At its Dec. 1 meeting, the North Whitehall Township Board of Supervisors received an in-depth financial update highlighting cash flow concerns, major capital expenditures and the township’s long-term investment strategy.

Township Manager Seth O’ Neill reported the township currently holds $8.2 million in general fund reserves within its investment accounts. Of that total, $3.5 million is fully unrestricted, although the township expects to use nearly all of it for future capital projects. The reserve level dropped from the prior month after the township drew $900,000 in November to complete the Horseshoe Road project.

O’Neill noted general fund cash flow is significantly lower than expected – about $99,000 to date, compared to $783,000 at this point in 2024. He cited three main reasons: higher operational expenses, especially in legal and engineering costs tied to projects such as Horseshoe Road and Nexus, a $450,000 transfer to the capital fund this month and the first full year of debt service payments on township bonds. The township paid $140,000 in principal and $252,000 in interest in November.

Despite the challenges, the township maintains what O’ Neill called a “conservative and stable” investment position. Earlier this fall, the board locked $6.2 million into a 12-month fixed investment schedule with a blended return of 3.2%, while keeping roughly $2 million liquid. Interest earned on bond proceeds now totals more than $255,000, which may be repurposed after project expenditures are finalized.

During public comment, residents asked about long-term capital planning. O’Neill said the township maintains five-year plans for both fleet and capital projects. Expected costs total $4 million for fleet and $2.9 million for other capital needs over the next five years – funding expected to come from reserves, interest income and potential grants.

Supervisors unanimously approved the November treasury report and general fund disbursements.

The meeting’s first presentation was a major recognition: the board honored Ronald J. Heintzelman for 24 years of service on the board of supervisors – making him the longest serving elected official in township history. Heintzelman, who also previously worked in the public works department, was celebrated for his leadership in farmland preservation, park upgrades, staffing improvements, township building enhancements and the acquisition of property for future recreation. He was presented with a proclamation and the ceremonial “key to the township.”

Heintzelman thanked the board, staff and his family, noting he “enjoyed every day” serving the community.

The next presentation was Lt. Jason Troutman, station commander for the Pennsylvania State Police Bethlehem barracks, who briefed the supervisors on township public safety trends. Troopers have responded to roughly 2,900 calls for service year-to-date, nearly identical to last year. Crash investigations stand at 213 with zero fatal crashes, while citations (522) and warnings (275) match 2024 totals exactly. The township recorded 315 criminal investigations with a 63% clearance rate, which Troutman noted is significantly higher than national averages. He credited improved detection and response – especially the township’s nine Flock license plate reader cameras, which have logged 1.3 million vehicle reads and contributed to stolen vehicle recoveries, missing persons searches and several recent apprehensions.

Troutman also asked property owners to post clear “No Trespassing – Violators Will Be Prosecuted” signage as police continue efforts to address unsanctioned car meets on private lots.