
3. Vito Tamborino (resident and Chairman of the Planning Commission) said that northbound drivers on Sullivan Trail are making left turns into Dunkin Donuts and that it is very dangerous. The sign says ENTER on both sides. He suggested having the sign removed and adding a NO LEFT TURN sign. Chief Dorney and Tim Weis will contact PennDot.

We learned in the STATUS UPDATE BY ALEX GALE/MUNICIPAL COMPLEX that the site contractor will be back on the site in the next 1-1/2 weeks and that the paving should be done by the end of April. After that they will work on the Giant pond. He hopes that the Police Department building can be occupied by May 1st. The contractor will be checking the Municipal Building footers for heaving (from the winter) and will replace any that need it. Met-Ed received the right-of-way agreement from Giant. He commended Ed for doing a nice job on the electrical work in the new park building. As to the plaque, Ackerman stated that the Board would hold off on a decision until next meeting.

AWARD BIDS: (A) CCTV - to I.C.U. for $12,100 - for the PD building - Approved 5:0. Holmgaard stated that there is no Federal requirement that the rest of the complex have a CCTV system and he thinks that one should be installed while the walls are open. The BoS will take it up later. (B) FUELING TANKS - three bidders backed out and one was too high. It will be put out for bids again. Nicholas suggested that in the future all bids be opened in public perhaps at a workshop before a regular meeting. Hoff noted that this takes time. The opening of bids in public was approved 5:0.

The CONDITIONAL USE/RIVERVIEW RECREATIONAL CENTER discussion began with Ackerman asking if the land was subdivided. Panto replied that it was not and that Strausser Enterprises wants the opinion of the BoS on the Village Center. He doesn't care (he said.) He stated that 3.6 acres is for the recreation village and that it will go on the bike path. "That's what the bike path system is for."

Vito Tamborino (PC and in the audience) stated that the letter from the Planning Commission is not complete. It should be added that the PC is in favor of going to the next step. He noted that there was no NOTICE to the public for the "whole" thing only for the Conditional Use. He also pointed out that 250 units of housing is like 50 extra if there was no Village. Tamborino recommended a JOINT MEETING of the PC & BoS.

Hoff stated that it was an excellent presentation but did NOT address the Conditional Use and he can't approve it. Nicholas said to "get rid of the housing." She would like the commercial to be like Peddlers' Village. Holmgaard commented that it was better than "cookie cutter" and that they can deal with the density. Miller stated that he agrees with Vito and that it should be denied and sent back to the PC. Panto said he would be happy to sit down with Urban Research & Development. (Aside: UR&D is working on the Township's zoning revamp.)

A resident thought it should be put near the old Laneco and that there should be NO 3 or 4 story buildings. Another resident, Marge Pearsall, pointed out that the EASD could not handle 4000 new students and she wondered where the new (soon to be needed) school would go. Panto replied that 120 of the units are "active adult dwellings" (over 55) and they would add no school kids. Only the 46 townhouses would have school kids.

Yet another resident asked Mr. Panto to please stop raising his voice (at the audience.) Panto explained that he had been a school teacher. He also stated that only "complainers come to meetings", that "only the negative people speak," and that the "positive people don't come to meetings." He went on to say the he has talked to many in the community who think this is a worthwhile project. The Board denied the Conditional Use for reasons set forth in the Planning Commission letter (voting 0:5.)

The COLLEGE PARK/PRELIMINARY FINAL SUBDIVISION was approved 5:0 as was the waiver from SALDO that the developer (Signature Homes) needed. It was noted that the flag lots had been eliminated as were the drives on Zucksville. Nicholas asked who will take care of the detention pond and was told that it would be the lot owner.

GREENLEAF ESTATES, PHASE 2/ACCEPTANCE OF DEED OF DEDICATION FOR STREETS was approved 5:0. Fred Hay said that this dedication was missed last summer. Solicitor Kline said this project is now known as Shawnee Ridge and that everything was in order.

PHEASANT RIDGE, PHASE 4/DEVELOPER'S AGREEMENTS was approved 5:0. Kline stated that everything is in order and that a condition is that the developer receive only 3 building permits until the issues in the other phases are resolved.

The PENN JERSEY PIPELINE CO/SALE OF PIPELINE ASSETS brought more comment from Mr. Tamborino. The pipeline crosses through a corner of HIS yard and he was concerned that it may be moved without notification. Hay said that the pipeline in question has road crossings dating from the 1950s (before permits were required). Kline noted that the Township is notified now of pipeline movement and that any new owners must continue to do so. The Board approved the signing of the letter by Ackerman.

The MET-ED/STREET LIGHT RESOLUTION/BUSHKILL RIDGE DEVELOPMENT was approved 5:0 after Kline stated that everything was in order.

The FORKS RESIDENTS AFFECTED BY PALMER TWP. PROPOSED BIKE PATH was presented by the attorney for the residents, William Coffin, Esq. Kline gave background for this issue as:

• Palmer Township acquired rights to the railroad bed of which part is in Forks Township
• Palmer is seeking grants for Rails-to-Trails
• The railroad gave them a quitclaim deed which states "We are giving (whatever) ownership rights to the property but we don't know if we have any."
• The grant agency stated that wasn't good enough
• Palmer tried to condemn land in Forks

Kichline stated that she has had no calls from Palmer Township but she has had some from citizens. Coffin explained that he is representing the residents and that a complaint has been filed against Palmer Township seeking a permanent injunction and seeking a reversionary deed. He described serious problems with the bike path and the neighbors. He said that speeding motorized vehicles (4 wheel/motorcycles/snowmobiles) are using the railbed now. A resident found a shovel in his pool. And, there can be crime in the woods. The case is now before the Northampton Court of Common Pleas. He presented the Board with color photos of some of the problems. He asked that Forks Township does not become involved. He stated that it would be more expensive and that "eminent domain costs" (money) and it would bring Forks into the lawsuit. Ackerman asked who owns the railroad bed now. Coffin said that the believes the landowners listed in the complaint do since it has been abandoned. Kline said that back in 1910 the railroad got its land 2 ways, one by outright deed and the other with "right of reverter." He did not know until now about the litigation and he said that his office has had no contact from Palmer Township.

Tom Gillen (sic) said that he teaches fishing and archery on his property and won't be able to do that anymore if the bikepath goes in. Guy Christopher (sic) stated that according to the Township Plan that land is not zoned for recreation and that people are coming through his property all the time. The owners are liable. He also said that there were rapes and vandalism on the trail in Palmer Township. Vito Tamborino said that this will stop what Palmer Township has been working on for 25 years. He said that rails-to-trails work although some trails require police presence. He said that this is "Forks land" and he would hate to see Palmer come in.

Coffin closed by mentioning that a city in Indiana approved removing rails and giving the land back. He stated that Forks will be liable for actions that occur on the bikepath (rape/kidnapping) and that "Forks can help its citizens by doing nothing." The Board complied.

The Board agreed to SET DATE & ADVERTISE MEETING/FURNITURE PRESENTATION for April 4th or 5th depending on the vendors' availability. It will take 3 hours (one hour for each vendor) and may run from 5 PM to 8 PM.

There was no CURRENT BUDGET REVIEW.

Added to the agenda (by Holmgaard at the beginning of the meeting) were:

• APPROVAL OF NEW POLICE PATCH. Dorney said that the officers designed it. It was approved 5:0.
• DISPOSAL OF OUT-OF-SERVICE POLICE CRUISERS. The Township has 2 new vehicles and therefore they can dispose of 2. One is going to the Fire Department and will be green striped. Weis said that they will retire their old car and it can go to a Township auction. The other car will be kept for Township use.

Holmgaard announced that the Township's new website will be up on Monday. The Board went into executive session to consider a personnel issue. They took no action and 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 3/3/2005

The Express Times' Chris Pollock reported on the 3/3/05 meeting. The Morning Call's Joe Nixon did not. Instead he chose to present an obviously well researched article on one of the major issues of the evening, the request to lower the speed limit on Bushkill Drive. This piece is worth a second read. We are guessing that Nixon will write up the rest of the meeting shortly and when he does, we will link it here. (Update: Joe Nixon's piece on the meeting appeared in the 3/8/05 Morning Call. Click here to read it.)

This was a first for us, being at a BoS meeting that was immediately (after the Pledge of Allegiance) paused for an executive session. When the four Supervisors (David Hoff was not present) emerged from the backroom 10 minutes later, they said nothing except that it was to discuss a personnel issue and that no action was taken during the session. There were no COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR (NOT AGENDA ITEMS) and no CORRESPONDENCE.

On the printed agenda, in the section above the line, is a list of DEBITS/TRANSFERS. This meeting's agenda listed a new item under that, Total Debt: $9,445,822. We are pleased that this is now on the agenda. It was requested some meetings ago by resident Fritz Wiede (see BoS Meeting 1/21/05). We were told on 1/21/05 that the figure only changes twice a year (when payments are made.)

MANAGER'S & DEPARTMENT REPORTS:

Township Manager Kichline reported that the Township's new website should go online at the end of next week. She reminded all that the Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for March 26, 2005 at 1:00 PM at the Community Center. She also informed the Board that Senator Wonderling wants the Township to submit a list of 3 projects. Supervisor Nicholas said to send the top 5 from the Traffic Study list. She thought that if 5 are submitted the Township may get 3 of them funded.

Tim Weis, Zoning Officer, commended the Public Works Department on the good job they did cleaning up from the last snow storm.

The STATUS UPDATE BY ALEX GALE/MUNICIPAL COMPLEX prompted a question from Nicholas about the extra work on the detention pond. Gale responded that the contractor is resubmitting designs for the entire stormwater management plan and that any costs to correct the problems will be paid by the contractor. In Gale's general update he said that there has been no action on the site because of the weather. He said that there should be a furniture presentation in early April or before. The bids for the CCTV system for the PD are to be opened 3/4/05. Supervisor Holmgaard is checking to see if a CCTV system is mandatory for the entire site because of 911.

Gale also reported that the new owners of the Giant are giving Met-Ed a tough time about crossing from their right-of-way (Met-Ed's) to the township property. They have involved lawyers. And, regarding the plaques, Chairman Ackerman said that because Supervisor Hoff was not at the meeting they will wait until the next meeting before deciding on the text.

E.I.T. & E.M.S.T. COLLECTION was tabled.

TOWNES AT SULLIVAN TRAIL - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL was tabled.

Solicitor Kline said that the FORKS SELF STORAGE/INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT was all in order. It was approved 4:0.

The STERLING HILL ESTATES/PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION discussion was lengthy. This development is planned for 68 acres south of Arndt Road and is bordered by Mitman Road on its eastern side. As presented by Seitz, it will have 135 building lots. We were reminded that there was an older plan that had 175 lots. An abutting property owner, Stacy Kocher addressed the Board with his concerns for stormwater runoff onto his yard. The developer said that they were sensitive to his problem and will work with him. Ackerman asked about a homeowners association and was told that there would be none. Nicholas said that the Township does not want to take ownership of the detention/retention ponds and that the plans showed that they would be turned over to the Township. Ackerman suggested that maybe the homeowner on the lot could take care of it. A homeowners association was suggested.

There will be an 8' wide concrete recreation trail all the way on Mitman and Arndt roads. Nicholas suggested a playground for the kids. Don Miller seconded that idea. The developer said that they will work with the Township for a recreation area. The Township does not want ownership of it. Miller suggested that they work it out with the Planning Commission. We learned that the Recreation Fee is $1000 per lot and according to Weis open space is not required in the CR (higher density) district.

There will be side entry lots for the homes with common driveways. There will be 11 homes on Mitman Road with 4 common drives. There are to be no driveways on Arndt Road. Stacy Kocher stated that he was concerned about the stop signs and guard rail. Former Supervisor Stan Kocher said that part of his son's (Stacy Kocher) property was a former quarry and wondered if the Supervisors would be responsible if a kid falls off? Kline said that there is no liability for the Township.

And, a Boy Scout in the audience addressed the Board stating, "I go to school at Shawnee and I want to know how you are going to control the traffic." Ackerman answered, "The best we can." The vote to accept the preliminary subdivision was 4:0 in favor.

In discussion of the C.I.T./LAND DEVELOPMENT we learned that there will be a total of 18,000 sq. ft. of additions and additional parking as well as emergency access roads to accommodate 800 half-time students. All conditions listed in Engineer Hay's letter were agreed to and the project was approved 4:0.

Steven Goffredo represented a Palmer Township developer and requested a BUSHKILL DRIVE/SPEED LIMIT reduction (to 35 mph) recommendation by the Board to PennDot. He related that PennDot would not issue a CO to open the new Newlins Road bridge because of a sight distance problem. He said that PennDot would open the bridge if the speed limit was reduced to compensate. We were told that Bushkill Drive has been widened to its widest to enable a left turn lane on Bushkill but PennDot has eliminated it. He said a Forks homeowner (opposite the bridge) has large pine trees in the way of good sight distance and that homeowner has refused to cut his trees. The trees are NOT in the right-of-way. Kline said that PennDot can condemn the trees and that the problem was created entirely by PennDot on a PennDot road. Holmgaard stated that PennDot should buy the property in question. A resident added that even with lower speed limits, EMS vehicles will go as fast as they can to get to emergencies. The Board rejected the request in a 4:0 vote.

It was noted that Police Chief Dorney gave the Board a very complete plan for the new K-9 Policy. It was approved 4:0.

Chief Dorney reported that there were 3 finalists for the new K-9 Officer position. He submitted the name of Officer William Mills as his choice. The Board voted 4:0 to APPOINT K-9 OFFICER Mills. Congratulations to Officer Mills.

The Board went into the second executive session of the night and emerged to make several motions:

1. Holmgaard made a motion to hire Berkheimer & Associates. The motion died for lack of a SECOND.
2. Ackerman made a motion to NOT hire Berkheimer. It was approved 3:1.
3. Nicholas made a motion to have Mary Ann Kessler come back on Monday. It was approved 4:0.
4. Miller made a motion to hire a part-time person to help Mary Ann Kessler with the E.I.T. at a rate of $13.00/hr. It was approved 4:0.

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.

Forewarned Is Forearmed

Let's see now, there are how many ways for people living in Forks (and north of Forks and on College Hill) to get to downtown Easton and/or New Jersey? Did you say THREE? Right! Well, this is going to be the Summer and Fall from hell fellow drivers, for according to Edward Sieger's article in today's Express Times, Cattell Street will be undergoing major repairs by the City of Easton and then by PennDot for a long time, from before July (for the City work) to November. The work must be done. We should all begin taking our extra doses of B-complex and St. John's Wort as soon as the snow melts. Oh, and don't forget to allow yourself an extra 1/2 hour or so for sitting in traffic. Bring a book.

BoS Meeting 2/17/2005

The BoS meeting of 2/17/05 was covered very thoroughly by Joe Nixon of the Morning Call and by Chris Pollock of the Express Times. Both reporters mentioned the "big" events of the night. Kudos and thank you. Again, we will try to fill in the blanks.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

• John Ackerman reported that 98% of Forks residents have paid their taxes.
• Pete Gheller mentioned that the stormwater problem on Farragut Street will be helped by the curb restoration now in progress and that the street sweeper (weather permitting) is now out. Snow removal equipment is still in service.
• Fred Hay said that he met with PennDot regarding Knollwood Estates. PennDot was reluctant to issue permits for parallel drainage and will now issue the permits without the Township's involvement.
• Henning Holmgaard reported receiving a letter from the attorney for Nic Zawarski & Sons taking issue with the "sequencing" of the development of commercial and residential in Towne Center II. Holmgaard said that it was "written in lawyers."

Cathy Kichline reported that the Two Rivers Area Greenway group wants to make a presentation to a joint meeting of the Board, the Planning Commission, and the Recreation Department in March. Kichline further reported that she and Fred Hay met with Easton officials to discuss PennDot's efforts and Strausser's requirements regarding stormwater and Frost Hollow and traffic. She also said that the Township received a request to lower the speed limit on Bushkill Drive. Kichline announced the Kiwanis sponsored Easter Egg Hunt for March 26, 2005 at 1:00 PM. And, she said that Senator Wonderling mentioned that some of Township's municipal and transportation projects could benefit from State assistance.

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR (NOT AGENDA ITEMS):

1. Megan McBride of the College Hill Neighborhood Association, was the first to address the Board. She talked about the traffic and safety issues facing everyone who uses Cattell Street. She cited a Lafayette College student survey in which 16,000 cars were counted per day. She discussed the increase in accidents and the damage to the environment that the rapid development in Forks has brought them. She cited erosion and storm water runoff as major problems to the residents on W. Lafayette Street and also as major problems (sedimentation) to the water treatment plant. She said that the sedimentation lines the banks of the Delaware River from Frost Hollow Road on down to the intake for the water treatment plant. She blamed Forks for the overcrowding in the Easton Area School District. She asked Forks Township to accept responsibility and to assist the City of Easton to help with these problems. After the applause died down, Chairman Ackerman responded that the Township has met with officials from Easton and that the Township was adding east/west roads to carry traffic away from Cattell and to Bushkill Dr. and Route 611.
2. Forks resident, James Wideman addressed the Board about his concerns regarding the proposed overlay zoning on 400 acres in the Township. He said that he was concerned that the Board members had met privately with the developers. He referred to the Pace University Law webpage on Overlay Zoning and how O.Z. was originally conceived to PRESERVE land not to develop it. He called the proposal for O.Z. in Forks a sham. He said that if this project goes in, it will overtax the sewer system and he cited the letter received by Supervisor Nicholas from the Forks Sewer Department recommending against having sewer lines NORTH of Newlins Road (BoS Meeting 1/21/05). Wideman went on to say the Township will need more police and more firemen as a result. He said that Forks does not need this "monstrosity of a development" and that it is a direct affront to the Comprehensive Plan. If it is approved it will open the "floodgates to a tsunami" of development. He finished to applause from the audience. There was no response from the Board.
3. A late comer to the meeting missed the 7:30 PM sign-in time and was turned down to Comment by Chairman Ackerman.

The STATUS UPDATE BY ALEX GALE/MUNICIPAL COMPLEX was again, a very detailed report. He discussed the following:

• That the project's "roofer is grinding to a halt and may get pulled."
• He suggested replacing the old, deformed roof tiles in the PD with new ones and will get bids.
• The Municipal Building is on hold because of the weather.
• The roofing for the Firehouse should begin in a few weeks.
• He asked again about text for the plaques. Chairman Ackerman imposed of deadline of next meeting (March 3, 2005) on the Board.
• The advertisements for bids for both the CCTV system and the fuel system were in the newspaper. So far there are 12 bids in for the CCTV and 4 bids for the fuel system.
• The tree preservation area between the complex and the Giant is not what was originally thought but is instead a bunch of scrub covered by vines and weeds. When the vines were pulled off, the "trees" fell apart. He requested that the Supervisors walk the area with him. They will do this in a worksession before a meeting.

Gale asked the Board if they are considering a CCTV system for the rest of the site. Ackerman wondered "if we need it?" Holmgaard said that the Homeland Security "stuff" may require it.

The E.I.T. & E.M.S.T. COLLECTION agenda item was tabled with a 4:1 vote because not all of the Supervisors received the copies of Solicitor Kline's report (mailed to them at home) in time for the meeting. Kline reported that he had negotiated contract length options with Berkheimer & Associates. He said that the original proposal was for a 3 year contract with an automatic renewal for 3 years. He got them to agree to a 1 year contract with automatic 2 year renewals. Berkheimer also agreed to cut their compensation to 2% of the amount collected. They would provide their own bonding and an audit at their expense. Kline prepared 5 Resolutions for the Board to consider. They will do that at the next meeting.

The PENN'S RIDGE DEVELOPMENT/PHASES 9 & 11 SKETCH PLAN was presented by Alex Hornstein of Omega Homes, the developer. The original plan, presented years ago, showed apartments for these phases. Now Hornstein proposes condominiums, 52 in Phase 9 and 102 in Phase 11 for a total of 154. Tim Weis (Zoning Officer) asked why it was changed. Weis said that he gets calls all the time for rentals in the Township. Mr. Hornstein said that it's because his company is really a builder of homes and not apartments. Supervisor Nicholas asked if the roads will be private. Mr. Hornstein told her that there will be private roads in the interior of the condominium developments. Supervisor Miller said that he wants the bikepath extended. Hornstein said the bikepath will be paved in the spring from Ben Jon Road to the condominiums. Chairman Ackerman asked about Kesslerville Road and was told that it is finished and is open from Ben Jon to Bushkill Drive. The section of the sketch plan showing a future COMMERCIAL area was questioned. Hornstein said that it was in the original PRD and is possible, however, he does not yet have any idea what it will be.

The SOMERSET MEADOWS/ESCROW AGREEMENT was explained by Solicitor Kline as from a 1997 developer who abandoned his project, the current site of Segal & Morel's development along Newlins Road East. The developer gave the Township $73K for road improvements and wanted it back. A settlement was reached in which the developer will get $10K returned and the balance of the money will go to do the storms drains, etc. along Newlins.

The FORT JAMES II SUBDIVISION/FINAL PLAN was approved 5:0. This is the 3 lot subdivision on Kuebler Road and includes the new home of Tioga Pipe's service center. The developer is prepared to comply with the Township Engineer's recommendations as well as those of the Planning Commission. This includes a deferral on the installation of sidewalks until the front two lots are developed. The developer will install industrial type lighting fixtures and will be responsible for maintaining them. They will be privately energized.

There were 3 applicants for the PLANNING COMMISSION RECORDING SECRETARY position. Margolis (we apologize but this is all we could hear of the candidate's name) was selected.

There was discussion of a PART TIME RECEPTIONIST POSITION. Nicholas suggested hiring a full-time receptionist using the $25K that is in the budget for a Financial Director. Ackerman thought they should create the position and work out the details later. Nicholas then offered that they get temporary help now using an outside service. Hoff said that he was "okay with that." Holmgaard said that they "will get someone with computer skills so that we don't have to train."

The Board then went in to Executive Session to discuss personnel issues.

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.

Tatamy GETS It!

The Borough of Tatamy passed a sinkhole ordinance the other night. See the article by Arlene Martinez of the Morning Call on 2/8/05. This is an important and bold first step by Tatamy's leadership. It is interesting that single family residential construction is not included. Past newspaper articles implied that residential developers would be required to adhere to the new requirements. Still, this is a responsible action by Tatamy. I applaud this initial effort.

There have been threads in this blog discussing the need for sinkhole ordinances and enforcement. Check out: Sinkholes.. What Are We Waiting For? and The HOLE Story - Tatamy Leads The Way! These threads contain some links to older local press coverage.

And, in case you think that sinkholes only open in Forks Township, Tatamy, Stockertown and Easton, there was a piece in the Express Times (2/8/05) about a small sinkhole in the middle of downtown Hellertown. They can happen any place at any time. At least Tatamy will get the jump on some of them.

BoS Meeting 2/3/2005

This meeting was one of the more crowded ones of late. We hope that voter interest levels stay this high. The meeting's deliverables were described by Joe Nixon of the Morning Call and Edward Sieger of the Express Times. More details and some of the flavor of the meeting were in additional articles, Morning Call - Joe Nixon 2/4/05 and Express Times - Edward Sieger 2/6/05. Sieger accurately described a "free-for-all as residents randomly offered suggestions and accusations" during the discussion of hiring Berkheimer Associates to collect Forks EIT. We will try to fill in the blanks.

REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND CORRESPONDENCE:

• Assistant District Attorney, Paula Roscioli, presented a $10K check to the Township for the new K9 division. It was accepted by Supervisor Holmgaard and Chief Dorney. She remarked that Forks Township was "blessed by one of the finest police departments she has worked with." Holmgaard asked Dorney if it (the new police dog) was to be a boy or a girl. Dorney replied "a boy."
• Supervisor Miller reported that the Community Center is "going good" and has 30 new members.
• Chairman Ackerman requested that raising Supervisor compensation should be considered at a future meeting. 2nd Class Townships may pay up to $3600 (per Supervisor) per year and even though it will only be effective for newly elected Supervisors, he thought the current rate should be raised.
• Engineer Fred Hay reported that the Frost Hollow Pumping Station's completion will be delayed by 2 months because of the weather.
• A resident wrote to ask that an unneeded stop sign be removed. Chairman Ackerman referred this to Chief Dorney and Engineer Hay for review.

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR (NOT AGENDA ITEMS):

1. Gretchen Gerstel asked why the office staff was decreasing in number while every other department has more employees. There was no answer.
2. Carol Ann Coxe asked the Board what action had been taken on her complaints. She sent the Board a certified letter on January 8, 2005 containing copies of documents that she had delivered to the Elected Auditors on January 4, 2005 detailing possible 2nd Class Township Code violations. Her question was referred to Solicitor Kline who said it would be addressed in an Agenda Item later in the meeting. Ms. Coxe asked when she could expect to receive the copy she requested of the meeting minutes in which Supervisor Miller was hired by the Board of Supervisors to work part-time at the Community Center. She was told 2 weeks.
3. Rachel Hoagland thanked the road crews for their efforts during the recent snow storm and then asked about the newspaper reports regarding possible zoning changes. She stated that there should a "win/win" in zoning changes. She cited heavy traffic and water runoff as major problems. She noted that 80 acres off of Zucksville Rd. have been sold. She asked the exact current number of acres under development and considered for development. She was told by Holmgaard that 1113 acres have been approved for development and of that 60% are completed.
4. Virginia Jackson asked how the Board accounts for the monies borrowed by the Forks Historical Society to produce the Remembrance book. Township Manager Kickline told her that the monies are coming from the Capital Resources & Development Fund.
5. Wendy Nicolosi (sic), representing developer Zawarski, asked about the status of Knollwood Estates and the PennDot approvals. Engineer Hay said that he was due to meet with PennDot the next day.

In the STATUS UPDATE BY ALEX GALE/MUNICIPAL COMPLEX, Mr. Gale reported that 37.9% of the project is finished and that 21% of the construction contingency funds have been used. He further stated that the wind damage to the fire department building is now repaired at a cost of $81K. The Township's insurer will pay the claim and will "perhaps" subrogate the construction company's insurer. The police department building's completion date is now moved to 3/7/05 and Gale thinks that the PD should not move in until later in the Spring when the blacktop is completed. The PD TV monitoring system will cost between $15K and $16K. The Board will consider installing a CCTV system on the rest of the site. He reminded the Board about the needed text for the plaque. Holmgaard remarked that "as soon as you get the stone cut, we'll talk."

The BoS (TAX COLLECTOR COMPENSATION) unanimously approved raising the Elected Tax Collector's salary to a fixed $15K for the 2006 term. When asked, Ms. Vail stated that she is in fact pursuing (through the court) having her rate increased for the current term.

In discussion of the FUEL TANK INSTALLATION, it was agreed that underground is the way to go. The Township will advertise for bids.

STEEPLECHASE, PHASE I was tabled.

RESOLUTION 050203-1 (linked here so you can read it for yourself) was described by Solicitor Kline as follows:

• At the Board of Elected Auditors Reorganization Meeting a question was raised regarding rate setting of working Supervisors' rates in previous years.
• The Board (of Elected Auditors) does not have the authority to do anything except set existing rates.
• This resident's complaint challenges the credibility of the Board of Supervisors and the Township.
• The BoS was aware that Donald Miller was acting as Secretary/Treasurer and employed part-time at the Community Center.
• The BoS was aware the David Hoff was acting as Secretary/Treasurer.
• The BoS was aware the John Ackerman was to be paid for snow plowing (if needed).

Kline said that the Auditors never pointed out an error in the past. Ms. Coxe asked if Donald Miller was ever hired by the BoS. She asked, for the record, if she was to understand "if legally he (Kline) has the authority to back date the auditors' actions and to indemnify the actions taken by Mr. Miller and Mr. Hoff?" She was told that that is like asking the question, "When did you stop beating your wife?" A motion was advanced and seconded to accept the RESOLUTION. Supervisor Nicholas and Chairman Ackerman stated that they could not vote for something they were not involved in. The Resolution was passed 3:2 with Hoff, Miller, and Holmgaard voting for it. A member of the audience asked what the Resolution was. Kline explained that it was to "ACCEPT GOOD INTENTIONS."

The BoS voted NAY to the EASTON AREA HIGH SCHOOL GOLF TEAM TOURNAMENT AT RIVERVIEW COUNTRY CLUB/REQUEST SPONSORSHIP. Supervisor Nicholas will ask her company to help. Supervisor Miller suggested that the HS go to the Forks Athletic Association for sponsorship. Supervisor Hoff said that Miller should "talk to the Athletic Association."

Some fees were waived for the EASTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT/MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPANSION LAND DEVELOPMENT. The EASD solicitor stated that the school district is giving the Township the bikepath it wants as well as use of the athletic fields (when the school is not in session nor using them) and asked that the Recreation Fees be waived. The BoS complied. Ackerman expressed his concern over a bike path on school property. The Sewer Tapping Fee was reduced to actual usage. The Building Permit Fees were replaced by a to-be-determined hourly rate based on time spent by the Zoning Officer for inspections. The EASD will submit all of their onsite engineer's inspection reports. The project received Preliminary Approval.

The FORKS VILLAGE, PHASE I/FINAL SUBDIVISION plan was approved with the contingency that the developer must maintain the emergency road until all roads are completed. The developer agreed to provide a letter of credit to guarantee the completion of the project's roads. This project is between Sullivan Trail and Kesslerville Road across from Kuebler and extends south on a total of 36 acres. Phase I will have a total of 38 units (26 townhomes and 12 twins). This project was originally approved by court order many years ago and has been completely redesigned and is in compliance with current zoning.

The TOWNE CENTER II @ SULLIVAN TRAIL/FINAL PLAN was approved unanimously. Supervisor Nicholas put forward a motion that the developer build commercial along with housing in accordance with proportions stipulated in the zoning regulations. Nicholas said that if all the houses are built and the commercial isn't and just sits there for a number of years there will be nothing to stop the developer from coming back before a new BoS and requesting a zoning change to build more houses. The motion passed. This project is behind Met-Ed and will connect to the Townes at Sullivan Trail and is in the Town Center District.

Discussion of the E.I.T. COLLECTION issue was lively. The BoS was considering whether to hire Berkheimer Associates of Bangor, PA to collect the Earned Income Tax this year. Long time E.I.T. collector, Mary Ann Kessler quit on 1/25/05. Township Manager Kichline said that she (Kichline) has been working every night for two weeks on her laptop from home to get things caught up. The E.I.T. module (of the new software package) will not be installed until the Spring. Audience members questioned why Ms. Kessler quit and called for the BoS to look into the matter and to ask her to come back. Nicholas said that the Berkheimer proposal before her was not a contract but was just that, a proposal and she was not going to vote on that. A resident exclaimed that he couldn't believe they were going to vote on something that the solicitor had not yet reviewed. Miller suggested that the decision be put off until the next meeting to give Kline time to review a contract. The vote was 2:3 with Supervisors Holmgaard and Hoff voting to accept the proposal.

QUIXOTE VENTURES was granted conditional approval for an age restricted development of manufactured homes. There was a Conditional Use Hearing at 7:00 PM. The project's location abuts Jacob's Farms on Kesslerville Rd. Ms. Nicholas suggested that the plan state that ALL residents must be 55 or older. Holmgaard wanted to be sure that an emergency road will be added to the cul-de-sac. The developer agreed. It passed 4:1 with Nicholas voting NAY.

The CREATION OF FACILITIES MANAGER & GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS POSITION was approved unanimously. This position will be responsible for the maintenance of all Township buildings and will also be responsible for the Geographic Information Systems (where the sewer lines are, stop signs, etc.) The position reports to the Director of Public Works. After the Executive Session, the Supervisors announced the appointment of Pete Gheller, current Director of Public Works, to this new position. He will continue at his current salary (frozen) until 2007. The Township will advertise for a new Director of Public Works and Ackerman questioned the need for 5 years of supervisory experience (in the ad text). The words "or equivalent" were added. Nicholas suggested that the Director of Public Works should report to the Township Manager AND/OR to the Board of Supervisors. This was accepted with the change that he/she will report to the BoS if NO Township Manager is available. Pete Gheller will stay on as Director of Public Works until a replacement is found. 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.