North Union Twp. leaders pass $2.2 million spending plan
The North Union Township Supervisors approved a 2004 budget Tuesday totaling $2.2 million that keeps the tax rate unchanged. With very little discussion, the $2,240,000 spending plan will keep the property tax rate at .447 mills for the general fund and .17 mills for the hydrant fund. The supervisors voted to keep the standard and non-standard street light fees the same, after they were increased last year.
The $2,240,000 tentative budget includes funding for general projects and for special projects like storm drains in Homewood Terrace and a culvert project in the township.
Supervisor Tom Kumor said last month that the township will increase spending by about $47,000 in 2004 because of engineering fees, increased labor rates, increased material prices and extra costs associated with the township’s storm water management plan.
Meanwhile, the supervisors heard from Brian Rodeheaver concerning plans to renovate the Phillips community center with the hopes of reusing the site. Rodeheaver presented the supervisors with a list of committee members interested in helping develop the center again and brought forth a plan for how the center will be operated.
He said the group plans on having activities for children ages 2 and up and would be open until 8 p.m. during the school year, and until 9 p.m. during the summer. He asked the supervisors to take over payment of utility bills for six months from the time the center opens to give the committee time to raise funds to help cover costs.
Rodeheaver said he has already discussed installing a security system on the building before any equipment is purchased. He said has already been approached about donations for returning the center to use.
Supervisor John Mateosky said he did not have a problem making a donation to the group to help them get started, but raised questions about liability.
The supervisors said they would explore the issue of insurance and would discuss the community center project at their January meeting.
The supervisors also voted to advertise for a new truck with snowplow and spreader and voted to authorize solicitor Donald McCue to draft and advertise and ordinance for the township’s stormwater management plan.
Finally, the board thanked outgoing supervisor Mateosky for his 36 years of service to the township. Kumor said Mateosky has done an excellent job for the township over the past three decades and he has helped to bring a lot of positive change to the township during those years.
Mateosky said he has enjoyed working with his fellow supervisors over the years. He said he has also enjoyed working with the residents of the township.
“I’ve enjoyed working and arguing with the other supervisors,” he said.
“I think they have done a wonderful job.”
Curtis Matthews will take over as township supervisor next month, when the board will reorganize for the year.