Solicitor Joseph Zator reports the new cable franchise contract between South Whitehall Township and RCN offers benefits to customers and the municipality.

At the Jan. 4 meeting, Zator recalled a public meeting was held in August 2015 to review the performance of RCN in relation to township needs and to seek comments from residents.

He said the only consideration requested by the public at that time was discounts for seniors.

“This was taken into account in the new contract,” Zator said.

Low-income seniors will receive a discount under the new cable agreement.

Mobility impaired customers and those with disabilities will also benefit in the new contract.

The cable company will deliver and pick-up converters and other equipment at their homes so they do not have to make a trip for it themselves.

Another new feature is increased leniency for late payments. The cable will be disconnected only if there is a 60-day lapse for non-payment.

Also added to the new contract will be customer credit if cable service is interrupted for six hours or more.

Zator explained the township will gain an advantage through maximum franchise fees.

“The greatest possible fees are being charged to benefit the township,” Zator said. “Every fee lawfully allowed is being charged.”

The franchise grants RCN the right to maintain, construct, operate and upgrade its cable system over, under and along rights of way within the township’s jurisdiction.

In other business, commissioners granted approval to St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church for construction of a storage building in the northwest corner of the property.

The 70-foot by 100-foot pole building will be on a grassy area between the curve in Applewood Road and the parking lot.

Trailers are presently being used in that vicinity for storage.

The structure will have electricity but no water or sewer service.

The proposal includes paved access to the shed from the existing driveway, removal of an existing fence, and removal and replacement of trees.

As increase in impervious surface will be under 10,000 square feet, the project qualifies for an exemption of stormwater rate and volume control requirements.

However, if additional development occurs in that area of the church campus, a stormwater management plan will be necessary.