Karen D. Sellers

Key discussions included updates from the Lancaster Conservancy regarding ongoing projects, such as the master plan meeting schedule, a public meeting announcement, and plans for the Climbers Run project to go out for bid. Supervisors approved the release of a remaining Letter of Credit for the Clark Nature Preserve stormwater management project, contingent upon final approval from the former Township engineer. The Road Department provided detailed reports on maintenance activities throughout December and January, including snow and storm cleanup efforts. The Supervisors also approved a revised Resolution for a Local Shared Account Grant to allow the purchase of a 2026 Ford vehicle instead of the originally proposed 2025 Chevy Silverado, and tabled discussion regarding replacing a second vehicle. The Zoning Officer received approval to attend the PSATS Spring Seminar for continuing education credits. Event recognitions for the Rawlinsville Fire Company were noted, including assistance requested for upcoming mud sales and a funeral procession.

The meeting commenced with a Reorganization session where various officers were appointed, including the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Manager/Secretary, Road Foreman, Zoning Officer, Construction Code Officials, and Chairman of the Vacancy Board. Key decisions included setting the mileage reimbursement rate at 72.5 cents/mile, appointing representatives for the SLCIMC Meetings, confirming the 2025 point of contact list, recognizing the Rawlinsville Volunteer Fire Company, and approving their 2026 activities list. Furthermore, a motion passed declaring English as the official language for all township business. The Treasurer's Report for December 31, 2025, was approved, along with bills totaling $41,113.46. Department reports included road maintenance activities during December, and updates on the awarding of two Local Share Account grants for roadwork and a crew truck replacement. A motion was passed to initiate the legal process for dedicating the double cul-de-sac on Camelia Lane. New business included a presentation by Lancaster EMS detailing significant organizational improvements, including staffing increases and better response times. Scheduling information for the Board of Auditors organizational meeting and the next Board of Supervisors meeting was also provided.

The meeting focused on the presentation and discussion of the Financial Analysis report provided by the PA Department of Community & Economic Development regarding the Rawlinsville Volunteer Fire Company (RVFC). The consultant presented observations and recommendations aimed at assessing the fire company's strengths and weaknesses. Key recommendations included re-evaluating the annual Mud Sale, enhancing and diversifying existing income streams (such as utilizing grants, boosting fund drives, managing bank accounts, increasing facility rentals, and expanding merchandise sales), and exploring new revenue streams like a fire tax, additional community events, and a tiered membership structure. The Supervisors and fire company representatives discussed the feasibility of these recommendations.

The meeting included the approval of the November 2025 Supervisors Meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Reports for November 30, 2025, along with associated bill payments. The Board decided to reschedule a cancelled DCED meeting for January 20, 2026. Road Department activities involved maintenance, road checks, equipment repair, and tree removal following high winds. The Board approved the purchase of a toolbox not exceeding $12,000, authorized sending a letter to PennDOT regarding a school bus 'Stop Ahead' sign, and contracted Cauler for trash collection services for the office and garage. The 2026 General Budget and 2026 State Budget were both adopted. The Township's attorney was instructed to contact a judge's office regarding enforcement action at 1063 Hilldale Road. Approval was given for the DEP sewage module signature for a new Amish school, and a 3% raise for Township employees effective January 1, 2026. The discussion regarding the Rawlinsville Fire Company's new Liability Release Form was tabled pending feedback from the fire company. Consent agenda items for appointments and general business effective January 1, 2026, were approved.

The board discussed the adoption of the Southern Lancaster Co Comprehensive plan, Rail Trail and Trestle Bridge project updates, and issues with the 324 crossing project. They considered a grant writing proposal for future projects like a pedestrian bridge over 324. The Road Department reported on maintenance activities, including mowing, sign installations, and tree cutting. The board also discussed upgrading mowing tractors and reviewed reports from the Zoning and Sewage Enforcement Officers. They adopted the 2023 General Fund and Liquid Fuels budgets, decided not to renew the farm lease, and considered offering credit card payment options. An 8% wage increase for employees was approved, and the board discussed utilizing timber in Martic Township Park. Rettew was selected as the new Township engineer, and the 2023 Consent Agenda items for Appointments and Township business were approved. The purchase of a tractor was also discussed.