North Whitehall supervisors discussed the upcoming farm preservation ordinance during their October meeting.

Township Manager Jeff Bartlett told supervisors they must pick a millage number for the ordinance.

The amount received with this tax increase will go toward purchasing development rights on property offered for the Ag Preservation District.

Bartlett suggested a .1 mill increase in taxes but the final figure is up to the board.

In other matters, Township Secretary Brenda Norder noted the budget meeting will be 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22.

She also reminded everyone Trick-or-Treat Night will be 6-8 p.m. Oct. 26. There is no rain date.

The Isabella Darcy lot line adjustment plan was before the board for review.

The property involves two lots along Clearview and Oakland roads. Surveyor Bob Hoppes and Darcy explained the plan to the board, which granted approval.

The developer of Mary Ann’s Plaza requested a reduction in the letter of credit. The amount requested was $572,247.98 which leaves $736,247.98 still in the account.

Supervisors authorized the purchase of a new dump truck - a 2019 Freightliner purchased under a lease/purchase agreement for $167,978.20.

The truck will be delivered by Horwith Trucks.

The authorization to advertise for an auditor to review the township’s financial records for 2017 was granted.

Bartlett noted most people he has spoken to are happy with the new ordinance adopted last month regarding the placement of trailers, motor homes and travel trailers on a lot along with other items.

Also, he stated the paving on Quarry Street was completed and Balliet Street is being worked on with paving and line painting.

Ray Deutsch of the Ironton Rail/Trails Committee the board the group has installed cameras along the trail to determine usage.

He stated that 17,922 people used the trail in two months. Bicyclists averaged 100 per day while walkers accounted for 189 trips. The heavy rains caused some washouts but they have been addressed.

Joann Faust, Timber Ridge subdivision, was concerned about the pollution in a detention pond near her residence.

She noted that since 2017, the water has been polluted, garbage is in the pond and there is a stench in the area from the pond. Bartlett said if it is an older basin, the township is not responsible for maintenance.

Jim Hansel had questions about the bamboo ordinance while Richard Getz told the board people were crossing Mauch Chunk Road riding bicycles on the IRT instead of walking across as is required.

This is a dangerous practice and should be stopped.

There are signs installed which notify the public about the crossing.