Newsletter - Upper Hanover Township
Transcription
Newsletter - Upper Hanover Township
Upper Hanover Township P.O. Box 27 East Greenville, PA 18041 Winter 2015 / 2016 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Boyertown, PA PERMIT #10015 Newsletter Montgomery County, Pennsylvania Published by the Board of Supervisors r Founded 1741 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: OR CURRENT RESIDENT Year Long Celebration Planned Save the Date: The main event for Upper Hanover Township’s 275th Anniversary in 2016 is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, 2016. The all-day event will be held at Camelot Park. Happenings at the celebration will include yoga in the morning, fire equipment and antique tractor displays, historical presentations and displays and, of course, good food and good company. And much, much more fun is in the works as the 275th Anniversary Committee continues planning for this momentous and historical occasion. Be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, September 17, 2016. Winter 2015 / 2016 This Community Newsletter is produced for Upper Hanover Township by Hometown Press 215.257.1500 • Dec 2015 • All rights reserved® To Place An Ad Call Denise At Hometown Press • 610-346-6126 • DeniseOfHTP@yahoo.com Content provided by Chroma Group • 267-354-4949 Festivities planned throughout the year starting in April will also include: STEPHEN REDDING Arborist Gift Certificates Available BYOB www.happytreeltd.com FULLY INSURED • REASONABLE RATES 215-257-7650 126 Reller Road • Green Lane, PA 18054 Tree Service, Landscaping, Plant Health Care Quality work and integrity in our business dealings are the hallmarks of Happy Tree. O Professional arborist services for all large trees including pruning, shaping, deadwood removal, cabling, bracing, cavity work, storm damage repair, hazard evaluation, and tree removal. O Complete landscaping services from design through installation and maintenance. Design services from our own in-house Registered Landscape Architect. We grow our own trees and shrubs to ensure top quality, hardy installations. O Cutting-edge plant health care treatments, including nutritional support, feeding, pest control, and treatment of disease. “SATISFACTION THAT GROWS!” FREE ATM FREE WiFi PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT Sellersville Skippack Pennsburg Rt. 73 & 113 337 Main St. Rt. 29 215-257-5555 610-584-4451 215-679-6000 215-234-9222 Happy Holidays! ● Pontoon boat tours of the Green Lane Reservoir. ● An afternoon at the Schwenkfelder Museum, including a display of historical artifacts and presentations by local historians. ● A Knoll Museum evening will highlight our commercial and industrial heritage. ● Tours of the new trail system at the Mill Hill Preservation Area. ● The dedication of a time capsule to be opened at the 300th Township Anniversary in 2041. ● Publication of a photo book on the history of Upper Hanover Township (see more information on page 10). Pick Up Window Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm www.chiarospizza.com Edward A. Skypala TEL. (610) 323-3306 TEL. (610) 489-9778 FAX (610) 970-9578 www.skypalalaw.com How You Can Help When It Snows ...........................3 Winter Driving Tips....................3 Snow & Emergency To-Do List....................................3 Taxes Remain at Same Rate Since 2006 ..........................4 Service Awards............................4 Scout Project .........................4 Memorial Bench Program ...........5 TNT Softball Tournament. .........5 Free Christmas Tree Recycling...5 Protect Your Water Source..........6 Keeping Our Roads in Good Shape .........................7-8 Upper Perk Valley Library..........9 How to stay up-to-date on 275th Anniversary plans: ● Additional details on all of these events and more will be posted on the Township Website at www.upperhanovertownship.org. The link can be found on the center of the homepage. ● The Anniversary Committee plans to attend the Upper PerkiomenValley Chamber of Commerce Community Expo on April 26, 2016 at the Upper Perkiomen Valley YMCA Building. Our table will be located in the lobby area and Anniversary Committee members will be available to answer questions. ● The Spring/Summer edition of the Upper Hanover Township Newsletter will be mailed in March of 2016 and will include all the final, specific details on events, dates and times. Attorney at Law Law Offices of EDWARD A. SKYPALA 224 King Street Pottstown, PA 19464 Township Contact Information .................................2 Update on Bridge Projects..........8 Green Lane 218 S. Main St. Pick Up Window ● A self-guided tour of historical locations in Upper Hanover Township. Message from the Chairman ..............................2 Gene Fried & Ben Fiorito Re-elected to Board of Supervisors ...............................10 Be Alert Be Informed................10 Township Historical Book in the Works .............................10 UHT Historical Committee ......10 Spotted Lanternfly in UHT ......11 Yard/Leaf Waste Recycling........12 UHT to Host Relay for Life ......12 The 275th Anniversary of Upper Hanover in 2016 is shaping up as a memorable and enjoyable occasion. WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU THERE! Make Your Address Visible ......13 Calling 9-1-1 from a Cell Phone..............................13 www.UpperHanoverTownship.org Perkiomenville Quarry 215-234-4522 Perkiomenville Asphalt 215-234-9231 1128 Crusher Road Perkiomenville, PA 18074 www.highwaymaterials.com Serving Upper Montgomery County’s Aggregate & Asphalt needs since 1902 224 Cathill Road • Sellersville, PA 18960 • 215 257 9425 Paying High Credit Card Rates? Need to Consolidate Your Debts? Want ONE payment per month? APPLY FOR A HOME EQUITY LOAN at Fixed Rate Loans up to 20 years or Home Equity Lines of Credit Applicants must meet Bally Savings Bank credit criteria. Loans to owner-occupied single family residential properties, with an 80% maximum loan-to-value for all debt. Property insurance and flood insurance (when applicable) is required. Other loan products and terms available. Minimum loan amount is $10,000. Subject to application fee and closing costs when applicable. Member FDIC. The Only On-Site Crematory Carl F. Slonaker, Jr., F.D., Supervisor 222 Washington St. 215-679-9589 East Greenville, PA 18041 Funeral & Cremation Services www.mannslonakerfuneralhome.com Pre-Need Payment Plans In The Upper Perkiomen Valley 2 13 Supervisors Urge Residents to Make Their Addresses Visible W hen an emergency strikes, precious minutes can make a big difference in the outcome, and a clearly marked address, especially at night or during bad weather, can be that difference. It has been five year since the Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance that requires all properties to have clearly marked addresses. Many residents responded quickly by purchasing and installing the proper signs. The ordinance requires street address numbers signs to be comprised of paint, metal, enamel and other similar materials, to be not less than four inches (4”) in height, and to be reflective and in contrast to their immediate background. The ordinance requires that all signs consist of white numbers on a green background. Additional requirements under the ordinance are noted as follows: For all residences, buildings and other structures, Street Address Numbers shall be placed in a conspicuous place as near the front entrance as is possible and practicable, and shall be clearly visible from the street, day or night. For residences, buildings and other structures that are not clearly visible from a public street, Street Address Numbers shall also be posted at the intersection of the driveway with the public street so as to be clearly visible from the public street. Such Street Address Numbers shall be placed upon a post or other structure that displays the Street Address Numbers in such a manner that the bottom of the Street Address Numbers is forty-eight (48) inches from grade. Where private roads and driveways contain multiple turnoffs to access residences, buildings and/or other structures, Street Address Numbers shall also be posted at the turnoffs in such a manner that clearly indicates the direction in which the residence, building or other structure is located. Residents may purchase signs meeting the above specifications from private sign companies or from any of the local fire companies, including the East Greenville Fire Company, the Pennsburg Fire Company or the Red Hill Fire Company. The cost of the signs purchased from the fire companies is $15, with payments made directly to the fire companies. Contact and payment information is as follows: East Greenville Fire Company 401 Washington Street • East Greenville, PA 18041 Telephone: 215-679-5311 Checks should be made payable to: “East Greenville Fire Company” Pennsburg Fire Company 501 Penn Street • Pennsburg, PA 18073 Telephone: 215-679-5311 Checks should be made payable to: “Pennsburg Fire Company” Red Hill Fire Company 71 East Fourth Street • Red Hill, PA 18076 Telephone: 215-234-4550 Checks should be made payable to: “Red Hill Fire Company” Message from the Chairman: Dear Friends: As 2015 draws to a close, I would like to thank all of our residents for your support and encouragement throughout the year. The Township Supervisors and our hard-working Township employees have been quite busy coordinating efforts to maintain our parks, roads and bridges. Our ongoing commitment is to make sure Upper Hanover Township continues to be a great place to live and work. Once again, I am happy to report that there will be no real estate tax increase for Eugene F. Fried, Chairman township property owners in 2016. This is the eleventh year in a row that we have maintained the real estate tax rate at the same 1.45 mills level. A great community event coming up in 2016 is the Upper Perkiomen Valley 18th Annual Relay for Life to be held at Upper Hanover’s Camelot Park on May 14, 2016. The Board of Supervisors is honored to participate as a partner in this important event that raises funds and awareness to save lives through the American Cancer Society. Please see the article contained in this newsletter on how you can join in this wonderful event. Another important celebration coming up in 2016 is the Township’s 275th Anniversary. A series of fun and informative events will be held throughout the year. We encourage your participation in some or all of the scheduled programs. We look forward to getting everyone together to share in all the good fellowship and community pride. We would love to see you there! On behalf of the Board of Supervisors and the Township Staff, I wish you all a safe and peaceful holiday season. Eugene F. Fried, Chairman Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors Township Contact Information Office Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1704 Pillsbury Road, PO Box 27, East Greenville, PA 18041 Phone: 215-679-4401 r Fax: 215-679-3585 r www.upperhanovertownship.org Township Manager E-Mail: sseitzinger@comcast.net Road Foreman E-Mail: tomluht@comcast.net For Police, Fire and Medical Emergencies: Dial 911 Board of Supervisors Eugene F. Fried, Chairman Richard K. Fain, Vice Chairman Dorothy J. Diehl, Assistant Secretary Ben R. Fiorito, Assistant Treasurer Steven R. Rothenberger The highly visible, two-sided and reflective house number signs are available in both a horizontal and vertical design. Staff Township Manager: Stanley W. Seitzinger, Jr. Road Foreman: Thomas Latshaw Meeting Schedule Board of Supervisors Regular Meeting: Second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Industrial Development Authority Second Monday of the last month of each quarter at 7:30 p.m. Workshop Meeting: Monday prior to each Regular Meeting at 7 p.m. Zoning Hearing Board Third Wednesday of each month, as required, at 7 p.m. Planning Commission Regular Meeting: First Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Calling 9-1-1 From a Cell Phone he Montgomery County Department of Public Safety asks that anyone who calls 9-1-1 from a cellular phone in communities near the county border immediately state: “I’m calling from Montgomery County” when the call-taker answers the phone. If the nearest cell tower to where the call is placed is across the border in a neighboring county, the call will be routed to the 9-1-1 center in Philadelphia, Bucks, Berks, Chester or Delaware county, depending on where the tower is located. The neighboring 9-1-1 centers will transfer the call to Montgomery County, but the time it takes to figure out the actual location, transfer the call, and then supply the information about the incident again could make a difference in saving someone’s life. By stating “I’m calling from Montgomery County” at the outset, it will greatly reduce any delay in getting victims the help they need. Using a landline to call 9-1-1 will result in the call automatically being routed to the proper call center. Parks and Recreation Committee Fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Historical Committee Third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Upper Hanover Authority First Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. All meetings are open to the public and are held at: Upper Hanover Township Municipal Building: 1704 Pillsbury Road, East Greenville, PA For your convenience, a copy of the standard address sign order form can be obtained from the local fire companies, at the Township Municipal Building or on the Township website under “Applications/Forms” at www.upperhanovertownship.org. T A Reminder.... The Township Building will be closed on the following holiday: December 24 – Christmas Eve December 25 – Christmas January 1 – New Years Day LTL CONSULTANTS, LTD. ENGINEERS & CODE OFFICIALS ONE TOWN CENTRE DR OLEY, PA 1-888-987-8886 Proudly serving Upper Hanover Township as TOWNSHIP ENGINEER BUILDING INSPECTOR ZONING OFFICER 12 3 How You Can Help When It Snows T he Upper Hanover Township Property Maintenance Code specifies that where sidewalks exist between a property line and the road cartway, the property owner responsible is required to have at least a two-foot wide path cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours after precipitation has stopped falling. When more than 12 inches of snow has fallen, the property owner responsible for the sidewalk has 48 hours to clear the path. Please remove your vehicles from all public streets during snow or ice emergencies. The snowplows can operate more efficiently and safely if the roads are cleared of vehicles. Please do not direct snow from your property onto the public streets when shoveling or clearing your property. The accumulation of snow and ice on an already cleared road surface presents a hazard for the traveling public. Inspect and maintain your mailbox post prior to the winter season and verify that the location is suitable to minimize possible damage by heavy, plowed snow. Be sure to clear any ice or snow from your vehicles roof and windows prior to driving in order to comply with state Vehicle Code requirements. Play it safe and try to stay at home during winter snow emergencies, if possible. Winter Driving Tips W ith the threat of winter weather looming, there are a few routine things that you can do to drive safely under difficult conditions. First, consider getting your vehicle serviced. By winterizing your vehicle, you can be sure your vehicle’s fluids are at their proper levels, your car battery has the sufficient amount of power, and any needed repairs can be made before the temperature plunge. Inspect wiper blades and replace those that are ineffective. Also be sure to check your tires for acceptable tread depth, for uneven wear, and ensure that they are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. One of the biggest problems with snow or ice is that we forget how we drove on it last year. Once the snow starts to fall and stick on the roadways, remember to drive slowly. Many times during the winter season you will have to drive well below the posted maximum speed limit. As the tires will not have as much traction, it will be harder for you to stop or slow your vehicle. Driving at a speed suitable for weather conditions and maintaining a safe distance behind other vehicles will give you a better chance to react to any obstacles you may encounter. Also remember that ice will be on the roadways and often Snow and Ice Emergency To-Do List e Clear Your Sidewalk – Each property owner is responsible to clear at least a two-foot wide path within 24 hours after a storm. If snow is more than 12 inches, 48 hours is okay. e Remove Your Vehicle From the Street- Snow plows can operate more efficiently if the roads are cleared of parked vehicles. e Do Not Shovel Snow Into the Street – This just creates more work and requires multiple plowing of the same street. cannot be seen until it is too late. Taking your time and driving slowly, even if it is not actively snowing during the cold weather months, will assist you in being able to achieve greater reaction time and overall control of your vehicle. To make safety your first priority this winter season, make sure that your vehicle is packed with the necessary emergency supplies. Snow shovels, ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, phone chargers, sand/litter, necessary medicines, food, and water will all prove helpful should you be traveling in snowy weather, taking long trips, or simply get stuck on the roadway due to a crash for an extended period of time. If your vehicle becomes disabled during your travels, these items may also be vital supplies to have on hand. Never drink and drive, and remind others to do the same. Make sure your own driving is controlled, but be mindful of other drivers who may be impatient, thoughtless, or who make sudden moves without warning. Winter can be a beautiful and joyous time of the year in Pennsylvania, but staying within your driving limits and always being prepared will allow you to enjoy this time of year even more. e Check Your Mailbox Post – A well maintained mailbox at a safe location will minimize the possibility of damage by plowed snow. e Clear Ice and Snow from Vehicle Roofs and Windows – Safety first and also a Vehicle Code Requirement. e Minimize Travel During Snow Emergencies – Better safe than sorry. Stay at home and enjoy the winter views. A Special Thank You to Our Business Sponsors his publication is produced at no cost to Upper Hanover Township residents thanks to the generous sponsorship of the businesses listed throughout the newsletter. The Township recognizes these businesses as community supporters and encourages residents to also support these local businesses with their patronage. T YARD/LEAF WASTE RECYCLING T he John Miller and Son, Inc. recycling facility (2542 Geryville Pike) is the designated Upper Hanover Township Yard/Leaf Waste drop-off site and is free of charge for all Upper Hanover Township residents. Leaf waste must be delivered in biodegradable bags separated from all other garden residue, shrubbery, and tree trimmings. Please check all wood waste for the presence of spotted lanternfly eggs and remove the eggs per approved procedures before delivering wood waste to the drop-off site (see related article). WHEN: Second Saturday of Each Month, 8 a.m. to noon WHERE: John Miller & Son, Inc., 2542 Geryville Pike, Pennsburg, PA 18073 DIRECTIONS: Heading North on Route 663 turn right at Geryville Pike. Continue 2.5 miles on Geryville Pike past the intersection with James Road and past the entrance to The Loft at Sweetwater Country Club. Cross the small bridge and the John Miller and Son, Inc. facility is located approximately 50 yards further on the right hand side. WHAT: Yard/Leaf Waste includes leaves, garden residue, shrubbery, and tree trimmings no larger than four (4) inches in diameter. WHO: Free of charge for all Upper Hanover Township residents. Yard waste from non-residents, landscapers or other private haulers or businesses will not be accepted. WHY: The burning of leaf waste and yard waste, and/or any item, substance or material designated as a Recyclable Material under the Code of the Township of Upper Hanover, Chapter 409, Solid Waste, as amended, is prohibited. MORE INFO: • No grass clippings will be accepted. • Leaves must be contained in biodegradable bags provided by the resident. The Township will not sell or provide leaf/yard waste bags. • Tree trunks greater than four (4) inches in diameter and all tree stumps will not be accepted. • Twigs and branches should be placed in biodegradable bags and or tied with biodegradable twine in packages no greater than six (6) feet in length. • No duct tape or binding other than biodegradable twine is allowed. • Mud and dirt should be cleared from all twigs and branches. • Materials prohibited from being dropped off at the site are sod, soil, stones. demolition materials, stumps, logs (greater than four inches in diameter), trash or treated lumber. John Miller and Son, Inc. also accepts cardboard, paperboard, office paper and most metals free of charge. Upper Hanover to Host Relay for Life in 2016 E ach year, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer through the American Cancer Society’s signature event, Relay For Life. Upper Perkiomen is hosting its 18th annual Relay For Life event for a 12-hour period from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on May 14, 2016 at the beautiful Camelot Park in Upper Hanover township. Relay For Life is an event hosted by community members that invites all to participate in the largest celebration of the year. Together, we celebrate survivors for what they have overcome, remember those lost to the disease, support those still fighting, and fight back to take action against a disease that has taken too much. Community members, friends, and family are encouraged to join the event by registering on a team or as a participant at www.relayforlife.org/paupperperk. We encourage all survivors to register on the same website and join us for a complimentary lunch and survivor ceremony the day of Relay so we can honor each and every person who has been affected by this disease. Join us in the fight against cancer this year as we celebrate a world with less cancer and more birthdays! Any questions, contact Relay For Life Community Manager Kati Ruggiano at 404-329-5136 or at kati.ruggiano@cancer.org. 4 11 Spotted Lanternfly Found in Upper Hanover Township T he spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that can kill some trees, has been found in Upper Hanover Township, prompting the Department Agriculture to declare a general quarantine. East Greenville, Pennsburg, and Red Hill boroughs are also affected. The general quarantine restricts movement of any material or object that can spread the pest. This includes firewood or wood products, brush or yard waste, remodeling or construction materials and waste, packing material like boxes, grapevines for decorative purposes or as nursery stock, and any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps and other equipment, trucks or vehicles typically not stored indoors. Businesses in the general quarantine area need to obtain a Certificate of Limited Permit from the department in order to move articles. Criminal and civil penalties of up to $20,000 and prison time can be imposed for violations by businesses or individuals. The Spotted Lanternfly, which has no known impacts to human health, is an inch-long black, red and white spotted pest and is native to China, India, Japan and Vietnam. It’s an invasive species in Korea, where it has attacked 25 plant species which also grow in Pennsylvania. Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, attacks grapes, apples, pines and stone fruits. It often attaches to the bark of Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) – sometimes referred to as Paradise Tree – an invasive species similar to Sumac that can be found around parking lots or along tree lines. Adults often cluster in groups and lay egg masses containing 30-50 eggs that adhere to flat surfaces including tree bark. Freshly laid egg masses have a grey waxy mud-like coating, while hatched eggs appear as brownish seed-like deposits in four to seven columns about an inch long. Trees attacked by the Spotted Lanternfly will show a grey or black trail of sap down the trunk. New to the United States, the invasive insect was first found in Berks County last fall. The department is investigating the quarantined and surrounding areas to assess the spread and impact of the pest. October and November, when the insects are in their adult stage, is the easiest time to scan for and find the pest in a new area. Residents in and around the quarantine areas are encouraged to inspect their properties for spotted lanternfly. Additional townships may be added to the quarantine, but with the identification of each infestation, we come one step closer to controlling spotted lanternfly and the damage it might cause our economy and our environment. All Pennsylvanians are encouraged to watch for the Spotted Lanternfly and offered the following suggestions: ● In months when adults are active, do a quick inspection of your vehicle any time you move in or near a quarantine area, to find any spotted lanternfly hitchhikers. Taxes Remain at Same Rate Since 2006 T he Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors is pleased to announce the 2016 Township Budget will be adopted with taxes remaining at the same level for the eleventh consecutive year. The 1.45 total real estate millage tax rate in effect in 2016 will consist of .8 mills for general purposes, .2 mills for highway improvements, .2 mills for open space, .2 mills for fire protection and .05 mills for ambulance service. No new taxes are proposed. All other taxes, including the earned income tax and occupational privilege /local services tax will remain at the same rate as in 2015. The Township Budget consists of nine (9) separate operating funds. The $2.6 million dollar General Fund is the primary operating fund for general municipal purposes, including Administration, Tax Collection, Public Works, Engineering, Legal, Code Enforcement and Planning and Zoning. Revenue sources include the real-property tax, Act 511 taxes, fees, grants and shared state intergovernmental revenue. The other eight (8) operating funds are the Machinery Fund, Road Improvement Fund, Open Space Fund, Parks and Recreation Fund, Capital Reserve Fund, State Aid Fund, Sinking Fund and Escrow Fund. ● If you see eggs on trees or other smooth outdoor surfaces: Scrape them off, double bag them and throw them in the garbage, or place the eggs in alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill them. If you collect a specimen: ● First, place the sample in alcohol or hand sanitizer in a leak proof container. ● Submit the specimen to your county Penn State Extension office or to the department’s Entomology Lab for verification. ● Don’t move live specimens around, even within the quarantined area. There are many places under quarantine that do not yet have active populations of spotted lanternfly – you do not want to help them establish a new home base. ● If you take a photo: Submit photo of adults or egg masses to badbug@pa.gov. ● If you report a site: Call the Invasive Species report line at 1-866-253-7189 with details of the sighting and your contact information. While Pennsylvanians can submit suspect spotted lanternfly to the department headquarters in Harrisburg or to its six regional office locations, county Penn State Extension offices are often a closer, faster option. Service Awards T he Township honored Kim Jacobs with a five-year Service Recognition Award for his dedicated efforts on the Township Historical Committee. From left to right: Township Supervisors Steve Rothenberger and Rich Fain, Mr. Jacobs, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried, and Township Supervisors Dottie Diehl and Ben Fiorito. T he Township honored Robert J. Piccone with a five-year Service Recognition Award for his dedicated efforts on the Upper Hanover Township Industrial Development Authority. From left to right: Township Solicitor Steven English, Township Supervisor Steve Rothenberger, Mr. Piccone, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried and Township Supervisors Rich Fain and Ben Fiorito. T he Township honored Stan Seitzinger, Jr. with a 15-year Service Recognition Award as the Upper Hanover Township Manager. From left to right: Township Supervisors Steve Rothenberger and Rich Fain, Mr. Seitzinger, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried and Township Supervisors Dottie Diehl and Ben Fiorito. Scout Project J acob Norton of Boy Scout Troop 108 constructed the Wildflower Meadow display case at Camelot Park as part of his Eagle Scout award. The graphic and the wildflower meadow is a project completed by Sherri Law for her Girl Scout Gold Award. 10 5 Memorial Park Bench Program Gene Fried and Ben Fiorito Re-Elected to Board of Supervisors R G The cost for each bench is $635. Order forms are available on the Township website at www.upperhanovertownship.org or by calling the Township Office at 215-679-4401. Gene was originally elected to the Board of Supervisors for a term starting on January 1, 2008 that completed the unexpired term of former Township Supervisor Willard Kershner and was re-elected to a full six-year term starting January 1, 2010. Elected as Chairman in 2014, Gene serves on the Parks and Recreation Committee, the Public Safety Committee and the Roads and Bridges Committee. A Vietnam veteran of the United State Air Force, Gene is a retired Pennsylvania State Trooper with more than 36 years of law enforcement experience. esidents may purchase a 6-foot Memorial Park Bench with a 2.5-inch by 10-inch Corian plaque in honor of or in memory of a family member or friend. The benches will be placed at either Camelot Park or Macoby Run Park where relatives and friends can visit and remember a loved one. TNT Softball Tournament Camelot Park was the setting for a TNT Softball Tournament this summer. ene Fried and Ben Fiorito were recently re-elected to six year terms on the Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors. The new terms run from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2021. Ben was elected to his first term on the Board of Supervisors starting on January 1, 2010. Ben has served as the Assistant Township Treasurer and is the Chairman of the Township’s Finance Committee while also serving on the Roads and Bridges Committee. A Vietnam Veteran of the United State Army, Ben is a retired Purchasing Manager at Knoll, Inc. Be Alert. Be Informed. Be ReadyMontco There is no direct cost to sign up for ReadyMontco. However, there may be charges for certain features (like receiving text messages) so it's best to double check with your service providers. E mergencies and disasters strike quickly and often without warning. They can disrupt our lives, force us to leave our homes, or even confine us for days without essential services like electricity, phones, or water. How ready are you and your family? One of the first things you can do is sign up for the ReadyMontco notification system. This program delivers alerts about severe weather and other important events in Montgomery County to the devices of your choice. Whether you prefer emails, text messages, or even a good ol' fashioned phone call you decide the option that works for you! ReadyMontco replaced the ReadyNotifyPA system in June 2015 as the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, along with its emergency management partners in the Southeastern Pennsylvania region, switched providers of our notification system. To create an account, go to montcopa.org and click on the “ReadyMontco” link on the left side of the page. Township History Book in the Works As part of our year-long celebration next year, Larry Roeder will publish a commemorative book about the township’s rich history. The working title of the book is “Upper Hanover Township - Celebrating 275 Years of History - 1741 - 2016.” FREE CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING We’ll let you know when and where you can purchase your copy of the book. In the meantime, here are a few sample pages to whet your appetite! A fter the holidays you can recycle that used Christmas tree and have the wood turned into environmentally friendly wood mulch instead of having to bother with trashing, burning or chopping up that ghost of Christmas past. Please plan on participating and mark your calendar early! • WHEN: Saturday, January 9, 2016 – 8am to noon • WHERE: John Miller and Son, Inc., 2542 Geryville Pike, Pennsburg, PA 18073 • DIRECTIONS: Heading North on Route 663 turn right at Geryville Pike. Continue 2.5 miles on Geryville Pike past the intersection with James Road and past the entrance to The Loft at Sweetwater Country Club. Cross the small bridge and the John Miller and Son, Inc. facility is located approximately 50 yards further on the right hand side. SPECIAL NOTES: • Try to clear off any remaining tinsel or other decorations. • There is no limitation on height or width. • If the tree includes a root ball, please remove as much dirt as possible prior to drop-off. • Real trees only. Artificial trees cannot be accepted for recycling. The Upper Hanover Township Historical Committee T he Upper Hanover Township Historical Committee is seeking information on Military Veterans (serving in wartime or peace) who lived in Upper Hanover Township during their time of service, for publication in the upcoming historical publication highlighting the Township's 275-year history. We are seeking the name, branch of service, period of service (i.e. 1941 - 1943), rank when discharged (optional), as we compile a list to be included in the book. Please email the information to Historical Committee Chairman, Larry Roeder, at ljrpublishing@gmail.com or by U.S. Mail to Town and Country Newspaper, PO Box 462, Red Hill, Pa. 18076. Information should be received by Dec. 31, 2015. 9 6 From the Upper Perkiomen Valley Library Authority Acts to Protect Source Water A Branch of the Montgomery County – Norristown Public Library 350 Main Street, Red Hill, PA 18076 • 215-679-2020 • upvlibrary.org As a resident of Upper Hanover Township you are eligible to use our extensive services. Library hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 8 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Experts tell us that children need to hear a thousand stories read aloud before they begin to learn to read for themselves. Prepare your child to succeed in school by participating in our 1,000 books Before Kindergarten program. Pick up a log at the library, color a picture for each book you read with your child, and earn stickers for every 100 books read. After 500 books your child’s name will go on a wall display in the library. After finishing 1,000 books your child will earn a certificate, pick a new book from our list to add to our collection with his/her name displayed in the front of the book, and have a photo taken to be hung on our “star reader” wall of fame. This club has no end date except your child’s first day of kindergarten, so don’t feel rushed…just enjoy the experience. If you read three stories a day, you and your child will have read over 1,000 books in a year. You will have also shared many special moments along the way. Whether or not you participate in 1,000 books Before Kindergarten, the library is a great destination for families with small children. Teach them to love learning while socializing with other children at one of our many story times. Throughout the year Babygarten (0-18 months) is held Mondays at 10 a.m., Toddler Story Time (1-3 years) is Mondays at 11 a.m., and Preschool Story Time (3-6 years) is held Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. From October through June, the first Wednesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. we host Tiny Explorers story time. At this STEM-inspired program we read a story and explore a related activity station. The second Wednesday of each month at 10:30am from October through June only, we offer Shake It Up, a music and movement class for 3-6 year olds. No registration is required for any of these preschool programs. Caregivers are expected to attend and participate with their children. T here is plenty at the library for residents over six as well! Check our website for details on Lego Club, craft nights, adult bridge and Scrabble groups, Socrates Café, and adult book club. Extensive electronic resources are available to Upper Hanover Township residents through the library, most from your home or mobile device. Cypress Resume can help you create professional looking resumes, cover letters, and reference lists in minutes. Through Power Library you can access Pennsylvania job resources such as Job Gateway. You can find model specific instructions for fixing your car. It’s also a great resource for finding age appropriate articles for school projects. There is a Teacher Reference Center with over 280 peer-reviewed journals as well as full text access to 1,200 current U.S. and international newspapers. You can check out eBooks and digital magazines or order print books from other libraries. Having trouble with your computer at home? Use the library’s public computers with free internet access and word processing. Printing costs 15¢ a page. Our friendly staff members will gladly help you if you need it. L astly, thank you to all Upper Hanover residents who supported the library through our fall appeal. Without the support of the township and individual residents we could not maintain our current level of services. We are grateful for your help and we are here for you. You can also support the library by a shopping at or donating to the Community Thrift Shop on 4th Street in Pennsburg, shopping online at www.smile.amazon.com (choose the Upper Perkiomen Valley Library Association as your charity), or attending our 25th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction in February. The wine tasting is the biggest fundraiser of the year for our library. 2016’s anniversary event will be held in the Perkiomen School’s newly renovated Parents’ Hall. The chosen theme is “Wines From Around the World”. Call the library at 215-679-2020 or visit www.upvlibrary.org for more information. We’d love to hear from you. T he Upper Hanover Authority Board is participating in the development and adoption of the Upper Perkiomen Watershed Regional Source Water Protection Program. The Authority is partnering with East Greenville Borough and the Red Hill Water Authority to provide regional source water protection and safe drinking water to consumers. In 2013, the Upper Hanover Authority and Red Hill applied for assistance from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Source Water Protection Technical Assistance Program to develop a comprehensive source water protection plan. East Greenville Borough had developed a source water protection plan in 2007 and their information was included in this project. The Upper Hanover Authority, Red Hill Water Authority, and East Greenville Borough draw drinking water from groundwater wells, a creek and a spring to serve a total population of 12,000. The water systems participating in this plan desire to develop a source water protection plan that protects the water resources from pollution by managing possible sources of contamination. The study area for the plan included portions of Montgomery, Berks, Lehigh, and Bucks counties as well as the Perkiomen Creek. The Upper Hanover water system consists of four groundwater wells located in Upper Hanover and Hereford Townships, supplying an average demand of 830,000 gallons per day to its customers. The water system has an interconnection with the Red Hill Water Authority and with East Greenville Borough. Red Hill Water Authority has an additional two groundwater wells in Upper Hanover Township and a groundwater spring in Upper Milford Township providing an average demand in excess of 206,000 gallons per day to its customers in Red Hill Borough. East Greenville Borough uses the Perkiomen Creek and a groundwater well to provide water service to the customers of East Greenville Borough. A significant purpose of the plan is to delineate protection zones around each water source. The most protective zone, Zone I, surrounds each groundwater well for a combined area of 31 acres in Hereford Township, Upper Milford Township and Upper Hanover Township. The second most protective zone, Zone II, represents the area from which groundwater has a high probability of reaching a well in fewer than ten years. The combined Zone II areas for Upper Hanover Authority and Red Hill Water Authority is 2,748 acres in multiple municipalities. Zone III is the furthest extent of the water subbasin that can contribute water to the well capture zone and encompasses over 26 square miles in additional portions of Berks, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Bucks counties. Potential threats include transportation corridors, agriculture, industrial/commercial sites like landfills, and railroads. Field surveys identified 106 sites of potential concern needing further investigation to determine the level of threat at each site. The Upper Hanover Authority will use a variety of management options to continue the research, development and education of this plan in a comprehensive approach to protect its water supply including the following: work cooperatively with Upper Hanover Township to educate residents and implement the plan; work closely with local and county first emergency responders in the event of a spill or accident that may threaten the water supply and minimize any potential impacts; prepare steps to take to replace sources in the event that an existing source becomes unusable, working with DEP and other partners to identify, develop, and permit additional sources. How You Can Help Protect Source Water Dispose of motor oil at a garage that will recycle it. Never pour oil on the ground or in a storm drain or sewer on the street. Pump out your septic system every two or three years. Look under “Septic Tanks” in the Yellow Pages to find a contractor. Bring household hazardous waste – such as paint, varnishes, and other chemicals – to a county waste collection site. Call ahead or check the county website for dates. Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides on your lawn and garden. If you drill a new well, make sure the old one is properly closed and abandoned. Do not dump swimming pool water into a creek or storm drain at the end of the season. If possible, direct the water into the sanitary sewer. Otherwise, wait until the chlorine diminishes and then direct pool water onto grass, forest, or other natural areas. Remember, anything you throw or store on the ground can find its way into the water supply. Store and handle chemicals properly. Call the regional Department of Environmental Protection office at 484-250-5900 immediately if you observe a chemical spill. For additional information, contact Pennsylvania DEP (www.dep.state.pa.us); Watershed Protection (www.epa.gov/owow); Center for Watershed Protection (www.cwp.org); Drinking Water (www.drinkingwaterwise.org); Source Water Collaborative (www.sourcewatercollaborative.org); American Waterworks Association (www.awwa.org); Water Resources Education Network (www.sourcewaterpa.org); 8 7 James Road Paving Keeping Our Roads in Good Shape S ummer and fall are busy times for our Public Works Department performing road maintenance and other improvement projects. Here are a few examples: Oil and Chip Surface Treatment Projects 2015 Roads completed included Frye Road, Gramm Road, Rittenhouse Road, Third Street, Slotter Road, Township Woods Road and St. Paul’s Church Road. Inlet Box on Water Street Corning Road Paving ● Township Bridge Maintenance Program – Gordon H. Baver, Inc. recently completed a bridge maintenance project on 11 of the Township’s 27 locally owned bridges. The tasks included a wide variety of maintenance activities designed to prolong the life of these important aspects of the transportation infrastructure. With all locally-owned bridges inspected once every two years, the Board of Supervisors is continuing this program on an ongoing basis to assure the safety and convenience of the traveling public ● Route 663 Bridge over West Branch of the Perkiomen Creek – PennDOT’s Rapid Bridge Replacement Program is working toward a 2017 start date for the replacement of this state-owned bridge. Construction will last seven months. No detours will be necessary and two- lane traffic will be maintained during construction. However, travel may be reduced to one lane from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ● Knight Road Bridge Replacement – The bridge replacement was bid by Montgomery County and construction is expected to start before the end of 2015. This is the westernmost, smaller bridge located on the narrow isthmus portion of Knight Road. A full detour is planned as part of the 18-month construction project. The existing 83-foot structure will be replaced with a single-span, multi-girder bridge with a span length of 148 feet. The design will not include separate bike lanes. ● Fruitville Road Bridge Replacement – The new bid date for the replacement of the existing Montgomery County-owned bridge is early 2019. The bridge project will be funded 80 percent through the federal government, 15 percent through the state, and 5 percent through Montgomery County. Upper Hanover Township will accept ownership of the new bridge upon completion with shared maintenance between Montgomery County and the Upper Hanover Township for the next 25 years. ● Route 663 Bridge Over Reservoir – A recent inspection of the Penndot owned bridge resulted in the placement of a 15 ton (30,000 lb) weight limit restriction. Currently in design for a deck/superstructure replacement, the estimated let date for the project is April of 2016 with an expected completion date of early 2017. A one lane traffic restriction will likely apply during the term of the construction. 8 7 James Road Paving Keeping Our Roads in Good Shape S ummer and fall are busy times for our Public Works Department performing road maintenance and other improvement projects. Here are a few examples: Oil and Chip Surface Treatment Projects 2015 Roads completed included Frye Road, Gramm Road, Rittenhouse Road, Third Street, Slotter Road, Township Woods Road and St. Paul’s Church Road. Inlet Box on Water Street Corning Road Paving ● Township Bridge Maintenance Program – Gordon H. Baver, Inc. recently completed a bridge maintenance project on 11 of the Township’s 27 locally owned bridges. The tasks included a wide variety of maintenance activities designed to prolong the life of these important aspects of the transportation infrastructure. With all locally-owned bridges inspected once every two years, the Board of Supervisors is continuing this program on an ongoing basis to assure the safety and convenience of the traveling public ● Route 663 Bridge over West Branch of the Perkiomen Creek – PennDOT’s Rapid Bridge Replacement Program is working toward a 2017 start date for the replacement of this state-owned bridge. Construction will last seven months. No detours will be necessary and two- lane traffic will be maintained during construction. However, travel may be reduced to one lane from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ● Knight Road Bridge Replacement – The bridge replacement was bid by Montgomery County and construction is expected to start before the end of 2015. This is the westernmost, smaller bridge located on the narrow isthmus portion of Knight Road. A full detour is planned as part of the 18-month construction project. The existing 83-foot structure will be replaced with a single-span, multi-girder bridge with a span length of 148 feet. The design will not include separate bike lanes. ● Fruitville Road Bridge Replacement – The new bid date for the replacement of the existing Montgomery County-owned bridge is early 2019. The bridge project will be funded 80 percent through the federal government, 15 percent through the state, and 5 percent through Montgomery County. Upper Hanover Township will accept ownership of the new bridge upon completion with shared maintenance between Montgomery County and the Upper Hanover Township for the next 25 years. ● Route 663 Bridge Over Reservoir – A recent inspection of the Penndot owned bridge resulted in the placement of a 15 ton (30,000 lb) weight limit restriction. Currently in design for a deck/superstructure replacement, the estimated let date for the project is April of 2016 with an expected completion date of early 2017. A one lane traffic restriction will likely apply during the term of the construction. 9 6 From the Upper Perkiomen Valley Library Authority Acts to Protect Source Water A Branch of the Montgomery County – Norristown Public Library 350 Main Street, Red Hill, PA 18076 • 215-679-2020 • upvlibrary.org As a resident of Upper Hanover Township you are eligible to use our extensive services. Library hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 8 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Experts tell us that children need to hear a thousand stories read aloud before they begin to learn to read for themselves. Prepare your child to succeed in school by participating in our 1,000 books Before Kindergarten program. Pick up a log at the library, color a picture for each book you read with your child, and earn stickers for every 100 books read. After 500 books your child’s name will go on a wall display in the library. After finishing 1,000 books your child will earn a certificate, pick a new book from our list to add to our collection with his/her name displayed in the front of the book, and have a photo taken to be hung on our “star reader” wall of fame. This club has no end date except your child’s first day of kindergarten, so don’t feel rushed…just enjoy the experience. If you read three stories a day, you and your child will have read over 1,000 books in a year. You will have also shared many special moments along the way. Whether or not you participate in 1,000 books Before Kindergarten, the library is a great destination for families with small children. Teach them to love learning while socializing with other children at one of our many story times. Throughout the year Babygarten (0-18 months) is held Mondays at 10 a.m., Toddler Story Time (1-3 years) is Mondays at 11 a.m., and Preschool Story Time (3-6 years) is held Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. From October through June, the first Wednesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. we host Tiny Explorers story time. At this STEM-inspired program we read a story and explore a related activity station. The second Wednesday of each month at 10:30am from October through June only, we offer Shake It Up, a music and movement class for 3-6 year olds. No registration is required for any of these preschool programs. Caregivers are expected to attend and participate with their children. T here is plenty at the library for residents over six as well! Check our website for details on Lego Club, craft nights, adult bridge and Scrabble groups, Socrates Café, and adult book club. Extensive electronic resources are available to Upper Hanover Township residents through the library, most from your home or mobile device. Cypress Resume can help you create professional looking resumes, cover letters, and reference lists in minutes. Through Power Library you can access Pennsylvania job resources such as Job Gateway. You can find model specific instructions for fixing your car. It’s also a great resource for finding age appropriate articles for school projects. There is a Teacher Reference Center with over 280 peer-reviewed journals as well as full text access to 1,200 current U.S. and international newspapers. You can check out eBooks and digital magazines or order print books from other libraries. Having trouble with your computer at home? Use the library’s public computers with free internet access and word processing. Printing costs 15¢ a page. Our friendly staff members will gladly help you if you need it. L astly, thank you to all Upper Hanover residents who supported the library through our fall appeal. Without the support of the township and individual residents we could not maintain our current level of services. We are grateful for your help and we are here for you. You can also support the library by a shopping at or donating to the Community Thrift Shop on 4th Street in Pennsburg, shopping online at www.smile.amazon.com (choose the Upper Perkiomen Valley Library Association as your charity), or attending our 25th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction in February. The wine tasting is the biggest fundraiser of the year for our library. 2016’s anniversary event will be held in the Perkiomen School’s newly renovated Parents’ Hall. The chosen theme is “Wines From Around the World”. Call the library at 215-679-2020 or visit www.upvlibrary.org for more information. We’d love to hear from you. T he Upper Hanover Authority Board is participating in the development and adoption of the Upper Perkiomen Watershed Regional Source Water Protection Program. The Authority is partnering with East Greenville Borough and the Red Hill Water Authority to provide regional source water protection and safe drinking water to consumers. In 2013, the Upper Hanover Authority and Red Hill applied for assistance from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Source Water Protection Technical Assistance Program to develop a comprehensive source water protection plan. East Greenville Borough had developed a source water protection plan in 2007 and their information was included in this project. The Upper Hanover Authority, Red Hill Water Authority, and East Greenville Borough draw drinking water from groundwater wells, a creek and a spring to serve a total population of 12,000. The water systems participating in this plan desire to develop a source water protection plan that protects the water resources from pollution by managing possible sources of contamination. The study area for the plan included portions of Montgomery, Berks, Lehigh, and Bucks counties as well as the Perkiomen Creek. The Upper Hanover water system consists of four groundwater wells located in Upper Hanover and Hereford Townships, supplying an average demand of 830,000 gallons per day to its customers. The water system has an interconnection with the Red Hill Water Authority and with East Greenville Borough. Red Hill Water Authority has an additional two groundwater wells in Upper Hanover Township and a groundwater spring in Upper Milford Township providing an average demand in excess of 206,000 gallons per day to its customers in Red Hill Borough. East Greenville Borough uses the Perkiomen Creek and a groundwater well to provide water service to the customers of East Greenville Borough. A significant purpose of the plan is to delineate protection zones around each water source. The most protective zone, Zone I, surrounds each groundwater well for a combined area of 31 acres in Hereford Township, Upper Milford Township and Upper Hanover Township. The second most protective zone, Zone II, represents the area from which groundwater has a high probability of reaching a well in fewer than ten years. The combined Zone II areas for Upper Hanover Authority and Red Hill Water Authority is 2,748 acres in multiple municipalities. Zone III is the furthest extent of the water subbasin that can contribute water to the well capture zone and encompasses over 26 square miles in additional portions of Berks, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Bucks counties. Potential threats include transportation corridors, agriculture, industrial/commercial sites like landfills, and railroads. Field surveys identified 106 sites of potential concern needing further investigation to determine the level of threat at each site. The Upper Hanover Authority will use a variety of management options to continue the research, development and education of this plan in a comprehensive approach to protect its water supply including the following: work cooperatively with Upper Hanover Township to educate residents and implement the plan; work closely with local and county first emergency responders in the event of a spill or accident that may threaten the water supply and minimize any potential impacts; prepare steps to take to replace sources in the event that an existing source becomes unusable, working with DEP and other partners to identify, develop, and permit additional sources. How You Can Help Protect Source Water Dispose of motor oil at a garage that will recycle it. Never pour oil on the ground or in a storm drain or sewer on the street. Pump out your septic system every two or three years. Look under “Septic Tanks” in the Yellow Pages to find a contractor. Bring household hazardous waste – such as paint, varnishes, and other chemicals – to a county waste collection site. Call ahead or check the county website for dates. Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides on your lawn and garden. If you drill a new well, make sure the old one is properly closed and abandoned. Do not dump swimming pool water into a creek or storm drain at the end of the season. If possible, direct the water into the sanitary sewer. Otherwise, wait until the chlorine diminishes and then direct pool water onto grass, forest, or other natural areas. Remember, anything you throw or store on the ground can find its way into the water supply. Store and handle chemicals properly. Call the regional Department of Environmental Protection office at 484-250-5900 immediately if you observe a chemical spill. For additional information, contact Pennsylvania DEP (www.dep.state.pa.us); Watershed Protection (www.epa.gov/owow); Center for Watershed Protection (www.cwp.org); Drinking Water (www.drinkingwaterwise.org); Source Water Collaborative (www.sourcewatercollaborative.org); American Waterworks Association (www.awwa.org); Water Resources Education Network (www.sourcewaterpa.org); 10 5 Memorial Park Bench Program Gene Fried and Ben Fiorito Re-Elected to Board of Supervisors R G The cost for each bench is $635. Order forms are available on the Township website at www.upperhanovertownship.org or by calling the Township Office at 215-679-4401. Gene was originally elected to the Board of Supervisors for a term starting on January 1, 2008 that completed the unexpired term of former Township Supervisor Willard Kershner and was re-elected to a full six-year term starting January 1, 2010. Elected as Chairman in 2014, Gene serves on the Parks and Recreation Committee, the Public Safety Committee and the Roads and Bridges Committee. A Vietnam veteran of the United State Air Force, Gene is a retired Pennsylvania State Trooper with more than 36 years of law enforcement experience. esidents may purchase a 6-foot Memorial Park Bench with a 2.5-inch by 10-inch Corian plaque in honor of or in memory of a family member or friend. The benches will be placed at either Camelot Park or Macoby Run Park where relatives and friends can visit and remember a loved one. TNT Softball Tournament Camelot Park was the setting for a TNT Softball Tournament this summer. ene Fried and Ben Fiorito were recently re-elected to six year terms on the Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors. The new terms run from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2021. Ben was elected to his first term on the Board of Supervisors starting on January 1, 2010. Ben has served as the Assistant Township Treasurer and is the Chairman of the Township’s Finance Committee while also serving on the Roads and Bridges Committee. A Vietnam Veteran of the United State Army, Ben is a retired Purchasing Manager at Knoll, Inc. Be Alert. Be Informed. Be ReadyMontco There is no direct cost to sign up for ReadyMontco. However, there may be charges for certain features (like receiving text messages) so it's best to double check with your service providers. E mergencies and disasters strike quickly and often without warning. They can disrupt our lives, force us to leave our homes, or even confine us for days without essential services like electricity, phones, or water. How ready are you and your family? One of the first things you can do is sign up for the ReadyMontco notification system. This program delivers alerts about severe weather and other important events in Montgomery County to the devices of your choice. Whether you prefer emails, text messages, or even a good ol' fashioned phone call you decide the option that works for you! ReadyMontco replaced the ReadyNotifyPA system in June 2015 as the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, along with its emergency management partners in the Southeastern Pennsylvania region, switched providers of our notification system. To create an account, go to montcopa.org and click on the “ReadyMontco” link on the left side of the page. Township History Book in the Works As part of our year-long celebration next year, Larry Roeder will publish a commemorative book about the township’s rich history. The working title of the book is “Upper Hanover Township - Celebrating 275 Years of History - 1741 - 2016.” FREE CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING We’ll let you know when and where you can purchase your copy of the book. In the meantime, here are a few sample pages to whet your appetite! A fter the holidays you can recycle that used Christmas tree and have the wood turned into environmentally friendly wood mulch instead of having to bother with trashing, burning or chopping up that ghost of Christmas past. Please plan on participating and mark your calendar early! • WHEN: Saturday, January 9, 2016 – 8am to noon • WHERE: John Miller and Son, Inc., 2542 Geryville Pike, Pennsburg, PA 18073 • DIRECTIONS: Heading North on Route 663 turn right at Geryville Pike. Continue 2.5 miles on Geryville Pike past the intersection with James Road and past the entrance to The Loft at Sweetwater Country Club. Cross the small bridge and the John Miller and Son, Inc. facility is located approximately 50 yards further on the right hand side. SPECIAL NOTES: • Try to clear off any remaining tinsel or other decorations. • There is no limitation on height or width. • If the tree includes a root ball, please remove as much dirt as possible prior to drop-off. • Real trees only. Artificial trees cannot be accepted for recycling. The Upper Hanover Township Historical Committee T he Upper Hanover Township Historical Committee is seeking information on Military Veterans (serving in wartime or peace) who lived in Upper Hanover Township during their time of service, for publication in the upcoming historical publication highlighting the Township's 275-year history. We are seeking the name, branch of service, period of service (i.e. 1941 - 1943), rank when discharged (optional), as we compile a list to be included in the book. Please email the information to Historical Committee Chairman, Larry Roeder, at ljrpublishing@gmail.com or by U.S. Mail to Town and Country Newspaper, PO Box 462, Red Hill, Pa. 18076. Information should be received by Dec. 31, 2015. 4 11 Spotted Lanternfly Found in Upper Hanover Township T he spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that can kill some trees, has been found in Upper Hanover Township, prompting the Department Agriculture to declare a general quarantine. East Greenville, Pennsburg, and Red Hill boroughs are also affected. The general quarantine restricts movement of any material or object that can spread the pest. This includes firewood or wood products, brush or yard waste, remodeling or construction materials and waste, packing material like boxes, grapevines for decorative purposes or as nursery stock, and any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps and other equipment, trucks or vehicles typically not stored indoors. Businesses in the general quarantine area need to obtain a Certificate of Limited Permit from the department in order to move articles. Criminal and civil penalties of up to $20,000 and prison time can be imposed for violations by businesses or individuals. The Spotted Lanternfly, which has no known impacts to human health, is an inch-long black, red and white spotted pest and is native to China, India, Japan and Vietnam. It’s an invasive species in Korea, where it has attacked 25 plant species which also grow in Pennsylvania. Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, attacks grapes, apples, pines and stone fruits. It often attaches to the bark of Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) – sometimes referred to as Paradise Tree – an invasive species similar to Sumac that can be found around parking lots or along tree lines. Adults often cluster in groups and lay egg masses containing 30-50 eggs that adhere to flat surfaces including tree bark. Freshly laid egg masses have a grey waxy mud-like coating, while hatched eggs appear as brownish seed-like deposits in four to seven columns about an inch long. Trees attacked by the Spotted Lanternfly will show a grey or black trail of sap down the trunk. New to the United States, the invasive insect was first found in Berks County last fall. The department is investigating the quarantined and surrounding areas to assess the spread and impact of the pest. October and November, when the insects are in their adult stage, is the easiest time to scan for and find the pest in a new area. Residents in and around the quarantine areas are encouraged to inspect their properties for spotted lanternfly. Additional townships may be added to the quarantine, but with the identification of each infestation, we come one step closer to controlling spotted lanternfly and the damage it might cause our economy and our environment. All Pennsylvanians are encouraged to watch for the Spotted Lanternfly and offered the following suggestions: ● In months when adults are active, do a quick inspection of your vehicle any time you move in or near a quarantine area, to find any spotted lanternfly hitchhikers. Taxes Remain at Same Rate Since 2006 T he Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors is pleased to announce the 2016 Township Budget will be adopted with taxes remaining at the same level for the eleventh consecutive year. The 1.45 total real estate millage tax rate in effect in 2016 will consist of .8 mills for general purposes, .2 mills for highway improvements, .2 mills for open space, .2 mills for fire protection and .05 mills for ambulance service. No new taxes are proposed. All other taxes, including the earned income tax and occupational privilege /local services tax will remain at the same rate as in 2015. The Township Budget consists of nine (9) separate operating funds. The $2.6 million dollar General Fund is the primary operating fund for general municipal purposes, including Administration, Tax Collection, Public Works, Engineering, Legal, Code Enforcement and Planning and Zoning. Revenue sources include the real-property tax, Act 511 taxes, fees, grants and shared state intergovernmental revenue. The other eight (8) operating funds are the Machinery Fund, Road Improvement Fund, Open Space Fund, Parks and Recreation Fund, Capital Reserve Fund, State Aid Fund, Sinking Fund and Escrow Fund. ● If you see eggs on trees or other smooth outdoor surfaces: Scrape them off, double bag them and throw them in the garbage, or place the eggs in alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill them. If you collect a specimen: ● First, place the sample in alcohol or hand sanitizer in a leak proof container. ● Submit the specimen to your county Penn State Extension office or to the department’s Entomology Lab for verification. ● Don’t move live specimens around, even within the quarantined area. There are many places under quarantine that do not yet have active populations of spotted lanternfly – you do not want to help them establish a new home base. ● If you take a photo: Submit photo of adults or egg masses to badbug@pa.gov. ● If you report a site: Call the Invasive Species report line at 1-866-253-7189 with details of the sighting and your contact information. While Pennsylvanians can submit suspect spotted lanternfly to the department headquarters in Harrisburg or to its six regional office locations, county Penn State Extension offices are often a closer, faster option. Service Awards T he Township honored Kim Jacobs with a five-year Service Recognition Award for his dedicated efforts on the Township Historical Committee. From left to right: Township Supervisors Steve Rothenberger and Rich Fain, Mr. Jacobs, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried, and Township Supervisors Dottie Diehl and Ben Fiorito. T he Township honored Robert J. Piccone with a five-year Service Recognition Award for his dedicated efforts on the Upper Hanover Township Industrial Development Authority. From left to right: Township Solicitor Steven English, Township Supervisor Steve Rothenberger, Mr. Piccone, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried and Township Supervisors Rich Fain and Ben Fiorito. T he Township honored Stan Seitzinger, Jr. with a 15-year Service Recognition Award as the Upper Hanover Township Manager. From left to right: Township Supervisors Steve Rothenberger and Rich Fain, Mr. Seitzinger, Township Supervisor Chairman Gene Fried and Township Supervisors Dottie Diehl and Ben Fiorito. Scout Project J acob Norton of Boy Scout Troop 108 constructed the Wildflower Meadow display case at Camelot Park as part of his Eagle Scout award. The graphic and the wildflower meadow is a project completed by Sherri Law for her Girl Scout Gold Award. 12 3 How You Can Help When It Snows T he Upper Hanover Township Property Maintenance Code specifies that where sidewalks exist between a property line and the road cartway, the property owner responsible is required to have at least a two-foot wide path cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours after precipitation has stopped falling. When more than 12 inches of snow has fallen, the property owner responsible for the sidewalk has 48 hours to clear the path. Please remove your vehicles from all public streets during snow or ice emergencies. The snowplows can operate more efficiently and safely if the roads are cleared of vehicles. Please do not direct snow from your property onto the public streets when shoveling or clearing your property. The accumulation of snow and ice on an already cleared road surface presents a hazard for the traveling public. Inspect and maintain your mailbox post prior to the winter season and verify that the location is suitable to minimize possible damage by heavy, plowed snow. Be sure to clear any ice or snow from your vehicles roof and windows prior to driving in order to comply with state Vehicle Code requirements. Play it safe and try to stay at home during winter snow emergencies, if possible. Winter Driving Tips W ith the threat of winter weather looming, there are a few routine things that you can do to drive safely under difficult conditions. First, consider getting your vehicle serviced. By winterizing your vehicle, you can be sure your vehicle’s fluids are at their proper levels, your car battery has the sufficient amount of power, and any needed repairs can be made before the temperature plunge. Inspect wiper blades and replace those that are ineffective. Also be sure to check your tires for acceptable tread depth, for uneven wear, and ensure that they are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. One of the biggest problems with snow or ice is that we forget how we drove on it last year. Once the snow starts to fall and stick on the roadways, remember to drive slowly. Many times during the winter season you will have to drive well below the posted maximum speed limit. As the tires will not have as much traction, it will be harder for you to stop or slow your vehicle. Driving at a speed suitable for weather conditions and maintaining a safe distance behind other vehicles will give you a better chance to react to any obstacles you may encounter. Also remember that ice will be on the roadways and often Snow and Ice Emergency To-Do List e Clear Your Sidewalk – Each property owner is responsible to clear at least a two-foot wide path within 24 hours after a storm. If snow is more than 12 inches, 48 hours is okay. e Remove Your Vehicle From the Street- Snow plows can operate more efficiently if the roads are cleared of parked vehicles. e Do Not Shovel Snow Into the Street – This just creates more work and requires multiple plowing of the same street. cannot be seen until it is too late. Taking your time and driving slowly, even if it is not actively snowing during the cold weather months, will assist you in being able to achieve greater reaction time and overall control of your vehicle. To make safety your first priority this winter season, make sure that your vehicle is packed with the necessary emergency supplies. Snow shovels, ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, phone chargers, sand/litter, necessary medicines, food, and water will all prove helpful should you be traveling in snowy weather, taking long trips, or simply get stuck on the roadway due to a crash for an extended period of time. If your vehicle becomes disabled during your travels, these items may also be vital supplies to have on hand. Never drink and drive, and remind others to do the same. Make sure your own driving is controlled, but be mindful of other drivers who may be impatient, thoughtless, or who make sudden moves without warning. Winter can be a beautiful and joyous time of the year in Pennsylvania, but staying within your driving limits and always being prepared will allow you to enjoy this time of year even more. e Check Your Mailbox Post – A well maintained mailbox at a safe location will minimize the possibility of damage by plowed snow. e Clear Ice and Snow from Vehicle Roofs and Windows – Safety first and also a Vehicle Code Requirement. e Minimize Travel During Snow Emergencies – Better safe than sorry. Stay at home and enjoy the winter views. A Special Thank You to Our Business Sponsors his publication is produced at no cost to Upper Hanover Township residents thanks to the generous sponsorship of the businesses listed throughout the newsletter. The Township recognizes these businesses as community supporters and encourages residents to also support these local businesses with their patronage. T YARD/LEAF WASTE RECYCLING T he John Miller and Son, Inc. recycling facility (2542 Geryville Pike) is the designated Upper Hanover Township Yard/Leaf Waste drop-off site and is free of charge for all Upper Hanover Township residents. Leaf waste must be delivered in biodegradable bags separated from all other garden residue, shrubbery, and tree trimmings. Please check all wood waste for the presence of spotted lanternfly eggs and remove the eggs per approved procedures before delivering wood waste to the drop-off site (see related article). WHEN: Second Saturday of Each Month, 8 a.m. to noon WHERE: John Miller & Son, Inc., 2542 Geryville Pike, Pennsburg, PA 18073 DIRECTIONS: Heading North on Route 663 turn right at Geryville Pike. Continue 2.5 miles on Geryville Pike past the intersection with James Road and past the entrance to The Loft at Sweetwater Country Club. Cross the small bridge and the John Miller and Son, Inc. facility is located approximately 50 yards further on the right hand side. WHAT: Yard/Leaf Waste includes leaves, garden residue, shrubbery, and tree trimmings no larger than four (4) inches in diameter. WHO: Free of charge for all Upper Hanover Township residents. Yard waste from non-residents, landscapers or other private haulers or businesses will not be accepted. WHY: The burning of leaf waste and yard waste, and/or any item, substance or material designated as a Recyclable Material under the Code of the Township of Upper Hanover, Chapter 409, Solid Waste, as amended, is prohibited. MORE INFO: • No grass clippings will be accepted. • Leaves must be contained in biodegradable bags provided by the resident. The Township will not sell or provide leaf/yard waste bags. • Tree trunks greater than four (4) inches in diameter and all tree stumps will not be accepted. • Twigs and branches should be placed in biodegradable bags and or tied with biodegradable twine in packages no greater than six (6) feet in length. • No duct tape or binding other than biodegradable twine is allowed. • Mud and dirt should be cleared from all twigs and branches. • Materials prohibited from being dropped off at the site are sod, soil, stones. demolition materials, stumps, logs (greater than four inches in diameter), trash or treated lumber. John Miller and Son, Inc. also accepts cardboard, paperboard, office paper and most metals free of charge. Upper Hanover to Host Relay for Life in 2016 E ach year, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer through the American Cancer Society’s signature event, Relay For Life. Upper Perkiomen is hosting its 18th annual Relay For Life event for a 12-hour period from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on May 14, 2016 at the beautiful Camelot Park in Upper Hanover township. Relay For Life is an event hosted by community members that invites all to participate in the largest celebration of the year. Together, we celebrate survivors for what they have overcome, remember those lost to the disease, support those still fighting, and fight back to take action against a disease that has taken too much. Community members, friends, and family are encouraged to join the event by registering on a team or as a participant at www.relayforlife.org/paupperperk. We encourage all survivors to register on the same website and join us for a complimentary lunch and survivor ceremony the day of Relay so we can honor each and every person who has been affected by this disease. Join us in the fight against cancer this year as we celebrate a world with less cancer and more birthdays! Any questions, contact Relay For Life Community Manager Kati Ruggiano at 404-329-5136 or at kati.ruggiano@cancer.org. 2 13 Supervisors Urge Residents to Make Their Addresses Visible W hen an emergency strikes, precious minutes can make a big difference in the outcome, and a clearly marked address, especially at night or during bad weather, can be that difference. It has been five year since the Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance that requires all properties to have clearly marked addresses. Many residents responded quickly by purchasing and installing the proper signs. The ordinance requires street address numbers signs to be comprised of paint, metal, enamel and other similar materials, to be not less than four inches (4”) in height, and to be reflective and in contrast to their immediate background. The ordinance requires that all signs consist of white numbers on a green background. Additional requirements under the ordinance are noted as follows: For all residences, buildings and other structures, Street Address Numbers shall be placed in a conspicuous place as near the front entrance as is possible and practicable, and shall be clearly visible from the street, day or night. For residences, buildings and other structures that are not clearly visible from a public street, Street Address Numbers shall also be posted at the intersection of the driveway with the public street so as to be clearly visible from the public street. Such Street Address Numbers shall be placed upon a post or other structure that displays the Street Address Numbers in such a manner that the bottom of the Street Address Numbers is forty-eight (48) inches from grade. Where private roads and driveways contain multiple turnoffs to access residences, buildings and/or other structures, Street Address Numbers shall also be posted at the turnoffs in such a manner that clearly indicates the direction in which the residence, building or other structure is located. Residents may purchase signs meeting the above specifications from private sign companies or from any of the local fire companies, including the East Greenville Fire Company, the Pennsburg Fire Company or the Red Hill Fire Company. The cost of the signs purchased from the fire companies is $15, with payments made directly to the fire companies. Contact and payment information is as follows: East Greenville Fire Company 401 Washington Street • East Greenville, PA 18041 Telephone: 215-679-5311 Checks should be made payable to: “East Greenville Fire Company” Pennsburg Fire Company 501 Penn Street • Pennsburg, PA 18073 Telephone: 215-679-5311 Checks should be made payable to: “Pennsburg Fire Company” Red Hill Fire Company 71 East Fourth Street • Red Hill, PA 18076 Telephone: 215-234-4550 Checks should be made payable to: “Red Hill Fire Company” Message from the Chairman: Dear Friends: As 2015 draws to a close, I would like to thank all of our residents for your support and encouragement throughout the year. The Township Supervisors and our hard-working Township employees have been quite busy coordinating efforts to maintain our parks, roads and bridges. Our ongoing commitment is to make sure Upper Hanover Township continues to be a great place to live and work. Once again, I am happy to report that there will be no real estate tax increase for Eugene F. Fried, Chairman township property owners in 2016. This is the eleventh year in a row that we have maintained the real estate tax rate at the same 1.45 mills level. A great community event coming up in 2016 is the Upper Perkiomen Valley 18th Annual Relay for Life to be held at Upper Hanover’s Camelot Park on May 14, 2016. The Board of Supervisors is honored to participate as a partner in this important event that raises funds and awareness to save lives through the American Cancer Society. Please see the article contained in this newsletter on how you can join in this wonderful event. Another important celebration coming up in 2016 is the Township’s 275th Anniversary. A series of fun and informative events will be held throughout the year. We encourage your participation in some or all of the scheduled programs. We look forward to getting everyone together to share in all the good fellowship and community pride. We would love to see you there! On behalf of the Board of Supervisors and the Township Staff, I wish you all a safe and peaceful holiday season. Eugene F. Fried, Chairman Upper Hanover Township Board of Supervisors Township Contact Information Office Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1704 Pillsbury Road, PO Box 27, East Greenville, PA 18041 Phone: 215-679-4401 r Fax: 215-679-3585 r www.upperhanovertownship.org Township Manager E-Mail: sseitzinger@comcast.net Road Foreman E-Mail: tomluht@comcast.net For Police, Fire and Medical Emergencies: Dial 911 Board of Supervisors Eugene F. Fried, Chairman Richard K. Fain, Vice Chairman Dorothy J. Diehl, Assistant Secretary Ben R. Fiorito, Assistant Treasurer Steven R. Rothenberger The highly visible, two-sided and reflective house number signs are available in both a horizontal and vertical design. Staff Township Manager: Stanley W. Seitzinger, Jr. Road Foreman: Thomas Latshaw Meeting Schedule Board of Supervisors Regular Meeting: Second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Industrial Development Authority Second Monday of the last month of each quarter at 7:30 p.m. Workshop Meeting: Monday prior to each Regular Meeting at 7 p.m. Zoning Hearing Board Third Wednesday of each month, as required, at 7 p.m. Planning Commission Regular Meeting: First Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Calling 9-1-1 From a Cell Phone he Montgomery County Department of Public Safety asks that anyone who calls 9-1-1 from a cellular phone in communities near the county border immediately state: “I’m calling from Montgomery County” when the call-taker answers the phone. If the nearest cell tower to where the call is placed is across the border in a neighboring county, the call will be routed to the 9-1-1 center in Philadelphia, Bucks, Berks, Chester or Delaware county, depending on where the tower is located. The neighboring 9-1-1 centers will transfer the call to Montgomery County, but the time it takes to figure out the actual location, transfer the call, and then supply the information about the incident again could make a difference in saving someone’s life. By stating “I’m calling from Montgomery County” at the outset, it will greatly reduce any delay in getting victims the help they need. Using a landline to call 9-1-1 will result in the call automatically being routed to the proper call center. Parks and Recreation Committee Fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Historical Committee Third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Upper Hanover Authority First Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. All meetings are open to the public and are held at: Upper Hanover Township Municipal Building: 1704 Pillsbury Road, East Greenville, PA For your convenience, a copy of the standard address sign order form can be obtained from the local fire companies, at the Township Municipal Building or on the Township website under “Applications/Forms” at www.upperhanovertownship.org. T A Reminder.... The Township Building will be closed on the following holiday: December 24 – Christmas Eve December 25 – Christmas January 1 – New Years Day LTL CONSULTANTS, LTD. ENGINEERS & CODE OFFICIALS ONE TOWN CENTRE DR OLEY, PA 1-888-987-8886 Proudly serving Upper Hanover Township as TOWNSHIP ENGINEER BUILDING INSPECTOR ZONING OFFICER Perkiomenville Quarry 215-234-4522 Perkiomenville Asphalt 215-234-9231 1128 Crusher Road Perkiomenville, PA 18074 www.highwaymaterials.com Serving Upper Montgomery County’s Aggregate & Asphalt needs since 1902 224 Cathill Road • Sellersville, PA 18960 • 215 257 9425 Paying High Credit Card Rates? Need to Consolidate Your Debts? Want ONE payment per month? APPLY FOR A HOME EQUITY LOAN at Fixed Rate Loans up to 20 years or Home Equity Lines of Credit Applicants must meet Bally Savings Bank credit criteria. Loans to owner-occupied single family residential properties, with an 80% maximum loan-to-value for all debt. Property insurance and flood insurance (when applicable) is required. Other loan products and terms available. Minimum loan amount is $10,000. Subject to application fee and closing costs when applicable. Member FDIC. The Only On-Site Crematory Carl F. Slonaker, Jr., F.D., Supervisor 222 Washington St. 215-679-9589 East Greenville, PA 18041 Funeral & Cremation Services www.mannslonakerfuneralhome.com Pre-Need Payment Plans In The Upper Perkiomen Valley Upper Hanover Township P.O. Box 27 East Greenville, PA 18041 Winter 2015 / 2016 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Boyertown, PA PERMIT #10015 Newsletter Montgomery County, Pennsylvania Published by the Board of Supervisors r Founded 1741 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: OR CURRENT RESIDENT Year Long Celebration Planned Save the Date: The main event for Upper Hanover Township’s 275th Anniversary in 2016 is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, 2016. The all-day event will be held at Camelot Park. Happenings at the celebration will include yoga in the morning, fire equipment and antique tractor displays, historical presentations and displays and, of course, good food and good company. And much, much more fun is in the works as the 275th Anniversary Committee continues planning for this momentous and historical occasion. Be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, September 17, 2016. Winter 2015 / 2016 This Community Newsletter is produced for Upper Hanover Township by Hometown Press 215.257.1500 • Dec 2015 • All rights reserved® To Place An Ad Call Denise At Hometown Press • 610-346-6126 • DeniseOfHTP@yahoo.com Content provided by Chroma Group • 267-354-4949 Festivities planned throughout the year starting in April will also include: STEPHEN REDDING Arborist Gift Certificates Available BYOB www.happytreeltd.com FULLY INSURED • REASONABLE RATES 215-257-7650 126 Reller Road • Green Lane, PA 18054 Tree Service, Landscaping, Plant Health Care Quality work and integrity in our business dealings are the hallmarks of Happy Tree. O Professional arborist services for all large trees including pruning, shaping, deadwood removal, cabling, bracing, cavity work, storm damage repair, hazard evaluation, and tree removal. O Complete landscaping services from design through installation and maintenance. Design services from our own in-house Registered Landscape Architect. We grow our own trees and shrubs to ensure top quality, hardy installations. O Cutting-edge plant health care treatments, including nutritional support, feeding, pest control, and treatment of disease. “SATISFACTION THAT GROWS!” FREE ATM FREE WiFi PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT Sellersville Skippack Pennsburg Rt. 73 & 113 337 Main St. Rt. 29 215-257-5555 610-584-4451 215-679-6000 215-234-9222 Happy Holidays! ● Pontoon boat tours of the Green Lane Reservoir. ● An afternoon at the Schwenkfelder Museum, including a display of historical artifacts and presentations by local historians. ● A Knoll Museum evening will highlight our commercial and industrial heritage. ● Tours of the new trail system at the Mill Hill Preservation Area. ● The dedication of a time capsule to be opened at the 300th Township Anniversary in 2041. ● Publication of a photo book on the history of Upper Hanover Township (see more information on page 10). Pick Up Window Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm www.chiarospizza.com Edward A. Skypala TEL. (610) 323-3306 TEL. (610) 489-9778 FAX (610) 970-9578 www.skypalalaw.com How You Can Help When It Snows ...........................3 Winter Driving Tips....................3 Snow & Emergency To-Do List....................................3 Taxes Remain at Same Rate Since 2006 ..........................4 Service Awards............................4 Scout Project .........................4 Memorial Bench Program ...........5 TNT Softball Tournament. .........5 Free Christmas Tree Recycling...5 Protect Your Water Source..........6 Keeping Our Roads in Good Shape .........................7-8 Upper Perk Valley Library..........9 How to stay up-to-date on 275th Anniversary plans: ● Additional details on all of these events and more will be posted on the Township Website at www.upperhanovertownship.org. The link can be found on the center of the homepage. ● The Anniversary Committee plans to attend the Upper PerkiomenValley Chamber of Commerce Community Expo on April 26, 2016 at the Upper Perkiomen Valley YMCA Building. Our table will be located in the lobby area and Anniversary Committee members will be available to answer questions. ● The Spring/Summer edition of the Upper Hanover Township Newsletter will be mailed in March of 2016 and will include all the final, specific details on events, dates and times. Attorney at Law Law Offices of EDWARD A. SKYPALA 224 King Street Pottstown, PA 19464 Township Contact Information .................................2 Update on Bridge Projects..........8 Green Lane 218 S. Main St. Pick Up Window ● A self-guided tour of historical locations in Upper Hanover Township. Message from the Chairman ..............................2 Gene Fried & Ben Fiorito Re-elected to Board of Supervisors ...............................10 Be Alert Be Informed................10 Township Historical Book in the Works .............................10 UHT Historical Committee ......10 Spotted Lanternfly in UHT ......11 Yard/Leaf Waste Recycling........12 UHT to Host Relay for Life ......12 The 275th Anniversary of Upper Hanover in 2016 is shaping up as a memorable and enjoyable occasion. WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU THERE! Make Your Address Visible ......13 Calling 9-1-1 from a Cell Phone..............................13 www.UpperHanoverTownship.org