DUKE CENTER — After a half-hour executive session of an undisclosed subject matter, the public segment of the monthly Otto Townsip supervisors’ meeting resumed at 6:30 p.m.
Chairman Eric Barton informed the roomful of visitors that the re-formation of the township police force is in the final stages and should be in effect and on patrol by the end of September. Legalities are being finalized by solicitor Erik Ross and state officials in Harrisburg. The force will consist of one full-time chief-of-police and two part-time officers. An executive board to oversee the department is necessary and Barton has asked that any residents interested in serving to contact Secretary Jeannie Drummond at the Duke Center township office. The required uniforms, patches and badges are ordered; and the new headquarters in the former Armstrong building is “ready for action.” Once the police force is authorized and activated, there will be a public meeting to introduce the officers and the board members. Questions and comments will be expected and welcomed.
In other business, improvements and additions to the Otto Park were discussed. Recommendations included purchasing benches, moving the storage trailer and repairing the Nippers’ building.
The remains of a mobile home on Duke Center’s Main Street has been a blight issue for more than a year, with no easy and certain solution in sight. The supervisors will continue to explore all avenues to get this property cleaned up and up to code.
Supervisor C.J. Kaluza presented prices on forks for the township’s backhoe. It was unanimously agreed to further explore the market. Road work on Maple Street in Rixford will be commencing soon, with grant monies covering some of the materials and labor.
Barton reminded the room that the new police services will necessitate a slight increase in upcoming taxes. He went on to share his personal “wish list” item for the township is a dollar store, indicating that the vacant elementary school lot in Duke Center would be an ideal location. Residents with thoughts, ideas, questions, etc. on any of the discussed topics are encouraged to attend the Sept. 14th meeting, 6 p.m. at the township building.
