At the recent Lehigh Township Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Janet Sheats addressed concerns about rumors circulating among residents.

“I had residents call me to say that a female on the board of supervisors was telling people we could save $2 million by using state police instead of our own police department,” Sheats said. “I want it known that it was not me. I have supported our police department in every way, every day.”

Supervisor Cindy Miller responded to the comments. “I was asked by residents about the cost of state police coverage. I said yes, we would save $2 million a year,” Miller said. “I assume what I said was interpreted as my position, but it’s not. I do not support eliminating our local police.”

Police Chief Scott Fogel emphasized the importance of maintaining local law enforcement.

“That would be like going backward,” Fogel said. “For any type of call, it could take state police at least an hour to respond — even longer at night. They don’t have the capacity to handle all the calls.”

Fogel recognized National Police Week, which honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement at all levels.

“I want drivers to remember that with nicer weather, people are out walking, riding bikes and walking dogs. Please be alert,” Fogel said.

He also noted an increase in violations involving vehicles passing stopped school buses.

“You may stop for the bus, but the driver behind you may not,” he said.

Fogel reminded residents that starting June 5, it will be illegal to hold or use a handheld phone while driving — even at stoplights.

The new law, known as Paul Miller’s Law, includes a one-year grace period with warnings. Fines will begin in June 2026 at $50.

Parks and recreation

Township Engineer Mike Muffley reported that the cost to fully redo the tennis courts at Danielsville Park is estimated at $118,000. He said the courts cannot simply be patched.

Resident Adam Ash questioned the need for two tennis courts. “We need a real playground for younger children,” Ash said. “Most residents, like myself, go to places like Eagles Nest in Slatington.”

Ash also asked about road construction costs. Muffley explained that prices vary depending on conditions.

“There are many factors, including road type, soil and drainage,” Muffley said. “With stone and line painting, a two-lane rural road could cost up to $2 million per mile. The state is not currently funding road projects.”

Miller advocated for a park consultant.

“This is why we need a consultant to develop a plan for our parks,” she said. “We budgeted $50,000 for this year.”

Miller made a motion to solicit bids for a consultant.

The vote was split 2-2, with Sheats and Supervisor Gerald Pritchard voting no and Miller and Supervisor David Hess voting yes. Chairman Mike Jones was absent.

The retaining wall and fence at the Bryfogel Park ball field in Berlinsville are now complete.

Other business

• The board approved resident Karlee Farley’s request to hold a “Noon Year’s Eve” event at the park.

The free, family-friendly event will begin at 10 a.m. on Dec. 31 and feature games, vendors and food trucks. • Public Works reported that line painting has been completed on Cottonwood Road, a bench is ready for installation near the scoreboard at Danielsville, and patchwork on Timberline Road will be redone.

• Final payment request No. 12 from Vision Mechanical, totaling $45,233.45, was approved for work on the maintenance building.

The fire suppression system part was installed on April 28 and is functioning well following regular testing.

• The board decided not to pursue land preservation initiatives and directed Township Manager Alice Rehrig to remove it from future agendas.

• Rehrig received approval to obtain three quotes for two new air conditioning units for the police station. One is beyond repair and the other is malfunctioning.

• The board accepted the resignation of Zoning Officer Liz Amato. She will remain in the role until a replacement is hired and trained.