Flooding issues in Spring Valley Village were a topic of concern for the Washington Township Board of Supervisors on Thursday night.  After a lengthy discussion with a Toby Court resident of the Village, Barbara Dunn, the supervisors agreed to have Township Engineer, John Weber, LTL Consultants investigate the matter. 

            According to Dunn, residents along the street are facing flooding issues during rain storms.  She noted after a rain water does not drain.  Dunn explained water lies stagnant and has turned black, attracting mosquitos.  She observed, "Something is wrong.  Our pets are telling us."  She claimed several pets have contacted disease that necessitated their being euthanized. 

            Dunn alleged water runs off from a neighboring property.  The owner of the neighboring property who attended the meeting strongly denied water from his site has caused a problem for Spring Valley Village.  He explained he has done nothing to his property over his lengthy ownership to adversely impact any other property. 

            The township explained the owner of the common area is responsible for the water.  The supervisors suggested the residents contact the Berks County Health Department as well as the owner of the common area.  Dunn remarked the residents' quality of life is impacted because every time there is a storm they worry what will happen.  Flooding is a dangerous problem that can terrify a person watching water rise as weather forecasters predict a bad storm.  It can be particularly dangerous for a senior person who lives alone with health issues and cannot easily evacuate.  Dunn concluded residents should not have to fear what the weather is doing.   

            There is another flooding concern along Heydt School House Road.  During the recent floods trees have cut loose.  The accumulation of trees has begun to undermine the road.  If there is a hard rain, the township is concerned it will lose the road.  The township will contact the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to obtain the necessary permit to remove the trees.  Board of Supervisors Chairman, Dave Moyer, remarked, "We need to work on this soon." 

            It is expected, barring any unforeseen circumstance, the township will work on Woods Lane water run off next week.

            The Board of Supervisors agreed to send a letter to Valley Run Water Company that it must test the flow from its fire hydrants.  Valley Run Water Company provides water hydrants to sections of the township.  It is a requirement of the ISO water department pre-survey for the Eastern Berks Fire Company.

            Eastern Berks Fire Company Chief, Mike Mutter, explained that a good flow rate from fire hydrant testing will result in lower cost for fire insurance for the township and its' residents.  ISO performs an audit every five years with the fire company.  If Valley Run Water Company does not provide the fire hydrant flow rate, insurance rates for the township and its' residents could be in jeopardy. 

            The township will remove 12 dead trees that are located in the public right of way along Wilt Road.  The cost is expected to be $5,900. 

            Township Engineer, John Weber, LTL Consultants, announced the realignment of Barto Road is 98% completed.  The realignment of Barto Road is a major accomplishment for the municipality that took several years to finalize.  It took PennDOT approval as well as easement releases from a gas company, utility company, and a communication network.  Barwis Construction performed the work.  The double asphalt and seal coating of County Line Road is expected to commence in September. 

            The township will continue its lease agreement with American Tower.  The land lease can extend until 2050.  The township will receive $22,000 per year from the lease with an initial $5,000 payment.  There will be four additional five year extensions with a 2% escalation clause.  American Tower is a national company that provides infrastructure to enhance wireless coverage that meets the demands of 5G networks. 

            The township will utilize a $55,000 contribution for open space from the developer of 32 housing units called the Reserve at Barto.  The development is expected to be constructed along Olde Route 100.

            Township Solicitor, Joan London, is reviewing a draft of an ordinance that regulates in-law suites in Washington Township.  It is expected the ordinance will be presented to the board of supervisors for review in August or September, 2025.