Chairman Jim Brunell opened the Upper Macungie supervisors' meeting by reading a proclamation extolling the career of the township's K-9 police dog Hassan.

He was officially retired from the police force and will spend his retirement with the family of Officer Matt Gardner, Hassan's handler while on the force.

The township has allotted up to $1,500 per year toward the support and care of Hassan and fellow K-9 Pako.

Pako, who was injured during training and subsequently had a stroke, retired in February.

He will be living with the family of Officer Ryan Rhoads.

Bico, Hassan's replacement, has completed training. He was sponsored by Bimbo Bakery.

Pako's replacement, not selected yet, will be sponsored by Sam Adams Brewery with a $4,000 donation toward the purchase and training. Jeff Grim said as Hassan was injured while on duty, he might need extra medical care in the future.

The board said that money would come out of the $1,500 stipend.

In other matters, supervisors adopted an ordinance amending portions of the code relating to commercial sewage rates.

Supervisors also adopted resolutions approving the planning module for the Hometown Diner and the approval of Phase 4B of the Laurel Fields subdivision.

The board gave the go-ahead to search for a township finance director.

The finance director'sresponsibilities would include preparation of and administration of the budget, cash management, investments, revenue collection, risk management and accounts payable.

He or she would report to the township manager and could eventually be named township treasurer. Township Manager Dan Olpere suggested the board pursue this course of action.

Two new employees were recognized by the board.

Cindy Yaskowski will be the new office administrator for the Upper Macungie Township Authority while David Malischewski will be a new member of the police force.

Supervisor Kathy Rader reported the township recreation board reorganized and elected new officers.

They are Chairman David Kentner, Vice Chairman April Navarra and Secretary Katy Shade.

She also noted there are two openings on the board.

Upcoming events include Thursday night basketball 7-9 p.m. March 19 to June 11 at Jaindl Elementary School, tennis clinics at Ricky Park and Blue Barn Park April 6 to May 6 and boating safety 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 21 at Independent Park.