In support of Carbon County Open Space, Penn Forest Supervisor Patrick Holland initiated a discussion of a $3,500 assessment of 140 acres at 232 Stony Mountain Road at the October supervisors meeting.

He explained, “The goal is to preserve the land as open space, it’s a National Heritage area and has wetlands. ... This will prevent the threat of development.”

Following the assessment, they are hoping to approve Penn Forest Township as the steward of the land to protect it. DCNR will pay half and Carbon County Open Space the other half to purchase the land.

If the plan for the land goes through, the township can get reimbursed for the assessment fee. Decisions will be made in the future about what the land will be used for once the township sees if the plan is approved.

Other business

• DRS Enterprises was awarded the snow plowing bid at a rate of $130 per hour for a two-ton truck.

• Cutting edges for the township snowplow will be purchased from West End at a cost of $12,030.00 and a spreader from Powell’s for $8,250.00. A fourth maintenance person will be hired for the plow season.

• Due to vandalism at the park, SIM cards are needed for the trail cams. The board approved spending up to $200 for them.

• Treasurer Holly Rivera’s position was moved back to full time.

• Due to fraudulent activity, the premium community checking account will be closed and a new general fund will be opened. The rent account funds will now go directly to the general fund account, and a township policy for purchase, pick up and receipts will be put in place.

• After much discussion about Supervisor Scott Lignore’s request to stop using “OPENGOV” for township applications the topic was tabled until next month. Lignore said applications are put in outside of business hours, which should not be allowed.

• During public comment, Nanette Cahill questioned the board about where they are going with the data center. She noted that a challenge was filed by the owner about zoning.

The board responded, “We are actively drafting an ordinance, then we will have a public meeting and public comment within the 180 day period.”

A hearing will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Penn Forest Fire Company on Route 903 for the data center ordinance.

• Heather Moore from Girl Scout Camp Evergreen thanked the supervisors for their donation. She said, “We heavily rely on donations and thank you. Thirty-nine girls attended camp this year.” Moore gave the supervisors framed pictures of the Girl Scouts enjoying camp.

• Trunk or treat will be held at the park from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 26. There will be prizes for the best decorated vehicle and pumpkin decorating for the kids. Sign up on the township Facebook page or website if decorating a car.