The Lynn Township Board of Supervisors tackled a looming gap in ambulance coverage, advanced two grant applications for the township’s fire companies, and signed off on a series of parks and public works projects during its regular meeting Sept. 10.

Cetronia to End Service, Board Moves Toward Request-For-Proposal

The most pressing issue before the board was the township’s emergency medical services.

Supervisors reported that Cetronia Ambulance Corps notified Lynn Township Aug. 12 that it will cease operations in the township within 90 days, effective Nov. 14.

Cetronia cited staffing shortages and insufficient revenue, telling the township that Lynn is among the lowest call-volume areas it serves and is not financially sustainable for the company to continue covering.

Township data shows Cetronia has responded to 216 advanced life support calls and 130 basic life support calls in the township in 2025.

After discussion, Cetronia proposed maintaining the current level of care for $66,000 per month.

Lynn Township had been paying the company $50,000 per year, that’s a 1,340% increase.

Board members noted that under a reduced-service arrangement, response times for a full-service vehicle could stretch to 25 to 30 minutes.

Supervisors said the board has been working directly with Cetronia and local emergency personnel to try to find a way to continue service in the township.

After discussion, the board made a motion to begin the request-for-proposal (RFP) process to explore alternative EMS providers.

Supervisor Ron Jerdon sought to reassure residents. “The board is actively pursuing a solution to maintain ambulance coverage,” he said.

Fire Company Grant Applications Advance

The board also advanced two grant applications tied to state and county Local Share Account (LSA) programs, which is funded through gambling revenue.

•Quick Response Vehicle (County LSA — $90,000): The township will apply for a county LSA grant to fund a new quick response vehicle — described as a pickup-truck- style unit outfitted with basic medical equipment and staffed by medically trained personnel who can stabilize patients until an ambulance arrives. It would not be used to transport patients and would be restricted to responding to Lynn Township calls only. Jerdon noted, “The township has been meeting to ensure preparedness, and the grant approval process could take up to a year.”

Because of the time lag to receive funding, the board discussed the possibility of investing in a temporary QRS vehicle until a new unit could be purchased through the grant.

•New Fire Engine (State LSA — $1 million): The township will also apply for a state LSA grant to replace the primary fire engine, currently a 2001 model, with a new piece of equipment.

Jerdon called the fire engine replacement “an excellent step to take to modernize our fleet.”

Supervisor Fritz Najarian affirmed that both requests represent appropriate uses of LSA funds. “Such grants are intended for projects that directly benefit the community.”

The board also noted that fire company volunteers are eligible to participate in applying for related tax relief.

Fire Co. Reports

Representatives from the township’s fire companies delivered their monthly reports.

New Tripoli: Responded to 133 emergency calls. Crews conducted training — a heavy equipment rescue drill alongside Germansville and Weisenberg fire companies. The company thanked the township for the use of its sign to display a message about a recent barn fire and encouraged residents to buy tickets for the upcoming Fall Bash.

Lynnport: Responded to 71 calls and continues ongoing member training.

Roadmaster’s Report

Road master Matthew Henderson reported several paving projects are underway throughout the township, along with asphalt sealing around Ontelaunee Park. Tree removal near the historical society’s planned building site will begin once approval is received, and additional trees will be removed around the park pond as ongoing maintenance.

Henderson also presented estimates from a professional installer for aerator systems to address muck buildup in two of the park’s ponds.

The board approved a motion authorizing $5,492 in park funds for the aeration project.

Separately, the board noted that a Lehigh Career Technical Institute student has volunteered to build and donate a bench to Ontelaunee Park.

Donat’s Peak Road is expected to be completed by the end of October.

Historical Society Update

The township approved a new lease that now includes the addition of the area within Ontelaunee Park where the Lynn Township Historical Society plans to construct a new building.

The project is projected to break ground in late October, pending permitting.

The board approved a motion to cover up to $600 per month in utility expenses for the new building, with the historical society responsible for any costs beyond that amount.

The society’s fundraising efforts continue.

Environmental

Advisory Committee

The EAC presented a Lighting Ordinance for the board’s consideration and updated the board on the native plant restoration at Ontelaunee Park.

Volunteers for the park restoration project are welcome for a planting event taking place Sept. 26. Email eac@lynntwp.org for more information.

Other Business

The board also touched briefly on budget planning ahead of an upcoming budget meeting.