DUKE CENTER — Residents of Otto Township received some reassuring news at the monthly meeting of the township supervisors, when newly appointed chairman Eric Barton announced the results of the Eldred Borough vote on the future of the Otto-Eldred Police Department.
The voting was closed on July 26, and although fewer than one hundred votes were cast, the borough residents voted decidedly (71 yes, 26 no) to continue the joint police force. Eldred Mayor Andy Lathrop and town officials will be meeting with the police commission and Otto’s supervisors to extend the agreement with some financial modifications. Both entities are open to other local townships’ participation in exploring the possibility of expanding the coverage area and contributing to the funding.
Police Chief Donald Nies reported that two local residents have been cited for non-compliance with the township’s new property appearance code and face possible fines if they do not respond and agree to the violations and solutions. Five property owners who were sent letters last month have taken steps to improve their properties. Committee members Marilyn Kahle and Donna Marshall presented a list of 25 more possible violations in the township. Nies will investigate each and issue letters of non-compliance to those in violation. The committee is dedicated to improving the township’s appearance, not just for appearance sake, but a well-kempt neighborhood is also a safer and more inviting one. Community pride and self respect are indicative of a happy and healthy population.
Nies reported a slight uptick in police calls as Covid restrictions are being eased (or ignored). The recent incidents involving alleged sexual violations in the township park are continuing to be investigated by the local police force as well as the Pennsylvania State Police. Nies suggested closing the park earlier than the current 10 p.m. closing time. The supervisors agreed and will look to change the ordinance and the signage.
Two repairs are necessary in the park, with one open for bids and one bid accepted. Rich Dubetsky’s bid of $800.00 was accepted to repair the walls and roof of the well building in the park; and repair of the wind damaged pavilion roof is open for bids, with one received from Keith Halstead. The park’s pavilions are being rented out for families and organizations. Anyone wishing to do so should contact Cindy Gardner, township secretary, at the township office in Duke Center.
An electronics and hazardous waste collection day for McKean County residents is scheduled for Aug. 22. Collection will be at the Otto-Eldred High School, 143 Sweitzer Drive. Contact Gardner at the township office for more information.
The present agreement between the township and the high school pertaining to responsibilities and enforcement of the park area adjoining the athletic fields during school activities is being questioned by both parties, with a recent meeting resulting in only questions and no answers. Further discussions will be held with the anticipation of a new agreement being accepted by all before the upcoming fall sports begin.
Rixford resident Tom Merry was present and asked the supervisors if anything has been resolved in his quest to stop the illegal sewage being discharged on his property. This has been occurring for months and Merry is understandably upset that no one appears to realize the health concerns, as well as the obvious illegality. Again, chairman Barton assured Merry that something will be done. When is still not clear.
The township is currently pursuing the possibility of purchasing a new refuse truck. The older of the two currently in use requires costly maintenance and the supervisors all agree it would be cost effective to retire it and purchase a new one. Also, the township work crew will again assist Lafayette Township’s crew on Sept. 21 during their fall clean-up, a reciprocal gesture commonplace with these two and other area townships.
And, longtime employee, past supervisor and current township secretary Cynthia Gardner announced her intention to retire at the end of the calendar year. The supervisors thanked her for her service and will advertise for a replacement, hopefully filling the position soon, enabling Gardner to train the new employee before she begins her retirement.
