Packer Township Supervisors, at their June 7 meeting, discussed Andreuzzi Park improvements with park neighbor Mark Walters, whose property is right across the street. Walters asked supervisors why all the trees are being taken down. He was hoping to see the mature trees left in place.

Supervisors’ Chairwoman Susie Gerhard invited Walters to come walk the park with supervisors. Supervisor Terry Davis then asked how many people use the park, noting that some kind of restroom would be a good idea.

A question was raised about whether the Weatherly Area School District owns part of the park. Part of the property was the site of an old schoolhouse. This led to a discussion of the park boundaries, who pays for things, and whether they are mowing the lawn there for the school district, too.

It was noted there are new LED lights at the park’s pavilion so the township no longer has to pay PPL for the light on the pole there. The new lights have a sensor so the lights are not on 24 hours a day.

Supervisors approved a resolution to place $52,125.27 in leftover ARPA/COVID funds into the township general fund. The township received a like amount last year that was spent on COVID expenses. Rules for this money have changed, so what is left in the ARPA account can be used for any purpose.

Supervisors heard a complaint that a resident was being billed directly by County Waste for an extra garbage can that his family no longer needs.

Supervisor Bob Selert said no township resident should be billed directly by County Waste (now GFL). Any resident who is billed directly should call the township office at 570 427-8292, or reach out online at https://packertownship.com/contact-board-of-supervisors.

There was a brief discussion about the future costs of garbage collection, noting that costs are going to go way up. Supervisors voted later in the meeting to advertise for bids for a new garbage contract.

The supervisors voted to advertise for bids for the township’s 2022 road project, rebuilding Ochre Mill Road, contingent on pipe replacement work being completed first. The work will also include replacing the bridge with a prefabricated box culvert wide enough and strong enough for firetrucks to use. Supervisors will seek county and other grants to help fund paving of more roads in the township.

State Sen. David Argall, who will represent the township starting next year, sent a letter asking to meet with supervisors. After a discussion, it was agreed to invite him in November or December.

The banners honoring veterans are now up around the township. Orders are being accepted for new banners that would be put up next year. Cost is $165 for a banner and its hardware, or $100 if an old banner needs to be replaced.