Lehigh Township supervisors voted to advertise a proposed 2027 budget that includes no tax increase while making several adjustments to spending priorities.

Township Manager Alice Rehrig presented an updated budget during the board’s meeting. The proposal includes funding increases for insurance and software that would allow residents to conduct more township business online, including debit card transactions.

The budget also reduces the township’s donation to the Northampton Area Public Library from $4,000 to $2,000, adds funding for dog waste bag stations at township parks, provides for a new municipal building sign and removes a projector purchase for the meeting room.

Supervisor Cindy Miller made a motion to advertise the budget, seconded by Supervisor David Hess. The motion passed.

Playground project approved

Supervisors also approved new playground equipment for the Pennsville Playground.

The project will include three components: a play area for children ages 0 to 5, a second play area for ages 5 to 12 and a swing set designed for all ages.

The equipment carries a sale price of $143,130. Funding will come from several sources. Jandl is expected to contribute $92,000 through obligations tied to the nearby sewer plant project, a recreation fee will provide $25,400 and the township’s share will be $25,730.

Rehrig said the discounted price is available through Dec. 4, with installation expected in the spring.

Street light request

Rehrig updated the board on a street light request first raised by resident Marion May at last month’s meeting.

“To put a street light pole at Route 145 and Washington Street, we would have to pay for the installation even though it’s a state highway,” Rehrig said.

Zoning concerns

Township solicitor Dave Backenstoe reported that zoning enforcement has required increased attention.

“There have been a lot of zoning issues, serious ones,” Backenstoe said. “There was one cease and desist.”

When residents asked about the enforcement process, Backenstoe explained: “They get a warning, if they don’t comply then a citation, and then the magistrate.”

Previously, Zoning Officer Roxann Colfer said activity remains high in the department.

“We are super busy with permits, hearings and inspections,” Colfer said. “Three hearings were continued, and we have three coming up in November.”

Backenstoe reported spending considerable time working with Colfer on zoning and noise ordinance matters.

He also noted that property owner Donald Gogel was fined $5,000 after failing to address code violations on a five-parcel property at 2021 Riverview Drive.

Fire department

Last month, Fire Commissioner Rick Hildebrand reported that township fire companies conducted fire prevention programs at schools, day cares and nursery schools throughout the area.

He noted that a National Night Out demonstration involving vehicle extrication was well received. Hildebrand also expressed concerns about communication issues affecting emergency responders across Northampton County.

Recreation

Supervisor Gerry Pritchard previously made a motion to reimburse the Lehigh Township Lions Club $261 for a township sign installed at Berlinsville Park.

“That’s only right,” Pritchard said. “The Lions donated $17,000 for the new fence.”

Public works officials reported crews are preparing for leaf collection season. Supervisors also praised temporary workers assisting with mowing operations.

Residents weigh in

During public comment, resident Shelly Dotta asked how she could contribute to the township newsletter.

“Submit it by December to the office for the Spring newsletter,” Rehrig said.

Resident Carol Leith thanked officials for quickly adopting the township’s data ordinance and urged supervisors to reconsider placing a land preservation referendum before voters.

“I want to thank everyone involved for getting our Data Ordinance so quickly for the township,” Leith said. “Also, I feel strongly that you, the board, re-think about putting land preservation on the ballot. Having the ability to vote is wonderful. Let the residents vote.”

Resident Zach Stokes requested a meeting with supervisors to discuss land preservation efforts. He outlined goals that include protecting natural resources, encouraging responsible woodland management, supporting agricultural activity and preserving open space and trail systems.

Backenstoe said the board could not convene a meeting focused on a specific topic because of legal requirements governing public meetings.

“Legally the Board cannot get together to have a meeting that would be scheduled topic, however if the meeting is to get information, then yes you can,” he said.

“Please just think about it,” Stokes replied.

Resident Kathryn Mack asked that the township’s earned income tax be placed on a future agenda for discussion.

Backenstoe noted that, under state law, Lehigh Township can exempt individuals earning less than $12,000 annually from paying earned income tax.