ELYSBURG - As a result of Ralpho Township supervisors' decision to shop around for insurance quotes, agents from three local firms gave presentations Tuesday at the board's monthly meeting.
After hearing brief synopses and quotes, the board decided to have each firm submit letters defending their own policies. Each firm will have the others' information. The letters are due Feb. 18, and the board plans to make its decision at a special meeting on Feb. 22.
Chairman Ed Payeskie explained supervisors want to consider the township's best interest, and will be looking at more than just prices.
In other business, Payeskie suggested the resumption of yearly meetings with different township departments. The departments would be able to offer input to the supervisors on how to improve operations. The board decided to begin this process with the fire departments. Fire chiefs, presidents and other personnel will be invited to a brief gathering at 6 p.m. April 6, immediately before the scheduled April board meeting.
Following Kulpmont's lead, Stephen Major, of the recycling department, suggested the township start an electronics recycling program to be held quarterly. Details must be finalized, but the township is considering beginning the program in April.
Major also reported on the financial success of the current recycling program with Jeff's Recycling. With payments and reimbursements, the township is ahead approximately $10,000 compared to last year.
On the recommendation of Vince Daubert, of the buildings department, the board unanimously approved the appointment of Chet Mowery to the Sunnyside/Overlook Municipal Authority to fill an unexpired five-year term that expires in January 2012.
Harvey Boyer of the Elysburg Fire Company talked about new expenses, some federally mandated, that local fire departments are facing. He thanked the board for the help it has always provided and asked for continued support.
Boyer said that because of recent negative news stories about corruption, he wanted to assure the township that all precautions are being taken to keep their departments clean. For instance, Boyer said that as president of the Elysburg Fire Department, he has instructed his trustees to meet with the treasurer every two years to do an internal audit.
"I believe we have the checks and balances in process to ensure financial security," Boyer said. As the company prepares for its annual membership drive, Boyer said the public should be reassured that all necessary steps have been taken to prevent the problems that have occurred elsewhere.
With the number of volunteer firefighters diminishing, Boyer asked for the board's permission to develop a fire cadet program with the help of Blaine Madara Jr. The company hopes this initiative will spark interest in young adults, ages 14 to 17. Supervisors agreed that it was a good idea. Payeski said that there are designated funds available to help.
The road crew received kudos from the board and Boyer, as well as a personal letter from Roland and Barbara Holvey on the excellent job they have been doing throughout the rough winter weather season.
Roadmaster Howard Shadduck issued a reminder that throwing snow onto roadways is against township ordinance, and they can be fined.
The board held an executive session prior to the meeting to discuss the possible appointment of a new company as township engineer. During the meeting, a motion to appoint the Larson firm passed, 4-1. All members regretted to see Michelle Auckerman, Uni-tec's representative, leave but felt that the Larson company would better serve the township.
"It's been a pleasure working with the township," Auckerman said. She told the board that Uni-tec will work with Larson to ensure a smooth transition.
Treasurer's reports and correspondence summaries were presented and accepted. Reports were also submitted by the street department, buildings, police/public safety, recreation, engineering and solicitor.