Monthly Business Meeting

Supervisor Paul moved to approve paid interim bills (passed 5-0) and authorize unpaid bills (passed 5-0). Supervisor Schreffler moved to approve the minutes as written (passed 5-0). The Board reviewed the financial report with no comments or questions.

Flo Mallonee reported on three plans. The Tobias Safari Bus Loading Area Plan was approved 5-0 with contingencies per Tom Wilson's April 14 review memo, including a financial security agreement and Cross Easement Agreement; related waivers were also approved 5-0. The Halifax High School Land Development Plan received a 90-day time extension (5-0) and NPDES Permit approval (5-0), with the Planning Commission requesting waiver justification and Dauphin County review comments be addressed. Sheetz Landscaping Modifications were approved 5-0. Flo Mallonee commended the township engineer and solicitor for expediting efforts to avoid delays caused by the February weather closure.

The nuisance at 220 North Second Street was reported as abated. Attorney Gina Lauffer, sitting in for Solicitor Bruce Warshawsky, recommended an executive session for 1059 North River Road. The Board voted 5-0 to schedule an executive session for May 12 at 6 p.m. to discuss 1059 North River Road, DONCO/Sweigard, and the pilot agreement for Quail Commons.

Roadmaster Corey Stazewski reported dump truck repairs estimated at $5,000–$7,000 and a plow for the 2011 pickup at $5,200. Bryan Hoover and Rick Armerman were hired as flaggers (5-0), and Glen Warfel was approved for payment for plowing work (5-0). Corey reminded the Board that Raymond Maus plans to retire as full-time assistant roadmaster by year-end, with further discussion scheduled for next month. Regarding water from the Tobias pond flowing onto the township road, the Board voted 5-0 to authorize Tom Wilson to contact DEP about the permit process, noting a township-filed permit would be no cost.

Supervisor McBurney reported on DEP requirements for toxic weed spraying licenses; Chairman Bechtel clarified spraying would target poisonous plants and briars on the river side of Route 147 only. A flintlock dry-firing demonstration was approved 5-0, subject to Solicitor approval and indemnification. Festival preparation items including banner repair, railroad speed limit notice, barn and building usage were approved 4-1. Proposed park rules by Friends of Ft. Halifax were tabled for the May meeting.

Chairman Bechtel noted receipt of a letter from PA Commuter Services about their offerings. He also reported that at the last COG meeting, Marty Sowers of Light Heigel discussed UCC permitting, noting that cell towers, residential projects with no structural or egress changes, and detached sheds under 1,000 sq ft do not require UCC permits, while solar panels on roofs and pools holding 24+ inches of water do require them.

Supervisor Paul requested an explanation of "OLDS" (On Lot Disposal System) referenced in the SEO's April 11, 2014 report. Chairman Bechtel explained it relates to water volume going through the system and ensuring proper capacity to handle it.

The Board approved 5-0 Halifax Township's $796.47 share for the UDITO audit by Trout, Ebersol and Groff, needed after Powells, Rogers and Speaks turned over hard drives. The Tobias family is not pursuing a crosswalk but requested 35 mph speed limit signs at their expense; portable signs were tabled for May. Supervisor Schreffler reported on the fireworks meeting with the Borough and Attivo Brothers; the Board voted 5-0 to advertise the ordinance and approve the contract in principle, and voted 5-0 on a Memorandum of Understanding with Halifax Borough setting a $10,000 pro-rated amount to make the Fire Company whole if fundraising falls short. Supervisor McBurney reported on soccer practice at Ft. Halifax Park, noting PA Conservancy and DCNR granted permission for this activity despite the passive recreation designation; the Board approved 5-0 to allow soccer practice on one field until other fields dry out.

The Board discussed Camp Hebron's crosswalk request and determined a traffic study would be needed. A rocket launch at Ft. Halifax Park was approved 5-0, contingent upon proof of insurance with the Township named as insured.