The 2021 budget was a main topic during Monday’s regular Foster Township supervisors’ meeting.
Supervisor Chairman George Hocker explained that, due to the uncertainties for next year as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the budget was put together to avoid any unexpected state funding shortfalls.
Projects set for inclusion in the 2021 budget include repairs to bridges on Harrisburg Run and Fairview Heights, possibly top coating East Main Street and Bolivar Drive and chipping on Bordell Road and Lafferty Hollow Road.
Following the finalization of a few details, the budget will be put on display for the required 20 days to allow public comment prior to December’s meeting, when the budget is scheduled to be approved.
One such matter is a proposal to either repair or replace the roof on the township building, depending on the estimates received and the option that seems most financially feasible.
There will not be an increase in sewer rates, despite an increase to the township from the sewer authority, in the amount of $30 per household for the year.
On a related note, an additional payment of $250,000 will be put toward the current Pennvest loan held by the township, decreasing the current amount of $2.1 million owed.
Hocker noted that the supervisors intend to remain “aggressive in paying debts” and also on delinquencies in accounts.
In other business, the supervisors unanimously accepted the resignation of Foster Township police officer Shaun McDonald, effective Nov. 9. McDonald has been hired as a Bradford City Police officer.
They also approved a resolution to advertise, interview and hire a new police officer prior to December’s meeting.
Foster Township Police Chief Tom Munn reported that the department handled 214 complaints during the month of October, including 14 motor-vehicle accidents. They issued 36 citations, conducted six criminal investigations and patrolled 3,930 miles.
Munn also advised residents to be aware of the changing weather.
“Be mindful, slow down and give distance to other drivers,” Munn said. “There is always an increase in MVAs during the first few snows.”
Code enforcement handled two new complaints for the month, one on Bolivar Drive and one on Interstate Parkway. In addition, several other complaints are an ongoing process, as it takes time to reach the homeowner. Plans are to send certified letters to some homeowners who cannot be reached.
Another homeowner requested a copy of code enforcement policies for the township. Hocker advised Code Enforcement officer Kevin Shaffer to let the individual know that the policies are available online for free. Homeowners who request a printed copy should be prepared to pay a fee, which the township charges for the printing.
During old business, Hocker explained that the township supervisors, secretary and police met with the owners of the Bradford Mall property to discuss speeding and signage. Stop signs are a priority, while methods to address speeding are still under consideration.
Residents were advised to remember to vote today. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
