Following a series of budget sessions this fall, South Whitehall Finance Manager Lenore Horos reports the administration is requesting a 0.25-mill increase in real estate taxes for 2016.

At the Nov. 18 commissioners’ meeting, Horos said the average assessed value of a South Whitehall property is $281,899.

The taxes on that parcel this year, at 2.24975 mills, were $634.19.

With the increase to 2.49975 mills, the tax bill would be $704.68, a $70.49 increase over the previous year.

The new millage rate will provide an additional $566,123 in revenue to the township.

For about 27 years, South Whitehall’s tax rate remained the same at 1.64975 mills but was increased .60 mill in 2015.

Horos said although 2016 requires an increase to balance the budget, it is a smaller increase than in 2015.

Commissioners are expected to vote on the budget at their Dec. 16 meeting.

In other business, Director of Community Development Gerald Harbison reported the AMC theater at Tilghman Square is ready to open with its new renovations.

Movie goers will have electrically operated reclining seats, and food and beverages will be available to enjoy while watching the films.

Township Manager Howard Kutzler said Solicitor Joseph Zator is planning to arrange a meeting with the developer of the former Kuss Brothers Nursery at 670 S. Cedar Crest Blvd.

The purpose will be to address concerns expressed by residents of Cedar Crest Gardens who oppose the opening of Glick Avenue, now a stub street.

The developer’s proposal includes Glick Avenue as a connection to his property.

Director of Public Works Bob Ibach stated the covered bridge undergoing repairs at Lapp Road may be open before Dec. 25.

Parks and Recreation Director Randy Cope reminded everyone the township holiday celebration is scheduled for 5 p.m. Dec. 5, at Covered Bridge Park.

The white house and bridge at Wehr’s Dam will be decorated, and there will be a tree-lighting ceremony and activities for children.

During courtesy of the floor, LeRoy Schmidt told commissioners he received recognition at a recent singing competition in Bethlehem.

Schmidt then performed a familiar Sunday School song with his strong, heartfelt voice.

Schmidt spends a great deal of time at Wehr’s Dam meeting people and explaining the history of the dam.

He played a large role in gathering signatures and support to save the dam from a proposal to demolish it.