Frank Grottola

The special meeting was convened to gather public input regarding the future of the Bishop Road Bridge, a historic metal truss bridge jointly owned by Cumberland and York Counties. Key discussion points included the County's preference for demolition (estimated at $181,000) versus the Township's consideration of rehabilitation for vehicular use, with a proposal from Wrought Iron Bridge Works estimated at $1.05 million for disassembly and restoration. Commissioners and external guests presented arguments for both preservation, citing the bridge's historical and technological significance (it is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places), and fiscal responsibility, citing high rehabilitation costs, low traffic volume, and the existence of an alternative emergency access road. Residents offered conflicting views, with some supporting historic preservation through rehabilitation or relocation, and others opposing the assumption of financial liability, suggesting demolition or off-site storage. Engineering and financial experts highlighted the uncertainty of rehabilitation costs, the need for PennDOT approval for vehicular use, and the high potential financial burden on the Township.

The meeting began with a biennial reorganization session, immediately preceded by the swearing-in ceremony for newly-elected Commissioners Clarke and Overly Smith. During reorganization, officers were elected, with Commissioner Fairchild named President and Karen Overly Smith named Vice President. Several officials were re-appointed or appointed, including the Township Manager, Solicitor, Engineer, Sanitary Sewer Engineer, Building Code Official, Zoning Officer, Chief of Police, Treasurer, and members to the Stormwater Authority. The regular meeting proceeded thereafter, approving the minutes from December 3rd, 2025, and the warrant list totaling $512,265.57, which included a final payment for Grantham Park and Pond work. Public Safety discussions included the start of academy training for two new police officers and the announcement of two retirements. The Fire Department noted reaching a new record of over 800 calls for 2025. In Administration, the Board authorized scheduling a public forum regarding the Bishop Road Bridge for January 12th, 2026. Public Comment heavily focused on the proposed rehabilitation of Bishop Bridge, with multiple residents raising concerns regarding costs, necessity, lack of a concrete business plan, liability, potential impact on property taxes, and the involvement of neighboring municipalities. One resident requested the investigation of a Christmas tree mulching service.

The meeting was a public forum primarily focused on the Bishop Road Bridge. Discussion included the bridge's historical significance, noting it was erected in 1898 and is eligible for the National Historic Register. The Commissioners presented information contrasting the county's demolition plan, which benefits seven property owners, with the Upper Allen plan to rehabilitate the bridge for vehicular use, which benefits thousands of residents and aligns with protecting historic resources in the comprehensive plan. The rehabilitation approach, utilizing historic methods proposed by Raw Iron Bridge Works, involves disassembling and restoring the bridge to original specifications with an estimated maximum cost of $1.2 million. Cost implications, funding sources including grants and capital reserves, and the immediate opportunity created by the county's permit issues were reviewed. The Board also noted significant past expenditures on park and stormwater projects as context for prioritizing the bridge rehabilitation.

The meeting agenda included the consideration and approval of bills totaling $152,661.27, along with financial security reductions for Pennington Farms and K - Care UA (Genius Kids). Committee reports covered Public Safety, Planning and Zoning, Public Improvements, and Sanitary Sewer System matters. Under Administration, discussions included the consideration for appointing Allyson Appleby as Assistant Township Manager and Assistant Secretary, extending conditional offers for the Community Development Director position, creating a new Assistant Director role in Community Development, and appointing members to the Pension Advisory Boards. Other items included Solicitor, Tax Collection Committee, Capital Region COG, Municipal Advisory Board, and PSATC updates.

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance. Several announcements were made, primarily thanking staff members from Public Works, Parks, and Sewer departments for their dedicated efforts during recent significant winter weather events and snow response operations. The board also acknowledged the recent annual banquet for the Upper Allen Township Fire Department, thanking all volunteer firefighters. During public comment, significant concerns were raised regarding the procedural transparency of recent board appointments, specifically concerning the discussion and decision-making process for reopening volunteer positions, which led to a discussion involving the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act and potential legal counsel advice. Another resident expressed serious concerns regarding the contracted trash removal services by Republic Services, citing instances of truck fires and illegal dumping of hydraulic fluid, and requesting a contract review for penalties regarding missed pickups, even during adverse weather. A discussion also occurred regarding the time limits imposed on public speakers. The consent agenda included the approval of bills totaling $152,661.27. Finally, the board considered the reduction of financial security for Pennington Farms, with discussion focusing on whether substantial progress warranted the suggested reduction.