Board of Commissioners
10-28-19 Minutes
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS LOWER ALLEN TOWNSHIP
REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 28, 2019
The following were in ATTENDANCE:
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TOWNSHIP PERSONNEL
Edward Black, President Thomas G. Vernau, Jr., Township Manager
Dean W. Villone, Vice President Erin G. Trone, Assistant Township Manager
Richard F. Schin Richard Grove, Finance Director
Carolyn Holtzman David Holl, Public Safety Director
Dan Flint, Public Works Director
John Eby, Building & Zoning Coordinator
Vicki Ann Trimmer, Solicitor
Tina Thomas, Recording Secretary
President Black called the October 28, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners to order at 7:00 pm followed by a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. He announced that Proof of Publication was available for review. Commissioner Young is absent with excuse.
MEETING MINUTES
Commissioner SCHIN moved to approve the minutes from the October 14, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners as presented. Vice President VILLONE seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-0.
PRESENTATION: West Shore Recreation Commission
John Minito, President of the West Shore Recreation Commission, was in attendance. He spoke about the continued success of the organization, as it is in its 51st year and still growing. He mentioned his dedicated staff of four employees and 100+ volunteers who make it possible. He thanked Lower Allen Township for their continued support and for allowing the use of our facilities. He also thanked Commissioner Young who is the Township representative at the meetings. He announced that once again they were able to maintain costs at $2.50 per capita. Mr. Minito said that residents have requested a link to West Shore Rec be placed on the Township webpage. Commissioner Schin stated that he appreciates the Recreation Commission working to keep costs down. Mr. Jeff Logan, a member of the audience, thanked Mr. Minito for his presentation. He said he moved into the Township and had not heard of the Rec Commission yet.
PRESENTATION: Cumberland County Planning Department
Kirk Stoner from the Cumberland County Planning Department made a PowerPoint presentation on the future of the Sheepford Bridge, which is partially in Lower Allen Township, Cumberland County, and partially in Fairview Township, York County. Heather Bitner of the York County Planning Department was also present as well as Brian Emberg, engineer from HRG. Mr. Stoner spoke about annual bridge inspections revealing deterioration of the structure of the bridge for many years. Some minor repairs have been made to it but the weight restriction had to be dropped from five tons to three tons in 2017 due to safety concerns. He stated that meetings between the County Commissioners and Township staff have been held to try to determine the most affordable and economical option.
Mr. Stoner spoke about concerns about the bridge with flooding due to low clearance and emergency access as the current weight limit prohibits use by emergency vehicles. Closure of the bridge could result in a four mile detour, depending on destination. He presented the following options:
| Option | Pros/Cons | Cost |
| Close bridge, provide cul-de-sacs for turning around | No future expenses, decreases mobility | $200,000 |
| Rehabilitate bridge | Historical bridge preserved; remains single lane with weight restrictions and ongoing maintenance costs | $1 million |
| Replace bridge | No weight restrictions, resident access, most expensive with a low cost benefit, requires maintenance | $2 million |
Mr. Stoner shared the County’s recommendations which include closing Sheepford Bridge when it becomes unsafe to cross, creating a cul-de-sac on the Lower Allen Township side with a dry hydrant to improve emergency access, and possibly sell the bridge on PennDOT’s website. Mr. Stoner is interested in gathering feedback from the municipalities that he can take back to the County Commissioners in Cumberland and York Counties. They will then jointly make a decision on the future of the bridge.
Commissioner Comments
President Black spoke about the bridge being owned by both Cumberland and York Counties, not a municipality. He asked what is eating away at the bridge’s structure. Mr. Brian Emberg stated that rust and salt are very damaging to the steel structure. Commissioner Schin asked why a cul-de-sac is being discussed if the bridge is closed. Mr. Stoner stated this is to provide a place for drivers to turn around. He also asked if York County is concerned about the bridge. Ms. Bitner said that York County is in 100% agreement with Cumberland County but they want to get input from the municipalities. Commissioner Holtzman asked why the discussion was being brought up to the Township if the bridge is owned by the County. Mr. Stoner said that it is for the purpose of gathering input from municipalities and their residents and to be sure they have fully considered everything. Vice President Villone asked if there are any funds that go to bridge preservation besides a $5 administration fee through PennDOT. Mr. Stoner said that the amount of the $5 fee is set by law and there are some county funds available but not much. Selling the bridge would also not yield a profit. Vice President Villone asked if this could be considered for the Ped/Bike Trail. Mr. Flint said that there is possibly a pedestrian bridge in the long term plan. Mr. Schin asked if the bridge would be closing immediately if that is the decision that is made. Mr. Stoner said that the six month inspections would continue and the bridge would be closed when it can no longer support three tons of weight. Vice President Villone mentioned that this could pose a safety concern to residents who live near the pipeline in that area and might not be able to get out. Mr. Stoner replied that residents could use Thompson Lane or nearby fields in an emergency.
Audience Comments
Jeff Logan, 3212 Emerson Way, spoke about his concerns that if the Sheepford Bridge is closed, the stone arch bridge on Slate Hill Road may have further deterioration from increased use. Mr. Stoner replied that the Slate Hill Bridge is going to receive a full rehabilitation. Mr. Emberg stated it is in the design phase and they are hopeful construction can take place late 2020 – 2021. It will be able to hold more weight when finished.
Joan Lenker, 1942 Sheepford Road, spoke about the increased traffic on Sheepford Road due to roundabout detouring. She reported seeing a lot of box trucks and tractor trailers which are over the weight limit using the bridge. She stated that Thompson Lane is a very narrow road and that traffic is getting worse. She is in favor of keeping and maintaining the bridge.
Janice Lynx, 2036 Sheepford Road, expressed her concerns about the Sheepford Bridge being closed. She stated that it has historical importance and that it is already listed on the PennDOT website as being for sale. She asked how many vehicles would need to cross per day to keep the bridge open and if anyone has checked for endangered species in the area. Also, property owners must be contacted if there is impact to their land. Ms. Lynx does not feel that input from the public has been considered and that a larger bridge would only increase traffic on Sheepford. Mr. Stoner replied that there is not a certain number of vehicles required, but since funds are limited for bridges, they have to prioritize. Ms. Bitner stated that the bridge is on the website for sale it is better to sell it before it declines more. He added that removing the bridge would not affect endangered species in the area or cause right-of-way encroachments for land owners.
Robin Ronemus-Shuler, 4 Central Boulevard, asked how PennDOT has the authority to sell the bridge. She said it would be considered a personal item under Act 56. Mr. Stoner stated that the County is selling the bridge and PennDOT is just marketing it for the County.
Larry Ward, 1847 Ward Lane, asked if the Turnpike Bridge is also being closed for widening. Ms. Bitner said that the Turnpike has confirmed that it is not closing the bridge. Mr. Ward expressed concern that if both bridges were closed, there would have to be improvements made to Thompson Lane.
Barb Underkoffler, 2001 Sheepford Road, expressed concern over the overweight vehicles she sees crossing the Sheepford Bridge every day. Vice President Villone agreed that the traffic has been much worse. Mr. Stoner spoke about partnering with Lower Allen Police in the past for weight enforcement details. He told residents that he would follow up on names and license plates if they send the information to him.
George Page, 1965 Sheepford Road, stated that he would like the county to either fix the bridge or remove it. He also said that Thompson Lane is hazardous.
Joan Lenker spoke again about safety concerns in the event of a pipeline problem. She also said that pipeline work has torn up Sheepford Road.
Wes Ward, 1847 Ward Lane, asked if the traffic survey of the Sheepford Bridge was completed before or after traffic was detoured for the roundabout construction and how increased traffic affects the lifespan of the bridge. The study was done before the roundabout detours were in effect. Mr. Emberg replied that increased traffic and trucks can decrease the life of the bridge. It is not predictable and is based on results of bridge inspections. Mr. Ward asked if someone can buy the bridge with the intention of scrapping it. Mr. Stoner said that they screen interested parties as to their intentions. Ms. Bitner said that if someone were to buy the bridge and keep it in place they would be responsible for maintenance and upkeep costs as well as a very large amount of money for liability insurance.
Janice Lynx asked how the residents would be kept in the loop of what is happening with the bridge. Mr. Stoner said that he will get a list of contact information for residents who attended tonight’s meeting. He invited anyone who is interested to attend the County Commissioners Meeting where they will be making their presentation.
President Black thanked Mr. Stoner and the other presenters and reminded residents that the Sheepford Bridge does not belong to Lower Allen Township; the Township was just providing a venue for the discussion.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
Lee Bothell requested to speak on agenda item 10B, the Land Development Plan for 1025 Audubon Road.
CONSENT AGENDA
President Black asked that any Commissioner, staff member or anyone in attendance who would like to have an item on the Consent Agenda removed for further discussion request so now. There was no response. It was decided that the items on the agenda would be considered for vote separately due to Commissioner Schin recusing himself from item #1.
a. Proposed decision on the Peiffer Stormwater Fee Appeal. This was heard prior to the previous public meeting. Vice President VILLONE moved to accept the decision and Commissioner HOLTZMAN seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0, with Commissioner Schin abstaining due to serving on the Stormwater Authority.
b. Department Reports for the month of September for Community Development, Facility Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Township Engineer, Public Works, and Public Safety. President VILLONE moved to accept the reports and Commissioner HOLTZMAN seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-0.
PRESIDENT BLACK
Check Register of 10/25/19
Commissioner SCHIN moved to approve the Check Register of October 25, 2019 in the amount of $175,877.38. Vice President VILLONE seconded it. Motion carried 4-0.
ANY BUSINESS PERTINENT TO THE TOWNSHIP:
Vice President Villone asked how Sheepford Road and Thompson Lane would be affected if the bridge closes, and if it is possible to widen Sheepford Road and Thompson Lane. Mr. Flint replied that it would be very difficult to widen the roads and it is not currently in the plans.
TOWNSHIP ENGINEER
Payment No. 2 to Pennsy Supply, Inc.
Commissioner SCHIN moved to approve the second payment to Pennsy Supply, Inc., in the amount of $222,670.80 for work that has been completed at the Lisburn-Rossmoyne Roundabout. Vice President VILLONE seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0. The Township will be reimbursed for this from a PennDOT grant.
SLD Docket No. 2019-12: Land Development Plan for IMT, LLC, 1025 Audubon Road
Mr. Flint displayed the property being considered on the overhead projector. Lee Bothell from Alpha Consulting Engineering was present to answer any questions. Mr. Flint spoke about the property currently having a compacted gravel parking lot and a small building used by a contractor. The proposed plan would be to make the small building an office and build a 2,785 square foot one-story storage building. The amount of impervious coverage will be decreased by restoring grass to some of the gravel area. Mr. Flint stated that there are four waivers with this plan requested by the applicant. He said that there is a fence along the property line that would make sidewalks unnecessary and an underground water line. Mr. Flint said that the Planning Commission recommended approval of the four waivers at their last meeting.
i. Vice President VILLONE moved to approve the waiver from the requirement contained in Section 192-57.C(9) to provide sidewalks along all street frontage for SLD Docket No. 2019-12 until such a time as they are needed. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
ii. Vice President VILLONE moved to approve the waiver from the requirement contained in Section 192-57.B(2)(h)[2] and 192-57.C(8) to provide curbs on all street frontage for SLD Docket No. 2019-12 until such a time as they are needed. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
iii. Vice President VILLONE moved to approve the waiver from the requirement contained in Section 192-57.B(2)(h)[2] and 192-57.C(13) to provide fill-in paving for SLD Docket No. 2019-12 until such a time as needed. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
iv. Vice President VILLONE moved to approve the waiver from the requirement contained in Section 192-58.C to provide street trees along all street frontage for SLD Docket No. 2019-12. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
Vice President VILLONE moved to approve SLD Docket No. 2019-12 Land Development Plan for IMT, LLC, 1025 Audubon Road. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
FINANCE
Other Funds Budget
Mr. Grove spoke about the 2020 Proposed Budgets for Other Funds hand-out. He covered the following areas:
| Account | $ | Justification/Reasoning | |
| 363.300 | Street Light Fund | No change | Rate stays the same |
| 427.454 | Sanitation Fund | No change | Rate stays the same; up for renegotiation in 2020
Significant rate increase is anticipated |
| 345.050 | Liquid Fuels Fund | -$11,200 | Slight decrease in Liquid Fuels tax revenue after several years of increases |
| 432.730 | Machinery Equipment & Vehicles | +$19,400 | Large mouse-ear plow – replacement item |
| 438.650 | Contractor Services | +$600,000 | Street paving year |
Debt Service Fund
Mr. Grove said that there is not a lot new under debt service besides the 2019 capital lease payments. Some have zeroed out as they are paid off.
Capital Improvement Fund
| Account | $ | Justification/Reasoning | |
| 352.201 | Cell Tower lease | +$19,200 | Continues through next year, then finished |
| 438.700 | Land and Improvement
(TDD) |
-$2,079,520 | Gettysburg Road project |
| 345.300 | TDD Grant | +$2,079,520 | Grant that covers cost of Gettysburg Road project |
Vice President Villone asked about the $276,590 shown in the capital budget as a net surplus. Mr. Grove explained that this is money that the General Fund is paying back on the leases so it is not really a surplus, but self-financing.
Electronic Payments
Mr. Grove led a discussion on switching some of the Township vendor payments to electronic payment. Everything is currently paid by checks, which are approved at the Board of Commissioners meetings under the Check Register. Paying electronically for large bills would allow the Township to keep the money longer before payment for such items as capital lease payments, medical insurance, and utility payments. Currently the Board can deny a check but if paid electronically, the money would be gone before the check register is approved. Commissioner Schin asked about cyber risk and Mr. Grove said that the risk would have to come from the Township system because we would be initiating the payment. Vice President Villone asked if he could see the payments ahead of time before they go out. Mr. Grove said that it would work for payments that are a set amount but some vary in amount. He will make a list for the next meeting. A motion will be held until then.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
New Resident Workshop
Mrs. Trone spoke about the upcoming New Resident Workshop which is scheduled for November 9th from 9:00 to 10:30 am. There were 110 letters sent out to residents and so far four residents have signed up. Registration is optional. She is hoping to get new residents in the loop with things like permits, property maintenance, stormwater, LA Alerts, Crimewatch, and parks. Commissioner Schin said he would be attending. Mrs. Trone has been getting positive feedback from residents.
Resolution 2019-R-43
Mrs. Trone spoke about applying for a grant with the Multimodal Transportation Fund Program for a pedestrian trail over the railroad at Arcona. This would connect to Upper Allen Township. The application is due November 8th. The cost is estimated to be 2.5 million dollars. The grant would provide 30% matching funds. Mrs. Trone is planning to attend a meeting at Upper Allen Township on November 6th. Commissioner Holtzman asked about issues with Norfolk Southern allowing the bridge. Mrs. Trone is hopeful that it will be easier going over than the previous attempt to go through an underpass. Commissioner SCHIN moved to authorize staff to execute documents for the Multimodal Transportation Fund Program and Vice President VILLONE seconded it. Motion carried 4-0.
COMMISSIONERS REPORTS
Mrs. Trone spoke about the upcoming Bon Voyage to Bon Ton event. It will take place at 3:30 pm and it kick off the demolition of the building.
Commissioner Schin asked about Sheetz not providing testimony before the Zoning Hearing Board. Mrs. Trone said the Development Authority has not taken testimony at this time because Sheetz is still under a continuance and has not provided any variance requests to their plan. Commissioner Schin spoke about attending breakfast with Captain Crone, where he met one of the new paramedics brought on by Captain Deaven. He thanked Capt. Deaven for assembling a great team. Commissioner Schin also asked about repairing roads that have sustained damage from the pipeline construction. Mr. Flint replied that it is the responsibility of the contractor and they are planning to repair the roads in the spring.
Vice President Villone talked about looking at the new roundabouts and finding them very impressive. He mentioned that there are a lot of drains built in so there shouldn’t be flooding issues.
Mr. Vernau mentioned that Charter Homes had spoken with him about doing an opening event for the roundabouts in the next two weeks. He also spoke about inclement weather being predicted for Trick or Treat night and asked the Board if they would want to change the night. The Commissioners felt that it would be too confusing to change it and other Townships are holding their events rain or shine. It was decided to continue with Trick or Treat as scheduled on Thursday from 6 pm – 8pm.
Mr. Eby spoke about an upcoming meeting of the Yellow Breeches Watershed Association taking place Thursday November 7th at 6 pm in the Barn at LACP.
Mr. Flint said that the roundabouts are paved but there is still some concrete work going on. Signs and pavement markings have not yet been added. The roundabouts are on target for their mid-November opening.
President Black spoke about attending a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new commercial flooring business that has opened in Rana Villa. He said Mrs. Trone gave them track lighting, shelving, and rug racks from the Bon Ton.
Captain Crone mentioned an ongoing opportunity to win grant money by voting for Lower Allen Police K9 Rocco. He said voting can be done every day. The Police Department is also participating in No Shave / Nifty Nails November which raises money for Pink Hands of Hope. This is a charity which supports women with breast cancer.
RECESS TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners recessed at 9:17 pm to discuss a resignation.
RECONVENE
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners reconvened at 9:25 pm.
Vice President VILLONE moved to authorize staff to prepare a list of potential police officer candidates for January of 2020. Commissioner SCHIN seconded the motion and the motion carried 4-0.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners adjourned at 9:27 pm.