But no reduction in sewer rates yet

            Hard-pressed sewer customers in Washington Township, who pay some of the highest sewer rates in Pennsylvania at $319 a quarter or $1,276 per year might, in the future, be able to pay their bills by credit card and on-line.

            Currently, sewer rate customers are limited to paying their sewer bills by check.  On Thursday night, the Washington Township Board of Supervisors agreed to consider alternate ways for sewer customers to pay their bills.  As yet, a decision has not been made on the matter.

            Township Solicitor Joan London informed the Board of Supervisors that the transfer of Washington Township's water system to Bally Borough is close to an agreement. The Township's current contract with Bally to provide water to approximately 104 properties located in Victoria Village ends on December 31, 2019.  London requested and received from the township a 60-day extension to the contract. 

            Township Manager Rich Sichler noted the time delay on the traffic light on Niantic Road has been increased from 10 seconds to 15 seconds.  Board of Supervisors Chairman Dave Moyer questioned if the school bus shelter on Barto Road was within the line of sight of the road.  He noted it was difficult to see around the bus shelter.  Township Engineer, John Weber, explained the shed was "not within the clear site triangle" of Barto Road.  The supervisors believe the school bus shelter might be on the property of the Padre Pio shrine on Barto Road. 

            Supervisor James Roma announced he received two quotes to turn a 1.5 acre site on Barto Road that is owned by the township into "useable land that would be suitable for a baseball, soccer, or football field."  One quote Roma received was for $18,000.  The second quote was for $33,612 to make the land suitable for playing fields.  Officials took no action on the matter. 

            Supervisors renewed an agreement with the Pine Forge Athletic Association for the use of the Barto Field Park.  The term of the agreement is for five years.  Roma noted there have been no issues with maintenance since the athletic association has used the field. 

            The board announced vacancies on its Planning Commission, Zoning Board, Transportation Committee, Environmental Advisory Council, and Uniform Construction Code Board of Appeals.  Moyer requested interested citizens consider volunteering for one of the committees. 

            Washington Township is seeking a full-time road employee.  The starting salary is $17 per hour with benefits.  Chairman Moyer noted, "The Township is a good place to work."            Interested applicants should submit their resume prior to the township reorganization meeting on Monday, January 6, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.  Interviews will be conducted at the reorganization meeting. 

            Moyer wished all Washington Township citizens a "Merry Christmas and a Prosperous, Happy, Healthy New Year."

            The next regular Washington Township Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2020 at 7 p.m.