What is happening in your part of the region?
In an effort to bring as much local news as possible to our readers, The Era has started a weekly segment called “Checking In.”
Reporters will be talking to municipal officials for an overview of current happenings in the municipality. Today’s focus is on Hamlin Township.
One of the most prominent issues Hamlin Township is facing is in regards to sewer systems, which Jim Trussell, Hamlin Township Supervisor, feels would be better served privately rather than through the township, due to costs.
Municipalities are currently required by the Department of Environmental Protection’s Act 537 to install sewage systems to inhabited areas, though installation is often costly. Hamlin Township in particular is required to install a sewage system serving Kushequa, which currently has a population of roughly 20 people. Trussell proposed to give residents money to put in on-lot sewage systems, which he felt would be more cost effective for the township, though was turned down by the DEP.
In addition to the costly sewage installation, the township is also having issues with delinquent sewage accounts.
“We’re still having trouble with people paying their sewer bills — We’re currently taking legal action against a few people,” explained Trussell.
Trussell recently attended a meeting at the VFW in Smethport regarding the needs and responsibilities of townships and fire departments, hosted by the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors.
“We discussed how to help fire departments increase volunteerism — that’s the number one concern of rural fire departments right now — getting manpower during the daytime when a lot of people are working,” he said. “They also discussed getting fire departments to interact with local governments and getting township fire departments to interact with one another.”
Development in Lantz Corners is still going strong, according to Trussell. Within the past several years, Lantz Corners has seen a new Dollar General and Sheetz.
Most recently, a new flotation therapy center for the public is underway.
“The new flotation uses highly concentrated epsom salts that help you float weightlessly,” explained Trussell. “It’s supposed to be very good for your joints. It’s being developed by the people who own the Barrel House.”
During this therapy, patients float in a pod with 1,000 pounds of Epsom salts dissolved in 200 gallons of water, heated to body temperature. Floatation therapy is also beneficial for insomnia, reducing blood pressure, easing tension headaches, reducing anxiety, sore muscles and relaxation.
“There are also potential additional projects down the road. We have some land that is going to be potentially sold here soon,” concluded Trussell.
