lower salford lower salford

Lower Salford Township
379 Main Street
Harleysville, PA 19438
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #640
DOYLESTOWN, PA
TOWNSHIP NEWSLETTER
Township Officials
Douglas A. Gifford
Douglas M. Johnson
Keith A. Bergman
Philip P. Heilman
Christopher R. Canavan
Joseph Czajkowski
Mary L. West
LOWER SALFORD
Chairman
Vice Chairman
Supervisor
Supervisor
Supervisor
Manager
Assistant Manager
Fall/Winter 2014 • Published by the Board of Supervisors • Founded 1741
Message From the Chairman
Dear Residents:
L
ast fall served as nothing more than a fond memory obliterated by the
harshest winter we’ve experienced in more years than I can remember.
We were all snow blind to the colorful memories of autumn that we try to
hold onto through the cold months of winter.
Fall/Winter 2014
This Community Newsletter is produced for the
Lower Salford Township by Hometown Press
215.257.1500 • All rights reserved®
To Place An Ad Call Denise At Hometown Press • 510-526-1473 • DeniseOfHTP@yahoo.com
This year, we hope for better.
Last year, the Public Works Department strived heroically to handle the
almost constant snowfalls.
Content provided by Chroma Group • 267-772-0740
This year, we hope for a lighter load for all.
2013 Organic CSA Shares Available
Unbeatable Variety of Heirloom
Produce & Herbs, and Heritage Breed
Proteins!
DELICIOUS CATERING
FARM MARKET
OPEN ALL YEAR!
HOMEMADE SALADS,
SIDES & ENTREES
Wed. 4pm-6pm.
Sat. 9am-2pm.
Other days by appt.
HOMEMADE BAKERY
Township Contact Information . .2
From The Ambulance Co . . . . . .3
Eye on Development . . . . . . . . . .3
Reminder: Leaves and
Yard Waste Disposal . . . . . . . . . .3
FRESH MARKET
BUFFET
COFFEE HOUSE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
620 Quarry Rd., Harlesyville, PA 19438
quarryhillfarm.net • 215-513-1514
Quality Food is Our Best Medicine
PIZZERIA
Holiday Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Indian Valley Public Library . . . .5
Township-Owned Open Space . .6
Winter Discount Ticket Program 6
Christmas Tree Recycling . . . . . .6
OPEN EVERY DAY
7 AM - 11 PM
Special Needs Registry . . . . . . . . .6
We have another bright forecast for Township finances, with the only blip
on the fiscal horizon a possible increase in the Library Tax that is included in
your bill each year. The Indian Valley Library is attempting to regain the full
measure of municipal support it had before the Souderton School District
withdrew from the funding arrangement in which it had participated for
decades. Three of the four municipalities -- Lower Salford included -- have
indicated their willingness to make up the entire difference this year, after
covering only half the amount for the prior two years.
The library has constantly proven its worth to the community as a whole
and remains the cultural treasure of the Indian Valley. It deserves our full
support and we hope for the full recognition and support of all the
municipalities for the fulfillment of the library’s modest request.
After all, autumn is the season of hope.
Douglas Gifford, Chairman
Lower Saflord Board of Supervisors
Spotlight on History . . . . . . . . .7-8
290 MAIN STREET I HARLEYSVILLE I PA I 19438 I 215-256-9533
Where Your Tax Dollars Go . . . .9
Roth Park Improvement . . . . . . .9
REPUBLIC
SERVICES
An Environmental Partner You Can Count On
Residential Collection and Recycling Services
Sign Up Today to pay your bill on line and receive
ONE MONTH FREE!
Got Drugs? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Habits to Help Reduce
Stormwater Impact . . . . . . . . . .10
NEW
Online
Payme
nt
Options
Winter Weather Reminders . . . .10
Turnpike Construction Update .11
Community Contacts . . . . . . . .12
Burning Regulations Reminders 12
Paperless Billing saves you more of what matters.
Call 215.723.0400 to Learn How It Works!
republicservices.com
Visit our website at: www.lowersalfordtownship.org
Affordable • Confidential • Professional
PECKMAN CHAIT LLP
David A. Peckman
Attorney At Law
In Home Consultations
& Evening Appointments
Wills • Trusts • Estates • Probate
Powers of Attorney • Deeds • Leases
Litigation • Contracts • Business • Personal
Construction • Real Estate • Traffic/DUI
Accidents & Injuries • Torts • Family Law
For All Your Legal Needs
29 Mainland Road • Harleysville, PA 19438
610-825-9000
david@peckmanlaw.com
STEPHEN REDDING
Arborist
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!”
Lower Salford Township Contact Information
Welding • Fabrication
Accessories • Lift Kits
Wheels & Tires
Paint and Body Repair
Frame Repair
New & Used Parts
Maintenance • Repair • PA State Inspections • Restorations
Township Office: 215-256-8087 • Fax: 215-256-4869 • Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Police Department: 215-256-9595 • Police and Fire Emergency: 9-1-1
www.JeffDanielsJeeps.com • JDCrew@JeffDanielsJeeps.com
215-256-8090 • 495 Indian Head Creek Rd., Harleysville, PA 19438
The Board of Supervisors meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Informal work sessions are held at 7 a.m. on the day before the regular meeting and the third Wednesday
of each month. At work sessions, staff updates the Board on Township activities. No formal action takes place at these meetings.
379 Main Street, Harleysville, PA 19438 • www.lowersalfordtownship.org
Supervisors Meetings
Township
Supervisors
Douglas A. Gifford – Chairman
Douglas Johnson –
Vice Chairman
Keith A. Bergman
Philip P. Heilman
Christopher R. Canavan
General Township Mailbox
township@lowersalfordtownship.org
Lower Salford Police Department • Emergencies: 911
379 Main St., Harleysville, PA 19438 Office: 215-256-9500 Fax: 215-256-1212
Administrative Assistant:
Sharon McFarland
smcfarland@lowersalfordtownship.org
Police Dispatch: 215-256-9595
police@lowersalfordtownship.org
Chief of Police: Thomas A. Medwid
tmedwid@lowersalfordtownship.org
Police Clerk: Barbara Jansons
bjansons@lowersalfordtownship.org
Investigations: Sgt. Cory Moyer
cmoyer@lowersalfordtownship.org
Patrol and Traffic: Sgt. Bill O’Connell
woconnell@lowersalfordtownship.org
General Police Mailbox
police@lowersalfordtownship.org
Montgomery County Commissioners
Josh Shapiro, Chairman, Leslie I. Richards, Vice Chairman &
Bruce L. Castor, Jr., Commissioner
Court House, Swede and Airy Streets
Box 311, Norristown, PA 19404
610-278-3000 • web: www.montcopa.org
President of the United States
President Barack Obama
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Our Senator in the PA General Assembly
Senator Bob Mensch (24th District)
404 Main St., Suite A, Pennsburg, PA 18073
215-541-2388 • fax: 215-541-2387
web: http://senatormensch.com
email: bmensch@pasen.gov
Senator Robert Casey
Pennsylvania Senators
in the United States Congress
Harrisburg Office:
555 Walnut St., 1st Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-231-7540 • fax: 717-231-7542
Washington DC Office:
B-40 Dirksen Senate Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
202-224-6324
fax: 202-228-0604
web: http://casey.senate.gov
email: linked through website
Our Representative in the Pennsylvania General Assembly
Marcy Toepel (70th District)
80 Gravel Pike, Unit A, Red Hill, PA 18076
Phone: 215.679.3082, Fax: 215.679.3156
web: http://www.pahouse.com/toepel
email: mtoelpel@pahousegop.com
Senator Pat Toomey
William Green Federal Bldg., Suite 9400
600 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-597-7200
web: http://toomey.senate.gov
email: linked through website
Pennsylvania Governor
Tom Corbett
225 Main Capitol, Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-787-2500
web: www.governor.state.pa.us
email: linked through website
Thank You To The Businesses:
This publication is made available through the generous
advertising sponsorship of the businesses listed
throughout our newsletter. We wish to encourage your
patronage of these establishments; they play a substantial
role in the economic vitality of our community.
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COMMUNITY CONTACTS
FROM
THE
AMBULANCE CO.
residents and local businesses First Aid and CPR classes, as well
as other exciting and educational opportunities.
2014/2015 Ambulance Subscription Drive
H
arleysville Area EMS has kicked off our 2014/2015
Ambulance Subscription Drive. As your local emergency
ambulance service, we rely heavily on your subscription and
generous donations to help sustain our day-to-day operations.
For more information, or to schedule a training class, please
contact our Community Outreach Program Director, Nicole
Smith, at 215-513-1880 or by email at CPR@haems.org.
Vice-Chairman Doug Johnson advised that our taxdeductible contributions go directly back to the community in
the form of new equipment for the ambulances, and training for
our dedicated volunteer and career paramedics and EMTs. But
most importantly, they ensure that someone will always be there
if and when you need us. Harleysville Area EMS is dedicated to
providing the highest level of emergency medical care to you
and our community.
Safety Tips
• Get your flu shot.
Autumn is the start of the flu season:
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
this helps prevent those around you from also getting sick.
• Wash your hands often. If soap and water are not available,
use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs often
spread when a person touches something that is
contaminated with germs, and then touches his or her eyes,
nose, or mouth.
If you have not received a 2014/2015 subscription card or if
you have any questions, please give us a call at 215-513-1880.
First Aid and CPR
Harleysville Area EMS continues to provide community
Eye on Development
Preliminary and Final Plans
Under Review
• Mainland Pointe/SHR Harleysville,
LP - Mixed Use Land Development
Plan on Main Street.
• Meadows of Lederach/Branch Creek
Real Estate - four-lot residential
subdivision on Kinsey Road.
• Berkley Place/DJC Development - 15
residential lots on Gruber Road.
• AG Harleysville - land development
plan at Harleysville Pike and Park
Avenue.
Plan in Construction
• Salford Valley/Moyer-Landis, LLP -
12-lot residential subdivision at
Landis and Moyer roads.
• Mikelen, LLC - two-lot residential
subdivision at 437 Yoder Road.
• The Reserve at Salford/Toll PA, LP 48-lot residential subdivision on
Landis Road.
Sports and Youth Groups
Harleysville Baseball
Michael Fornwall, President
President@harleysvillebaseball.com
Harleysville Girls Softball
Karl Gould
www.harleysvillesoftball.com
Harleysville Eagles Youth
Football and Cheerleading
Kevin Hawley
www.harleysvilleeagles.com
Harleysville Soccer Club
Todd Andrade
www.harleysvillesoccer.org
Harleysville Swim & Dive Team
www.harleysvilleswimteam.com
Souderton Area Youth
Football Association
Mike Rowan, 215-570-6599
www.soudertonbraves.com
Souderton Area Boys Lacrosse
Association (SABLA)
Steve Lanzillotti, 215-872-6961
www.soudertonlacrosse.com
Souderton-Harleysville
Youth Basketball Association
Mickey Kutzler, 215-622-3912
www.shyba.org
Souderton Area
Youth Wrestling Association
Tom Beckett, President
www.soudertonwrestling.com
Boy Scouts
Clament Newport, 610-688-6900
www.colbsa.org
Girl Scouts of Southeastern PA
Marcia Gariano, 215-564-2030
www.gsep.org
Montgomery County 4H Program
montcopa4hcenter.org
Community Organizations
Harleysville Area
Emergency Medical Services
215-513-1880
http://www.haems.org
Harleysville Community Fire Company
Jim Kuhns, President
215-256-9657
http://harleysvillefire.org
Harleysville Jaycees
www.harleysvillejaycees.org
Harleysville Lions
Tim Clemmer, Secretary
215-723-6678
Harleysville Rotary
harleysvillerotary.org
Heckler Plains Folklife Society
Joan DiMaria, President, 215-822-7422
www.hecklerplains.org
Lower Salford Historical Society
Dave Wisler, President
www.lowersalford.org
Mennonite Heritage Center
Sarah Heffner, 215-256-3020
www.mhep.org
Lower Salford Sewer Authority
215-256-8676
Harleysville Branch YMCA
Diane Manus, 215-256-0767
Indian Valley Branch YMCA
Betty Linko, 215-723-3569
www.northpennymca.org
Encore Experiences
(Formerly Harleysville Senior Center)
215-256-6900
www.encoreexperiences.org
Meals on Wheels
Pat McQue, 215-723-8555
Indian Creek Foundation
267-203-1500, www.indcreek.org
Peaceful Living
Joe Landis, Director and Founder
610-287-1200, www.peacefulliving.org
Natural Lands Trust
Dulcie F. Flaharty, 215-257-4554
dflaharty@natlands.org
Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy
610-287-9383
www.perkiomenwatershed.org
Indian Valley Public Library
215-723-9109, www.ivpl.org
The Partnership TMA
Peggy Schmidt, 215-997-9100
www.ptma-mc.org
To see the most current information, visit our website at: www.lowersalfordtownship.org
Reminder: Leaves and Yard Waste Disposal
T
he Township provides a leaf/yard waste (no grass clippings) drop-off location. Leaves and yard waste
in biodegradable bags may be deposited in the container at the Township Building Parking Lot at no
cost throughout the year.
Biodegradable bags may be purchased at the Township Municipal Building ($.35 per bag, 3 bags for
$1 or 50 bags for $16.50).
Burning Regulations Reminders
A
ll types of burning are prohibited in Lower Salford
Township with the exception of ceremonial type fires,
which are identified as fires for the purposes of roasting
marshmallows, roasting hot dogs, etc.
Ceremonial fires are defined as:
• Any outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish,
where the fuel being burned is not contained in an
outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit and has a
total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less
in height for ceremonial cooking or religious purposes.
Free Consultation
Most Insurances Accepted
444 MAIN STREET
HARLEYSVILLE, PA 19438
www.teethsostraight.com
215-256-6444
Sam Kadan, DMD
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12
• Chimineas or other type fire
pits must be at least 15 feet
from a residence.
Authorization from the
Lower Salford Township Fire
Marshal must be obtained
before any burning.
Turnpike Construction Update
T
he Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) held its first open house for the “northern”
section total reconstruction and widening of the Northeast Extension project in October at the
Towamencin Volunteer Fire Company.
The two-hour open house provided property owners living close to the turnpike’s six-lane
widening project between Berks Road and the Lansdale Interchange an opportunity to meet with
turnpike officials, the general contractor and consultants involved with the $198 million total
reconstruction project.
Construction plans, the contractor’s current construction schedule, bridge construction and local
traffic restrictions were on display. Attendees were able to have questions answered by
representatives of the PTC and its construction consultants.
Earlier this year, at the start of the project, the PTC hosted a construction kick-off. As part of the Turnpike's community outreach
plan for total reconstruction projects, public meetings will be periodically scheduled throughout the remainder of the project.
Construction updates continue to be distributed electronically to state and local elected officials and residents that have signed up.
Please take a moment to visit www.paturnpike.com/constructionprojects/mpA20toA31 where you can sign-up to receive
electronic E-Bulletins and the project newsletter “NEXT,” and locate contact information for the Northern Section Construction
Project Team.
Supervisor Keith Bergman suggests that residents who have not already done so or are unable to attend the meetings are
encouraged to sign up to receive electronic weekly construction updates by contacting Mimi Doyle, PTC Public Information
Manager at mdoyle@paturnpike.com or Casey Waller, KCI Public Involvement Specialist at casey.waller@kci.com.
HOLIDAY CALENDAR
Carol Night at the
Heckler Farm
Toys for Tots
You are invited to enjoy an oldfashioned Christmas celebration of
caroling around the bonfire
beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Friday,
December 12. When the caroling ends, you are invited
into the candle-lit farmhouse for hot cider, hot
chocolate and homemade treats. Admission to the
event is a homemade treat for the groaning board or a
handmade ornament for the Christmas tree. For more
information call the township office at 215-256-8087.
Santa Run
Santa will tour the Township on
December 20 starting at 10 a.m.
Members of the Fire Company will
be collecting food. Please bring
the food to the vehicles that will
be following the fire truck.
Historical House Tours
Sunday, December 14, 11am - 4pm
Two years ago, the three Lower Salford Park historic
houses were opened for a Christmas house tour, each
decorated in their respective periods for the holidays.
Since the response was so positive, we’re doing it again
this year and including several private residences as
well. It’s still in the planning stages, but the those on
the list so far include:
• Bergey Mill Farm, 675 Bergey Mill Road, where
life and Christmas in the 19th Century will be
depicted in this two bedroom home where David
K. Bergey and Amanda Wagner Bergey raised 13
children.
• Heckler Plains Farmhouse. 237 Landis Road,
which will be furnished and decorated in 18th
Century style.
• The Reiff Farmhouse, 775 Quarry Road, a fine
example of a transition house, as some parts date
to the 18th and 19th centuries.
• The home and Ice House of Maryanne Harris,
581 Groffs Mill Road.
Visitors are urged to carpool and tour at their leisure.
Details and directions can be picked up at the Lower
Salford Township Building or by calling 215-822-7422
(evenings) beginning December 1.
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4
The Lower Salford Township
Police Department has announced the U. S. Marine
Corps 2014 Toys for Tots campaign is now underway.
Items desperately needed each year are for age groups
10-16, as well as all sizes/types of batteries.
Effective immediately, items may be dropped off at
any of the following locations in Harleysville until
December 19;
Lower Salford Twp. Police Dept., Harleysville
Savings Bank, Harleysville Ace Hardware, Henning’s
Market, First Niagara Bank (Meadowbrook Plaza),
Encore Experiences (Senior Center), Park View at Oak
Crest, Arbour Square, The Birches, The Hillside,
Harleysville Books, Giant, Harleysville Car Wash,
Harleysville Hotel, Subway, Isabelle’s Kitchen & Maple
Avenue Foods, Harleysville Eye Associates, Phoenix
Rehab, The UPS Store, Harleysville Post Office,
Montgomery Woods, Indian Valley YMCA, and
Financial Voyages LLC.
For more information please call the Lower Salford
Township Police Department at 215- 256-9500 during
regular business hours (8am to 5:30pm, Monday
through Friday).
Gift Card Drive
The Montgomery Office of Children and Youth is
conducting its annual Holiday Gift Card Drive. You
can support an abused or neglected child in need this
holiday season by providing gift cards from stores of
your choosing. Gift cards can be used to match
individual needs, are not subject to toy recalls or safety
issues. Their use is also monitored by professional
casework staff. Gift cards in $10 to $25 increments are
recommended.
Donations can be sent to:
Montgomery County Office
of Children and Youth,
1430 DeKaIb Street,
P0 Box 311,
Norristown, PA
19404-0311.
For more information,
call 610-278-5800
Spotlight On...The Indian Valley Public Library
A Valuable Resource For the Community
Habits to Help Reduce Stormwater Impact
Winter Deicing
• Snow blower - Easier on the back. Best if used before any
deicers are used so as not to throw the chemical on plants.
W
inter weather often leaves us dealing with snow and ice on
our sidewalks and driveways. Currently the most common
substances used for this are salts. However,
the salts can be harmful for the
environment because they kill plants, ruin
soils, and are toxic to many species within
stream ecosystems.
O
ne of the best-kept secrets in our area
is the Indian Valley Public Library.
Funded in part by our Library Tax, the
IVPL offers a wealth of information and
activities for residents of all ages.
If you live in the Souderton Area School
District, you can join the library by
completing an application and showing
proof of current address. Anyone under
age 18 needs a parent or guardian to sign
the application. IVPL cards are honored in
all Pennsylvania libraries participating in
the ACCESS-PA program.
• Sand - best for traction. Use sand
sparingly as it can clog storm drains and
choke waterways. Be sure to sweep up
excess to minimize the amount of sand
that gets into storm drains and
waterways.
Shoveling is the best form of snow and
ice removal. The old standard of using sand
for traction is good but must be used
sparingly. The sand can clog storm drains,
destroy habitat in streams through the
increase in sedimentation in the waterways.
Here are a few of the services provided:
• For pre-schoolers, the library offers a friendly, welcoming environment that include a large collection of picture,
nonfiction and informational picture books; a robust collection of music, audiobooks and DVDs; AWE Early
Literacy Stations™ with a variety of learning games; Story Time programs; and toys and games.
• School-age kids can participate in a number of after-school clubs (crafts, sign language, chess, and Legos, to name
a few).
• Adults can choose from classes (resume writing, Yoga, greeting card stamping) and programs such as Second
Friday (creative entertainment) and Tuesday Movie Matinees.
• Computers with internet
access are available for research
and job search purposes.
ADDRESS:
10 E Church Avenue,
Telford PA 18969
PHONE:
215-723-9109
Some of the general collection at the Indian Valley Library.
HOURS:
Sunday
1pm - 5pm
Monday - Thursday
9am - 9pm
Friday
10am - 9pm
The Pennsylvania Room contains resources about state and local history.
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Saturday
10am - 5pm
• Bird seed - another traction method and
it is biodegradable, or even better, birds
will enjoy eating it in the winter
months!
Homeowners do have some choices when
it comes to the kinds of deicing chemicals the important thing to remember is to choose carefully and use
sparingly.
The increased use of salts for deicing over the last 50 years has
this country currently using more than 10 million tons on the
roadways annually. There are alternatives to using salts, even for
the homeowner.
Deicers are designed to loosen the ice so that it is easier to
shovel. All substance options should be used sparingly to
minimize the damage to waterways and the environment.
• Shoveling - Very effective but can be back breaking and is
the least damaging to the overall environment.
• Safe Paw™- Is not a salt but an
amide/glycol mixture that is safe for the
environment and is biodegradable.
• Calcium chloride - works at very low temperatures, and you
can use less. It is also easier on vegetation than regular rock
salt (sodium chloride). This is still a salt and can be toxic to
waterways. Use properly and SPARINGLY!
• Liquid deicer chemicals - for areas that experience large
occurrences of snow and ice, deicing chemicals are necessary.
The liquid deicers works best when used BEFORE a storm hits
- this is called anti-icing. A thin layer of liquid deicer applied
to sidewalks and driveways prevents the formation of ice.
Timing is key to minimize the wash-off potential from rain.
This method requires less product than granular forms of
deicers, which can be more economical.
Winter Weather Reminders
Snow Specifics
very critical function that you can do to help save
the firefighters valuable time in the event of a fire in
your neighborhood or even your own home.
Help us keep the township safe during a snowfall by
observing these regulations:
• Clear your sidewalks within 10 hours of the end of a
snowfall. If snow falls after 6 p.m. you have until
11 a.m. the next day to salt and shovel.
• All vehicles must be parked off the street to allow for
safe and efficient removal of snow from curb to curb.
Also, please remove trashcans and sports equipment
from the street.
Please go to the Township website for more
information regarding the recently amended ordinance
regulating street parking during snow emergencies. For
Township emergency or meeting announcement, tune to
KYW 1060 or WNPV 1440 for updates.
• Shovel snow to the right of your driveway, as you are
facing the road. (See diagram) Shoveling or plowing
snow onto a street or road is prohibited.
• Be sure your sump pump discharges onto your land
or into a storm drain -- not onto sidewalks or streets,
where it can freeze.
• Please help the Fire Department by keeping fire
hydrants clear of any snow from the storm and after
a snow plow passes through your road. This is a
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Proper Use of Township-Owned Open Space Benefits Everyone
Where Your Tax Dollar Goes
• Lower Salford Township - 2.6065 mills 7.8 percent
8.3%
• Montgomery County - 3.152 mills 8.3 percent
83.9%
7.8%
• Souderton Area School District - 28.5376 mills 83.9 percent
*The average residential assessment in Lower Salford Township is $195,000
Lower Salford Township
Souderton Area School District
Montgomery County
T
he acquisition of open space is for the enhancement of life for all of our residents. “Studies have substantiated the positive
financial benefit of increasing the property values of all residents by these acquisitions,” said Supervisor Chris Canavan.
The increased frequency of the intrusion into Township-owned open space by individuals has been brought to our attention and
is a source of great concern. Open space is for the benefit of the entire community, not just abutting neighbors. It is vital that
everyone refrains from any actions that may alter the open space in any manner.
It should be common sense that open space not be used for the disposal of yard waste or other waste of any kind. Illegal dumping
is a danger to public health and safety; it decreases property values, lowers the quality of life, and costs our Township taxpayers
money to clean-up and restore the area. Please contact the Township Office or Police Department if you see any abuse of Township
open space.
Residents are not permitted to plant trees, or place trailers, sheds, boats, or fences on Township open space. Free gardening
permits may be obtained from the Township to plant annuals or mow the grass; however, no mowing permits will be issued in the
Township “riparian buffer zones.” These “no-mow zones” protect the water quality of our streams and prevent erosion.
• When using the parks and community paths, you must clean up after your pets for the health and safety of everyone.
• Please help keep our Township parks and open spaces clean!
• Township parks are open from dawn to dusk.
Roth Park
Improvement
T
he Roth Park pond was dredged this
fall by the Township Public Works
Department and a private contractor. The
fish were relocated locally and the pond
has recently been restocked with
fingerlings. Approximately five feet of silt
and mud were removed from the pond.
Winter Discount Ticket Program
H
it the slopes this winter with discounted ski lift tickets to the region’s best ski areas. Tickets will
be available to Bear Creek, Big Boulder/Jack Frost, Blue Mountain, Camelback, and Elk Mountain.
Coupons for Shawnee Mt. will also be available.
Stop by the Township Building between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. All proceeds
from the sale of discount tickets are deposited into the Township Park Fund.
GOT DRUGS?
Christmas Tree Recycling
Help make the Indian Valley a safer place by disposing of
your unused or expired prescription medications.
T
rees free of decorations can be dropped off during daylight hours at Reiff Park at the
parking lot off Upper Mainland Road through February 28. The trees will be chipped and
used for mulch throughout the Township's park system.
Locations in the Indian Valley For Safe Disposal Drop Box:
Franconia Township Police
Department
671 Allentown Road, Telford, PA
Open: M-F 7:30am - 5:00pm
Souderton Police Department
31 W. Summit Street, Souderton, PA
Open: 24 hours
Telford Police Department
100 Penn Avenue, Telford, PA 18969
Open: M-F 8:00am - 4:00pm
or by appointment
FREE and ANONYMOUS
This information is provided in part by the Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition.
For more information call 215-723-3569, ext 116
Special Needs Registry
T
he registry is a planning tool to allow individuals with special needs the opportunity to provide
information to emergency response agencies so they can better plan to serve them in a weather
disaster or other emergency. It is a cooperative effort between Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery
counties, brought to you by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Regional Task Force.
Supervisor Phil Heilman advises our residents to please visit www.specialneedspa.org for more
information and to get registered.
A hidden gem in Montgomery
County. Our extensive display
gardens, large selection of
material and years of experience
can help you create
your own garden
paradise.
www.behmerwald.com
Call for easy directions 610-287-0480
4904 Garges Rd., Schwenksville, PA • Skippack Twp.
9
6
Spotlight on History: Alvin C. Alderfer (1869-1941)
By David Hudnut
Maple Avenue and Oak Drive. But in 2011
it ceased to exist as a separate entity when
it was absorbed into Nationwide Mutual
Insurance Company.
P
eople who come to live in Lower
Salford Township learn early on that
certain family names dominate the list of
businesses in the area. There are perhaps
25 such names, and I would not take the
risk of putting them all down in order of
importance, historic or otherwise, but if I
write, for example, “Alderfer, Bergey,
Clemens, Moyer” (in alphabetical order,
note) you know what I’m talking about.
It’s a good thing to have one of these
names.
However, the Harleysville Savings
Bank (opposite the Henning family’s
shopping plaza east of Harleysville),
another Alderfer enterprise, chartered in
1915, is still very much in business, for
which we all can be grateful. It’s obvious
that very little in modern life stays the
same for very long, with more and more
small businesses being absorbed into large
conglomerates, but I won’t go on with that
old timer’s refrain at this point.
Some years ago someone theorized that
this phenomenon of the core group of
names came about because the original
Swiss and Germanic settlers found this to
be a good place and did not migrate away
from here to some more desirable place in
Ohio or Kentucky. They just stayed to
farm and to start businesses, and their
descendants did the same thing. I mention
this as I start to say a little about Alvin
Clemens Alderfer (1869-1941), whose
name takes in two of these important
families.
Alvin Alderfer was born on his
father’s farm on Stover Road at the last
bend just before the short straight piece
running out to Main Street/Harleysville
Pike just west of the present-day Henning’s
shopping center. He went to the one-room
school founded in 1843 by his grandfather,
Isaac Alderfer (Alderfer’s or “Muskrat
Hall,” as Jay Ruth’s book tells us), just a
short
distance west on Harleysville Pike in
Alvin C. Alderfer ca 1890
the
point
of land at the intersection of the
Once again I’ll remind you that most of
Pike
and
Oak
Drive,
now
a
residence
but well preserved in nearwhat I say is drawn from Jay Ruth’s 1984 book, Looking at Lower
to-original
form.
Salford, along with items in the public record and Norman L.
Bergey’s 1999 memoir, “Hidden Treasures,” compiled and edited
Alvin went on to teach there for nine years and also became a
by Beth Dunham Garis. I’m responsible for anything that’s in surveyor, as the accompanying photo suggests. His father was
error.
the local justice of the peace (“Squire” George D. Alderfer), and
With Alvin Alderfer we’re not going back very far in time (to Alvin moved into this role on his father’s death in 1896, another
the late 19th and early-to-mid 20th centuries), and the physical of his many self-taught professions.
evidence of his work in finance and insurance is still there,
For a time he ran the clothing factory (still visible in older
except that only one of the structures still bears the name of the aerial photos of the town) located roughly where the modern
Alderfer-related enterprise it started out with, as I’ll point out in Lower Salford Public Works Department has its garage and
this brief review.
office, just up Alumni Drive from the 1909 Bank building. He
His lovely 1889 house (439 Main Street) is in good shape, also was a partner with entrepreneur Manasseh Clemens in the
recently turned into a day spa. The first version of his cider mill and creamery on what we now call Maple Avenue
Harleysville National Bank (474 Main, the small columned (the building no longer exists), on the north side as you go
building at the corner of Alumni Avenue and Main, built in toward the now defunct Harleysville Elementary School.
1909) is now the office of Jack Horner Communications, Inc., a
Jay’s historical narrative notes that when Alvin moved on into
public relations firm. In the 1950s part of it served as the banking and insurance, the creamery passed into the hands of
Township office.
Manasseh Clemens’ son, Harry B. Clemens, and that morphed
The larger columned building on the opposite side of Main into the giant poultry enterprise that, until recent times, took
Street (1930, with its modern additions through 1987) was the up the center of Harleysville behind the 1930 Bank building and
Harleysville National Bank we all remember, but it is presently the present Ace Hardware on Main Street.
awaiting its next tenant, following the 2010 financial crash of
Any mention of the Clemens family reminds us that they were
HNB and its takeover by the out-of-state First Niagara Bank.
just as much involved in the modern development of
Harleysville Insurance began in Alvin Alderfer’s home and Harleysville as the Alderfers. This will have to be part of a future
migrated to the 1909 Bank building in 1930 (when the bank report in this series.
moved across the street) before moving (after Alvin’s death) to
A 1930 pamphlet on the history of Harleysville National Bank
the large modern building constructed in 1950 at the corner of informs us that Alvin Alderfer founded it to fill a need: there
7
was no bank right in Harleysville at that time (1909), so why
not start one to fill the gap? Part of his vision, as he began to
build his businesses, was to reach out to other localities. The
first Board of Directors included men from Salfordville, Telford,
Elroy, and Skippack as well as a core group from Harleysville. As
I look at the photos of the 1930 Board of Directors, I see men
from families that I know from my boyhood in Worcester
Township: D. M. Allebach from Center Point (father of Harold
Allebach, the storekeeper in my father’s generation and father of
my late friend Wilson, whom you may remember as the
Postmaster at Center Point), and William E. Markley, the wellknown realtor from Fairview Village.
have you -- was contrary to Mennonite social doctrine, which
called for mutual assistance in time of need, still practiced in
conservative congregations.
However, Alvin and his wife, Mary, became members of the
more liberal Eden Mennonite congregation at Schwenksville (as
Jay’s book reminds us), and this may have made it easier for him
to see his way around the old strictures against insurance.
Much more needs to be said about the life and works of Alvin
Alderfer. There should be a book, in fact, and perhaps someone
will someday step up for the task. For the moment, then, I’ll just
say that he had an immense impact on the development of 20th
century Harleysville and environs, even though most of his
businesses have been absorbed into larger new ones with
different names through the impersonal, implacable force we
call “Progress.” He would have to approve, given his own
entrepreneurial spirit.
The insurance company was also founded to fill a need, when
the automobile began to have its immense impact on American
culture at the turn of the 20th century, bringing with it the
concept of auto theft and the potential for a much higher range
of damages. Any form of modern insurance -- life, auto, or what
The people in the photo (from Jay’s book) accompanying this report are Alvin and Mary Landis Alderfer’s extended family on some special occasion in the
mid-1930s. They are gathered on the grounds of the Poultry and Egg Auction, with Alvin and his wife, Mary, at the left in the first standing row.
It’s obvious that the photo is meant to feature their five daughters (and their husbands, who aren’t all lined up to show who goes with whom) and most of the
grandchildren. The third person from the left (in the row with Alvin and Mary) is Bertha Mae Clemens, next to her mother, and her husband, Harry B. Clemens,
is standing behind her, the third man in from the left in the back row.
Next to Bertha Mae is Sadie Ziegler, whose husband, J. Warren Ziegler, is in the back row behind her (bow tie), followed by Mary Ellen Moyer, whose husband,
Willis, is the second man from the left in the back row, between Alvin and Mary. Next is Alma Wood, whose husband, Frank, is the first man on the left in the
back row, and the last is Verna Bergey (holding her son John), whose husband is Norm Bergey, the very tall man in the middle of the back row (always the tallest
person in any group photo).
Norm played a large role in the Clemens chicken and egg business and then went on to found the Egg Auction in Worcester. “Uncle Norm” served for many years
on the township Sewer Authority and the School Board, among many other accomplishments, and more will have to be said about him in future stories.
Back to the photo: Alvin Clemens, Victor Clemens, and Homer A. Clemens finish out the back row, all sons of Bertha Mae and Harry B. Clemens, and
Harry Jr. is kneeling at the left to anchor the front row of children, starting with his sisters Louise, Bertha Mae, and Mary, followed by Robert Ziegler, Jean, Gladys,
and Homer Wood, Wesley Moyer, and Evangeline Bergey, Verna and Norm’s daughter (known as “Evanne”).
8
Spotlight on History: Alvin C. Alderfer (1869-1941)
By David Hudnut
Maple Avenue and Oak Drive. But in 2011
it ceased to exist as a separate entity when
it was absorbed into Nationwide Mutual
Insurance Company.
P
eople who come to live in Lower
Salford Township learn early on that
certain family names dominate the list of
businesses in the area. There are perhaps
25 such names, and I would not take the
risk of putting them all down in order of
importance, historic or otherwise, but if I
write, for example, “Alderfer, Bergey,
Clemens, Moyer” (in alphabetical order,
note) you know what I’m talking about.
It’s a good thing to have one of these
names.
However, the Harleysville Savings
Bank (opposite the Henning family’s
shopping plaza east of Harleysville),
another Alderfer enterprise, chartered in
1915, is still very much in business, for
which we all can be grateful. It’s obvious
that very little in modern life stays the
same for very long, with more and more
small businesses being absorbed into large
conglomerates, but I won’t go on with that
old timer’s refrain at this point.
Some years ago someone theorized that
this phenomenon of the core group of
names came about because the original
Swiss and Germanic settlers found this to
be a good place and did not migrate away
from here to some more desirable place in
Ohio or Kentucky. They just stayed to
farm and to start businesses, and their
descendants did the same thing. I mention
this as I start to say a little about Alvin
Clemens Alderfer (1869-1941), whose
name takes in two of these important
families.
Alvin Alderfer was born on his
father’s farm on Stover Road at the last
bend just before the short straight piece
running out to Main Street/Harleysville
Pike just west of the present-day Henning’s
shopping center. He went to the one-room
school founded in 1843 by his grandfather,
Isaac Alderfer (Alderfer’s or “Muskrat
Hall,” as Jay Ruth’s book tells us), just a
short
distance west on Harleysville Pike in
Alvin C. Alderfer ca 1890
the
point
of land at the intersection of the
Once again I’ll remind you that most of
Pike
and
Oak
Drive,
now
a
residence
but well preserved in nearwhat I say is drawn from Jay Ruth’s 1984 book, Looking at Lower
to-original
form.
Salford, along with items in the public record and Norman L.
Bergey’s 1999 memoir, “Hidden Treasures,” compiled and edited
Alvin went on to teach there for nine years and also became a
by Beth Dunham Garis. I’m responsible for anything that’s in surveyor, as the accompanying photo suggests. His father was
error.
the local justice of the peace (“Squire” George D. Alderfer), and
With Alvin Alderfer we’re not going back very far in time (to Alvin moved into this role on his father’s death in 1896, another
the late 19th and early-to-mid 20th centuries), and the physical of his many self-taught professions.
evidence of his work in finance and insurance is still there,
For a time he ran the clothing factory (still visible in older
except that only one of the structures still bears the name of the aerial photos of the town) located roughly where the modern
Alderfer-related enterprise it started out with, as I’ll point out in Lower Salford Public Works Department has its garage and
this brief review.
office, just up Alumni Drive from the 1909 Bank building. He
His lovely 1889 house (439 Main Street) is in good shape, also was a partner with entrepreneur Manasseh Clemens in the
recently turned into a day spa. The first version of his cider mill and creamery on what we now call Maple Avenue
Harleysville National Bank (474 Main, the small columned (the building no longer exists), on the north side as you go
building at the corner of Alumni Avenue and Main, built in toward the now defunct Harleysville Elementary School.
1909) is now the office of Jack Horner Communications, Inc., a
Jay’s historical narrative notes that when Alvin moved on into
public relations firm. In the 1950s part of it served as the banking and insurance, the creamery passed into the hands of
Township office.
Manasseh Clemens’ son, Harry B. Clemens, and that morphed
The larger columned building on the opposite side of Main into the giant poultry enterprise that, until recent times, took
Street (1930, with its modern additions through 1987) was the up the center of Harleysville behind the 1930 Bank building and
Harleysville National Bank we all remember, but it is presently the present Ace Hardware on Main Street.
awaiting its next tenant, following the 2010 financial crash of
Any mention of the Clemens family reminds us that they were
HNB and its takeover by the out-of-state First Niagara Bank.
just as much involved in the modern development of
Harleysville Insurance began in Alvin Alderfer’s home and Harleysville as the Alderfers. This will have to be part of a future
migrated to the 1909 Bank building in 1930 (when the bank report in this series.
moved across the street) before moving (after Alvin’s death) to
A 1930 pamphlet on the history of Harleysville National Bank
the large modern building constructed in 1950 at the corner of informs us that Alvin Alderfer founded it to fill a need: there
7
was no bank right in Harleysville at that time (1909), so why
not start one to fill the gap? Part of his vision, as he began to
build his businesses, was to reach out to other localities. The
first Board of Directors included men from Salfordville, Telford,
Elroy, and Skippack as well as a core group from Harleysville. As
I look at the photos of the 1930 Board of Directors, I see men
from families that I know from my boyhood in Worcester
Township: D. M. Allebach from Center Point (father of Harold
Allebach, the storekeeper in my father’s generation and father of
my late friend Wilson, whom you may remember as the
Postmaster at Center Point), and William E. Markley, the wellknown realtor from Fairview Village.
have you -- was contrary to Mennonite social doctrine, which
called for mutual assistance in time of need, still practiced in
conservative congregations.
However, Alvin and his wife, Mary, became members of the
more liberal Eden Mennonite congregation at Schwenksville (as
Jay’s book reminds us), and this may have made it easier for him
to see his way around the old strictures against insurance.
Much more needs to be said about the life and works of Alvin
Alderfer. There should be a book, in fact, and perhaps someone
will someday step up for the task. For the moment, then, I’ll just
say that he had an immense impact on the development of 20th
century Harleysville and environs, even though most of his
businesses have been absorbed into larger new ones with
different names through the impersonal, implacable force we
call “Progress.” He would have to approve, given his own
entrepreneurial spirit.
The insurance company was also founded to fill a need, when
the automobile began to have its immense impact on American
culture at the turn of the 20th century, bringing with it the
concept of auto theft and the potential for a much higher range
of damages. Any form of modern insurance -- life, auto, or what
The people in the photo (from Jay’s book) accompanying this report are Alvin and Mary Landis Alderfer’s extended family on some special occasion in the
mid-1930s. They are gathered on the grounds of the Poultry and Egg Auction, with Alvin and his wife, Mary, at the left in the first standing row.
It’s obvious that the photo is meant to feature their five daughters (and their husbands, who aren’t all lined up to show who goes with whom) and most of the
grandchildren. The third person from the left (in the row with Alvin and Mary) is Bertha Mae Clemens, next to her mother, and her husband, Harry B. Clemens,
is standing behind her, the third man in from the left in the back row.
Next to Bertha Mae is Sadie Ziegler, whose husband, J. Warren Ziegler, is in the back row behind her (bow tie), followed by Mary Ellen Moyer, whose husband,
Willis, is the second man from the left in the back row, between Alvin and Mary. Next is Alma Wood, whose husband, Frank, is the first man on the left in the
back row, and the last is Verna Bergey (holding her son John), whose husband is Norm Bergey, the very tall man in the middle of the back row (always the tallest
person in any group photo).
Norm played a large role in the Clemens chicken and egg business and then went on to found the Egg Auction in Worcester. “Uncle Norm” served for many years
on the township Sewer Authority and the School Board, among many other accomplishments, and more will have to be said about him in future stories.
Back to the photo: Alvin Clemens, Victor Clemens, and Homer A. Clemens finish out the back row, all sons of Bertha Mae and Harry B. Clemens, and
Harry Jr. is kneeling at the left to anchor the front row of children, starting with his sisters Louise, Bertha Mae, and Mary, followed by Robert Ziegler, Jean, Gladys,
and Homer Wood, Wesley Moyer, and Evangeline Bergey, Verna and Norm’s daughter (known as “Evanne”).
8
Proper Use of Township-Owned Open Space Benefits Everyone
Where Your Tax Dollar Goes
• Lower Salford Township - 2.6065 mills 7.8 percent
8.3%
• Montgomery County - 3.152 mills 8.3 percent
83.9%
7.8%
• Souderton Area School District - 28.5376 mills 83.9 percent
*The average residential assessment in Lower Salford Township is $195,000
Lower Salford Township
Souderton Area School District
Montgomery County
T
he acquisition of open space is for the enhancement of life for all of our residents. “Studies have substantiated the positive
financial benefit of increasing the property values of all residents by these acquisitions,” said Supervisor Chris Canavan.
The increased frequency of the intrusion into Township-owned open space by individuals has been brought to our attention and
is a source of great concern. Open space is for the benefit of the entire community, not just abutting neighbors. It is vital that
everyone refrains from any actions that may alter the open space in any manner.
It should be common sense that open space not be used for the disposal of yard waste or other waste of any kind. Illegal dumping
is a danger to public health and safety; it decreases property values, lowers the quality of life, and costs our Township taxpayers
money to clean-up and restore the area. Please contact the Township Office or Police Department if you see any abuse of Township
open space.
Residents are not permitted to plant trees, or place trailers, sheds, boats, or fences on Township open space. Free gardening
permits may be obtained from the Township to plant annuals or mow the grass; however, no mowing permits will be issued in the
Township “riparian buffer zones.” These “no-mow zones” protect the water quality of our streams and prevent erosion.
• When using the parks and community paths, you must clean up after your pets for the health and safety of everyone.
• Please help keep our Township parks and open spaces clean!
• Township parks are open from dawn to dusk.
Roth Park
Improvement
T
he Roth Park pond was dredged this
fall by the Township Public Works
Department and a private contractor. The
fish were relocated locally and the pond
has recently been restocked with
fingerlings. Approximately five feet of silt
and mud were removed from the pond.
Winter Discount Ticket Program
H
it the slopes this winter with discounted ski lift tickets to the region’s best ski areas. Tickets will
be available to Bear Creek, Big Boulder/Jack Frost, Blue Mountain, Camelback, and Elk Mountain.
Coupons for Shawnee Mt. will also be available.
Stop by the Township Building between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. All proceeds
from the sale of discount tickets are deposited into the Township Park Fund.
GOT DRUGS?
Christmas Tree Recycling
Help make the Indian Valley a safer place by disposing of
your unused or expired prescription medications.
T
rees free of decorations can be dropped off during daylight hours at Reiff Park at the
parking lot off Upper Mainland Road through February 28. The trees will be chipped and
used for mulch throughout the Township's park system.
Locations in the Indian Valley For Safe Disposal Drop Box:
Franconia Township Police
Department
671 Allentown Road, Telford, PA
Open: M-F 7:30am - 5:00pm
Souderton Police Department
31 W. Summit Street, Souderton, PA
Open: 24 hours
Telford Police Department
100 Penn Avenue, Telford, PA 18969
Open: M-F 8:00am - 4:00pm
or by appointment
FREE and ANONYMOUS
This information is provided in part by the Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition.
For more information call 215-723-3569, ext 116
Special Needs Registry
T
he registry is a planning tool to allow individuals with special needs the opportunity to provide
information to emergency response agencies so they can better plan to serve them in a weather
disaster or other emergency. It is a cooperative effort between Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery
counties, brought to you by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Regional Task Force.
Supervisor Phil Heilman advises our residents to please visit www.specialneedspa.org for more
information and to get registered.
A hidden gem in Montgomery
County. Our extensive display
gardens, large selection of
material and years of experience
can help you create
your own garden
paradise.
www.behmerwald.com
Call for easy directions 610-287-0480
4904 Garges Rd., Schwenksville, PA • Skippack Twp.
9
6
Spotlight On...The Indian Valley Public Library
A Valuable Resource For the Community
Habits to Help Reduce Stormwater Impact
Winter Deicing
• Snow blower - Easier on the back. Best if used before any
deicers are used so as not to throw the chemical on plants.
W
inter weather often leaves us dealing with snow and ice on
our sidewalks and driveways. Currently the most common
substances used for this are salts. However,
the salts can be harmful for the
environment because they kill plants, ruin
soils, and are toxic to many species within
stream ecosystems.
O
ne of the best-kept secrets in our area
is the Indian Valley Public Library.
Funded in part by our Library Tax, the
IVPL offers a wealth of information and
activities for residents of all ages.
If you live in the Souderton Area School
District, you can join the library by
completing an application and showing
proof of current address. Anyone under
age 18 needs a parent or guardian to sign
the application. IVPL cards are honored in
all Pennsylvania libraries participating in
the ACCESS-PA program.
• Sand - best for traction. Use sand
sparingly as it can clog storm drains and
choke waterways. Be sure to sweep up
excess to minimize the amount of sand
that gets into storm drains and
waterways.
Shoveling is the best form of snow and
ice removal. The old standard of using sand
for traction is good but must be used
sparingly. The sand can clog storm drains,
destroy habitat in streams through the
increase in sedimentation in the waterways.
Here are a few of the services provided:
• For pre-schoolers, the library offers a friendly, welcoming environment that include a large collection of picture,
nonfiction and informational picture books; a robust collection of music, audiobooks and DVDs; AWE Early
Literacy Stations™ with a variety of learning games; Story Time programs; and toys and games.
• School-age kids can participate in a number of after-school clubs (crafts, sign language, chess, and Legos, to name
a few).
• Adults can choose from classes (resume writing, Yoga, greeting card stamping) and programs such as Second
Friday (creative entertainment) and Tuesday Movie Matinees.
• Computers with internet
access are available for research
and job search purposes.
ADDRESS:
10 E Church Avenue,
Telford PA 18969
PHONE:
215-723-9109
Some of the general collection at the Indian Valley Library.
HOURS:
Sunday
1pm - 5pm
Monday - Thursday
9am - 9pm
Friday
10am - 9pm
The Pennsylvania Room contains resources about state and local history.
5
Saturday
10am - 5pm
• Bird seed - another traction method and
it is biodegradable, or even better, birds
will enjoy eating it in the winter
months!
Homeowners do have some choices when
it comes to the kinds of deicing chemicals the important thing to remember is to choose carefully and use
sparingly.
The increased use of salts for deicing over the last 50 years has
this country currently using more than 10 million tons on the
roadways annually. There are alternatives to using salts, even for
the homeowner.
Deicers are designed to loosen the ice so that it is easier to
shovel. All substance options should be used sparingly to
minimize the damage to waterways and the environment.
• Shoveling - Very effective but can be back breaking and is
the least damaging to the overall environment.
• Safe Paw™- Is not a salt but an
amide/glycol mixture that is safe for the
environment and is biodegradable.
• Calcium chloride - works at very low temperatures, and you
can use less. It is also easier on vegetation than regular rock
salt (sodium chloride). This is still a salt and can be toxic to
waterways. Use properly and SPARINGLY!
• Liquid deicer chemicals - for areas that experience large
occurrences of snow and ice, deicing chemicals are necessary.
The liquid deicers works best when used BEFORE a storm hits
- this is called anti-icing. A thin layer of liquid deicer applied
to sidewalks and driveways prevents the formation of ice.
Timing is key to minimize the wash-off potential from rain.
This method requires less product than granular forms of
deicers, which can be more economical.
Winter Weather Reminders
Snow Specifics
very critical function that you can do to help save
the firefighters valuable time in the event of a fire in
your neighborhood or even your own home.
Help us keep the township safe during a snowfall by
observing these regulations:
• Clear your sidewalks within 10 hours of the end of a
snowfall. If snow falls after 6 p.m. you have until
11 a.m. the next day to salt and shovel.
• All vehicles must be parked off the street to allow for
safe and efficient removal of snow from curb to curb.
Also, please remove trashcans and sports equipment
from the street.
Please go to the Township website for more
information regarding the recently amended ordinance
regulating street parking during snow emergencies. For
Township emergency or meeting announcement, tune to
KYW 1060 or WNPV 1440 for updates.
• Shovel snow to the right of your driveway, as you are
facing the road. (See diagram) Shoveling or plowing
snow onto a street or road is prohibited.
• Be sure your sump pump discharges onto your land
or into a storm drain -- not onto sidewalks or streets,
where it can freeze.
• Please help the Fire Department by keeping fire
hydrants clear of any snow from the storm and after
a snow plow passes through your road. This is a
10
Turnpike Construction Update
T
he Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) held its first open house for the “northern”
section total reconstruction and widening of the Northeast Extension project in October at the
Towamencin Volunteer Fire Company.
The two-hour open house provided property owners living close to the turnpike’s six-lane
widening project between Berks Road and the Lansdale Interchange an opportunity to meet with
turnpike officials, the general contractor and consultants involved with the $198 million total
reconstruction project.
Construction plans, the contractor’s current construction schedule, bridge construction and local
traffic restrictions were on display. Attendees were able to have questions answered by
representatives of the PTC and its construction consultants.
Earlier this year, at the start of the project, the PTC hosted a construction kick-off. As part of the Turnpike's community outreach
plan for total reconstruction projects, public meetings will be periodically scheduled throughout the remainder of the project.
Construction updates continue to be distributed electronically to state and local elected officials and residents that have signed up.
Please take a moment to visit www.paturnpike.com/constructionprojects/mpA20toA31 where you can sign-up to receive
electronic E-Bulletins and the project newsletter “NEXT,” and locate contact information for the Northern Section Construction
Project Team.
Supervisor Keith Bergman suggests that residents who have not already done so or are unable to attend the meetings are
encouraged to sign up to receive electronic weekly construction updates by contacting Mimi Doyle, PTC Public Information
Manager at mdoyle@paturnpike.com or Casey Waller, KCI Public Involvement Specialist at casey.waller@kci.com.
HOLIDAY CALENDAR
Carol Night at the
Heckler Farm
Toys for Tots
You are invited to enjoy an oldfashioned Christmas celebration of
caroling around the bonfire
beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Friday,
December 12. When the caroling ends, you are invited
into the candle-lit farmhouse for hot cider, hot
chocolate and homemade treats. Admission to the
event is a homemade treat for the groaning board or a
handmade ornament for the Christmas tree. For more
information call the township office at 215-256-8087.
Santa Run
Santa will tour the Township on
December 20 starting at 10 a.m.
Members of the Fire Company will
be collecting food. Please bring
the food to the vehicles that will
be following the fire truck.
Historical House Tours
Sunday, December 14, 11am - 4pm
Two years ago, the three Lower Salford Park historic
houses were opened for a Christmas house tour, each
decorated in their respective periods for the holidays.
Since the response was so positive, we’re doing it again
this year and including several private residences as
well. It’s still in the planning stages, but the those on
the list so far include:
• Bergey Mill Farm, 675 Bergey Mill Road, where
life and Christmas in the 19th Century will be
depicted in this two bedroom home where David
K. Bergey and Amanda Wagner Bergey raised 13
children.
• Heckler Plains Farmhouse. 237 Landis Road,
which will be furnished and decorated in 18th
Century style.
• The Reiff Farmhouse, 775 Quarry Road, a fine
example of a transition house, as some parts date
to the 18th and 19th centuries.
• The home and Ice House of Maryanne Harris,
581 Groffs Mill Road.
Visitors are urged to carpool and tour at their leisure.
Details and directions can be picked up at the Lower
Salford Township Building or by calling 215-822-7422
(evenings) beginning December 1.
11
4
The Lower Salford Township
Police Department has announced the U. S. Marine
Corps 2014 Toys for Tots campaign is now underway.
Items desperately needed each year are for age groups
10-16, as well as all sizes/types of batteries.
Effective immediately, items may be dropped off at
any of the following locations in Harleysville until
December 19;
Lower Salford Twp. Police Dept., Harleysville
Savings Bank, Harleysville Ace Hardware, Henning’s
Market, First Niagara Bank (Meadowbrook Plaza),
Encore Experiences (Senior Center), Park View at Oak
Crest, Arbour Square, The Birches, The Hillside,
Harleysville Books, Giant, Harleysville Car Wash,
Harleysville Hotel, Subway, Isabelle’s Kitchen & Maple
Avenue Foods, Harleysville Eye Associates, Phoenix
Rehab, The UPS Store, Harleysville Post Office,
Montgomery Woods, Indian Valley YMCA, and
Financial Voyages LLC.
For more information please call the Lower Salford
Township Police Department at 215- 256-9500 during
regular business hours (8am to 5:30pm, Monday
through Friday).
Gift Card Drive
The Montgomery Office of Children and Youth is
conducting its annual Holiday Gift Card Drive. You
can support an abused or neglected child in need this
holiday season by providing gift cards from stores of
your choosing. Gift cards can be used to match
individual needs, are not subject to toy recalls or safety
issues. Their use is also monitored by professional
casework staff. Gift cards in $10 to $25 increments are
recommended.
Donations can be sent to:
Montgomery County Office
of Children and Youth,
1430 DeKaIb Street,
P0 Box 311,
Norristown, PA
19404-0311.
For more information,
call 610-278-5800
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
FROM
THE
AMBULANCE CO.
residents and local businesses First Aid and CPR classes, as well
as other exciting and educational opportunities.
2014/2015 Ambulance Subscription Drive
H
arleysville Area EMS has kicked off our 2014/2015
Ambulance Subscription Drive. As your local emergency
ambulance service, we rely heavily on your subscription and
generous donations to help sustain our day-to-day operations.
For more information, or to schedule a training class, please
contact our Community Outreach Program Director, Nicole
Smith, at 215-513-1880 or by email at CPR@haems.org.
Vice-Chairman Doug Johnson advised that our taxdeductible contributions go directly back to the community in
the form of new equipment for the ambulances, and training for
our dedicated volunteer and career paramedics and EMTs. But
most importantly, they ensure that someone will always be there
if and when you need us. Harleysville Area EMS is dedicated to
providing the highest level of emergency medical care to you
and our community.
Safety Tips
• Get your flu shot.
Autumn is the start of the flu season:
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
this helps prevent those around you from also getting sick.
• Wash your hands often. If soap and water are not available,
use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs often
spread when a person touches something that is
contaminated with germs, and then touches his or her eyes,
nose, or mouth.
If you have not received a 2014/2015 subscription card or if
you have any questions, please give us a call at 215-513-1880.
First Aid and CPR
Harleysville Area EMS continues to provide community
Eye on Development
Preliminary and Final Plans
Under Review
• Mainland Pointe/SHR Harleysville,
LP - Mixed Use Land Development
Plan on Main Street.
• Meadows of Lederach/Branch Creek
Real Estate - four-lot residential
subdivision on Kinsey Road.
• Berkley Place/DJC Development - 15
residential lots on Gruber Road.
• AG Harleysville - land development
plan at Harleysville Pike and Park
Avenue.
Plan in Construction
• Salford Valley/Moyer-Landis, LLP -
12-lot residential subdivision at
Landis and Moyer roads.
• Mikelen, LLC - two-lot residential
subdivision at 437 Yoder Road.
• The Reserve at Salford/Toll PA, LP 48-lot residential subdivision on
Landis Road.
Sports and Youth Groups
Harleysville Baseball
Michael Fornwall, President
President@harleysvillebaseball.com
Harleysville Girls Softball
Karl Gould
www.harleysvillesoftball.com
Harleysville Eagles Youth
Football and Cheerleading
Kevin Hawley
www.harleysvilleeagles.com
Harleysville Soccer Club
Todd Andrade
www.harleysvillesoccer.org
Harleysville Swim & Dive Team
www.harleysvilleswimteam.com
Souderton Area Youth
Football Association
Mike Rowan, 215-570-6599
www.soudertonbraves.com
Souderton Area Boys Lacrosse
Association (SABLA)
Steve Lanzillotti, 215-872-6961
www.soudertonlacrosse.com
Souderton-Harleysville
Youth Basketball Association
Mickey Kutzler, 215-622-3912
www.shyba.org
Souderton Area
Youth Wrestling Association
Tom Beckett, President
www.soudertonwrestling.com
Boy Scouts
Clament Newport, 610-688-6900
www.colbsa.org
Girl Scouts of Southeastern PA
Marcia Gariano, 215-564-2030
www.gsep.org
Montgomery County 4H Program
montcopa4hcenter.org
Community Organizations
Harleysville Area
Emergency Medical Services
215-513-1880
http://www.haems.org
Harleysville Community Fire Company
Jim Kuhns, President
215-256-9657
http://harleysvillefire.org
Harleysville Jaycees
www.harleysvillejaycees.org
Harleysville Lions
Tim Clemmer, Secretary
215-723-6678
Harleysville Rotary
harleysvillerotary.org
Heckler Plains Folklife Society
Joan DiMaria, President, 215-822-7422
www.hecklerplains.org
Lower Salford Historical Society
Dave Wisler, President
www.lowersalford.org
Mennonite Heritage Center
Sarah Heffner, 215-256-3020
www.mhep.org
Lower Salford Sewer Authority
215-256-8676
Harleysville Branch YMCA
Diane Manus, 215-256-0767
Indian Valley Branch YMCA
Betty Linko, 215-723-3569
www.northpennymca.org
Encore Experiences
(Formerly Harleysville Senior Center)
215-256-6900
www.encoreexperiences.org
Meals on Wheels
Pat McQue, 215-723-8555
Indian Creek Foundation
267-203-1500, www.indcreek.org
Peaceful Living
Joe Landis, Director and Founder
610-287-1200, www.peacefulliving.org
Natural Lands Trust
Dulcie F. Flaharty, 215-257-4554
dflaharty@natlands.org
Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy
610-287-9383
www.perkiomenwatershed.org
Indian Valley Public Library
215-723-9109, www.ivpl.org
The Partnership TMA
Peggy Schmidt, 215-997-9100
www.ptma-mc.org
To see the most current information, visit our website at: www.lowersalfordtownship.org
Reminder: Leaves and Yard Waste Disposal
T
he Township provides a leaf/yard waste (no grass clippings) drop-off location. Leaves and yard waste
in biodegradable bags may be deposited in the container at the Township Building Parking Lot at no
cost throughout the year.
Biodegradable bags may be purchased at the Township Municipal Building ($.35 per bag, 3 bags for
$1 or 50 bags for $16.50).
Burning Regulations Reminders
A
ll types of burning are prohibited in Lower Salford
Township with the exception of ceremonial type fires,
which are identified as fires for the purposes of roasting
marshmallows, roasting hot dogs, etc.
Ceremonial fires are defined as:
• Any outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish,
where the fuel being burned is not contained in an
outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit and has a
total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less
in height for ceremonial cooking or religious purposes.
Free Consultation
Most Insurances Accepted
444 MAIN STREET
HARLEYSVILLE, PA 19438
www.teethsostraight.com
215-256-6444
Sam Kadan, DMD
3
12
• Chimineas or other type fire
pits must be at least 15 feet
from a residence.
Authorization from the
Lower Salford Township Fire
Marshal must be obtained
before any burning.
Lower Salford Township Contact Information
Welding • Fabrication
Accessories • Lift Kits
Wheels & Tires
Paint and Body Repair
Frame Repair
New & Used Parts
Maintenance • Repair • PA State Inspections • Restorations
Township Office: 215-256-8087 • Fax: 215-256-4869 • Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Police Department: 215-256-9595 • Police and Fire Emergency: 9-1-1
www.JeffDanielsJeeps.com • JDCrew@JeffDanielsJeeps.com
215-256-8090 • 495 Indian Head Creek Rd., Harleysville, PA 19438
The Board of Supervisors meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Informal work sessions are held at 7 a.m. on the day before the regular meeting and the third Wednesday
of each month. At work sessions, staff updates the Board on Township activities. No formal action takes place at these meetings.
379 Main Street, Harleysville, PA 19438 • www.lowersalfordtownship.org
Supervisors Meetings
Township
Supervisors
Douglas A. Gifford – Chairman
Douglas Johnson –
Vice Chairman
Keith A. Bergman
Philip P. Heilman
Christopher R. Canavan
General Township Mailbox
township@lowersalfordtownship.org
Lower Salford Police Department • Emergencies: 911
379 Main St., Harleysville, PA 19438 Office: 215-256-9500 Fax: 215-256-1212
Administrative Assistant:
Sharon McFarland
smcfarland@lowersalfordtownship.org
Police Dispatch: 215-256-9595
police@lowersalfordtownship.org
Chief of Police: Thomas A. Medwid
tmedwid@lowersalfordtownship.org
Police Clerk: Barbara Jansons
bjansons@lowersalfordtownship.org
Investigations: Sgt. Cory Moyer
cmoyer@lowersalfordtownship.org
Patrol and Traffic: Sgt. Bill O’Connell
woconnell@lowersalfordtownship.org
General Police Mailbox
police@lowersalfordtownship.org
Montgomery County Commissioners
Josh Shapiro, Chairman, Leslie I. Richards, Vice Chairman &
Bruce L. Castor, Jr., Commissioner
Court House, Swede and Airy Streets
Box 311, Norristown, PA 19404
610-278-3000 • web: www.montcopa.org
President of the United States
President Barack Obama
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Our Senator in the PA General Assembly
Senator Bob Mensch (24th District)
404 Main St., Suite A, Pennsburg, PA 18073
215-541-2388 • fax: 215-541-2387
web: http://senatormensch.com
email: bmensch@pasen.gov
Senator Robert Casey
Pennsylvania Senators
in the United States Congress
Harrisburg Office:
555 Walnut St., 1st Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-231-7540 • fax: 717-231-7542
Washington DC Office:
B-40 Dirksen Senate Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
202-224-6324
fax: 202-228-0604
web: http://casey.senate.gov
email: linked through website
Our Representative in the Pennsylvania General Assembly
Marcy Toepel (70th District)
80 Gravel Pike, Unit A, Red Hill, PA 18076
Phone: 215.679.3082, Fax: 215.679.3156
web: http://www.pahouse.com/toepel
email: mtoelpel@pahousegop.com
Senator Pat Toomey
William Green Federal Bldg., Suite 9400
600 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-597-7200
web: http://toomey.senate.gov
email: linked through website
Pennsylvania Governor
Tom Corbett
225 Main Capitol, Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-787-2500
web: www.governor.state.pa.us
email: linked through website
Thank You To The Businesses:
This publication is made available through the generous
advertising sponsorship of the businesses listed
throughout our newsletter. We wish to encourage your
patronage of these establishments; they play a substantial
role in the economic vitality of our community.
2
Affordable • Confidential • Professional
PECKMAN CHAIT LLP
David A. Peckman
Attorney At Law
In Home Consultations
& Evening Appointments
Wills • Trusts • Estates • Probate
Powers of Attorney • Deeds • Leases
Litigation • Contracts • Business • Personal
Construction • Real Estate • Traffic/DUI
Accidents & Injuries • Torts • Family Law
For All Your Legal Needs
29 Mainland Road • Harleysville, PA 19438
610-825-9000
david@peckmanlaw.com
STEPHEN REDDING
Arborist
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!”
Lower Salford Township
379 Main Street
Harleysville, PA 19438
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #640
DOYLESTOWN, PA
TOWNSHIP NEWSLETTER
Township Officials
Douglas A. Gifford
Douglas M. Johnson
Keith A. Bergman
Philip P. Heilman
Christopher R. Canavan
Joseph Czajkowski
Mary L. West
LOWER SALFORD
Chairman
Vice Chairman
Supervisor
Supervisor
Supervisor
Manager
Assistant Manager
Fall/Winter 2014 • Published by the Board of Supervisors • Founded 1741
Message From the Chairman
Dear Residents:
L
ast fall served as nothing more than a fond memory obliterated by the
harshest winter we’ve experienced in more years than I can remember.
We were all snow blind to the colorful memories of autumn that we try to
hold onto through the cold months of winter.
Fall/Winter 2014
This Community Newsletter is produced for the
Lower Salford Township by Hometown Press
215.257.1500 • All rights reserved®
To Place An Ad Call Denise At Hometown Press • 510-526-1473 • DeniseOfHTP@yahoo.com
This year, we hope for better.
Last year, the Public Works Department strived heroically to handle the
almost constant snowfalls.
Content provided by Chroma Group • 267-772-0740
This year, we hope for a lighter load for all.
2013 Organic CSA Shares Available
Unbeatable Variety of Heirloom
Produce & Herbs, and Heritage Breed
Proteins!
DELICIOUS CATERING
FARM MARKET
OPEN ALL YEAR!
HOMEMADE SALADS,
SIDES & ENTREES
Wed. 4pm-6pm.
Sat. 9am-2pm.
Other days by appt.
HOMEMADE BAKERY
Township Contact Information . .2
From The Ambulance Co . . . . . .3
Eye on Development . . . . . . . . . .3
Reminder: Leaves and
Yard Waste Disposal . . . . . . . . . .3
FRESH MARKET
BUFFET
COFFEE HOUSE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
620 Quarry Rd., Harlesyville, PA 19438
quarryhillfarm.net • 215-513-1514
Quality Food is Our Best Medicine
PIZZERIA
Holiday Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Indian Valley Public Library . . . .5
Township-Owned Open Space . .6
Winter Discount Ticket Program 6
Christmas Tree Recycling . . . . . .6
OPEN EVERY DAY
7 AM - 11 PM
Special Needs Registry . . . . . . . . .6
We have another bright forecast for Township finances, with the only blip
on the fiscal horizon a possible increase in the Library Tax that is included in
your bill each year. The Indian Valley Library is attempting to regain the full
measure of municipal support it had before the Souderton School District
withdrew from the funding arrangement in which it had participated for
decades. Three of the four municipalities -- Lower Salford included -- have
indicated their willingness to make up the entire difference this year, after
covering only half the amount for the prior two years.
The library has constantly proven its worth to the community as a whole
and remains the cultural treasure of the Indian Valley. It deserves our full
support and we hope for the full recognition and support of all the
municipalities for the fulfillment of the library’s modest request.
After all, autumn is the season of hope.
Douglas Gifford, Chairman
Lower Saflord Board of Supervisors
Spotlight on History . . . . . . . . .7-8
290 MAIN STREET I HARLEYSVILLE I PA I 19438 I 215-256-9533
Where Your Tax Dollars Go . . . .9
Roth Park Improvement . . . . . . .9
REPUBLIC
SERVICES
An Environmental Partner You Can Count On
Residential Collection and Recycling Services
Sign Up Today to pay your bill on line and receive
ONE MONTH FREE!
Got Drugs? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Habits to Help Reduce
Stormwater Impact . . . . . . . . . .10
NEW
Online
Payme
nt
Options
Winter Weather Reminders . . . .10
Turnpike Construction Update .11
Community Contacts . . . . . . . .12
Burning Regulations Reminders 12
Paperless Billing saves you more of what matters.
Call 215.723.0400 to Learn How It Works!
republicservices.com
Visit our website at: www.lowersalfordtownship.org