DUKE CENTER — More speed bumps or no? That was the question confronting the supervisors at the Otto Township meeting Wednesday evening.
Despite park committee chairman Rob Stuck’s recommending additional deterrents on both the entrance and the exit to Otto Memorial Park, the supervisors balked at approval, pending more input from the Little Nippers Club, the most frequent user of the park.
The Nippers’ coaches will be asked their opinions and the issue will be resolved before this year’s Old Home Days (July 26-28). One problem, even now, is people driving around the speed bumps. It was suggested that concrete curbs be installed beside the speed bumps or, more aesthetically, shrubbery be planted to deter the miscreants.
Chairman Chris Claycomb assured park users that there will be some speed bumps, along with police patrol, to curb speeding in the park, for sports activities, pavilion users and the upcoming Old Home Days. Stuck is obtaining prices for benches to be installed in the park by the new playground, and will have quotes available for supervisors at next month’s meeting.
Signs were also a popular topic this month, as Sharon Schwab, representing the Old Home Days committee, requested, and was granted, permission to install new signs entering the township, with space on them to advertise the yearly festival. Supervisors agreed unanimously to fund one-half of the cost of this project.
Also, signage will be erected at the park entrance with rules, regulations and hours the park will be open. Speed limit signs on the secondary streets of Duke Center will be purchased and installed, with police surveillance increased in those neighborhoods.
Also, although not exactly signs, memorial banners, popularly visible in area communities, were discussed as a way to honor our veterans. Mike Ogilvie will approach Eldred Borough resident Patti Bell, who was instrumental in her town’s highly successful program of recognizing those who have served.
The blight committee will be holding a meeting at 7 p.m. Monday at the township office with supervisors and their solicitor to finalize the ordinances. The public is encouraged to attend and voice opinions. The sole purpose of the committee and the ordinances is to enhance the appearance and appeal of the two villages (Rixford and Duke Center) and the surrounding rural areas of the township.
More than 20 delinquent sewage and refuse accounts have been settled, leaving 15 that will be going to the district magistrate for legal procedures. Court costs will be added to those accounts that require civil action.
On June 29th, the McKean County Conservation District and Eldred Borough will hold a recycling collection event at the McKean County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for household hazardous waste and electronics. There is a minimal cost and some restrictions. Registration is required and can be done by visiting ecsr.net or calling 866-815-0016.
