When the South Whitehall Administration Building opened in 1973, the population of the township and the number of employees were far less than they are now.

During the April 4 commissioners’ meeting, representatives of various departments described the shortage of space everywhere and the inadequate facilities for public and staff.

They brought along many photos to illustrate the need for expansion and improvement, even with some additions and renovations done to the structure in 1986 and 1993.

The outcome was a unanimous vote in favor of a Campus Master Plan Project estimated to cost between $7.5 million and $8.8 million.

Township Manager Renee Bickel reported in late 2017 the architectural firm, MKSD LLC, South Whitehall, was directed to look at the existing building and come up with ideas for additions and upgrades for now and long-term.

“The appearance of the building with its stone farmhouse look is timeless, and it’s a great central location, but it has extremely limited space, the mechanical systems are outdated, and there’s no place for additional employees,” Bickel said.

She noted some matters needing attention are security, public meeting rooms, bathrooms, and too many entrances to the building.

MKSD architect Todd Chambers said the mechanical and electrical systems are fragmented from various time periods and are nearing the end of their useful lives.

South Whitehall Police Chief Glen Dorney reported on the situation in the police department.

He said as sewage backs up through the men’s locker room, no one would ever consider using the showers there.

Dorney noted there is no secure storage for the officers’ personal items; the women’s locker room is outgrown; the evidence storage room is packed; and there is no privacy for residents who come with complaints or who want to speak with an officer.

Director of Township Operations Randy Cope said staff and equipment in the public works department are suffering from lack of space.

He said public works has 32 employees and only four tables in the lunch room, which also has to be used for meetings.

“The garage is very crowded, and we have to store some expensive equipment outside, which can reduce its life expectancy,” Cope said.

“We have five employees in a 10-foot by 12-foot room in the water department doing very important work.”

Bickel provided some additional comments.

“We have nowhere to go with storage of plans in the community development department,” Bickel said. “We have no place to store parks and recreation materials.”

She noted public bathrooms have not been updated in 46 years, and not all facets of the building are compliant with Americans With Disabilities standards.

Cope added some remarks on the situation.

“We need to expand the township building and set it up for future growth,” Cope said.

“South Whitehall’s growing, and we have to grow with it.”