Police –

Last month I discussed a program in which Police Officers would be involved in an incentive program to remove more illegal weapons off the street.

I would like to announce a similar program I am working on involving the residents of the Township. I am in discussions to partner with a large retailer and clothing manufacturer to assist us with an incentive program through their companies. Residents who turn in weapons or are responsible for the recovery of illegal weapons would receive gifts certificates or merchandise for their efforts. I will report at a future meeting on this beneficial program.

Dog adoption Program –

I would like to ask permission of Council to direct the Manager to research and possibly begin a Dog Adoption Program in the Township. There are many stray dogs that are picked up in the Township. And end up at the SPCA facilities. I would envision this program would eliminate much of the need to send these animals away and provide a new avenue to have them adopted by families in the Township.

I am requesting the consideration of the hiring of a part time person to cover the hours our Animal Control Officer, Mr. Bill Kurko, does not cover.

No action by Council taken

Route 13 property –

Approximately 10 months age, Council was given a presentation by a developer who was interested in a rezoning of a property along Route 13. The proposed use of this property was to possibly include a Wal-Mart store. I realize at the time of the zoning change presentation and request, there was some sever flooding that had recently occurred. Council members and residents were understandably concerned about any additional development and the impact it may have, creating more flooding. As a result of the public comments made at the meeting, the Zoning Request was denied.

The property in question is still mostly undeveloped and offers little in tax benefit to the Township, School District or County.

There are many requirements of a developer to deal with storm water on a site. It is likely that the quantity of water that leaves the site will be less and quality of the water will be improved over what existed before the development occurred.

I am requesting that Council revisit the possible rezoning of this site. If the developer is still interested, we can add much needed commercial development, adding jobs and increasing our tax base without placing any burden on our schools.

No Council action taken.

Economic Development –

Economic Stimulus Program: We, the Managing Director, Jeff Bartlett, the Director of Building and Development, Glenn Kucher, and I will meet with developers and show them vacant properties and give them a summary of all our tax incentives and try to convince them to develop in our community. Our goal is to get much needed business and jobs to stimulate our economy and help our tax base.