Several residents from the Winding Brook development attended the April 18 board of commissioners meeting to discuss the removal of trees along Sauerkraut Lane.

Christopher Doll, of Lantern Court, a cul de sac within the Winding Brook development, lost 48 trees. Doll thanked the township for doing what they could to either stop the removal and to assist the homeowners with the current situation. As Doll described the aftermath, it is like the "scorched earth approach."

Randy Fritz, also of Winding Brook and Lantern Court, attempted to attend a Zoning Board meeting but the 4 p.m. time conflicted with his work schedule. Fritz has been in touch with government officials. He discussed the matter with staff members in the offices of Senator Pat Toomey, Pa. Senator Pat Browne, R-16th, and U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent, R-15th. State Rep. Ryan MacKenzie, R-134th, was also contacted. MacKenzie tried to obtain a grant for replanting acceptable vegetation but was not able.

PPL was "totally within their rights to remove the trees," President Ron Eichenberg said. "It was totally out of our hands. PPL could have just cut trees without any notice."

Township Manager Bruce Fosselman said this is a very frustrating situation. He said "we don't like to look at this area with no trees."

Ken Navitsky, from MacKenzie's office, said they are looking into many solutions. Presently they are looking for money through non-profit organizations.

Beth Ravier sent a letter of thanks to the township for giving this matter their utmost attention. "A coordinated street-scape is a public value for a whole host of reasons," Ravier said.

The township is looking into what can be planted and where. There is a 10 foot right of way.

The Public Utility Commission is also involved as well as the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The residents of Winding Brook and Brookside Farms have formed an alliance to continue searching for answers and create uniformity for all concerned.

In other business, Township Engineer William Erdman said the work to be done on the "Church Lane bridge should be approved within days." The work should be completed within two to three days.

The Willow Lane Elementary School will have on-site and off-site improvements completed for walkers by early August. The off-site improvements will be done by the township. An RFP for the project was initiated.

There is a portion of this project still under being considered involving the striping in the crosswalks; thermo striping has a longer life than painting, however, painting is less expensive but requires upkeep. The decision will be based on the less expensive alternative.

Director Sara Pandl discussed projection of population within the township over the next 25 years. It is projected significant growth will continue. Population could increase by 10,000 over this period.

A grant was awarded for a generator at the Lower Macungie maintenance building.

Residents were reminded of the bicyclist/ motorist law with the weather changing. There is a 4 foot space needed before passing a bicyclist driving on a road. A motorist is permitted to cross over the yellow line if necessary with no oncoming traffic. The bicyclist must drive as close to the right side of the road as possible keeping safety in mind.

There have been complaints about tax filing with Berkheimer. The one particular complaint may have occurred because of using Internet Explorer browser. Berkheimer is working to correct these issues.

Peter Pavlovic has resigned from the Environmental Advisory Commission.

The youth association expressed their gratitude to the Public Works Department for their hard work beautifying the parks this spring.

The water shut-off issue is still being analyzed. The question is what happens when a property has the water shut-off. In Allentown, water shut-off residences are declared uninhabitable. If residents are renters, they must vacate the premises. If the residence is owner occupied, nothing happens. This matter will be continued to be analyzed.

A resolution for a lot line adjustment for Carl and Bonita Hardner was approved. This property is at Riverbend and East Texas Roads. This is a deed of easement.