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BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
October 20, 2008

The meeting of the Douglass Township Board of Supervisors was called to order at 7:30 P.M.
Attending were Chairman Tim Turner, Supervisor Fred Ziegler and Supervisor Gregory Lignelli; Solicitor Larry Sager, Pete Hiryak, Cynthia O’Donnell, Mike Heydt, Scott Groff, Andy Duncan, Bob Campbell, Chief Templin, and 41 residents.

Mr. Turner led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

On motion by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler, the Board approved the minutes of the October 6, 2008 Board of Supervisor’s meeting. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Ronald Barrett presented the Gilbertsville Community Ambulance Report.

1. The following are the total number of calls for the Gilbertsville Area Community Ambulance Service for the month of September 2008: Total emergency calls for the year – 1035, Month total calls for the surrounding area – 79, Month total of calls for Douglass Township residences – 33.
2. Past Events – Attended the Gilbertsville Fair, attended Open House with New Hanover Fire Company and Unity Walk at Jr. High West.
3. Upcoming Events – Board of Directors meeting held on Monday, November 12th at 7:00 p.m.
4. Mr. Barrett handed to the Board a copy of the 2007 Certified Audit performed by Reinhart & Company.
5. Mr. Barrett thanked the Board on behalf of the Gilbertsville Area Community Ambulance Service for its generous donation of $1,000 and stated that the monies will be used towards supplies and equipment for the ambulances.

On motion by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli, the Board approved the Gilbertsville Community Ambulance Report. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Haddad presented the Trustee’s Report.

1. Mr. Haddad commented that he continues to meet with Fire Company #1 and Fire & Rescue and is happy to say that each side cooperates with him very well. Mr. Haddad commented that the cooperation with each other needs to happen without Mr. Haddad being the messenger. Mr. Haddad stated that he had told #1 today and will be telling Fire & Rescue that we are going to start cooperating directly with one another.
2. Mr. Haddad stated that #1 has been able to make 3 monthly payments of $850 on the loan and this is with the cooperation of Fire & Rescue by them waiving their $850 payment each month.
3. Mr. Haddad commented that #1 also had a very successful carnival and that we are hopeful that some of those funds can/will be used to pay down more of the loan to Harleysville Bank.
4. Mr. Haddad commented that he will be working to get the financial statements from the bookkeepers and with those financial statements be able to prepare a budget for 2009. The budget will be a business plan showing the income and expenses and hopefully the profit left over. This will be much of a guess and projection because we do not have full year’s worth of statements as one usually has in order to make projections stated Mr. Haddad. He will work with the 9 month’s worth of statements and follow up from there.
5. Mr. Haddad stated that in regard to cooperating with one another, each side has agreed to designate two people to be the group to work on the building survey for purpose of repairs and new equipment. Mr. Haddad stated that we recognize that there may be more to be done that can be done with the money and therefore; with each side participating in a cooperative way, we want to prioritize what needs to get done. Mr. Haddad stated that this initial working together will hopefully lead to finding a way that he is no longer needed as a messenger between the parties and will eventually lead to a stronger Fire Company for the Township.

A motion was made by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler to accept the Trustee’s Report. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Larry Schlicter presented the Fire Company #1 Report.

1. Mr. Schlicter reviewed the upcoming events as follows: Full calendar for end of October thru November with the following: Weddings, Yard Sales, Fundraisers, Gun Shows, Banquets, Let’s Dance Party (PCTV), Comedy Show, Singles Dance, Boyertown H. S. Harvest Dance, Birthday Parties, Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 23 and Craft Shows.
2. Mr. Schlicter commented that he felt the carnival was very successful considering it was the first held. Mr. Schlicter stated that the total proceeds and donations were $24,820 and after expenses the total was $6,306.00. Mr. Schlicter stated that hopefully next year’s carnival will be even better.

A motion was made by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli to approve Fire Company #1’s Report. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Ricky Smith presented the Fire & Rescue Report.

1. Ricky reviewed the statistics for the month of September as follows: Fires (2), Bush/Trash Fires (1), Fire Alarms/C02 Alarms (1), Medivac Landings (2), EMS Assists (1), Fire Police (5), Assist to other depts. (2), Investigations (3). Total (17). Fire & Rescue was in service for 26 hours and 25 minutes.
2. In September, the members completed pump 2 class.
3. 2 members completed Fire Fighting 1 Certification.
4. Members started Technical Vehicle Rescue.
5. 1 structure fire that had a fire loss of approximately $45,000 (barn fire on Hoffmansville Road).

Ricky recognized Agliano Brothers Trucking for their participation in the investigation of the barn fire that was mentioned above with respect to the use of their backhoe.

A motion was made by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler to have Pete send out a “Thank You” letter to the Agliano Brothers Trucking as well as to accept the Fire & Rescue Report. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Chief Templin presented the Police Report.

1. Chief Templin reviewed the statistics for the month of September as follows: Incidents Reported (405), Total for 2008 (3741), Accidents (5), Non-Reportable Accidents (18), Criminal Investigations (31), Criminal Arrests (3), Traffic Citations (203), Non-Traffic Citations (7), Parking Tickets (7), Monies Received ($5,989.02).
2. Chief Templin commented that the Douglass Township Police Department had participated in the Boyertown Halloween Parade.
3. Chief Templin commented that the Police Department will also be participating in Penn DOT’s Special Drivers Program titled Operation Safe Stop. Operation Safe Stop is an effort to raise awareness about the potential consequences and reduce the occurrence of illegal school bus passes. We will be working with Quigley Bus Service on this endeavor. Quigley Bus Service provides busing service for the Boyertown Area School District.
4. Chief Templin asked Mr. Barrett to take his message of thanks back to the Gilbertsville Area Community Ambulance for re-certifying the police officers in CPR.

Mr. Ziegler asked Chief Templin for a written report which shows the mileage of the police cars, hours worked, fuel usage etc.

A motion was made to accept the Police Report by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Robert Campbell presented the Engineer’s Report.

1. Hartford Retail – Giant: Plans submitted on October 2, 2008 were reviewed at the Planning Agency meeting on October 16, 2008 and the waivers are as follows: 420-3.C For fewer trees and shrubs per 100 LF of property line. Requested to maintain adequate visual appearance from the roadway. Approval recommended by Planning Commission provided additional species of plantings are provided and approved by the Planning Commission and Township.420-1.D For fewer replacement trees. Requested due to the size of the trees that are being removed makes it difficult to match. Approval recommended by Planning Commission provided additional species of plantings are provided and approved by the Planning Commission and Township. 424.1.A For concrete sidewalk along the roadway. Approval recommended by Planning Commission to eliminate sidewalk from the full perimeter, but a walkway must be installed to provide access from Holly Road to County Line Road. Walkway may be pervious paving. 408.7 For a curb radius less than 40 feet. Approval recommended by Planning Commission. Truck turning templates were provided showing that truck access would not be a concern even with a smaller radius. Agreed upon by McMahon. 411.9.F For use of HDPE pipe in lieu of RCP. Approval recommended by Planning Commission. Pipe depth exceeds the 12” minimum required 2007-03-405 To provide water quality BMP’s in lieu of groundwater recharge. Due to the shallow rock depth, groundwater recharge can not be achieved on-site. Approval recommended by Planning Commission. The Planning Commission granted Preliminary conditional approval of the plans. The main outstanding concern is the off-site (road relocation) stormwater facilities.
2. Weis Markets (First Capital Engineering) – Resubmission of Financially Security request for Weis was received on October 15, 2008 and appears to be acceptable; however, we are still awaiting Financial Security request from Atlantic Traffic for the Centro intersection improvement work to finalize the Financial Security review. Staff meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 30 at 11:00am.
3. BUI/Jordan Drive Subdivision – Conditionally approved at the September 15, 2008 meeting. Resolution approved at October 6, 2008 meeting pending receipt of wetlands letter.
4. Windemere Subdivision – Planning Agency approved and signed the Planning Module at the October 16, 2008 meeting. Zoning Officer’s signature is also required, but signature will not be provided until the Developer submits the final plans and stormwater report with the approved revisions. Developer’s Engineer has been notified. Awaiting final plans.
5. Hollenbach – Warehouse Expansion – Conditionally approved at the May 5, 2008 Supervisor’s meeting. Final plans and financial security request have not been received.
6. AAA – Dunkin Donuts – Final Record Plans have been received and reviewed. Outstanding comments appear to have been addressed. Continuing with building construction. Began site work with the retaining wall. Completion of the retaining wall expected this week.
7. Zern/Markofski Properties – Presentation by Danny Jake Corporation to the Planning Agency at the October 16, 2008 meeting. Presentation included brief zoning overlay discussions for lots zoned R-3, layout of proposed Market Street and potential on-site and off-site improvements. Planning Agency gave general acceptance of the conceptual design with comments regarding population and the effect on the School District.
8. Cobblestone Crossing – Phase 3 – Roadway is being constructed
9. Smith Road Bridge – Received acceptance from PaDEP pending submittal of Final Plans. Final Plans were submitted last week.
10. Berks-Mont Camping Center – Stormwater facilities are essentially complete. Need to finish grading. Anticipated to be performed next week.

A motion was made to accept the Engineer’s Report by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Wayne Rosen, Mr. Neil Shaw and Mr. John Kennedy were present to give their Markofski/Zern Tract presentation at this time. Mr. Kennedy proceeded with a Power Point presentation detailing both tracts, the proposed design, proposed Market Street etc. The Markofski Tract is located at the corner of Route 100 and Jackson Road and the Zern Tract is off of Jackson Road stated Mr. Kennedy. Zern property currently consists of 28.82 acres and is split zoned R-3, R-2 and GC Commercial. Markofski property currently consists of 11.7 acres and is currently zoned M-1 Office and Light Industrial. Mr. Kennedy stated that Danny Jake had gotten the Zern Property under agreement about 2 years ago and started doing planning and laying out the property with the existing zoning and at that time we were told by the Township to go and talk to the County because of the Pottstown Metropolitan Regional Comprehensive Plan and the fact that this property had an important place in that plan. Mr. Kennedy commented that the plans shown are similar to the plans shown at the Route 100 Corridor meeting. Mr. Kennedy discussed briefly the general alignment of the proposed Market Street. The proposed plan for the Zern property shows approximately 406 mulitplex units with 5 access points once Market Street is built. The current density is 5 per acre, with a proposed density of 12 per acre being requested. The Markofski property shows approximately 74 multiplex units with a current density of 8 per acre, proposed density of 12 per acre. Mr. Kennedy pointed out that the lower levels of the units will have 2 bedrooms and the upper level units will have 3 bedrooms. Mr. Kennedy stated that all of the dwelling units will contain garages and all of the garages will be located in the back of the units. Photos and renderings were presented as part of the presentation. Mr. Kennedy commented that there have been problems with getting things moving with respect to the Route 100 Corridor. There are two major developers involved in this, but there are 4 landowners stated Mr. Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy reviewed the proposed alignment, with the Gambone property, Zern property, Markofski property and Long property. At this point in time, Danny Jake is ready to move forward stated Mr. Kennedy. Danny Jake has an agreement of sale with a time-clock and they are ready to move forward as soon as the zoning is worked out commented Mr. Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy stated that Gambone has had their property for 20 years and even though they have attended the Route 100 Corridor meetings, clearly they are not ready to move forward. Mr. Kennedy stated that it is possible to make some improvements now and start this process rolling. Mr. Kennedy commented that Danny Jake feels that both the Markofski and Zern tracts combined represent an opportunity for the Township to actually start moving forward with this very important process. The benefits of this proposal are obviously that Danny Jake will be creating a walkable community that will be consistent with the comprehensive plan. We would be able to implement the road improvements and we would start to provide a real base that could act as a catalyst for the Gambone property to be developed in a non-residential and commercial development. This would provide a significant inducement to push Gambone to move forward stated Mr. Kennedy. There is also a significant positive cash flow, fiscal impact, associated with this project. Basically, in summary when taking into account the Zern property and Markofski property is a totally net combined positive cash flow to the School District and Township is just over $1 million. $133,000.00 would be the annual cash flow to the Township and just over $900,000 would be the annual cash flow to the School District stated Mr. Kennedy. These numbers are based on the average purchase price of around $221,000 for the 3 bedroom units and $215,000 for the 2 bedroom units. These numbers do exclude the one-time windfall from the real estate transfer tax from the initial sale, and that would be just over $500,000 each to the Township and School District. Mr. Kennedy commented that Danny Jake is hoping to get from the Board if they fill whether Danny Jake is moving in the right direction or not. Mr. Kennedy stated that they have received a few review letters from the County and based on those reviews, they still have some more tweaking of the proposed ordinance to work on. Chairman Turner asked if there were any questions from the public. Mr. Al Turchanik questioned the $900,000 revenue to the School District. Mr. Turchanik asked what this figure was based on. Mr. Kennedy responded that this figure was done using a fiscal impact demographic multiplier to determine first what the total population would be, and then also the school age children population would be. This portion was prepared by another planner who is an expert in this area stated Mr. Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy briefly went over how each type of dwelling unit generates a different number of school-age kids. Mr. Kennedy stated that this is one of the benefits of a multiplex unit, because the number of school-age children is lower compared to a townhouse of single family home. Mr. Turchanik asked how many bedrooms these multiplex units will offer. Mr. Kennedy responded that the lower level will be 2 bedrooms and the upper level will have 3 bedrooms. Mr. Turchanik asked Mr. Kennedy is Danny Jake has calculated the cost to educate 1 student and Mr. Kennedy responded yes, these numbers are all taken into account. Mr. Kennedy stated that there is a standard method to do these calculations. There are a few different sets of multipliers that can be used, and we used a more standardized set compared to what Montgomery County used. Montgomery County’s numbers are less conservative than what Danny Jake used. Mr. Turchanik asked if Danny Jake has any data on the numbers that the County came up with and Mr. Kennedy stated that they can supply that information. Mr. Kennedy stated that he anticipates that after making these minor revisions to the proposed ordinance, they can supply all those numbers and details at the hearing. Mr. Ziegler commented that he took it upon his self to get that information from the County today and he will ensure that Mr. Turchanik gets a copy. Mr. Turchanik commented that he has been calculating what it will cost with a unit coming into the Township with 1 or 2 children and educating those children from Kindergarten until 12th grade and based on what the annual property taxes are, it would take like 60 years to get that money back. Mr. Kennedy reiterated that the number of kids depends of the type of dwelling unit and the price of the dwelling unit. A resident questioned that what would happen if every person that bought one of these multiplex units had 2 or 3 children, there would have to be more elementary schools built and the traffic impact would be severe as well on the surrounding area. Mr. Kennedy reiterated about how the calculations are determined. Mr. Theil questioned the reality of the number of school-age children and how he doesn’t feel that the $900,000 to the School District will cover the expense. Mr. Theil commented that he is going to give Mr. Kennedy an intelligent estimate of 1 child to every unit. Mr. Kennedy disagreed with Mr. Theil and commented that the real time calculations done by the County show Mr. Theil is incorrect. Mr. Kennedy again reiterated how the calculations are done and how the numbers are established, and the real time studies that have been done. Mrs. Ellen Edman asked about Market Street and where it will come out on Route 73 and the response was the road next to Merkel’s Shoe Barn and Weis Market. Chairman Turner stated that he feels a public meeting should be held with respect to this matter in order to allow more discussion by the residents who have some concerns and questions with respect to this development. Mr. Rosen commented on when this public meeting will be scheduled and reminded the Board that they are on a time-clock. It was commented that the public meeting should be held some time after the Route 100 Corridor staff meeting which is scheduled for October 30, 2008. A motion was made to have Pete set up a public meeting with the developer bearing all the costs by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mr. Sager presented the Solicitor’s Report.

1. S-2 Route 100 Corridor Study – Master Plan – Mr. Sager commented that there is a staff meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 30th 2008 at 9:00am. Mr. Sager clarified with Mr. Wayne Rosen that he was going to be presenting something at this meeting and Mr. Rosen responded yes.
2. S-3 Superior Water – (Rate Increase) – Mr. Sager commented that there is a settlement agreement that basically defers a great portion of the tariff for a year while Superior Water gets a Chief Operating Officer. The public has obtained benefits with respect to the tariff stated Mr. Sager. The Rhoads Avenue water issue was resolved with the tariff issues and an agreement is being circulated with Boyertown Water Authority whereby the DEP will pay for the infrastructure. The DEP will not pay for the cost of connection. The cost of connection will be approximately $2,000 that DEP will not pay. DEP commented that if the homeowners don’t want to pay the $2,000, then they don’t get the public water. Mr. Sager stated that this doesn’t resolve the issue. The Township is being helpful and instrumental on working out a payment schedule or lean on the properties for those that can’t afford the connection fee. The Township is looking into grants as well. There has been a proposed ordinance and the Board should at this time consider a motion to advertise this ordinance stated Mr. Sager. A motion was made to direct Pete to advertise the ordinance with respect to this matter by Mr. Ziegler, seconded by Mr. Turner. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed. Pete commented that he will call Mr. Sager with respect to condensing the ordinance for the purpose of advertisement.
3 S-9 Renninger Subdivision – New Hanover Township – No change.
4 S-10 Danny Jake – Mr. Sager stated that he has been in touch with Mr. Mullin and several issues have been taken care of with respect to this matter. Mr. Sager stated that the substantial issue is with respect to the Act 209 fees. There was some discussion about flipping and selling of properties and what the Township is expecting. It was clarified that Mr. Sager was referring to the Zern and Markofski Tracts and not the Hallowell Tract. Mr. Rosen stated that he has every intention to build the Zern and Markofski Tracts with the idea of working together with the Township to get it approved. Mr. Rosen stated that there will be a built out.
5 S-12 Donnelly Tract – Open Space – Mr. Sager stated that this matter is waiting for the Open Space Board approval.
6 S-13 Dienno Tract (Kane Core, Inc.) – Hallowell Road – Mr. Sager stated that there is a meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 10:00am.
7 S-15 Backenstose (Ritter Est.) v. Douglass Township – Nothing to report at this point in time.
8 S-18 Cobblestone Crossing – Smith Road Bridge –See Engineer’s Report.
9 S-33 Redding v. Douglass Twp. – This matter is now scheduled for trial at the end of October according the insurance carrier’s attorney.
10 S-52 Summerhill Open Space – Mr. Sager commented that the issue was the stormwater basins. Mr. Sager asked where things stand to date. Mike stated that everything has been completed and Mr. Doug Brown will be preparing a letter for the Township with respect to this issue stating that all the punch list items have been taken care of.
11 S-55 Water Contamination – VOC and TCE problem – See S-3 (Superior Water)
12 S-72 Gilbertsville Fire Co. No. 1 – See Trustee’s Report.
13 S-75 Boyertown Sanitary Disposal Landfill – The Manager and Treasurer are working on this matter.
14 S-77 Shellenberger – Berks Mont Camping Center – See Engineer’s Report.
15 S-78 Cobblestone Commons – See Engineer’s Report. Mr. Sager stated that the Township has not heard from Mr. McGrory with respect to a staff meeting to date.
16 S-79 Hopkinson Tract – Pete stated that the Township has received the escrow check in the amount of $500 from Quigley Bus and this will be on the agenda for the Planning Agency for November 13, 2008.
17 S-85 Robert L. Logan, Jr. – Scheduled for a hearing on October 28, 2008 at 1pm. with District Justice Gadzicki.
18 S-112 Dunkin Donuts –See Engineer’s Report. Received the development agreement as well as the declaration and the minutes should reflect this. Pete will follow up with respect to reporting on those items. Pete stated that he will get the signatures and notify AAA that they owe us $2,400.00 and we will be asking for a little more for escrow.
17 S-114 Little Faces Child Care/S-ORD-26 Swamp Pike Overlay – Nothing further to report at this time.
18 S-120 Weis Market – Town Plaza Shopping Center –See Engineer’s Report. A staff meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 11:00am.
19 S-123 – Bart Golf Subdivision (New Hanover) – No change.
20 S-124 – Wynstone Subdivision (New Hanover) – Mike stated that this plan has been put on hold for a year.
21 S-133 Hunsicker Farm – A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at 10:00am before the Environmental Hearing Board located at 2 East Main Street, Norristown, Pa. Mr. Sager stated that he needs to list the witnesses and needs that information from Pete as soon as possible.
22 S-135 Avante Apartments – This will be dealt with along with Dienno Tract.
23 S-136 Bonanza – Hartford Retail – Giant – Stetler – See Engineer’s Report.
24 S-140 Hollenbach Construction – 166 Holly Road, 21,120 sq. ft. addition to existing warehouse – See Engineer’s Report.
25 S-144 Libor Property – Open Space-475 Congo Rd., Gilbertsville – Mr. Sager stated that this matter will be taken off the report.
26 S-148 Mann Tract Subdivision (New Hanover Township) – No change.
27 S-150 Windemere – 131 Niantic Road – See Engineer’s Report.
28 S-155 BUI/Jordan Drive Minor Subdivision – See Engineer’s Report.

Mr. Sager stated that with the Board’s approval, he suggests that we hold the public hearing at this time. The Board agreed. Mr. Sager stated that the minutes should reflect that the ordinance has been duly advertised and sent to the Montgomery County Law Library. Chairman Turner opened the floor for public comment with respect to Ordinance 2008-02 – Overlay District Route 100 and County Line Road. Mr. Sager stated for the public that the Planning Agency has reviewed this ordinance and they support the adoption of the ordinance. The Montgomery County Planning Commission also supports the adoption of this ordinance based upon the Pottstown Metropolitan Regional Planning Commission approving the same, which it has stated Mr. Sager. Copies of this Ordinance are on hand at the Township Office as well as the Pottstown Mercury stated Mr. Sager. There was no public comment at this time and Chairman Turner closed the hearing for Ordinance 2008-02 at this time. A motion was made to adopt and enact Ordinance 2008-02 by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed. Mr. Robert McNelly commented on the Conditional Preliminary Approval that was given at the last Planning Agency meeting with respect to Giant and asked if the Board was in a position to grant this and Mr. Sager responded no.

A motion was made to accept the Solicitor’s Report by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Andy Duncan presented the Recycling Report.

1. Approx. $300 in scrap metals (2 loads of light iron)
2. Approx. $332.70 in Corrugated cardboard sales (1 load)
3. Andy stated that he reviewed the trash bag bids. All American Poly has the lowest price at .18 cents for one year. Andy stated that he miss-spoke about the current millage…it is currently 1.5 not 2. Andy stated that we are going to stay with the same millage. Andy stated that he and Mike found another attractive piece with Phoenix Recycling. Andy commented that he had handed out 5 trial trash bags for use and comment with a drawstring closure. Mr. Al Turchanik, Mr. Greg Lignelli, Mr. Norton, Mr. Carl Hiryak and Mr. Sam Hunter. Mr. Al Turchanik stated that he had no problems with the new style trash bag. Mr. Sam Hunter commented that the bag worked ok and he stated that he likes having the drawstring closure. Mrs. Norton stated that she prefers the drawstring as well. Mr. Norton commented that the old green bag fit into his trash can better and this new one is shorter so it doesn’t fit as well. Mr. Lignelli commented that his fingers went through the bag right under the drawstring. Andy commented that the wondered if Mr. Lignelli’s bag was the one everyone was testing before it was handed out. Mr. Carl Hiryak commented that he hasn’t had an opportunity to sample the new bag yet, but that he did take notice that they are shorter and that they didn’t fit into his garbage can. Andy stated that both he and Mike liked the fact the trash bag will be tied up and actually tossed into the garbage truck and not stuck into the can after it is dumped…this will make it easier to enforce. Mrs. Norton asked if the new bags are going to cost more than the current $11 for a pack of 5 and Andy responded no, not at this time. Andy stated that there isn’t an anticipated cost increase, but until the budget is finalized, the price isn’t concrete yet. A motion was made to accept the bid from Phoenix for one year at .1896 cents a bag with a cost per year of $31,284.00 by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.
4. Andy commented on the leaf collection. The program runs from October 13th thru the 1st week of December. Andy stated that he is at the point where he needs to hire a second person to help with the leaf truck. Mr. Ziegler asked how many days this happens and Andy responded Monday thru Friday from 7:30 to 3pm. Mr. Ziegler asked if Andy can pull someone from the Highway Department. Cindy O’Donnell commented that there is money budgeted for 2 people within the Recycling Department. Mr. Ziegler commented that he would like to save that money if possible. Mr. Ziegler commented that it shouldn’t be a problem to pull someone from the Highway Department. Mr. Turner agreed with Mr. Ziegler on pulling someone from the Highway Department to help Andy with the leaf collection to save the wages. Scott asked if the wages for the worker from the Highway Department would be coming out of the Recycling Department while he was working on the leaf collection and the response was that it would be up to Cindy. Pete asked Andy how soon he needed someone and Andy stated as soon as possible. Pete stated that tomorrow morning they would come up with a schedule and pull someone from the Highway Department.

A motion was made to Recycling Report by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Scott Groff presented the Highway Report.

1. We’ve been fixing culverts off of Thrush Drive, Wren Drive, Grosser Road, Roosevelt and Second Avenue.
2. Brush cutting along the roads.
3. Roadside mowing is finished for the year.
4. Weedwacking bridges and guiderails are also done for the year.
5. Minor grading on some of the dirt roads due to complaints.
6. Cut down dead trees along the roads.
7. Maintenance day for the trucks and equipment.

Mr. Carl Hiryak asked about the bride on Buchert Road and if this is something that has to be budgeted for next year. Scott commented that he is going to try and get a welder in to weld that guiderail back up as a temporary measure. Scott stated that the repairs are in the budget plans. Scott commented that he’d like to take the whole thing down and just pipe it, but isn’t sure yet what all is involved with this project. Mr. Ziegler stated that he would like to meet with Scott and the Township Engineer out on site. Mr. Ziegler stated that he will give Scott a call after the budget goes through and start prioritizing the jobs.

A motion was made to accept the Highway Report by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Mike Heydt did not have a Zoning Report for this meeting.

Cindy O’Donnell presented the Treasurer’s Report

1. Ms. O’Donnell reviewed the Treasurer’s Report as follows: Cindy stated that the bills total $396,129.03 for the month. Ms. O’Donnell went over some of the bills as follows: Boyertown Area School District for $22,883.98, Firefighters Relief for $74,194.99, Montgomery County Planning Commission for $4,413.75, PA UC Fund for $1,538.28, PA Municipal Retirement System non-uniform for $31,863.30 and uniform for $70,099.25 for a total of $101,962.55 and Witmer Associates Inc for guns and ammo for $6,504.47. Pete commented that the old guns will then be sold. Chairman Turner commented that he noticed that there are no bills listed for Pennoni or Sager. Chairman Turner asked that these bills be made available to the public for the next meeting. A motion was made to pay the bills for the month of October by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.
2. Ms. O’Donnell commented that she needs the Board to approve the proposal from Herbein & Company, Inc as stated in their proposal letter for the audit. A motion was made to approve Herbein & Company, Inc as stated in their proposal. The proposal/quote will be attached to the minutes for the public to review as well. Mr. Sager asked if the proposal accepted was the lowest proposal received and Cindy responded no. Mr. Turner stated that their proposal wasn’t the highest or the lowest, it was in the middle. It was stated that the Board felt Herbein & Company, Inc. was the best choice. Ms. O’Donnell stated that all the proposals were very close in dollars. Chairman Turner requested that the quote be made available to the public.
3. Ms. O’Donnell commented that she needs the Boards approval to perform some budget amendments with respect to the Police Department Budget. Ms. O’Donnell requested that $6,000 be moved from line item 410.130 – Wages – Police Officers to line item 410.460 – Education for the purpose of the accreditation process. Mr. Lignelli commented that when the Board first agreed to do the accreditation, was there a dollar amount capped on that and Chief Templin responded yes, but he couldn’t remember the exact amount. Mr. Lignelli asked if Chief Templin is staying within the amount that the Board agreed upon and Chief Templin responded yes. Ms. O’Donnell commented that the second budget amendment is to move $6,800 from line item 410.140 – Wages – Secretary to line item 410.330 – Vehicle Operating Expenses to cover the increase of fuel costs. A motion was made to authorize Cindy O’Donnell to perform both the above budget amendments by Mr. Ziegler, seconded by Mr. Turner. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Lignelli to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Pete Hiryak presented the Manager’s Report.

1. Pete went over the schedule of upcoming meetings as follows: Zoning Hearing Board Hearings on Tuesday, October 28 @ 7:00 pm – Dimensional Variance, side-yard setback for addition, Sweinhart Road, R-2 – Mr. Sager asked that the minutes reflect that the Planning Agency had no comments or concerns with this request, Staff Meetings on Thursday, October 30th – 9:00am – Rt 100 Corridor, 10:00am – Dienno and 11:00am – Weis/Centro.
2. Pete reiterated that at the end of July, there was a major traffic accident that occurred on Philadelphia Ave and Merkel Road. The accident had a total damage of $26,000 in addition to about $10,000 more for the electric. We have received word from our insurance company that the Township will be reimbursed for that damage stated Pete.
3. Pete stated that he has a letter which he made copies for the Board members regarding Mr. Carl Hiryak. Pete asked the Board if they wanted to address this matter tonight. Mr. Ziegler stated that he believes this matter should wait until after the budget is done for 2009.

Mr. Ricky Smith commented on the traffic light that Pete mentioned above. Ricky asked when the pre-emptive going to be working. Pete stated that he will get them back to fix it asap.

A motion was made to accept the Manager’s Report by Mr. Turner and seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

Public Comment

Mr. Sell commented that the last couple of months have brought about a few resignations here within the Township. Mr. Sell asked what the reasons were for these resignations for Carl Dey, Jennifer Hashagen and Cindy Pratt. Ricky Smith commented that Mr. Carl Dey resigned due to health issues. Mr. Turner stated that Cindy Pratt resigned because she is moving closer to her work. Mr. Ziegler commented that Ms. Hashagen resigned due to personnel issues.

Mr. Carl Hiryak clarified that the Board was going to hold his letter until the 2009 Budget is finished and Mr. Ziegler confirmed this statement.

Old Business/New Business

Oberholtzer Schoolhouse – Finish masonry exterior and woodwork. Mr. Lignelli stated that he had run into Mr. Benner at the Chicken Bar-B-Q. Mr. Benner was doing allot of the masonry restoration and Mr. Austerberry was actively involved in this matter. Since Mark has left, things have pretty much been stopped commented Mr. Lignelli. Mr. Lignelli commented that there are still two walls that need to be done, as well as window that need to be re-framed. The bottom line is that Mr. Benner has limited time and he can only work during the week. The problem is getting enough volunteers to do the work stated Mr. Lignelli. Mr. Lignelli suggested to the Board that they use a portion of the $11,000 in the Oberholtzer Schoolhouse Fund to either contract with someone like Mr. Benner or as Pete suggested having Mr. Benner oversee the project and using some of the Township staff to do some of the work (one or two days). Basically, what needs to be done is that the old mortar needs to be chipped off with air guns. Mr. Lignelli suggested using some of that money to contract with a woodworker to go out and build new window casements and shutters etc to close things up for the winter. Mr. Lignelli stated that he talked with Mr. Carl Hiryak about this job. The purpose of the money is to use it to get the Schoolhouse renovated stated Mr. Lignelli. A motion was made to authorize this action under the direction of the Manager by Mr. Turner, seconded by Mr. Ziegler. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

A motion was made by Mr. Turner to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Lignelli. Ziegler-Aye, Turner-Aye, Lignelli-Aye. Motion passed.

The next Board of Supervisor’s meeting will be held on Monday, November 3, 2008 at 7:30 pm.

Respectfully submitted by,

Stacy Gilroy

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