The Snake Pit, a new waterslide complex, has been approved by South Whitehall commissioners for Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom.

An existing ride, Riptide Run, will be removed and replaced by the new attraction consisting of six waterslides and a single 63-foot-high stair tower.

The Snake Pit will be centrally located within Wildwater Kingdom, 350 feet from Hamilton Boulevard and 550 feet from the northern property line.

The new ride will require less water and sewer flows than the existing Riptide Run and will result in a decrease in impervious surface.

Dorney Park Vice President and General Manager Michael Fehnel commented at the Dec. 18, 2013 meeting.

"This is a high capacity ride for us to entertain our guests," Fehnel told commissioners.

In other business, commissioners approved a professional services agreement with H.A. Berkheimer Inc. regarding sewer, refuse, and water fees.

The company will supply billing and processing services for township residents and will maintain a record of client payments.

Berkheimer was also approved as the exclusive business privilege tax collector for the township.

The agreements are for one year with options for renewal.

Board President Christina "Tori" Morgan asked how customer service will be maintained and involved with the township when Berk-heimer takes over.

Director of Finance Lenore Horos, who is the authorized South Whitehall representative to the administrative company, said if residents have questions about their bills, they should contact Berkheimer.

Commissioners adopted an ordinance establishing regulations for excavation of township streets.

The issue arose last year when a utility company dug up smooth South Whitehall streets and neglected to return them to prior conditions.

The ordinance upgrades insurance requirements; clarifies language relating to permits, inspection escrows, curbs, sidewalks and right-of-ways; and defines actions for violations.

Township Manager Jon Hammer and Director of Public Works Bob Ibach are authorized to determine whether the torn up streets have been restored to their previous condition.