Bill Baker

The discussion focused primarily on the potential expansion of the Pleasant Ridge Park parking lot. This involved consultation with the County Executive regarding the use of county-owned farmland adjacent to the park. Increased congestion due to park usage and expected growth, particularly with the addition of pickleball courts, necessitates parking solutions. The group explored subleasing from the current tenant, Troyer Farms, as a means to proceed sooner. The Township will instruct Urban Engineers to prepare a parking lot design, and the matter is scheduled for review in a few months.

The discussion focused on the future hiring strategy for a Fire Chief and additional firefighters for the Fairview Lake Shore Fire Department. The goal is to recruit an individual capable of active firefighting duties as well as possessing the necessary education and experience for administrative, operational, and leadership management roles, prioritizing public safety. The supervisors also emphasized the importance of supporting current volunteers to prevent loss of personnel during any structural or leadership transitions. A working group will be formed to review the Fire Chief job description and develop a formal outline for the position.

Urban Engineers provided an update, noting their continued work with municipalities, the status of their survey crew (which is no longer available), and the need for increased notice for projects due to staffing constraints in their inspection division. There was a substantive discussion regarding the workload of the Fairview Township engineer, acknowledging the increase due to growing township projects and state funding. The Township agreed to improve project timelines, priorities, and organization for clearer direction. The option for Urban Engineers to provide additional support if the workload becomes excessive was noted. Project costs were also discussed, specifically mentioning that Porter Consulting Engineers was selected for the Antolik Rd culvert work due to lower cost, and the pickleball court project is anticipated to go out to bid in mid to late February.

The Fairview Township Regular Meeting covered discussions regarding the construction of pickleball courts, including funding from various authorities and updates to the project scope. Concerns were raised about traffic congestion at the intersection of Route 98 and Route 20, and the possibility of a connector road was suggested. The potential implementation of a paid fire service was discussed, with the board clarifying that no decisions have been made. The board also reviewed the engineer's report, planning and zoning report, secretary-treasurer's report, and discussed unfinished and new business, including contract renewals, paving projects, and stormwater pipe installation. Additionally, the transfer of legal files to the Knox Law Firm was approved, and updates were provided on parks and recreation events.

The board approved a loan agreement with West County Paramedic Association and awarded a bid to RCI Electrical Systems, LLC for traffic signal upgrades. They also agreed to accept a settlement for two judgments in favor of the Township. Updates were provided on road salt delivery and a meeting to finalize the fire department merger. The MS4 report was submitted, and efforts are focused on ongoing road projects and stormwater requirements.