The East Penn Board of Supervisors last week discussed the closing of a portion of Ashfield Road.

Last month the board said part of Ashfield Road in East Penn Township is beyond repair and is expected to be closed permanently. The Supervisors voted to close the road.

“We have to close it because everything is coming down on one side,” explained Supervisor Gary Kuehner.

Ashfield Road runs off Route 895 near Dinkey Memorial Road, off the 5-way intersection. Part of the road caved in due to flooding from the Lizard Creek. Repairs would be expensive.

“For us to fix it, it would cost us about $150,000,” Vice Chairman William Schwab said, “and that won’t actually fix the problem. We would rather not close it, but we really don’t have much of a choice.”

Last week supervisors reported a surveyor is needed for Ashfield Road, then a public notice will be made. A motion was approved for Carbon Engineering to revise the plan for Cunfer Road.

Biosolids

Several residents had further questions about the approved use of biosolids on the Cunfer farm.

Eleanor Berger asked if she needed to pay to have her well tested again and was advised that she should do so at her cost.

The board explained that the Attorney General has already approved of the use of Biosolids in the Township and there is nothing further that can be done to stop it.

Roof replacement

In unfinished business, there are two quotes for shingles and metal roof replacement for the municipal building roof that are over cost. A motion to advertise for additional bids was approved.

The cost of replacing the Community Center ceiling/roof and floors will be discussed at a meeting Tuesday.

A motion was approved to have the solicitor prepare an ordinance for short term rentals and airbnbs.

Fuel bids were accepted for Heller for propane and Suburban for heating oil, gas and diesel.

Township Manager Jillyan Sterling, will attend the Carbon County Municipal Forum on June 14. Effective June 1 the Assistant Secretary’s salary was increased to $15 an hour.

A request for a well exemption was approved at a distance of 62 feet for 39 Middle Lane. An easement agreement for access and utilities on the Bennett property was approved, with the property owner paying the engineering fee.

The next meeting of the board of supervisors will be held on July 5 at 6:30 p.m. at 403 Blue Mountain Road, Ashfield.

James Logue Jr. contributed to this report.