Pamela Mark

The meeting commenced with an announcement that there would be no public hearing for an ordinance due to an advertising error by the CDT, requiring rescheduling to meet loan lock-in deadlines. Key discussion points included Comcast's request to negotiate a franchise agreement to offer cable TV, internet, phone, and home security services, detailing the proposed build route via aerial lines and the estimated 18-month construction timeline contingent on pole attachment approvals. Separately, discussions addressed field improvements, including meeting with an excavator for site preparation for a larger shed, the disappointing results of a recent fundraiser, and ongoing issues related to inclement weather delaying painting work. A discussion confirmed that John Claire's bid of $5,300 for field work, including infield mix, was accepted, while managing the logistics of a down payment already made. Further discussion involved the history and current status of field usage rights between organizations.

The meeting included a hearing on Ordinance 1901 regarding the adoption of a code of ordinances for wireless communication facilities. Discussions involved the status of lawsuits related to Right-to-Know law appeals, including one concerning internet browsing history on township computers and another regarding emails to a solicitor, with rulings pending or issued. Updates were provided on upcoming town halls concerning public safety organizations like fire companies and EMS, and ongoing efforts to recruit volunteers after staffing shortages impacted code enforcement. Key agenda items included the subdivision of the Spitzer Farm, receiving a resolution from the Borough of West Easton regarding vexatious requesters under the Right-to-Know Law, and an update on the Loysville/Georgetown Valley bridge project with PennDOT. The Board also addressed operational matters such as the resignation of the Emergency Management Coordinator after 47 years of service, appointing a successor, and reviewing costs for mandated repairs to fire department equipment, including engine repairs and funding for picnic tables. Significant attention was given to necessary and costly compliance upgrades for underground storage tanks due to DEP regulations, with quotes received for compliance or removal options. Finally, updates were given on park improvements, including seating completion and exploring sod placement for youth sports fields.

The special meeting focused on discussing and adopting the Gregg Township Centre County COVID-19 Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Key procedural items included housekeeping notes for remote participation and public comment submission methods. The primary action involved ratifying and extending the Declaration of Disaster Emergency, originally declared on March 20th, until May 21st, 2020. The board reviewed and adopted procedures related to essential services, communications with the public, check-ins with essential personnel, township personnel status (including payroll continuation and task prioritization), facility closures to the public (with specific mention of enhanced cleaning protocols, including hiring a service before reopening), and conducting future public meetings under emergency procedures. The COOP is subject to changes deemed necessary under the disaster declaration.

The meeting commenced with the review of bids for compactable shale or equivalent materials from CL Harder Excavating and Trucking, and Hansen Pennsylvania, with detailed cost comparisons provided for different material types and quantities. Public comment raised significant concerns regarding the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) radio capabilities, noting that channels were wiped out and discussing the need for EMA radios to be functional, which was flagged as a major issue to be resolved by the next meeting. Other topics included personnel and procedural issues concerning an alternate SEO (Dan Wallace) who might have a conflict of interest related to design plans, and the necessity of amending SEO fee schedules. There was an extensive discussion regarding underground fuel tanks, including the cost options for moving pumps above ground versus removing the existing tanks and installing new above-ground storage tanks, weighing costs, time constraints, and fuel gelling issues. Additionally, the board discussed obtaining necessary certifications (A/B and Class C) for personnel to handle fuel system maintenance. Further agenda items involved the status of bids for the George's Valley bridge project, expected for approval by the April 11th meeting, and planning for road improvements, specifically regarding a turn back program between Ridge Road and Sarah Campbell Lane, potentially involving a cash settlement for repairs, paving, drainage, and intersection improvements. The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss security matters.

Discussions focused heavily on the utilization and potential elimination of a specific property building, with suggestions to clean it out first for use as a shower/changing area and office space for employees to provide more room in the garage. There was also discussion regarding property rights concerning solar farm development, including setback distances, where current rules mandate a 30-foot setback except in the village (10 feet), and a general concern about the requirement for clean-up after solar field decommissioning. The committee reviewed reports from Emergency Management, which noted positive results from a carnival fundraiser exceeding $23,000 profit, and updates on fire company finances following the auxiliary's disbandment. The Great School Advisory Board plans a Mr. Sticky fundraiser coinciding with the trunk or treat event. Water and Sewer authorities reported that the sewer allotment is spent, while the water authority plans to replace certain fire hydrants. Finally, the Board approved the financial report and made a motion to pay their share of the Pennvest Loan by September 30th.