Fallowfield Township supervisors earmark money from Act 13 funds for ballfield upgrades
FALLOWFIELD TWP. — The Board of Supervisors approved the Park and Recreation Board’s request for funds to cover improvements for the township’s parks and ballfields.
During the board’s monthly meeting Wednesday evening, the supervisors voted to earmark $23,000 from Act 13 funds for upgrades at Community and Elementary parks. The earmarked money will cover field renovation, fencing repairs and replacement, installation of pole lights and installation of bleachers, among other upgrades.
Supervisor Earl Sadler felt too much money was being allocated for this project. “That’s a lot of money to pay for something the majority of the community won’t use,” he said.
“It is important to move forward with this project; otherwise, we will get stagnant,” replied Supervisor Wilbur Caldwell. “This is an important investment for the future of Fallowfield Township. We need to attract and retain younger families. That’s why I support the request for funds to revitalize our parks and ballfields.”
Bill Henderson, a resident of Fallowfield Township and member of the Park and Recreation Board, voiced support for the ballfield revitalization project.
“I drive home from work every day and pass through communities with nice ballfields. I think we should take care of our ballfields and parks, too. The more we reinvest in our community, the more our residents will want to stay here.”
During the meeting, the board also approved payment of unpaid bills but will withhold payment to the township’s three auditors — Albert Cialone, Joan Rakosky and Helen Sadler — pending further discussion.
“I don’t think the bills submitted by the auditors were appropriate,” said Supervisor Bruce Smith. “Our CPA firm is handling most of that work now.”
Sadler disagreed and remarked that the auditors play an important role for Fallowfield Township.
“Our auditors were put in by the voters. They do the day-to-day work of reviewing paid and unpaid bills, purchase orders and fuel slips,” said Sadler.
Smith said that the auditors are entitled to payment for their services, but the board will have to decide on the amount.
In other business, the board voted to:
n Appoint Joyce Ray as deputy tax collector
n Approve Wayne Ray as assistant emergency management coordinator
n Appoint Chester Engineering as the township’s engineer for 2017
n Approve HRG to revise the Storm Water Ordinance, not to exceed $1,500
During the meeting, Smith waived compensation for 2017 for services performed as assistant secretary and assistant treasurer. Also, Sadler was acknowledged for being reappointed to a three-year term for the Washington County Farm Preservation Board by the Washington County Board of Commissioners.