FYI – This is a practice I started and will continue as a member of the BOC. With these previews while I may indicate a voting inclination, it in no way means my mind is made up on any issue. Back during a critical hearing for the Jaindl issue, a Commissioner once spoke before public comment outlining he was voting to move forward the project regardless of what people said during public comment. That was wrong.

My hope is this opens the door for conversations before public meetings. One of my biggest issues with the Jaindl debacle was people didn’t truly understand what was happening until it was “too late”. I plan on doing everything I can to make sure residents have background information and my thoughts on issues before they come to a vote  in front of the board. This is one mechanism to do that. I hope people find it useful. 

12/5/13 Complete agenda with detail

Hearings and Approvals – Kratzer Farm Minor Subdivision
I’ve written alot on this subject. The house will not be sold before January 6th when new Commissioners are sworn in. I do not support the sale of any portion of the Kratzer farm parcel at this time. Selling assets is not solving our underlying financing problems. Selling assets that make sense to sell was good policy over the last 3 years. The Kratzer farm however is unique. It makes no sense to sell at this time. Or better put, there is not good reason or pressing reason to sell it at this time. Not before a comprehensive plan is complete for the parcel. Further, every relevant volunteer board (planning commission, EAC, Parks) objects to the sale of park property at this time. Original position on Kratzer Farm open space

Communication
Compliments:
Scott Alderfer writes a nice letter complimenting crossing guard staff at WLES.
Richard O’Keefe writes complimenting staff on Leaf Collection

Positions:
Carol Black writes in opposition of TIF funding for Hamilton Crossings

18 residents wrote in opposition to property tax. Many favor Conrads EIT alternative. Of note, at least 2 seemed confused about municipal taxes. For ex: one mentioned “subsidizing schools”. Seems confused on school tax vs. muni property taxes….

3 residents wrote in favor of the tax increase and provided supporting rationale.

Solicitor: Solicitor has a note about “Deed in lieu of condemnation of Sauerkraut Rt. 100 intersection. I think this has to do with acquiring land for Sauerkraut extension. I need more information about this before I write about it.

Township Manager:
This will be the huge topic of the night. The ordinance adopting the 2014 budget. I will be writing about this tomorrow. I am looking forward to hearing comments from residents, Commissioners and staff.

Here are some posts I made about the subject over the past 2 weeks.

Blogs
What is home rule charter – and link to Ryan Conrad’s proposed plan
One pro property tax argument that has been made.

Mcall
Lower Macungie property tax proposal stirs last-minute outcry