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The Telford Borough Authority meeting held this date was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chairman Timothy Hagey with the following members in attendance: Thomas Taglang and Nelson Moll. Abram Diehl was absent. Also present were Manager Mark Fournier, Recording Secretary Cathy Fried, Engineer Patrick DiGangi, and Solicitor Mark E. Weand, Jr.
A Taglang / Moll motion carried unanimously (3-0) approving the November 6, 2008 minutes and the November 20, 2008 minutes as amended.
COMMENTS FROM AUDIENCE: none
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. M&M stone Update:
Solicitor Mark Weand reported an Order dated December 4th by Commonwealth Court dismissed M&M's request for reconsideration. The next step is to have DEP formulate options and determine cost factor. If M&M decides to appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, it will not delay DEP from moving forward. There has been no further contact regarding the federal litigation. The motions to dismiss remain pending. There has been no further contact pertaining to the Moyer or Blum wells. The Bucks County litigation is inactive at this time. Solicitor Mark Weand feels the timing status of this County suit is dependent on the final decision regarding the motions to dismiss M&M's suit in federal court.
2. TMDL Update:
Solicitor Mark Weand reported he has filed an appeal with the Environmental Hearing Board and the appeal is still pending. He participated in a conference call with Attorney John Hall and counsel representing other participants in the pursuit of peer review. The desired result would be the retraction of the TMDL initiative. Steve Hann, attorney for Lower Salford Township and Franconia Township, has filed a separate appeal with the Environmental Hearing Board on their behalf.
3. Interzone Transfer Project, Phase II:
Engineer Patrick DiGangi reported Phase II of the Interzone Transfer Project will enhance some of the work done in Phase I. This will involve bypassing pipes that are constricted due to tuberculation by re-routing, rather than replacing, them. Patrick DiGangi expects the project to be advertised for a late January bid opening and the bid to be awarded at the February 5th Authority Workshop meeting.
4. TEVA Update:
Engineer Patrick DiGangi reported TEVA has offered their wells and easements through their property in exchange for EDU's. As a result, TEVA would become a water customer of Telford Borough Authority in addition to their present status as a sewer customer. Mark Fournier commented that TEVA would be required to install arsenic treatment equipment to continue to use their existing wells and the recently drilled wells. TEVA also indicated that Perkasie might be interested in supplying water should Telford Borough Authority decide not to provide water service to their facility.
REPORTS:
TREASURER REPORT: accepted as presented
WATER DEPARTMENT REPORT:
WATER
1. Wells - Daily maintenance and record keeping were performed. Samples were drawn and tested as required.
2. TBA / Sellersville Interconnection - On November 5, 2008 we put the interconnection between TBA and Sellersville Borough on line. The interconnection meter pit is located along Clymer Avenue between Detweiler Rod and Old State Road in West Rockhill Township. The purpose of the interconnection is to provide emergency water supply between TBA and Sellersville Borough. On November 12th, we met at the site with representatives of Sellersville Borough to review operational procedures. The cost of the construction and installation of the interconnection is being shared by TBA and Sellersville Borough.
3. GIS Mapping - GIS Mapping of the water system continues as staff time allows.
4. Summit Avenue Water Project - During the month of November, the items completed as part of the Summit Avenue Water Project include: transfer of customer service from the old 4" CIP main to our new 8" DIP main, interconnection of our new main to existing mains in Acorn Avenue, Grandview Avenue at Summit Avenue Park, and School Lane. Additionally, the old fire hydrant was removed, and valve boxes were set to grade prior to installation of the base paving course on November 25th. Items to be completed include curb and sidewalk restoration, yard restoration, and installation of the wearing course. The paving portion of the project is shared with Telford Borough.
SEWER
1. Collection System -See collection system operator's report.
2. GIS Mapping - GIS Mapping of the Sewer System continues as staff time allows.
3. Summit Avenue Sewer Main Project - During the month of November manhole lids and rings were set to grade and wrapid sealed prior to paving on November 25th.
Public Works Director Donald Beck reported the Sellersville interconnection went online. Sellersville has been billed for their one-half of the cost of the interconnect. He feels this venture is of benefit to both communities. He also reported that he and Mark Fournier conducted curb and sidewalk inspections on Summit Avenue. Notices will be mailed to residents that will require the necessary repairs be made.
COLLECTION SYSTEM REPORT:
LIFT STATIONS:
I checked both lift stations every day and added bacteria 3 times a week, removed grease monthly at the South Lift Station and every 3 months at the North Lift Station.
Swartley Electric replaced the alternating pump control as well as the hour meter at the South Lift station. I repaired the check valve on pump one at the North Lift Station and Swartley Electric installed the security lights at both stations.
HOME INSPECTIONS:
I made five inspections for the month. Letters were sent advising residents to make appointments for inspections as well as making necessary repairs or take the chance of having their water turned off.
MAPPING AND MONITORING:
I met with Chris Faino of CKS about changes and corrections to the GIS.
I pulled the isco meter from manhole 37-2 and e-mailed the data to T. J. at CKS.
MAINS:
I was called about a lateral problem at 245 N. Main Street. We televised the main and found a root problem at the lateral connection. K & A jetted the lateral to remove the roots. I was also called for a lateral problem at 44 Summit Avenue and determined the problem was on the resident's side of the lateral.
I raised and wrapid sealed three manholes on Summit Avenue.
Don and I met with the engineer for the TVA job. We discussed the locations of the new manholes and connections on Meetinghouse Road.
I started checking manholes for lids that were missing bolts or were not bolted down at all around town.
MISCELLANEOUS:
I attended an E.P.W.P.C.O.A. meeting with Mark Fournier and Dan Wurst in Easton.
I also attended an Insituform Seminar in Richboro with Mark.
I helped the public works crew collect leaves for a week.
And, I also took a week of vacation.
Mark Fournier reported that Sewer Department Foreman Robert Kratz continues to work on GIS mapping of the water and sewer systems.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT REPORT:
Operations
Maintenance
- Swartley's Electric was in to replace electrical conduit and receptacle boxes in the Biosulfite building.
- We installed an exhaust fan in the Biosulfite building. Swartley's Electric wired the motor up for operation. This was done to combat the fumes that accumulate and caused corrosive damage inside the building.
- We completed painting the fiberglass railing surrounding the influent meter / comminutor tank area.
- We installed new idlers on the discharge conveyor belt assemblies which are located on the Belt Filter Press.
- We replaced a gate valve for the flush water line on the #1 Return Sludge Pump.
Personnel
- I attended a one-day training class on upgrading nutrient removal equipment for enhanced nitrification / de-nitrification for activated sludge wastewater treatment systems.
- I attended the EPWPCOA November 2008 meeting held at the Easton Wastewater Treatment Plant with Bob Kratz and Mark Fournier.
Mark Fournier reported there was a storm event in November. He received a price quote for the oxidation ditch shafts.
PWTA REPORT: We received a written monthly report for the file.
SOLICITOR'S REPORT:
1. WELLHEAD PROTECTION PROGRAM. By reason of lack of Township contact, there remains nothing to report.
2. WWTF. All facility related aspects continue to be reviewed with the Manager and Engineer. Operation submissions are reviewed on receipt.
3. INFLOW AND INFILTRATION. The next semi-annual status report to DEP is due March 2009. In the interim, CKS continues to collect data.
4. HILLTOWN INTERCONNECT AGREEMENT. An Interconnect Agreement with the Hilltown Township Water and Sewer Authority remains pending.
5. INTERZONE TRANSFER PROJECT PHASE II (RELIANCE ROAD SURCHARGE). The plans for the sanitary sewer rerouting to alleviate the Reliance Road surcharge have been completed by CKS. The Engineer reviewed the plans with the Manager and Solicitor at meeting on December 3, 2008 at which it was decided to request the Authority Board for authorization to go to bid. It is projected that a bid opening could occur in January 2009 with the issuance of a 60 day completion contract.
6. HILLTOWN PLAZA HOME DEPOT. Recording of the Easement Agreements to finalize this project remains pending upon submission of a supplemental advance to cover Authority cost.
7. COVENTRY MEADOWS I. There remains no update since last report.
8. COVENTRY MEADOWS II (METZGER TRACT). Developer's legal counsel has not returned the revised Agreements as submitted by the Solicitor.
9. RYAN COURT (ERIE AVENUE TRACT). On November 7, 2008, the Solicitor recorded a Roadway Dedication Agreement for Ryan Court and the Welker Street Alley. The Ordinance accepting the Ryan Court Dedication was adopted by Borough Council on November 3, 2008. Ordinance No. 374 providing for acceptance of the Welker Street Alley is subject to adoption by Council on December 8, 2008. This will complete the closeout requirements for the Ryan Court Development. As previously represented, the Grant & Bill of Sale for Telford Borough Authority Facility Dedication has been signed by all parties.
10. WISTERIA COURT (KONYK TRACT). The Solicitor has received and reviewed the final inspection punch list issued by CKS on December 3, 2008 for the Wysteria Subdivision, sanitary sewer and water distribution systems. As built plans and two year maintenance bond have been requested.
11. VILLAGE AT ROSECLIFFE. The status of this development was reviewed with the Manager and Engineer on December 3, 2008. A punch list was issued by CKS in November 2008. Four Easement Agreements which have been prepared in draft form by the Solicitor will be required for project closeout which the Manager does not anticipate until Spring 2009.
12. WOODSPRING MEADOWS (STEINHAUER TRACT). The status of this development was discussed with the Engineer on December 3, 2008 followed by a site inspection with the Manager. Thirty-two (32) townhouse units are projected for this development along Clymer Avenue. Eight (8) units have been completed with four under construction. Easement Agreements will be required, however, this project is a long way off from closeout initiative.
13. HARLEYSVILLE SAVINGS BANK. This proposed bank facility to be constructed at 41 N. County Line Road requires Service, Escrow and Easement Agreements. The Solicitor will initiate preparation.
14. UNIVEST BANK, ROUTE 113. This project located at Bethlehem Pike and Route 113 proposes the consolidation of four lots into two parcels with the construction of a new bank facility. The plans as prepared by Urwiler and Walter, Inc. are currently under review by CKS. Following the Engineer's review, direction will be provided to the Solicitor for preparation of Service and Escrow Agreements. The escrow amount and number of EDUs required will be determined. No easement agreements are necessary.
15. DELBAR TRACT SUBDIVISION. The final inspection punch list has been issued by the Engineer. A Roadway Deed of Dedication will be prepared by the Solicitor. The facilities requiring dedication will be to the Borough. Widening of existent easement has been completed by the Solicitor document recording. Closeout requirements at this point pertain only to the Borough.
16. LANDIS SUPERMARKET. This expansion project continues to be reviewed with the Manager and Engineer for aspects that affect the Borough Authority. As previously represented, service related agreements will pertain only to the Authority.
17. BUDGET. The 2009 Budget has been approved by the Authority. All related issues will be discussed with the Manager as they arise.
18. SELLERSVILLE WATER INTERCONNECT. An Interconnect Agreement remains pending with the Solicitor.
19. WELL NO. 4 LITIGATION. (A) Commonwealth Court Appeal. On December 4, 2008, the Commonwealth Court entered an Order denying the Application of M&M Stone Co. for Reargument/Reconsideration before the Court En Banc. Immediate notification was initiated by the Solicitor. A call has also been placed to Craig Lambeth, Esquire, requesting a formulated approach by DEP for Order enforcement. (B) United States District Court. (i) The Motions to Dismiss the Amended Complaint filed by M&M remain pending with the District Court. The Solicitor has received no subsequent contact. (ii) There remains no response to the Solicitor's request to legal counsel for M&M for report on Moyer Well evaluation conducted on September 29, 2008. (iii) There has been no further activity pertaining to a Blum Well inspection following the issuance of subpoena on September 21, 2008. (C) Bucks County Litigation. There has been no activity. It is projected that there will be no activity until there is a determination in the pending federal suit. (D) Temporary Discharge Approval. There has been no contact since completion of the depositions on October 27 and 28, 2008. As previously represented, a hearing has been scheduled before the Environmental Hearing Board on April, 2009. (E) Water Loss Insurance. No information has been received with regard to the substance of resolution of the federal litigation involving the issue of water loss insurance coverage for M&M Stone Co.
20. ARSENIC REMEDIATION. CKS continues to finalize the arsenic remediation design for Well No. 4. Step pump testing will be required to determine the size of treatment facilities.
21. M&M LAND DEVELOPMENT. There continues to be no contact from M&M following review meeting on July 22, 2008.
22. SOUTH SEWERAGE LIFT STATION. There is no update since last report.
23. GIS MAPPING. The Sanitary Sewer System GIS mapping has been completed. The water mapping is 60%-70% completed. CKS and Authority personnel continue to work on this ongoing project.
24. SOUTH TANK REPAINTING PROJECT. The required touch-up by the contractor has been completed. The contractor also undertook additional touch-up work without request.
25. WEST ROCKHILL TOWNSHIP PROPOSALS. There remains no response from West Rockhill Township Board of Supervisors.
26. TEVA. On December 3, 2008, the Solicitor, Manager and Engineer met to formulate options with cost evaluations for presentation to the Authority at the December 18, 2008 meeting.
27. TMDLs. (A) On December 2, 2008, the Solicitor participated in a telephone conference call with John Hall, Esq. and attorneys representing the other participants. The peer review request is sitting at EPA. Senatorial support has been submitted for peer review. EPA anticipates a response prior to the Christmas Holiday. There remains no DEP answer as it is deemed response is dependent upon EPA position. Legislative options which PMAA is pursuing were discussed. It was determined that Notice of Depositions would be submitted to maintain initiative and hopefully accomplish peer review.
28. LUTHERAN COMMUNITY AT TELFORD. Since CKS is in the process of a comprehensive review of the land development application comprising 49 sheets of engineering detail as prepared by Boucher & James, Inc., the Planning Commission review meeting initially projected for December 17, 2008 has been postponed. The MPC requires affirmative determination by March 6, 2009. There will be 149 new units in this expansion project.
29. SANITARY SEWER RELINING PROJECT. Bid documents remains pending with CKS.
30. ROW CLEARING PROJECT. The Notice of Intent to Award submitted to Landscape Design, Inc. on November 25, 2008 by CKS has been reviewed by the Solicitor. The required documents have been referenced. Executed copies of the Contract documents will be distributed at the pre-construction meeting for this project.
Solicitor Mark Weand reported the Ryan Court project is complete. Mark Fournier reported the Lutheran Home at Telford project will involve additional EDU's which translates to approximately 1.8 million dollars of revenue. On December 16th there was a meeting with representatives of Lutheran Home at Telford to go over the scope. The Planning Commission meeting was not held on December 17th because a review letter is being done by CKS. This will give them time to clean up some of the items. The next Planning Commission meeting will probably be in February or March. This project will require access from E. Broad Street.
ENGINEER'S REPORT: We received a written monthly report for the file.
Engineer Patrick DiGangi indicated the Tapping Fee Study he is working on will apply to the year 2009. He received a response from DEP, for Well #6, who issued a draft NPDES permit for the discharge. An NPDES permit will also be required for Well #4. Patrick DiGangi also reported the permit has been received for the stream stabilization project at Well #6. This will entail the installation of gabion baskets similar to the work that was done behind Oldcastle, where the manhole was exposed to the creek. CKS has submitted As-Builts of the Public Works Garage to TBA for review. The 2008 ROW Clearing Project was awarded to Landscape Design. CKS is awaiting correct forms from the contractor.
Nelson Moll asked about the status of GIS mapping and how often will it be updated. Mark Fournier said he expects the mapping to be complete by summer and the mapping will be updated every time there is a new subdivision or every time additional work has been done.
MANAGER'S REPORT:
•· Met with the Authority Engineer and Solicitor to coordinate various project reviews and construction projects.
•· Coordinated development activity of various development projects.
•· Budget adoption.
•· Coordinated a meeting with our engineers and TEVA regarding their plan review and future submission of data.
•· Held a pre-bid meeting and bid opening meeting for the Right of Way Clearing Project.
•· Coordinated a meeting with our Solicitor, Engineer, and Hydrogeologist to discuss Well #4 redevelopment and TEVA review.
•· Met with a customer regarding a service charge complaint.
•· Attended the Easton Pollution Control and Water Operators Association annual meeting.
•· Met with a property owner regarding the Right of Way Clearing Project.
•· Attended a Water and Wastewater Insituform Seminar in Northampton Township, Bucks County.
•· Met with our Engineer and the design engineer for the Harleysville Savings Bank project to coordinate the water and sewer service.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Solicitor Mark Weand reported the State of Pennsyvlania recently passed an Open Records Act. He prepared a policy for public records for the TBA and the Borough. The Open Records Act also explains what is to be disclosed by police departments.
A Taglang / Moll motion was carried unanimously (3-0) adopting the Public Records Access Resolution No. 08-01 and established Open Records Policy for the Telford Borough Authority.
Mark Fournier commented that January 1st, New Year's Day, is on the first Thursday in January, 2009. It was the general consensus of the Authority to cancel the January Authority Workshop.
Mark Fournier reported there will be a PMAA Seminar in Warwick Township this winter. Donald Beck may decide to send someone.
Payment of bills and requisitions for the month of November in the amount of $230,897.52 was approved unanimously (3-0) by a Moll / Taglang motion.
A Taglang / Moll motion was carried unanimously (3-0) authorizing the signing of the checks.
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. by a Moll / Taglang motion.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas J. Taglang
Secretary
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