The South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners met May 21, highlighting community recognition, public safety efforts, infrastructure projects and land preservation planning.

Two proclamations were presented to honor Emergency Medical Services Week and National Public Works Week; both observed May 18 to 24.

EMS Week recognized the lifesaving work of Cetronia Ambulance Corps, which has served South Whitehall Township for 70 years.

Cetronia CEO Robert Mateff Sr. expressed gratitude for the township’s continued support and partnership.

National Public Works Week honored the township’s public works department for maintaining critical infrastructure, including roads, parks and utility systems.

The board extended appreciation for their vital contributions.

The board unanimously approved a resolution reappointing Joseph A. Zator II as township solicitor.

Zator’s legal team is now part of King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul, LLC, which will honor the township’s existing legal fee agreement.

Zator thanked the board for its trust.

Jacob Roth recused himself from the vote.

A resolution was passed to authorize a professional services agreement with CDM Smith, Inc., to conduct a road safety audit of Hamilton Boulevard.

The township selected CDM Smith from seven qualified firms based on experience and prior work with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

The audit, funded by a $115,000 grant, will begin in June, with results expected by year’s end.

The approved contract will not exceed $150,000.

The board reviewed preliminary findings from a recent open space funding survey, part of a long-term initiative following the South Whitehall Landscapes Plan.

The township is considering a bond issue and a voter-approved earned income tax increase to fund land preservation.

Notable survey responses include: 95% believe loss of open space affects quality of life, 90% plus support protecting clean air, water and sensitive areas, 75% recognize a link between open space and property values, 75% would support a 0.1% EIT increase.

These findings will help shape a potential referendum question for the November ballot.

An ordinance to authorize the referendum must be passed by July, with filing required by August.

The environmental advisory council has endorsed the initiative and will assist with public outreach.

The meeting underscored the township’s commitment to public service, infrastructure safety and environmental preservation.