Scrap is money when times get tough

DINGMAN — Township Roadmaster Jim Snyder reported earlier this month that several steel and cast iron sewer grates were stolen from water basin drains on township roads. Snyder wasn’t sure why they were taken but felt the price for scrap metal has risen and might have something to do with it. “I went to Arthur Trovei & Sons in Port Jervis who is a buyer of junk metal, to see if I could find any of them. Trovei had grating material we purchased and cut to size to replace the stolen grates.“ Snyder also said that the township F800 Dump Truck was in need of replacement since it wouldn’t pass inspection due to a heavily rusted body. He told the supervisors repairs might run as high as $15,000. “It still runs good but is just too rusted and not worth repairing,” Snyder told the supervisors. Seperately, Sewage Enforcement Officer Chris Wood reported he was very busy with permit inspections. “Last year at this time we had 100 permits and now we have 93 but they all came within the last 30 days, making my days full.” Wood said there have been concerns regarding the tree cutting on the site of the proposed Gateway development. “Although they have a town permit to cut trees and sell firewood, I let the developer know if he continues the way he is going he’ll need to get a forestry permit.” Town Fire Chief Bill Mikulak said he had met with a representative of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. “We discussed the need for more state help when state roads have to be shut due to vehicle accidents. We can’t do the job alone. We also spoke about better winter snow removal so emergency vehicles can respond more quickly and safely.” Mikulak reported he hasn’t heard from the Department of Transportation regarding the request for an emergency access road from Raymondskill Road to State Route 84. This would be for emergency vehicles only, which would reduce the time it takes to get to Route 84. Currently the only access to Route 84 is from Milford or Lords Valley. In other business, Township Auditor Joan Carter submitted her letter of resignation because, she said, “I am not able to fulfill my obligation.” Township Supervisors Chairman Tom Mincer told Township Secretary Karen Kleist to advertise for a replacement candidate.