Every school in the Octorara Area Scool District received a Keystone award for making "adequate yearly progress" two years in a row based on PSSA results, according to a page one Brian Wallace story in the Dec. 29 Lancaster Intelligencer Journal/New Era:
articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/329936
Pick up today's paper and see how Octorara compares to other Lancaster County school districts.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Octorara preliminary budget ready - for cuts
The Octorara Area School District will present to the community in January a preliminary $47,829,317 budget which is up $1.8 million, or nearly 4 percent, over this year’s spending plan.
Business Manager Dan Carsley said the numbers are preliminary, and there is a great deal of information to be gathered both before and after Jan. 17, the evening the school board is scheduled to approve the preliminary budget.
“The revenues are what they are,“ said Superintendent Tom Newcome. “The only way we can balance it is through expenses,” Newcome said, adding he will make recommendations for cuts during the next few months.
One factor certain to play a part in 2011 budget deliberations is teacher salaries. The school board’s contract with the Octorara Area Education Association ends in June, and formal salary negotiations are scheduled to begin in January.
Carsley said other factors which have negatively impacted revenues are: higher health care costs and contributions to PSERs, a decline in local real estate revenue and federal stimulus funds, and increasing costs to cover charter school tuition.
“You know that (budget) is not going to fly,” said board member Sam Ganow at the Dec. 13 meeting.
Board president Lisa Bowman said January‘s vote will be “the beginning of a very long process.” The school board must adopt a final budget in June.
If adopted as is, which officials say is unlikely, Lancaster County taxpayers would see an 8 percent millage increase, to 30.38 mills. Chester County taxpayers would have a 6.66 percent mill increase to 37.46mills.
On the revenue side, the preliminary proposed budget calls for: $34,517,013 in local revenue;$11,166,058 in state revenue; and $1,141,000 in federal revenue.
As for expenses, the district anticipates spending $18,747,180 for regular instruction; $7,108,916 for special education; $1,642,324 for vocational education; $755,954 for other instruction; $17,722 for community/junior college tuition; $1,22,207 for student support services; $1,059,236 for instructional support services; $2,524,480 for administrative support services; $454,981 for pupil health services; $541,056 for business operations; $3,235,926 for maintenance operations; $2,776,052 for student transportation; $805,901 for central support services; and $16,342 for other support services.
Also, $600 for student activities, $61,631 for community services; $6,213,418 for debt service; $295,600 in fund transfers; and $349,791 in budgetary reserve to balance the $47,829,317 budget.
Bowman also said John Lawrence, who will soon be sworn in as state representative in the 13th legislative district, is interested in continuing Rep. Tom Houghton’s work on the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, which is working to bring more business revenue into the school district.
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Business Manager Dan Carsley said the numbers are preliminary, and there is a great deal of information to be gathered both before and after Jan. 17, the evening the school board is scheduled to approve the preliminary budget.
“The revenues are what they are,“ said Superintendent Tom Newcome. “The only way we can balance it is through expenses,” Newcome said, adding he will make recommendations for cuts during the next few months.
One factor certain to play a part in 2011 budget deliberations is teacher salaries. The school board’s contract with the Octorara Area Education Association ends in June, and formal salary negotiations are scheduled to begin in January.
Carsley said other factors which have negatively impacted revenues are: higher health care costs and contributions to PSERs, a decline in local real estate revenue and federal stimulus funds, and increasing costs to cover charter school tuition.
“You know that (budget) is not going to fly,” said board member Sam Ganow at the Dec. 13 meeting.
Board president Lisa Bowman said January‘s vote will be “the beginning of a very long process.” The school board must adopt a final budget in June.
If adopted as is, which officials say is unlikely, Lancaster County taxpayers would see an 8 percent millage increase, to 30.38 mills. Chester County taxpayers would have a 6.66 percent mill increase to 37.46mills.
On the revenue side, the preliminary proposed budget calls for: $34,517,013 in local revenue;$11,166,058 in state revenue; and $1,141,000 in federal revenue.
As for expenses, the district anticipates spending $18,747,180 for regular instruction; $7,108,916 for special education; $1,642,324 for vocational education; $755,954 for other instruction; $17,722 for community/junior college tuition; $1,22,207 for student support services; $1,059,236 for instructional support services; $2,524,480 for administrative support services; $454,981 for pupil health services; $541,056 for business operations; $3,235,926 for maintenance operations; $2,776,052 for student transportation; $805,901 for central support services; and $16,342 for other support services.
Also, $600 for student activities, $61,631 for community services; $6,213,418 for debt service; $295,600 in fund transfers; and $349,791 in budgetary reserve to balance the $47,829,317 budget.
Bowman also said John Lawrence, who will soon be sworn in as state representative in the 13th legislative district, is interested in continuing Rep. Tom Houghton’s work on the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, which is working to bring more business revenue into the school district.
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More changes due for Christiana's library
Moore’s Memorial Library in Christiana is beginning 2011 debt-free and ready for two major renovations to its new historic home at 9 W. Slokom Ave., thanks to the sale of the old building and $156,000 in grants.
According to Jack Assetto, chairman of the library’s capital campaign, the former Bridge Street library, also a historic property, was sold to Christiana Real Properties LLC for $104,000. The sale allowed the board to pay its debt and own the new library free and clear.
“We are really pleased with that,” said Walt Crellin, library board treasurer. “In the past two weeks we’ve also gotten two more grants, one to build an elevator down to the ground floor, and another matching grant to renovate the basement.”
This second phase of the library’s $1.9 million renovation will create space in the downstairs area for a café, meeting room and used bookstore, with the elevator providing access to those with handicaps.
Crellin said a $121,000 matching state grant will cover the cost of the downstairs project, and the $35,000 grant will complete the elevator. Crellin said unlike the Keystone grant, which required bidding the project and paying the prevailing wage, the matching grant allows the library board to do the construction with some local craftsmen offering volunteer labor.
Architect Mark Myers, who designed and led the transformation of the historic stone former bank building into a community library, will again lead the project. Construction will begin this spring.
Crellin said the library board of directors is kicking off the new year with a revitalized Friends of the Library group, who plan several fundraisers, including a golf tournament, plant sale and chicken barbecues. Used book sales are an ongoing fundraiser.
Use of the library is up 40 percent, according to Crellin. The library’s board of directors recently adopted a $93,300 2011 budget, which is up $2,600 over the 2010 plan. Crellin said this is due to increased utility and insurance costs associated with the new building. Otherwise, there has been no increase in operating expenses. Crellin said the library anticipates an $8,000 shortfall in revenue, and the board is also not sure what ongoing changes within the county library system will bring.
According to Bud Rettew, library board president, the board has faith volunteers will overcome the shortfall.
“If we are successful, we may not have to reduce services beyond what has already been done,” Rettew said. “For example, we are closed on Mondays.”
The library’s Web site is www.christianalibrary.org.
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According to Jack Assetto, chairman of the library’s capital campaign, the former Bridge Street library, also a historic property, was sold to Christiana Real Properties LLC for $104,000. The sale allowed the board to pay its debt and own the new library free and clear.
“We are really pleased with that,” said Walt Crellin, library board treasurer. “In the past two weeks we’ve also gotten two more grants, one to build an elevator down to the ground floor, and another matching grant to renovate the basement.”
This second phase of the library’s $1.9 million renovation will create space in the downstairs area for a café, meeting room and used bookstore, with the elevator providing access to those with handicaps.
Crellin said a $121,000 matching state grant will cover the cost of the downstairs project, and the $35,000 grant will complete the elevator. Crellin said unlike the Keystone grant, which required bidding the project and paying the prevailing wage, the matching grant allows the library board to do the construction with some local craftsmen offering volunteer labor.
Architect Mark Myers, who designed and led the transformation of the historic stone former bank building into a community library, will again lead the project. Construction will begin this spring.
Crellin said the library board of directors is kicking off the new year with a revitalized Friends of the Library group, who plan several fundraisers, including a golf tournament, plant sale and chicken barbecues. Used book sales are an ongoing fundraiser.
Use of the library is up 40 percent, according to Crellin. The library’s board of directors recently adopted a $93,300 2011 budget, which is up $2,600 over the 2010 plan. Crellin said this is due to increased utility and insurance costs associated with the new building. Otherwise, there has been no increase in operating expenses. Crellin said the library anticipates an $8,000 shortfall in revenue, and the board is also not sure what ongoing changes within the county library system will bring.
According to Bud Rettew, library board president, the board has faith volunteers will overcome the shortfall.
“If we are successful, we may not have to reduce services beyond what has already been done,” Rettew said. “For example, we are closed on Mondays.”
The library’s Web site is www.christianalibrary.org.
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Monday, December 27, 2010
Local poverty exceeds national rate
Poverty is rising in Lancaster County, according to a Dec. 19 Sunday News feature story by Paula Wolf.
Seven school districts within the county - including Octorara - have student poverty rates in the double digits, according to the news story. With 3,883 students, 16 percent of Octorara students ages 5-17 live in poverty, according to 2009 figures from the Census Bureau. This is higher than the national poverty rate of 14.3 percent.
You may read the story, which compares poverty rates in 17 school districts, at articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/326078
Seven school districts within the county - including Octorara - have student poverty rates in the double digits, according to the news story. With 3,883 students, 16 percent of Octorara students ages 5-17 live in poverty, according to 2009 figures from the Census Bureau. This is higher than the national poverty rate of 14.3 percent.
You may read the story, which compares poverty rates in 17 school districts, at articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/326078
Octorara School Board reorganizes
The Octorara Area School Board has reorganized and unanimously returned Lisa Bowman, a Region 2 representative, to the presidency, and Region 3 representative Nelson Stoltzfus to his seat as vice president.
Bowman, however, will face reelection in 2011, as will Region 1 board members Shawna Johnson and Brian Norris, and Region 3 representative John Malone. Board members Sam Ganow and John McCartney from Region 2 will face reelection in 2013, as will Robert Hume and Stoltzfus in Region 3.
In personnel matters Dec. 13 the school board hired five long-term substitutes: Kimberly Miller, teaching eighth grade communication arts; Bridget Marowski, teaching high school Spanish; Jean Coldiron, for seventh grade special education; Jennifer Bower, a speech and language therapist for elementary and intermediate school students; and Jan D’Angelo as a long-term substitute reading specialist.
The school board also approved high school students’ request to form a Student Health Council to promote good eating and health habits among students.
The school board will next meet for a work session at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10 in the middle school multipurpose room.
Bowman, however, will face reelection in 2011, as will Region 1 board members Shawna Johnson and Brian Norris, and Region 3 representative John Malone. Board members Sam Ganow and John McCartney from Region 2 will face reelection in 2013, as will Robert Hume and Stoltzfus in Region 3.
In personnel matters Dec. 13 the school board hired five long-term substitutes: Kimberly Miller, teaching eighth grade communication arts; Bridget Marowski, teaching high school Spanish; Jean Coldiron, for seventh grade special education; Jennifer Bower, a speech and language therapist for elementary and intermediate school students; and Jan D’Angelo as a long-term substitute reading specialist.
The school board also approved high school students’ request to form a Student Health Council to promote good eating and health habits among students.
The school board will next meet for a work session at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10 in the middle school multipurpose room.
Sadsbury adopts 2011 budget
There is a large line item missing from Sadsbury Township’s 2011 budget, which supervisors unanimously adopted Dec. 7.
Supervisors last year included $1,980,000 for a building project in their $2,767,368 2010 budget, hoping to get grant funding and do the project without any cost to taxpayers. Funding has not yet come through, and with their eyes on the current economy, supervisors opted not to include the line item in their 2011 budget.
“The building committee is still meeting, and still applying for money, and still going forward with plans,” said Supervisor Linda Swift. “We want to be shovel ready. We did plan the budget without figuring on a building.”
The 2011 budget of $632,107 is therefore quite a bit lower than the $2,767,368 budget passed for 2010. There will also be no tax increase for 2011, with the mill rate remaining at .8.
On the revenue side, the township will begin the year with $152,412 in cash and anticipates: $408,975 from real estate, transfer and earned income taxes; $17,200 in licenses and permits; $5,500 in fines and forfeits; $510 in interest; $33,600 in intergovernmental revenues; $2,410 in hearing fees; $10,300 for public safety permits; and $1,200 in refunds for total revenues of $632,107.
As for expenses, the township will spend: $44,705 in employment taxes; $137,595 for general government; $50,845 for public safety; $5,250 for public works/sanitation; $262,176 for highways and streets; $7,250 as a donation to Moore’s Memorial Library in Christiana; $105,486 for employee benefits and withholding; $18,500 for insurance; and $300 in other expenses for a total of $632,107.
As for liquid fuels, the township will begin the year with $121,175 in cash and anticipates an additional $136,100 in revenue, for total revenue of $257,275. The township has budgeted that amount for maintenance, construction and rebuilding of roads as needed during 2011.
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Supervisors last year included $1,980,000 for a building project in their $2,767,368 2010 budget, hoping to get grant funding and do the project without any cost to taxpayers. Funding has not yet come through, and with their eyes on the current economy, supervisors opted not to include the line item in their 2011 budget.
“The building committee is still meeting, and still applying for money, and still going forward with plans,” said Supervisor Linda Swift. “We want to be shovel ready. We did plan the budget without figuring on a building.”
The 2011 budget of $632,107 is therefore quite a bit lower than the $2,767,368 budget passed for 2010. There will also be no tax increase for 2011, with the mill rate remaining at .8.
On the revenue side, the township will begin the year with $152,412 in cash and anticipates: $408,975 from real estate, transfer and earned income taxes; $17,200 in licenses and permits; $5,500 in fines and forfeits; $510 in interest; $33,600 in intergovernmental revenues; $2,410 in hearing fees; $10,300 for public safety permits; and $1,200 in refunds for total revenues of $632,107.
As for expenses, the township will spend: $44,705 in employment taxes; $137,595 for general government; $50,845 for public safety; $5,250 for public works/sanitation; $262,176 for highways and streets; $7,250 as a donation to Moore’s Memorial Library in Christiana; $105,486 for employee benefits and withholding; $18,500 for insurance; and $300 in other expenses for a total of $632,107.
As for liquid fuels, the township will begin the year with $121,175 in cash and anticipates an additional $136,100 in revenue, for total revenue of $257,275. The township has budgeted that amount for maintenance, construction and rebuilding of roads as needed during 2011.
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Quarryville continues curfew
A curfew for young people under 18 will continue in Quarryville Borough in 2011.
Council unanimously readopted its curfew ordinance Dec. 6, meaning young people should be off the streets and indoors from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from midnight to 6 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
“There are many violations,” said Mayor Joy Kemper. “It’s worthwhile having.”
In other business council unanimously adopted the 2011 budget approved in November. However, the $6,644,000 is $14,000 less than anticipated because grant funds for a police department gator for patrolling trail areas was received and spent as part of the 2010 budget.
Taxes, at 4.75 mills, will remain the same, and there will be no increase in water and sewer rates for 2011.
The borough’s major project for 2011 is improving and reconstructing Fourth Street from State to Hess streets at an estimated cost of $1,525,000. Grant money and reimbursements, however, should take the cost down to $1,200,000, according to Borough Manager Al Drayovitch Jr.
Also, borough council said Dec. 6 they plan to meet in early January take a good look at their inventory of borough land and properties and develop a plan for their future use.
Finally, council: waived police officer contributions to their pension fund for 2009, 2010 and 2011; approved a $231,191 escrow reduction for Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community due to work completed; approved three sewer service agreements for Quarry Ridge; approved fire/police control for the Martin Appliance midnight sale; and held an executive session for personnel issues.
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Council unanimously readopted its curfew ordinance Dec. 6, meaning young people should be off the streets and indoors from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from midnight to 6 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
“There are many violations,” said Mayor Joy Kemper. “It’s worthwhile having.”
In other business council unanimously adopted the 2011 budget approved in November. However, the $6,644,000 is $14,000 less than anticipated because grant funds for a police department gator for patrolling trail areas was received and spent as part of the 2010 budget.
Taxes, at 4.75 mills, will remain the same, and there will be no increase in water and sewer rates for 2011.
The borough’s major project for 2011 is improving and reconstructing Fourth Street from State to Hess streets at an estimated cost of $1,525,000. Grant money and reimbursements, however, should take the cost down to $1,200,000, according to Borough Manager Al Drayovitch Jr.
Also, borough council said Dec. 6 they plan to meet in early January take a good look at their inventory of borough land and properties and develop a plan for their future use.
Finally, council: waived police officer contributions to their pension fund for 2009, 2010 and 2011; approved a $231,191 escrow reduction for Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community due to work completed; approved three sewer service agreements for Quarry Ridge; approved fire/police control for the Martin Appliance midnight sale; and held an executive session for personnel issues.
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Friday, November 26, 2010
Octorara considering 'good conduct' pledges from parents, not just financing
In the past few years, parents in the Octorara Area School District have pitched in to build a regionally competing football club from the ground up, raised $16,000 through PTO fundraisers to build a playground for middle school students, and promised to raise $105,000 to keep a middle school sports program when it was cut from the district's tight budget.
Despite the above-and-beyond work of many, there have apparently been troublesome incidents on the sidelines from a few, so athletic coaches in the district are taking steps to make sure there is no question that there will be good conduct at games from those on the sidelines and in bleachers.
A “parent pledge,” requiring cooperation and good sportsmanship among parents of school athletes attending games, was a controversial topic when the school board met Nov. 15.
Athletic Director Jim Weagley said signed pledges are being suggested by coaches because of poor conduct by some spectators at games. In one incident involving a parent, police were called, and parents have been asked to suspend their attendance due to allegedly poor sportsmanship.
Board member Brian Norris said under the terms of a proposed parent pledge, the conduct of parents will bring disciplinary action, but no disciplinary action is taken against school athletes as a result of parental actions. Octorara teachers who are coaches are also asking parents that parents with comments or questions only contact them at school during business hours.
Norris, however, pointed out that some coaches are not district employees and may not take calls involving coaching matters at work.
In a separate athletic matter, Allen Brown of Atglen questioned the hiring of two assistant wrestling coaches during a time of budget cuts. The board hired Joshua Parker and Jason Smith as assistant high school wrestling coaches at salaries of $2,565 each. Weagley defended the coaches as necessary to help the 30 athletes with a long season. He said the coaching positions are not new and are required under the district’s collective bargaining agreement with Octorara teachers.
Board member Bob Hume told board members he felt the school board should not proceed with plans for a bond issue to finish the last phase of the high school renovation.
School board president Lisa Bowman told Hume the approved project is 85 percent complete and the board could not simply stop and leave the high school as is.
The board last month approved borrowing a final amount of approximately $10 million to complete its $67 million capital improvement project on the centralized campus. The project included land acquisition, a new intermediate school, and high school renovations. Carsley said Nov. 19 the bond issue will likely move forward in early January.
Board member John Malone said he wants to encourage more community involvement in the school district budget process as the district considers next year’s spending plan and how to cope with an anticipated increase in its contribution to the state retirement fund for teachers.
Board members also asked administrators to continue to increase student, parent and community awareness of cyber bulling by offering instructional seminars to elementary and intermediate school students.
Following a recent incident in which students and the district were targeted by a Facebook site called “Octorara Dirt,“ which has been taken down, seminars on internet safety and preventing cyber bulling were held at the high school and middle school.
Finally, the school board: approved a high school Discussion Club; hired Mary Cassidy, Gary Gawin and Cheryl Coughlin as volunteer swim coaches; and approved a child rearing leave for speech therapist Elizabeth Piotrowski.
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Despite the above-and-beyond work of many, there have apparently been troublesome incidents on the sidelines from a few, so athletic coaches in the district are taking steps to make sure there is no question that there will be good conduct at games from those on the sidelines and in bleachers.
A “parent pledge,” requiring cooperation and good sportsmanship among parents of school athletes attending games, was a controversial topic when the school board met Nov. 15.
Athletic Director Jim Weagley said signed pledges are being suggested by coaches because of poor conduct by some spectators at games. In one incident involving a parent, police were called, and parents have been asked to suspend their attendance due to allegedly poor sportsmanship.
Board member Brian Norris said under the terms of a proposed parent pledge, the conduct of parents will bring disciplinary action, but no disciplinary action is taken against school athletes as a result of parental actions. Octorara teachers who are coaches are also asking parents that parents with comments or questions only contact them at school during business hours.
Norris, however, pointed out that some coaches are not district employees and may not take calls involving coaching matters at work.
In a separate athletic matter, Allen Brown of Atglen questioned the hiring of two assistant wrestling coaches during a time of budget cuts. The board hired Joshua Parker and Jason Smith as assistant high school wrestling coaches at salaries of $2,565 each. Weagley defended the coaches as necessary to help the 30 athletes with a long season. He said the coaching positions are not new and are required under the district’s collective bargaining agreement with Octorara teachers.
Board member Bob Hume told board members he felt the school board should not proceed with plans for a bond issue to finish the last phase of the high school renovation.
School board president Lisa Bowman told Hume the approved project is 85 percent complete and the board could not simply stop and leave the high school as is.
The board last month approved borrowing a final amount of approximately $10 million to complete its $67 million capital improvement project on the centralized campus. The project included land acquisition, a new intermediate school, and high school renovations. Carsley said Nov. 19 the bond issue will likely move forward in early January.
Board member John Malone said he wants to encourage more community involvement in the school district budget process as the district considers next year’s spending plan and how to cope with an anticipated increase in its contribution to the state retirement fund for teachers.
Board members also asked administrators to continue to increase student, parent and community awareness of cyber bulling by offering instructional seminars to elementary and intermediate school students.
Following a recent incident in which students and the district were targeted by a Facebook site called “Octorara Dirt,“ which has been taken down, seminars on internet safety and preventing cyber bulling were held at the high school and middle school.
Finally, the school board: approved a high school Discussion Club; hired Mary Cassidy, Gary Gawin and Cheryl Coughlin as volunteer swim coaches; and approved a child rearing leave for speech therapist Elizabeth Piotrowski.
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County assists Sadsbury zoning process
Sadsbury Township supervisors are reviewing suggestions the Lancaster County Planning Commission has made to their proposed new zoning ordinance.
Gwen Newell, county community planner, told supervisors Nov. 3 the county had some concerns about the township’s lack of a public water supply, and that it consider protective steps to preserve historic sites, not just historic structures.
Newell said an “extra layer of protection” requiring that the history of sites and buildings be documented before they are destroyed might save sites such as the Christiana Riot house, which was demolished long ago.
“Our planning commission didn’t want to deal with another layer of historic red tape,” said Supervisor Linda Swift.
Supervisor Eugene Lammey said the long “fiasco” over the historic Enola line involving many layers of federal, state and county bureaucracy might explain the planning commission’s reluctance. Supervisors will have to decide whether a site is historic if it is 100, 150 or 200 years old.
As for public water, the township does provide public sewage through an inter-municipal arrangement with Christiana Borough, but does not presently offer public water. Supervisors said they would review the ability to obtain public water with their solicitor, Frank Mincarelli.
Newell said she will continue to meet with the township planning commission and supervisors about the document in progress.
Supervisors also heard from residents Mark Wilson, Jeannette Swartzentruber and Steven Swartzentruber, who said speeding has become a big problem along Buck Hill Road, particularly near an Amish school.
“It could cause an accident,” said Wilson. “The speed is really up.”
Steve Swartzentruber said most of the speeding traffic seems to be from saw mill and milk truck drivers, whose brakes also frighten horses in the area.
“It’s just a matter of time before someone gets killed or hurt,” he said.
Supervisors said they would send letters to a saw mill and milk trucking company asking for vigilance, and would also request state police surveillance. Supervisors also said they would consider a traffic study.
In other business supervisors declined to join the Lancaster County Clean Water Consortium because of the $1,000 municipal fee required.
Resident Jim Ranck said ground water might be unfit for cattle consumption near one road, but very clean in another area. He said he feels the Department of Environmental Protection often knows where there is stream pollution, but does not want to do the work to correct problems.
Supervisors approved Ranck to a three-year term on the zoning hearing board to fill a vacancy.
Supervisors also said they have had many questions about on-street parking in residential developments, which is prohibited regardless of weather. With snow anticipated, supervisors will be ticketing illegally parked cars.
Finally, supervisors agreed to do repairs to its landscaped flagpole, which has faulty wiring, and set a road tour for 4 p.m. Nov. 23.
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Gwen Newell, county community planner, told supervisors Nov. 3 the county had some concerns about the township’s lack of a public water supply, and that it consider protective steps to preserve historic sites, not just historic structures.
Newell said an “extra layer of protection” requiring that the history of sites and buildings be documented before they are destroyed might save sites such as the Christiana Riot house, which was demolished long ago.
“Our planning commission didn’t want to deal with another layer of historic red tape,” said Supervisor Linda Swift.
Supervisor Eugene Lammey said the long “fiasco” over the historic Enola line involving many layers of federal, state and county bureaucracy might explain the planning commission’s reluctance. Supervisors will have to decide whether a site is historic if it is 100, 150 or 200 years old.
As for public water, the township does provide public sewage through an inter-municipal arrangement with Christiana Borough, but does not presently offer public water. Supervisors said they would review the ability to obtain public water with their solicitor, Frank Mincarelli.
Newell said she will continue to meet with the township planning commission and supervisors about the document in progress.
Supervisors also heard from residents Mark Wilson, Jeannette Swartzentruber and Steven Swartzentruber, who said speeding has become a big problem along Buck Hill Road, particularly near an Amish school.
“It could cause an accident,” said Wilson. “The speed is really up.”
Steve Swartzentruber said most of the speeding traffic seems to be from saw mill and milk truck drivers, whose brakes also frighten horses in the area.
“It’s just a matter of time before someone gets killed or hurt,” he said.
Supervisors said they would send letters to a saw mill and milk trucking company asking for vigilance, and would also request state police surveillance. Supervisors also said they would consider a traffic study.
In other business supervisors declined to join the Lancaster County Clean Water Consortium because of the $1,000 municipal fee required.
Resident Jim Ranck said ground water might be unfit for cattle consumption near one road, but very clean in another area. He said he feels the Department of Environmental Protection often knows where there is stream pollution, but does not want to do the work to correct problems.
Supervisors approved Ranck to a three-year term on the zoning hearing board to fill a vacancy.
Supervisors also said they have had many questions about on-street parking in residential developments, which is prohibited regardless of weather. With snow anticipated, supervisors will be ticketing illegally parked cars.
Finally, supervisors agreed to do repairs to its landscaped flagpole, which has faulty wiring, and set a road tour for 4 p.m. Nov. 23.
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Monday, November 15, 2010
Comparing fund balances
A Nov. 14 Sunday News story, “School districts stashing the cash,” highlighting how much money school districts in Lancaster County keep in fund balances, did not include comparison figures for the Octorara Area School District. Octorara includes municipalities in both Lancaster and Chester counties.
According to Business Manager Dan Carsley, Octorara’s total budget for 2010-11 is $46,026,386. The designated fund balance is $2,047,760, while the unrestricted fund balance is $3,165,293. This latter figure is 6.8 percent of the budget. You may read the story at:
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/312380
According to Business Manager Dan Carsley, Octorara’s total budget for 2010-11 is $46,026,386. The designated fund balance is $2,047,760, while the unrestricted fund balance is $3,165,293. This latter figure is 6.8 percent of the budget. You may read the story at:
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/312380
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Octorara refocuses community on internet safety
Octorara Area School District administrators are sending all high school and middle school students to seminars on internet safety and cyber bullying this week, following an incident in which an anonymous student angered the community by publishing a Facebook site titled “Octorara Dirt.“
The site, which used the school district crest, photos of students and messages which Superintendent Tom Newcome said were “vile and despicable” comments about the personal lives of students, was taken down either by Facebook or the poster on Oct. 28.
“I now have some concept of what going viral means,” Newcome told the school board Monday, Nov. 8.
Newcome alerted Facebook (which says it does not allow postings which are bullying, intimidating, threatening or pornographic), local police, and has been trying to discover the identity or identities of the anonymous poster or posters.
Newcome said there have also been copycat sites.
“This is the stuff we do on a daily basis,“ Newcome said. “I apologize I didn’t alert the board. We’re looking for some resolution. We’ll stay on top of these things as they happen.”
Newcome said students who participate in such sites are exposing themselves to possible disciplinary action or even legal prosecution. He’s asking parents and students to report derogatory sites and utilize the “block/report this person” features on Web pages.
The district has hired internet safety instructor Megan Augustine, publisher of the Web site Digital Dangers, to give seminars on internet safety and cyber bullying. Parents are invited, said middle school Principal Elena Wilson.
Augustine will speak at 1 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 16 at the high school and at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18 at the middle school. Augustine’s Digital Dangers site, http://makkmedia.wordpress.com, offers cyber tips for parents and counsels young people on safely navigating the Web.
“We’re not sticking our heads in the sand,” said Wilson.
In other business during Monday’s work session, the board applauded 22 students known as Octorara Heroes, who pledge to avoid drugs and alcohol and work as role models among fourth grade students. They are: Nathaniel Aquadro, Lindsay Blevins, Candace Bristow, Abigail Butler, Chloe Dean, Alyssa Dehaas, Caleigh Feeny, Hannah Gajari, Mayra Juarez, Connor Kasabo, Amanda King, Bianca Lupo, Amy Miller, Ryan Miller, Jennifer Reeder, Ericka Rieck, Cassandra Shavney, Schott Shepke, Ce‘Asia Thorpe, Alexandra Todavine, Kelly Whelan and Devyn Wolfe.
Finally, school board president Lisa Bowman thanked outgoing state Rep. Tom Houghton for his assistance with the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, which is trying to attract development to the rural district. She said she is hopeful John Lawrence, who won his seat in last Tuesday’s election, will step in and help the district.
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The site, which used the school district crest, photos of students and messages which Superintendent Tom Newcome said were “vile and despicable” comments about the personal lives of students, was taken down either by Facebook or the poster on Oct. 28.
“I now have some concept of what going viral means,” Newcome told the school board Monday, Nov. 8.
Newcome alerted Facebook (which says it does not allow postings which are bullying, intimidating, threatening or pornographic), local police, and has been trying to discover the identity or identities of the anonymous poster or posters.
Newcome said there have also been copycat sites.
“This is the stuff we do on a daily basis,“ Newcome said. “I apologize I didn’t alert the board. We’re looking for some resolution. We’ll stay on top of these things as they happen.”
Newcome said students who participate in such sites are exposing themselves to possible disciplinary action or even legal prosecution. He’s asking parents and students to report derogatory sites and utilize the “block/report this person” features on Web pages.
The district has hired internet safety instructor Megan Augustine, publisher of the Web site Digital Dangers, to give seminars on internet safety and cyber bullying. Parents are invited, said middle school Principal Elena Wilson.
Augustine will speak at 1 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 16 at the high school and at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18 at the middle school. Augustine’s Digital Dangers site, http://makkmedia.wordpress.com, offers cyber tips for parents and counsels young people on safely navigating the Web.
“We’re not sticking our heads in the sand,” said Wilson.
In other business during Monday’s work session, the board applauded 22 students known as Octorara Heroes, who pledge to avoid drugs and alcohol and work as role models among fourth grade students. They are: Nathaniel Aquadro, Lindsay Blevins, Candace Bristow, Abigail Butler, Chloe Dean, Alyssa Dehaas, Caleigh Feeny, Hannah Gajari, Mayra Juarez, Connor Kasabo, Amanda King, Bianca Lupo, Amy Miller, Ryan Miller, Jennifer Reeder, Ericka Rieck, Cassandra Shavney, Schott Shepke, Ce‘Asia Thorpe, Alexandra Todavine, Kelly Whelan and Devyn Wolfe.
Finally, school board president Lisa Bowman thanked outgoing state Rep. Tom Houghton for his assistance with the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, which is trying to attract development to the rural district. She said she is hopeful John Lawrence, who won his seat in last Tuesday’s election, will step in and help the district.
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They're making pies
Christiana Fire Company volunteers are making pies to help shore up the fire company's budget. One upcoming project is paving the future fire company parking lot site on South Bridge Street (former location of the Friendly Tavern).
Pies will be ready at the fire house between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 24. Pre-orders of the pumpkin, apple crumb, pecan, cherry crumb and wet-bottom shoofly pies are recommended -- but not required. Pies are $7 each and may be ordered from Kim at 610-593-8145 or Jen at 610-593-2518.
Pies will be ready at the fire house between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 24. Pre-orders of the pumpkin, apple crumb, pecan, cherry crumb and wet-bottom shoofly pies are recommended -- but not required. Pies are $7 each and may be ordered from Kim at 610-593-8145 or Jen at 610-593-2518.
Octorara student earns Intell/New Era kudos
If you read the Intell/New Era Saturday, Nov. 13, you would know Octorara Area High School senior Amanda King of Cochranville was named Teen of the Week. You may read the story by reporter Joan Kern at:
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/311968
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/311968
Event will benefit George Fox School
Soup, Song & Simplicity, an evening featuring acoustic folk music, nourishing food and handcrafts, is set for 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, at Sadsbury Friends Meeting House, 1089 Simmontown Road, Gap. The event will benefit George Fox Friends School in Cochranville, and admission at the door is $5. Folk music singers/songwriters Richard Broadbent and Tim Kirk will perform. CDs will be available. The craft show and sale will include jewelry, knitwear, soaps, botanicals and wreaths. Claudia Kirk's book "Mail Lady of Paradise" will be available, and there will also be a White Elephant table. A cafe menu of soups and desserts will be available for purchase. For further information contact Claudia Kirk at 717-786-2144.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Octorara - did you hear?
Octorara Middle School earned a Distinguished Title I School award from the state.
According to an Oct. 16 story by Brian Wallace in the Intelligencer Journal, "6 county schools earn honors for improved scores," the average PSSA reading score rose by nearly 50 percent between 2005 and 2010.
Read about what measures and curriculum Principal Elena Wilson said the school used to achieve this success at www.lancasteronline.com.
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According to an Oct. 16 story by Brian Wallace in the Intelligencer Journal, "6 county schools earn honors for improved scores," the average PSSA reading score rose by nearly 50 percent between 2005 and 2010.
Read about what measures and curriculum Principal Elena Wilson said the school used to achieve this success at www.lancasteronline.com.
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Octorara administrators to enforce classroom technology rules
Sadsbury Township parent Donna Durham told the Octorara Area School Board Oct. 11 that teachers - not just students - need to be trained to keep cyber bullying and dangerous social media out of schools.
Durham, who parents a middle school student, said she has heard of incidents of "sexting" on buses and students who have used Ipods during classroom testing.
Middle school Principal Elena Wilson said school policy mandates that students place all electronic devices in their lockers when they arrive at school.
"If we see it, we take it," she said, while admitting teachers need to better enforce the rule "across the board."
"Are we educating our teachers enough on this issue?" asked Durham. "Are they adequately trained to know the challenges out there and the things students are capable of doing through social media?"
Wilson said the issue was on the agenda for her Tuesday faculty meeting.
"We need to educate teachers," Wilson said.
Durham thanked the school district for recently hosting a parent program on cyber safety and called some of the possibilities in cyberspace "totally scary." She lamented that only eight parents attended that informational meeting.
Primary Learning Center Principal Lisa McNamara said it is sometimes a problem getting parents to attend school programs.
"We do what we can," McNamara said.
Wilson said following the program she wanted to go home, throw away her computer, and wrap children in bubblewrap.
Superintendent Tom Newcome said bullying is a district-wide concern addressed with the Alweis curriculum. He agreed technology is an additional "challenge" and said there are places he will never visit, including Facebook.
"It's important for us to make ourselves informed," Wilson said. "There's a lot more we can do, teachers as well."
During the work session Nelson Stoltzfus of the district facilities committee said the PTO had recently finished fundraising to pay for the intermediate school playground. As for ongoing high school renovations, he said the facilities committee is considering how to reduce noise in upstairs classrooms at the high school, and a manitenance problem with the gymnasium ceiling.
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Durham, who parents a middle school student, said she has heard of incidents of "sexting" on buses and students who have used Ipods during classroom testing.
Middle school Principal Elena Wilson said school policy mandates that students place all electronic devices in their lockers when they arrive at school.
"If we see it, we take it," she said, while admitting teachers need to better enforce the rule "across the board."
"Are we educating our teachers enough on this issue?" asked Durham. "Are they adequately trained to know the challenges out there and the things students are capable of doing through social media?"
Wilson said the issue was on the agenda for her Tuesday faculty meeting.
"We need to educate teachers," Wilson said.
Durham thanked the school district for recently hosting a parent program on cyber safety and called some of the possibilities in cyberspace "totally scary." She lamented that only eight parents attended that informational meeting.
Primary Learning Center Principal Lisa McNamara said it is sometimes a problem getting parents to attend school programs.
"We do what we can," McNamara said.
Wilson said following the program she wanted to go home, throw away her computer, and wrap children in bubblewrap.
Superintendent Tom Newcome said bullying is a district-wide concern addressed with the Alweis curriculum. He agreed technology is an additional "challenge" and said there are places he will never visit, including Facebook.
"It's important for us to make ourselves informed," Wilson said. "There's a lot more we can do, teachers as well."
During the work session Nelson Stoltzfus of the district facilities committee said the PTO had recently finished fundraising to pay for the intermediate school playground. As for ongoing high school renovations, he said the facilities committee is considering how to reduce noise in upstairs classrooms at the high school, and a manitenance problem with the gymnasium ceiling.
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Octorara considers further borrowing
The Octorara Area School Board is considering taking advantage of current low interest rates and federal stimulus funds to borrow between $8 and $10 million to finish its $38 million high school renovation project.
The issue will be discussed when the school board meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18 in the middle school multipurpose room.
"The major areas remaining include the classroom wing, auditorium and gym," said Business Manager Dan Carsley, explaining that the additional borrowing is needed to cover asbestos removal as contractors renovate the old classroom wing.
The board originally borrowed $67 million in 2006 to cover recent intermediate school and high school renovations. Approximately $27 million has been paid to date and the district has refinanced twice to take advantage of falling interest rates.
Kent Phillips of RBC Capital Markets recently told the school board that it may be able to take advantage of Build America bonds or other federal programs. The high school should be done next summer.
According to Phillips, the school district's debt is $120,509,973, which it plans to finance through 2031. Some of that may be reimbursed by state and local funds.
With 1 mill of tax currently generating $866,000 in revenue, the district's budget is carrying 5.38 mills to cover borrowing in 2010, and will carry between 5.63 and 6.46 mills per year after that, until 2030, when the figure will be 4.58 mills.
The current projected millage for debt will be 4.58 in 2030, 0.64 mills in 2031 and zero thereafter.
Of those mills, either 0.25 or 0.21 of a mill per year (a total of 1.59 mills) go toward funding capital projects such as the intermediate and high school renovations. These will be paid for in 2014.
"The board took advantage of good markets over the last two years," Phillips said. "Interest rates remain very attractive and stimulus money is in the news."
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The issue will be discussed when the school board meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18 in the middle school multipurpose room.
"The major areas remaining include the classroom wing, auditorium and gym," said Business Manager Dan Carsley, explaining that the additional borrowing is needed to cover asbestos removal as contractors renovate the old classroom wing.
The board originally borrowed $67 million in 2006 to cover recent intermediate school and high school renovations. Approximately $27 million has been paid to date and the district has refinanced twice to take advantage of falling interest rates.
Kent Phillips of RBC Capital Markets recently told the school board that it may be able to take advantage of Build America bonds or other federal programs. The high school should be done next summer.
According to Phillips, the school district's debt is $120,509,973, which it plans to finance through 2031. Some of that may be reimbursed by state and local funds.
With 1 mill of tax currently generating $866,000 in revenue, the district's budget is carrying 5.38 mills to cover borrowing in 2010, and will carry between 5.63 and 6.46 mills per year after that, until 2030, when the figure will be 4.58 mills.
The current projected millage for debt will be 4.58 in 2030, 0.64 mills in 2031 and zero thereafter.
Of those mills, either 0.25 or 0.21 of a mill per year (a total of 1.59 mills) go toward funding capital projects such as the intermediate and high school renovations. These will be paid for in 2014.
"The board took advantage of good markets over the last two years," Phillips said. "Interest rates remain very attractive and stimulus money is in the news."
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Quarryville formalizes police coverage
Quarryville Borough Council on Oct. 4 unanimously passed two ordinances formalizing the Quarryville Police Department's coverage in Eden and East Drumore townships.
A week later, however, Eden Township supervisors postponed department coverage due to budgetary concerns. Eden citizens will continue to be covered by the Pennsylvania State Police.
The Quarryville department has policed the Village of the TownsEdge Shopping Center in East Drumore since June 2004, and the ordinance formalizes the arrangement. East Drumore will continue to pay Quarryville $15,000 annually to police the area, which includes the shops at TownsEdge, Fulton Bank and a Burger King.
The ordinance governing the department's work in Eden would have allowed for up to 20hours of police coverage weekly at a cost of 130 percent of the officer's salary. According to the Intelligencer Journal, Eden supervisors felt fines collected by police would not have covered the $1,000 to $1,200 monthly cost.
The Quarryville Police Department now covers three southern-end municipalities with four full-time and three part-time officers. It's 2010 budget is $308,000.
In other business, Quarryville Library Director Fran Vita thanked the borough for its annual donation in the midst of state funding cuts.
"Our funding is in a free-fall," Vita said. "Your appropriation has been a life saver for us."
Vita said the library experienced a 37 percent cut in state funding for 2010 and anticipates losing an additional $7,000 in state revenue for 2011. Library use, however, continues to stay strong, with more than 19,000 patrons and more than 214,000 books and other items in circulation per year.
"I want to remind everyone how important it is that we serve our community," Vita said. "Every day people are in the library getting tutored, on the computer and looking for jobs."
Council members also said they will examine an Act 537 sewage facilities plan update being recommended by the Borough Authority. Council approved 36 sewer service agreements for phase one of the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community, and one for 426 Fritz Ave.
Mike Sullenberger, of the streets committee, said he has gotten an estimate of $712,000 for a Fourth Street improvement project. He said it would cost more if the borough opts to do curb and water line work.
Sullenberger said council should discuss the issue in future budget meetings, and decide if it wants to do one or two streets and put the project out to bid.
The first budget meeting is set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20, at the borough offices, 300 Saint Catherine St.
Council also set trick-or-treat night for 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29.
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A week later, however, Eden Township supervisors postponed department coverage due to budgetary concerns. Eden citizens will continue to be covered by the Pennsylvania State Police.
The Quarryville department has policed the Village of the TownsEdge Shopping Center in East Drumore since June 2004, and the ordinance formalizes the arrangement. East Drumore will continue to pay Quarryville $15,000 annually to police the area, which includes the shops at TownsEdge, Fulton Bank and a Burger King.
The ordinance governing the department's work in Eden would have allowed for up to 20hours of police coverage weekly at a cost of 130 percent of the officer's salary. According to the Intelligencer Journal, Eden supervisors felt fines collected by police would not have covered the $1,000 to $1,200 monthly cost.
The Quarryville Police Department now covers three southern-end municipalities with four full-time and three part-time officers. It's 2010 budget is $308,000.
In other business, Quarryville Library Director Fran Vita thanked the borough for its annual donation in the midst of state funding cuts.
"Our funding is in a free-fall," Vita said. "Your appropriation has been a life saver for us."
Vita said the library experienced a 37 percent cut in state funding for 2010 and anticipates losing an additional $7,000 in state revenue for 2011. Library use, however, continues to stay strong, with more than 19,000 patrons and more than 214,000 books and other items in circulation per year.
"I want to remind everyone how important it is that we serve our community," Vita said. "Every day people are in the library getting tutored, on the computer and looking for jobs."
Council members also said they will examine an Act 537 sewage facilities plan update being recommended by the Borough Authority. Council approved 36 sewer service agreements for phase one of the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community, and one for 426 Fritz Ave.
Mike Sullenberger, of the streets committee, said he has gotten an estimate of $712,000 for a Fourth Street improvement project. He said it would cost more if the borough opts to do curb and water line work.
Sullenberger said council should discuss the issue in future budget meetings, and decide if it wants to do one or two streets and put the project out to bid.
The first budget meeting is set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20, at the borough offices, 300 Saint Catherine St.
Council also set trick-or-treat night for 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29.
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Monday, September 27, 2010
Sadsbury plans zoning discussion
Updated language and new permitted uses are highlights of a proposed new zoning ordinance which will be discussed when Sadsbury Topwnship supervisors meet with the township planning commission at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13.
The draft ordinance, recently returned to the township with comments from the county planning commission, will likely undergo revisions during that meeting and then be sent back to the county planning commission and township attorney for review. Public input is welcome at the Oct. 13 meeting.
Supervisor Linda Swift said the draft ordinance features new zoning districts, more uses which will be permitted without zoning hearings, and new language to accommodate low, medium and high-density businesses, along with different types of residential development.
In other business during their Sept. 7 meeting supervisors agreed to participate in an intermunicipal ordinance with Bart Township and other interested southern end municipalities. Such an ordinance, drafted as a group with one attorney, would save legal fees and then allow the municipalities to save money by sharing equipment, supplies and personnel.
Supervisors discussed options for health care plans for township employees, but opted to stay with Health America since employees expressed satisfaction with the coverage.
Roadmaster Jeff Nickel said the road crew is still working on White Oak Road, which is presently closed for construction between Noble and Lower Valley roads. The project is behind schedule due to having to move poles and electric lines, and the crew anticipates opening the road Oct. 30.
Supervisors approved use of some township roads for the Oct. 16 Covered Bridge Run, formerly sponsored by Atglen Borough but now sponsored by the YMCA. Creek Road will be one way, southbound, during the event.
After some discussion, supervisors said Chris Stoltzfus at 6809 White Oak Road could keep his phone shanty on the railroad right-of-way, but move it closer to his house; referred a resident’s questions to the zoning hearing board; and signed planning mylars for Benuel Fisher.
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The draft ordinance, recently returned to the township with comments from the county planning commission, will likely undergo revisions during that meeting and then be sent back to the county planning commission and township attorney for review. Public input is welcome at the Oct. 13 meeting.
Supervisor Linda Swift said the draft ordinance features new zoning districts, more uses which will be permitted without zoning hearings, and new language to accommodate low, medium and high-density businesses, along with different types of residential development.
In other business during their Sept. 7 meeting supervisors agreed to participate in an intermunicipal ordinance with Bart Township and other interested southern end municipalities. Such an ordinance, drafted as a group with one attorney, would save legal fees and then allow the municipalities to save money by sharing equipment, supplies and personnel.
Supervisors discussed options for health care plans for township employees, but opted to stay with Health America since employees expressed satisfaction with the coverage.
Roadmaster Jeff Nickel said the road crew is still working on White Oak Road, which is presently closed for construction between Noble and Lower Valley roads. The project is behind schedule due to having to move poles and electric lines, and the crew anticipates opening the road Oct. 30.
Supervisors approved use of some township roads for the Oct. 16 Covered Bridge Run, formerly sponsored by Atglen Borough but now sponsored by the YMCA. Creek Road will be one way, southbound, during the event.
After some discussion, supervisors said Chris Stoltzfus at 6809 White Oak Road could keep his phone shanty on the railroad right-of-way, but move it closer to his house; referred a resident’s questions to the zoning hearing board; and signed planning mylars for Benuel Fisher.
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Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Robberies worry Quarryville citizens
Quarryville Borough residents told borough council Sept. 7 they are concerned about their families and neighbors following three recent robberies in the borough, including one on East State Street during which a gun was accidentally discharged by the escaping robber.
“I could have been shot,” said 24 E. State St. resident Mike Melma, who went outside after he heard what he described as an “explosion.”
“Are we doing anything to have 24-hour police protection in the borough?” asked Melma.
Jennie Miller of 16 E. State St. said she was also concerned.
“Is this part of a group?” asked Miller.
“Police coverage is something we don’t discuss in public,” said council president Robert Landis, Jr.
Police Chief Ken Work took the residents outside of the meeting to discuss the robberies, which are under investigation.
Mayor Joy Kemper told a reporter following the meeting that borough citizens do have 24-hour police coverage and that if a borough officer is not on duty, and a citizen calls 911, the state police will quickly respond. Kemper said there are only a few hours a week the borough is not covered by its own department.
“You can have 24-hour coverage and it won’t top something like this (a robbery) happening,” said Kemper, chairman of the police committee.
“This is not a policing issue where we need more coverage,” Kemper said. “We’re talking about ways we can get this under control,” she said, referring to the robberies.
Kemper said increasing coverage would be a budgetary issue, and said she would like to remind residents a decade ago the borough was only covered by the state police.
Currently, the Quarryville Police Department, under Work’s leadership, covers four southern end municipalities within a $308,000 budget. The department has four full-time and three part-time officers.
In other police business, Work said the department had responded to 357 incidents during August, including five thefts, six warrants, seven domestic disturbances, three retail theft arrests, and a disorderly conduct arrest. He said all borough employees and council members who may be called in an emergency must attend NIMS compliance training in September.
Borough Manager Al Drayovitch said the Borough Authority is currently updating its Act 537 plan, and will soon have a document for public inspection. He anticipates presenting the new plan to council for a vote in December.
Council member John Wheatley expressed concern about three feet of water which can, he said, lay for three days around an infiltration ditch in the Quarry Ridge development. Council members said last month even though the ditch was in the master plan, they would take no action if the developer regraded the problem, which affects three properties.
Landis said if standing water does become a problem, property owners will be held responsible to prevent mosquito populations and West Nile virus. Drayovitch said he would contact the developer to ask when he plans to fix the problem.
Council and streets committee member Mike Sullenberger said he wants to keep the borough focused on making plans for a Summit Avenue improvement project next year. Landis said the project could cost the borough about $1 million, including water line replacement, storm sewer and curb work. He said the borough will make plans to help residents with financing curb and sidewalk work.
Council also acknowledged a letter from the Huffnagle Park Civic Association thanking the borough for park improvements. The association singled out Bill Lamparter, borough services manager and 20-year borough employee, for his work and problem solving.
Finally, council appointed Brett Curtis and Marc Hargraves as alternate zoning hearing board members through Dec. 31; approved a $310,637 escrow reduction for the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community, which now has $3 million in escrow; and approved the first Saturday in June of 2013 to host the Lancaster County Firemen’s Association Convention and Parade.
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“I could have been shot,” said 24 E. State St. resident Mike Melma, who went outside after he heard what he described as an “explosion.”
“Are we doing anything to have 24-hour police protection in the borough?” asked Melma.
Jennie Miller of 16 E. State St. said she was also concerned.
“Is this part of a group?” asked Miller.
“Police coverage is something we don’t discuss in public,” said council president Robert Landis, Jr.
Police Chief Ken Work took the residents outside of the meeting to discuss the robberies, which are under investigation.
Mayor Joy Kemper told a reporter following the meeting that borough citizens do have 24-hour police coverage and that if a borough officer is not on duty, and a citizen calls 911, the state police will quickly respond. Kemper said there are only a few hours a week the borough is not covered by its own department.
“You can have 24-hour coverage and it won’t top something like this (a robbery) happening,” said Kemper, chairman of the police committee.
“This is not a policing issue where we need more coverage,” Kemper said. “We’re talking about ways we can get this under control,” she said, referring to the robberies.
Kemper said increasing coverage would be a budgetary issue, and said she would like to remind residents a decade ago the borough was only covered by the state police.
Currently, the Quarryville Police Department, under Work’s leadership, covers four southern end municipalities within a $308,000 budget. The department has four full-time and three part-time officers.
In other police business, Work said the department had responded to 357 incidents during August, including five thefts, six warrants, seven domestic disturbances, three retail theft arrests, and a disorderly conduct arrest. He said all borough employees and council members who may be called in an emergency must attend NIMS compliance training in September.
Borough Manager Al Drayovitch said the Borough Authority is currently updating its Act 537 plan, and will soon have a document for public inspection. He anticipates presenting the new plan to council for a vote in December.
Council member John Wheatley expressed concern about three feet of water which can, he said, lay for three days around an infiltration ditch in the Quarry Ridge development. Council members said last month even though the ditch was in the master plan, they would take no action if the developer regraded the problem, which affects three properties.
Landis said if standing water does become a problem, property owners will be held responsible to prevent mosquito populations and West Nile virus. Drayovitch said he would contact the developer to ask when he plans to fix the problem.
Council and streets committee member Mike Sullenberger said he wants to keep the borough focused on making plans for a Summit Avenue improvement project next year. Landis said the project could cost the borough about $1 million, including water line replacement, storm sewer and curb work. He said the borough will make plans to help residents with financing curb and sidewalk work.
Council also acknowledged a letter from the Huffnagle Park Civic Association thanking the borough for park improvements. The association singled out Bill Lamparter, borough services manager and 20-year borough employee, for his work and problem solving.
Finally, council appointed Brett Curtis and Marc Hargraves as alternate zoning hearing board members through Dec. 31; approved a $310,637 escrow reduction for the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community, which now has $3 million in escrow; and approved the first Saturday in June of 2013 to host the Lancaster County Firemen’s Association Convention and Parade.
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Octorara teachers, board begin labor negotiations
The Octorara Area School Board and the district’s teachers union, the Octorara Area Education Association, have both chosen representation for teacher contract labor negotiations.
Brian Wallace of the Intelligencer Journal reported Sept. 13 Paul Gottlieb, a negotiator for the Pennsylvania State Education Association, will represent the OAEA. The union’s contract expires at the end of the 2010-11 school year.
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/288701
School board members said in a Sept. 13 work session they plan to hire York attorney Benjamin Pratt to represent the school board. Pratt, a shareholder in the CGA Law Firm, specializes in labor, employment and construction law, according to his Web site, www.benjaminlpratt.com.
In other business during the work session school board members revisited the issue of instituting a dress code for students.
School board member Brian Norris said he thinks many parents would support uniforms to avoid early morning conflicts over fashion.
Middle school Principal Elena Wilson said administrators enforce a dress code but called the issue of dealing with inappropriate clothing “a daily battle.
“I tell students this is your place of employment, it’s your job and you have to come to school looking respectable,” Wilson said.
Assistant Superintendent Nancy Bishop said it is still possible for students to break a dress code with uniforms.
Board president Lisa Bowman said before instituting a dress code there would have to be a big groundswell of support from parents, with clear indicators of the reasons for instituting a code.
According to Nelson Stoltzfus of the school board’s facilities committee, the second phase of the high school renovation project is complete and workers are on phase 3, which includes classrooms. He said the new middle school roof was completed on time prior to the start of the school year.
Citizens interested in touring the high school to see renovations may meet board members at the high school at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11 for a walk-through.
Homecoming activities are scheduled for this weekend and are listed on the school district’s Web site,
http://www.octorara.k12.pa.us/education/district/district.php?sectionid=1
The school board will next meet at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 20, to act on Pratt's hiring and other agenda items.
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Brian Wallace of the Intelligencer Journal reported Sept. 13 Paul Gottlieb, a negotiator for the Pennsylvania State Education Association, will represent the OAEA. The union’s contract expires at the end of the 2010-11 school year.
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/288701
School board members said in a Sept. 13 work session they plan to hire York attorney Benjamin Pratt to represent the school board. Pratt, a shareholder in the CGA Law Firm, specializes in labor, employment and construction law, according to his Web site, www.benjaminlpratt.com.
In other business during the work session school board members revisited the issue of instituting a dress code for students.
School board member Brian Norris said he thinks many parents would support uniforms to avoid early morning conflicts over fashion.
Middle school Principal Elena Wilson said administrators enforce a dress code but called the issue of dealing with inappropriate clothing “a daily battle.
“I tell students this is your place of employment, it’s your job and you have to come to school looking respectable,” Wilson said.
Assistant Superintendent Nancy Bishop said it is still possible for students to break a dress code with uniforms.
Board president Lisa Bowman said before instituting a dress code there would have to be a big groundswell of support from parents, with clear indicators of the reasons for instituting a code.
According to Nelson Stoltzfus of the school board’s facilities committee, the second phase of the high school renovation project is complete and workers are on phase 3, which includes classrooms. He said the new middle school roof was completed on time prior to the start of the school year.
Citizens interested in touring the high school to see renovations may meet board members at the high school at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11 for a walk-through.
Homecoming activities are scheduled for this weekend and are listed on the school district’s Web site,
http://www.octorara.k12.pa.us/education/district/district.php?sectionid=1
The school board will next meet at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 20, to act on Pratt's hiring and other agenda items.
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Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Commissioner offers help to Octorara
A Chester County commissioner is the latest regional politician to throw his hat in the ring to help the Octorara Area School District bring economic development and property tax relief to the district.
“The county has similar challenges,“ said Commissioner Terence Farrell, speaking to the school board Aug. 16. “If your requirement to fund PSERs is going to triple, if your taxes go up, then we follow. I‘m responsive to putting some political pressure on people and working with you.”
The rural district, with municipalities in both Lancaster and Chester counties, has been working with economic development experts to attract additional tax revenue by bringing in business and industry.
Administrators and board members are also working with state representatives Bryan Cutler and Tom Houghton to lobby for legislation which would return to the district tax revenue lost from Clean and Green.
“We had a hearing on the issue but it has not come up for a vote yet,” Cutler said in an email.
However, the district is receiving favorable interest from real estate and development consultants, according to Doug Brown, a legislative assistant in Houghton’s office.
Brown said the Octorara Regional Planning Commission and Chester County Economic Development Council hosted more than 60 realtors, development consultants and federal, state and local officials at a July breakfast in Parkesburg.
“The event made Octorara a name for itself to businesses and economic development players,” Brown said. “The subsequent response has been very promising.”
Brown also said the West Chester University Center for Social and Economic Research will soon be using student interns to pursue business leads and interview business prospects.
Farrell told school board members rural Octorara makes the county “a great place to live and raise a family.”
Board President Lisa Bowman told Farrell the demographics of wealth change as one travels west in Chester County.
“Some of our taxpayers really have a burden other people in Chester County don’t have,“ Bowman said.
Octorara homeowners are now facing their largest property tax bills in school district history.
In a related issue, board member Sam Ganow asked district business administrators to look into potential lost tax revenue from Wolf’s Hollow Farm in Atglen.
“There are a couple of private residents in there,” said Ganow. “Are they being taxed?”
The Chester County Department of Parks and Recreation purchased the 650-acre farm from Eugene and Joan Gagliardi in 1996. According to an Aug. 22 story in the Pennsylvania Equestrian, Reins of Life Therapeutic Riding for handicapped children is leasing five acres, a barn, an arena and pastures from the county at Wolf‘s Hollow.
In other business board member Bob Hume took high school principal Scott Rohrer to task during the meeting. Hume said he has been asking for data on high school drop-out and retention rates for a month.
Rohrer said he had the data, but wants to give a presentation in September, after students formerly at risk for dropping out or being held back had taken summer courses.
The school board also approved a new policy on searching of students, their lockers and cars. The updated policy allows an administrator,not any staff member, to search when there is a reasonable suspicion of stolen goods, weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol or dangerous materials.
Finally, the school board approved: spending $15,645 for asbestos removal at the high school; Robin Keevan as a middle school long-term substitute physical education teacher; Kathleen Dikin as a long-term substitute third grade teacher; Matthew Talley as a high school technical education teacher; Gina DiBenedetto as a long-term substitute intermediate school physical education teacher; Matthew Furlong as payroll/accounting supervisor; several classroom assistants; and child-rearing leaves for Sarah Callaway, Dana Coulter, Amanda King and Gwendolen Klotz.
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“The county has similar challenges,“ said Commissioner Terence Farrell, speaking to the school board Aug. 16. “If your requirement to fund PSERs is going to triple, if your taxes go up, then we follow. I‘m responsive to putting some political pressure on people and working with you.”
The rural district, with municipalities in both Lancaster and Chester counties, has been working with economic development experts to attract additional tax revenue by bringing in business and industry.
Administrators and board members are also working with state representatives Bryan Cutler and Tom Houghton to lobby for legislation which would return to the district tax revenue lost from Clean and Green.
“We had a hearing on the issue but it has not come up for a vote yet,” Cutler said in an email.
However, the district is receiving favorable interest from real estate and development consultants, according to Doug Brown, a legislative assistant in Houghton’s office.
Brown said the Octorara Regional Planning Commission and Chester County Economic Development Council hosted more than 60 realtors, development consultants and federal, state and local officials at a July breakfast in Parkesburg.
“The event made Octorara a name for itself to businesses and economic development players,” Brown said. “The subsequent response has been very promising.”
Brown also said the West Chester University Center for Social and Economic Research will soon be using student interns to pursue business leads and interview business prospects.
Farrell told school board members rural Octorara makes the county “a great place to live and raise a family.”
Board President Lisa Bowman told Farrell the demographics of wealth change as one travels west in Chester County.
“Some of our taxpayers really have a burden other people in Chester County don’t have,“ Bowman said.
Octorara homeowners are now facing their largest property tax bills in school district history.
In a related issue, board member Sam Ganow asked district business administrators to look into potential lost tax revenue from Wolf’s Hollow Farm in Atglen.
“There are a couple of private residents in there,” said Ganow. “Are they being taxed?”
The Chester County Department of Parks and Recreation purchased the 650-acre farm from Eugene and Joan Gagliardi in 1996. According to an Aug. 22 story in the Pennsylvania Equestrian, Reins of Life Therapeutic Riding for handicapped children is leasing five acres, a barn, an arena and pastures from the county at Wolf‘s Hollow.
In other business board member Bob Hume took high school principal Scott Rohrer to task during the meeting. Hume said he has been asking for data on high school drop-out and retention rates for a month.
Rohrer said he had the data, but wants to give a presentation in September, after students formerly at risk for dropping out or being held back had taken summer courses.
The school board also approved a new policy on searching of students, their lockers and cars. The updated policy allows an administrator,not any staff member, to search when there is a reasonable suspicion of stolen goods, weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol or dangerous materials.
Finally, the school board approved: spending $15,645 for asbestos removal at the high school; Robin Keevan as a middle school long-term substitute physical education teacher; Kathleen Dikin as a long-term substitute third grade teacher; Matthew Talley as a high school technical education teacher; Gina DiBenedetto as a long-term substitute intermediate school physical education teacher; Matthew Furlong as payroll/accounting supervisor; several classroom assistants; and child-rearing leaves for Sarah Callaway, Dana Coulter, Amanda King and Gwendolen Klotz.
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Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Octorara Fitness Center now open
At 20 minutes in length, the Aug. 9 Octorara Area School Board meeting was hardly a marathon, but residents interested in improving their fitness and trying public use of the district Fitness Center have until Sept. 27 to weigh in on the experiment.
The Fitness Center in the high school opened July 27 and is available under the direction of Athletic Director Jim Weagley from 5:30 to 6:45 a.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. For membership information call Weagley at 610-593-8261. The school board is considering the financial feasibility of ongoing public use of the center.
“I’m cautiously optimistic,” Weagley said, noting 12 residents had joined. “It’s a good start.”
In other facilities matters, board member Nelson Stoltzfus said the middle school roof is nearly complete, the high school parking lot should be paved in the next two weeks, and construction crews are working on additional asbestos abatement discovered during the high school renovation.
School board president Lisa Bowman said she would consider a resident’s suggestion that they allow senior citizens to opt in to the district’s phone system, letting them know about free upcoming music concerts and other events.
Finally, board member Bob Hume said he has had difficulty getting concrete figures regarding high school retention and drop-out rates, and would like that information presented at a board meeting.
The school board next meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 16 in the middle school multipurpose room. The agenda will likely include a vote on updating the district’s policy which allows the search of student lockers, desks, persons, property and vehicles.
The major change to be voted on would require an administrator, not any staff, to perform the search when there is reasonable suspicion of stolen goods, weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol or dangerous materials.
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The Fitness Center in the high school opened July 27 and is available under the direction of Athletic Director Jim Weagley from 5:30 to 6:45 a.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. For membership information call Weagley at 610-593-8261. The school board is considering the financial feasibility of ongoing public use of the center.
“I’m cautiously optimistic,” Weagley said, noting 12 residents had joined. “It’s a good start.”
In other facilities matters, board member Nelson Stoltzfus said the middle school roof is nearly complete, the high school parking lot should be paved in the next two weeks, and construction crews are working on additional asbestos abatement discovered during the high school renovation.
School board president Lisa Bowman said she would consider a resident’s suggestion that they allow senior citizens to opt in to the district’s phone system, letting them know about free upcoming music concerts and other events.
Finally, board member Bob Hume said he has had difficulty getting concrete figures regarding high school retention and drop-out rates, and would like that information presented at a board meeting.
The school board next meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 16 in the middle school multipurpose room. The agenda will likely include a vote on updating the district’s policy which allows the search of student lockers, desks, persons, property and vehicles.
The major change to be voted on would require an administrator, not any staff, to perform the search when there is reasonable suspicion of stolen goods, weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol or dangerous materials.
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Quarryville police expand coverage
Quarryville Borough police are now providing community policing services for four southern end municipalities.
Borough Council Aug. 2 unanimously approved an intermunicipal agreement with Eden Township to provide 20 hours of coverage per month. Chief Ken Work said the hours will be billed at the cost of 130 percent of the salaries of the officers who provide the coverage.
In addition to covering Quarryville, Work’s department also polices Providence and East Drumore townships. Providence pays $25,000 annually for police coverage. Work said the department has been covering East Drumore, which includes the TownsEdge Shopping Center, on a less formal basis.
Borough council asked Work to formalize their work in East Drumore, performed under contract since the early 1990s, with an intermunicipal agreement like those signed with Providence and Eden townships.
The Quarryville police department is operating within a $308,000 2010 budget and has four full-time officers, including Chief Work. In executive session Aug. 2 the department hired its third part-time police officer, Ryan Lawrence.
In other business, borough council turned down Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community’s request for an exception to borough policy to purchase and lock in the price of 36 water and sewer tapping fees, but pay the fees in quarterly installments over the next year. QPRC will soon begin Phase 1 (36 units) of its planned 180-unit expansion.
Council anticipates the Borough Authority will next month raise its sewer tapping fee from $7,000 to $8,400, and locking in and paying quarterly would have saved QPRC about $52,000, according to Borough Manager Al Drayovitch Jr.
“They are the borough’s largest employer,” said council member Richard Aument. “They don’t ask the borough for a lot.”
“Traditionally we have not done installment plans,” said council President Robert Landis Jr. “To get the savings they want to get they should pay 100 percent up front.”
“They are a great employer but we have to be consistent,” said council member Joanne Platt.
Council voted against approving an exception.
On the advice of ARRO engineers and its solicitor, Joselle Cleary, council said they will take no action if Quarry Ridge developers fill in an infiltration basin in the development.
Finally, council: learned the borough will receive $7,500 from FEMA for February emergency snow removal costs; approved use of Huffnagle Park for a worship concert by New Providence Church of God on Aug. 13; paid a $46,583 bill for the recent water storage tank rehabilitation; approved about two hours of Quarryville Police coverage to monitor the upcoming SECA 5K Run; approved an extension until July 1, 2013 for Southern End Self Storage to finish its project; and approved a sewer service agreement for 309 Slate Lane in Quarry Ridge.
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Borough Council Aug. 2 unanimously approved an intermunicipal agreement with Eden Township to provide 20 hours of coverage per month. Chief Ken Work said the hours will be billed at the cost of 130 percent of the salaries of the officers who provide the coverage.
In addition to covering Quarryville, Work’s department also polices Providence and East Drumore townships. Providence pays $25,000 annually for police coverage. Work said the department has been covering East Drumore, which includes the TownsEdge Shopping Center, on a less formal basis.
Borough council asked Work to formalize their work in East Drumore, performed under contract since the early 1990s, with an intermunicipal agreement like those signed with Providence and Eden townships.
The Quarryville police department is operating within a $308,000 2010 budget and has four full-time officers, including Chief Work. In executive session Aug. 2 the department hired its third part-time police officer, Ryan Lawrence.
In other business, borough council turned down Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community’s request for an exception to borough policy to purchase and lock in the price of 36 water and sewer tapping fees, but pay the fees in quarterly installments over the next year. QPRC will soon begin Phase 1 (36 units) of its planned 180-unit expansion.
Council anticipates the Borough Authority will next month raise its sewer tapping fee from $7,000 to $8,400, and locking in and paying quarterly would have saved QPRC about $52,000, according to Borough Manager Al Drayovitch Jr.
“They are the borough’s largest employer,” said council member Richard Aument. “They don’t ask the borough for a lot.”
“Traditionally we have not done installment plans,” said council President Robert Landis Jr. “To get the savings they want to get they should pay 100 percent up front.”
“They are a great employer but we have to be consistent,” said council member Joanne Platt.
Council voted against approving an exception.
On the advice of ARRO engineers and its solicitor, Joselle Cleary, council said they will take no action if Quarry Ridge developers fill in an infiltration basin in the development.
Finally, council: learned the borough will receive $7,500 from FEMA for February emergency snow removal costs; approved use of Huffnagle Park for a worship concert by New Providence Church of God on Aug. 13; paid a $46,583 bill for the recent water storage tank rehabilitation; approved about two hours of Quarryville Police coverage to monitor the upcoming SECA 5K Run; approved an extension until July 1, 2013 for Southern End Self Storage to finish its project; and approved a sewer service agreement for 309 Slate Lane in Quarry Ridge.
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State police visiting county municipalities
Sgt. Greg Riek of the Pennsylvania State Police told Sadsbury Township supervisors Aug. 3 officers and staff from Troop J plan to regularly visit five southern end municipalities to answer citizen questions and concerns.
Riek said Commander Brenda Bernot is asking patrol unit officers from Troop J to attend meetings in Bart, Eden, East Drumore, Providence and Sadsbury townships. Riek said staff from the Criminal Investigation Unit and other staff will also attend public meetings in other county municipalities.
“There’s no guarantee we will be at every township meeting,” Riek said. “We do want to be there to answer any resident questions and concerns that might come up.”
While Riek did not identify specific issues in Sadsbury Township, he said there are problem hot spots and a high number of crashes at the intersections of Routes 30 and 41, at Belmont Road and Route 30, and at Route 741 and Route 30.
In a related matter, resident Randy Buckwalter complained that since the intersection of Simmontown Road and Route 41 were improved and opened, traffic has been “flying” up the road. Supervisors agreed to contact the state to request Watch Children signs to slow traffic.
Roadmaster Jeff Nickel announced White Oak Road will be closed between Lower Valley and Noble roads until approximately Aug. 30. The road crew is leveling a knob on the road which was a danger to teams and traffic.
Supervisors are requesting to borrow a traffic counter from Bart Township to complete a study following complaints from Jackson Road residents about speeding cars.
Finally, supervisors: noted Jeff Williams was granted a home occupation permit for wood working in his 500-square-foot workshop at White Oak Road and Route 372; signed planning modules for John Stoltzfus Jr. and Samuel Esh; and agreed to send to PP&L questions from township attorney Frank Mincarelli about the strip of land adjacent to the the township building which the municipality would like to purchase.
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Riek said Commander Brenda Bernot is asking patrol unit officers from Troop J to attend meetings in Bart, Eden, East Drumore, Providence and Sadsbury townships. Riek said staff from the Criminal Investigation Unit and other staff will also attend public meetings in other county municipalities.
“There’s no guarantee we will be at every township meeting,” Riek said. “We do want to be there to answer any resident questions and concerns that might come up.”
While Riek did not identify specific issues in Sadsbury Township, he said there are problem hot spots and a high number of crashes at the intersections of Routes 30 and 41, at Belmont Road and Route 30, and at Route 741 and Route 30.
In a related matter, resident Randy Buckwalter complained that since the intersection of Simmontown Road and Route 41 were improved and opened, traffic has been “flying” up the road. Supervisors agreed to contact the state to request Watch Children signs to slow traffic.
Roadmaster Jeff Nickel announced White Oak Road will be closed between Lower Valley and Noble roads until approximately Aug. 30. The road crew is leveling a knob on the road which was a danger to teams and traffic.
Supervisors are requesting to borrow a traffic counter from Bart Township to complete a study following complaints from Jackson Road residents about speeding cars.
Finally, supervisors: noted Jeff Williams was granted a home occupation permit for wood working in his 500-square-foot workshop at White Oak Road and Route 372; signed planning modules for John Stoltzfus Jr. and Samuel Esh; and agreed to send to PP&L questions from township attorney Frank Mincarelli about the strip of land adjacent to the the township building which the municipality would like to purchase.
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Thursday, July 22, 2010
Octorara gets two financial boosts
Just one month after passing a 2010-11 budget board members called difficult and disappointing, the Octorara Area School District July 19 received two good pieces of financial news which will bring the district more revenue.
Octorara signed an agreement with the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley to lease four classrooms for day care, offices, gymnasium, cafeteria and playground space at the elementary school for $45,000 annually (with 3 percent annual increases) from January 2011 through Dec. 31, 2014.
Secondly, Althouse Transportation, the district’s bus company, voluntarily knocked one percentage point from its 4.5 percent transportation contract increase, saving the school district $23,000 on its $2.7 million transportation budget.
Superintendent Tom Newcome has been negotiating with the YMCA since an agreement with the Y to lease classroom and program space and the high school Fitness Center fell apart in March during what Newcome called “bad faith negotiating.“
Under this agreement, the Y will not be running the high school Fitness Center. The district is this summer experimenting with a trial run to open the facility to the community.
School board members signed a comprehensive eight-page lease with the Y, which will also open the elementary school gym for Y programs from 3 to 9 p.m. week days, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays.
Board member Bob Hume said he believes the Y agreement will be a “great benefit” to the community. He also urged Newcome to explore the possibility of bringing cyber education programs to the district.
The school board also approved increasing the cost of some school lunches by 15 cents, to $2.15 for elementary students and to $2.40 for middle school students. Students will also pay an increase in milk, to 60 cents per container.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Nancy Bishop led several administrators in explaining the district’s five-year-old curriculum mapping program. She said staff have done an immense amount of work in standardizing curriculum which is readily available with numerous resources in a mapped online system. Bishop said the state is now moving toward curriculum mapping, putting the district ahead in this trend.
Finally, the school board: approved an employee assistance program with Pressley Ridge and hired Dawn Munion as a high school math teacher at a grant-funded salary of $48,873.
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Octorara signed an agreement with the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley to lease four classrooms for day care, offices, gymnasium, cafeteria and playground space at the elementary school for $45,000 annually (with 3 percent annual increases) from January 2011 through Dec. 31, 2014.
Secondly, Althouse Transportation, the district’s bus company, voluntarily knocked one percentage point from its 4.5 percent transportation contract increase, saving the school district $23,000 on its $2.7 million transportation budget.
Superintendent Tom Newcome has been negotiating with the YMCA since an agreement with the Y to lease classroom and program space and the high school Fitness Center fell apart in March during what Newcome called “bad faith negotiating.“
Under this agreement, the Y will not be running the high school Fitness Center. The district is this summer experimenting with a trial run to open the facility to the community.
School board members signed a comprehensive eight-page lease with the Y, which will also open the elementary school gym for Y programs from 3 to 9 p.m. week days, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays.
Board member Bob Hume said he believes the Y agreement will be a “great benefit” to the community. He also urged Newcome to explore the possibility of bringing cyber education programs to the district.
The school board also approved increasing the cost of some school lunches by 15 cents, to $2.15 for elementary students and to $2.40 for middle school students. Students will also pay an increase in milk, to 60 cents per container.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Nancy Bishop led several administrators in explaining the district’s five-year-old curriculum mapping program. She said staff have done an immense amount of work in standardizing curriculum which is readily available with numerous resources in a mapped online system. Bishop said the state is now moving toward curriculum mapping, putting the district ahead in this trend.
Finally, the school board: approved an employee assistance program with Pressley Ridge and hired Dawn Munion as a high school math teacher at a grant-funded salary of $48,873.
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Sadsbury stands against forced municipal mergers
Saying “bigger is not better,” Sadsbury Township supervisors July 15 unanimously signed a resolution opposing any state-forced consolidation or merger of municipal government.
Resolution 6-2010 is in response to this year’s House Bill 2431 which would abolish townships and boroughs and establish the county as the lowest level of local government in Pennsylvania. It also takes a swing at Senate Bill 1357 which would establish a statewide boundary commission to recommend municipal mergers, consolidations and annexations.
According to Sadsbury supervisors, the bills would weaken the responsiveness and effectiveness of local government, and not lead to greater economic conditions and better delivery of services.
“No one has ever proven that bigger, centralized government is better or even more cost-effective than township government,” proclaims Sadsbury’s resolution. “Reports of financially distressed municipalities in Pennsylvania are largely contained to the Commonwealth’s large cities and urban areas.”
Sadsbury’s resolution, however, said the township does not oppose the voluntary merger or consolidation of local governments if the process is initiated at the local level.
“What does the county run that works?” asked citizen Jim Ranck of Noble Oak Farm.
Ranck, however, also took supervisors to task over the present appearance of the township building. Ranck recently volunteered time to work on the building’s flower beds. He criticized the appearance of the temporary trailer sitting in front of the building, which will be used if the township proceeds with renovation plans.
“Things are not being caught up,” Ranck said of roads with pot holes. “Things could be better for the manpower you have. I think we could raise the standards substantially.”
During the meeting supervisors approved sending an agreement of sale to attorney Frank Mincarelli for review. Supervisors plan to purchase 2.21 acres adjacent to the township building at White Oak and Noble roads from PP&L for $13,350.
Supervisors say the property is needed for the township’s building plans. These are not yet under way as the municipality seeks grant funding.
Finally, supervisors declined to pay for damage to a fence on Pleasant View Road because the fence was damaged during blizzard plowing, and not intentionally; gave Frank Roda an extension to reduce the number of chickens on his property; and agreed to ask Bart Township to borrow a traffic counter for a traffic study on Jackson Road.
Resolution 6-2010 is in response to this year’s House Bill 2431 which would abolish townships and boroughs and establish the county as the lowest level of local government in Pennsylvania. It also takes a swing at Senate Bill 1357 which would establish a statewide boundary commission to recommend municipal mergers, consolidations and annexations.
According to Sadsbury supervisors, the bills would weaken the responsiveness and effectiveness of local government, and not lead to greater economic conditions and better delivery of services.
“No one has ever proven that bigger, centralized government is better or even more cost-effective than township government,” proclaims Sadsbury’s resolution. “Reports of financially distressed municipalities in Pennsylvania are largely contained to the Commonwealth’s large cities and urban areas.”
Sadsbury’s resolution, however, said the township does not oppose the voluntary merger or consolidation of local governments if the process is initiated at the local level.
“What does the county run that works?” asked citizen Jim Ranck of Noble Oak Farm.
Ranck, however, also took supervisors to task over the present appearance of the township building. Ranck recently volunteered time to work on the building’s flower beds. He criticized the appearance of the temporary trailer sitting in front of the building, which will be used if the township proceeds with renovation plans.
“Things are not being caught up,” Ranck said of roads with pot holes. “Things could be better for the manpower you have. I think we could raise the standards substantially.”
During the meeting supervisors approved sending an agreement of sale to attorney Frank Mincarelli for review. Supervisors plan to purchase 2.21 acres adjacent to the township building at White Oak and Noble roads from PP&L for $13,350.
Supervisors say the property is needed for the township’s building plans. These are not yet under way as the municipality seeks grant funding.
Finally, supervisors declined to pay for damage to a fence on Pleasant View Road because the fence was damaged during blizzard plowing, and not intentionally; gave Frank Roda an extension to reduce the number of chickens on his property; and agreed to ask Bart Township to borrow a traffic counter for a traffic study on Jackson Road.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Quarryville gets a heads-up on 2011 library budget squeeze
In the same week that Pennsylvania law makers cut an additional 9.1 percent to public libraries while committing $20 million in public funds to two libraries honoring two politicians, Quarryville Library Director Frances Vita visited Quarryville Borough Council to give council members a heads-up on next year's library funding.
Speaking during council’s July 6 meeting, Vita said volunteers in southern Lancaster County raised around $5,000 for the Quarryville Library through five special events in the first quarter of 2010. She said fundraisers are ongoing to help bolster the library’s $201,026 2010 budget, which had been cut by 30 percent.
Vita thanked the borough for its $9,900 donation for 2010. It was the largest municipal appropriation, and some municipalities in the southern end had to cut their library appropriations.
“We just recently found out about the 9.1 percent cut, so a plan still needs to be discussed with the Lancaster County Library director and Quarryville’s library board,” Vita said after the meeting.
Vita said the library will have to add more volunteer fundraisers for 2011, and the library is thankful for all the volunteer help with events such as a Go-Fore Golf day, antique appraisal fair, and national passport day. A business, Hart’s Landscaping, also gave deeply discounted snow removal during the blizzards.
Vita, however, said while fundraising is a large part of the library budget, it is not a stable source and won’t cover recent cuts.
Pennsylvania law makers recently gave budget approval to $20 million for two libraries honoring two outgoing politicians, $10 million for Arlen Specter Library Project Center at Philadelphia University, and $10 million for the late John P. Murtha Center for Public Policy in Johnstown.
In other action during their meeting, council approved hiring Arro engineers for three projects. The firm will do a study and prepare a report recommending whether to raise the borough’s water tapping fee.
Arro will also survey in front of Sam’s Pizza on State Street and make parking recommendations, and conduct a speed study on West State Street.
Council member Mike Sullenberger said the streets committee is considering recommending a project for 2011 which would redo Fourth Street to Church Street, and sections of Stanton and Summit avenues. The project could cost three quarters of a million dollars or more, and he said the streets committee would like to be able to offer residents options for financing since borough ordinance requires residents to install sidewalks at the time of construction.
Council took no action on Cedar Knoll Builders request to remove an infiltration trench in Quarry Ridge.
“I’m 100 percent against this,” said council President Bob Landis. “It was approved on plans and by the county planning commission. We don’t have the authority to take it away.”
Council directed Borough Manager Al Drayovitch to get an answer in writing from the county about the issue.
Mayor Joy Kemper, chairman of the police committee, said she had heard some community comments that “Quarryville must be getting bad,” and that residents need to worry about random violence following a June 18 burglary and assault. Kemper said Chief Ken Work believes the victims, Guatemalan males, were specifically targeted by other Guatemalans.
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Speaking during council’s July 6 meeting, Vita said volunteers in southern Lancaster County raised around $5,000 for the Quarryville Library through five special events in the first quarter of 2010. She said fundraisers are ongoing to help bolster the library’s $201,026 2010 budget, which had been cut by 30 percent.
Vita thanked the borough for its $9,900 donation for 2010. It was the largest municipal appropriation, and some municipalities in the southern end had to cut their library appropriations.
“We just recently found out about the 9.1 percent cut, so a plan still needs to be discussed with the Lancaster County Library director and Quarryville’s library board,” Vita said after the meeting.
Vita said the library will have to add more volunteer fundraisers for 2011, and the library is thankful for all the volunteer help with events such as a Go-Fore Golf day, antique appraisal fair, and national passport day. A business, Hart’s Landscaping, also gave deeply discounted snow removal during the blizzards.
Vita, however, said while fundraising is a large part of the library budget, it is not a stable source and won’t cover recent cuts.
Pennsylvania law makers recently gave budget approval to $20 million for two libraries honoring two outgoing politicians, $10 million for Arlen Specter Library Project Center at Philadelphia University, and $10 million for the late John P. Murtha Center for Public Policy in Johnstown.
In other action during their meeting, council approved hiring Arro engineers for three projects. The firm will do a study and prepare a report recommending whether to raise the borough’s water tapping fee.
Arro will also survey in front of Sam’s Pizza on State Street and make parking recommendations, and conduct a speed study on West State Street.
Council member Mike Sullenberger said the streets committee is considering recommending a project for 2011 which would redo Fourth Street to Church Street, and sections of Stanton and Summit avenues. The project could cost three quarters of a million dollars or more, and he said the streets committee would like to be able to offer residents options for financing since borough ordinance requires residents to install sidewalks at the time of construction.
Council took no action on Cedar Knoll Builders request to remove an infiltration trench in Quarry Ridge.
“I’m 100 percent against this,” said council President Bob Landis. “It was approved on plans and by the county planning commission. We don’t have the authority to take it away.”
Council directed Borough Manager Al Drayovitch to get an answer in writing from the county about the issue.
Mayor Joy Kemper, chairman of the police committee, said she had heard some community comments that “Quarryville must be getting bad,” and that residents need to worry about random violence following a June 18 burglary and assault. Kemper said Chief Ken Work believes the victims, Guatemalan males, were specifically targeted by other Guatemalans.
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Will realtors flip an Octorara development trend?
A local politician and regional development experts are hoping some good coffee and eggs-over-easy served to 30-40 realtors on July 21 will help flip the economy and start a positive economic development trend in the Octorara Area School District.
State Rep. Tom Houghton, the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, and the Chester County Economic Development Council have invited about 40 commercial realtors to breakfast at Westminster Place on First Avenue in Parkesburg.
Bob Grabus, (Editor's note: spelling corrected) an executive with the 30-year-old CCEDC, told Octorara Area School Board members July 13 the realtors will breakfast from 7:45 to 9 a.m. and be educated about the commercial and industrial development properties available to businesses which locate in Octorara.
“There are reasons people would want to be here,” said Grabus, adding that the development council will also have business financing packaging information available.
According to Doug Brown, a legislative assistant in Houghton’s office, the organizations are hoping for some economic development in economically distressed areas and so-called “brownfield” properties. There are vacant but handyman-special properties along the quaint Old Main Street in Parkesburg, and plenty of commercially and industrial-zoned fields on Route 372 between Parkesburg and Atglen, and along Route 41 in Sadsbury Township, Lancaster County.
The event is reminiscent of one held in 1989, when then-Superintendent Richard McAdams hosted realtors in a school library, touted school district accomplishments. and encouraged them to bring economic development into the district. McAdams also held classes in education funding, warning the district could face tough times if the largely rural property tax base did not broaden.
Current Superintendent Tom Newcome has continued that message at town meetings, and has also been working with the ORPC, state Rep. Bryan Cutler and Houghton. The politicians and groups are seeking commercial economic development and a solution to the loss of revenue from Clean and Green, which has helped farmers in the rural district but placed an additional burden on homeowners.
Grabus, who said he works with 36 Chester County municipalities, said he is aware of the perception that the Octorara community feels left out of regional economic development.
However, he said over the past few years his organization has brought a “couple of dozen” companies to the district but they have chosen to locate elsewhere. Grabus said an intern from West Chester University’s Center for Social and Economic Reform will this fall spend a semester doing demographic research to, in part, find out why those firms did not land in Octorara.
“We want to create taxable properties and get ready for a turnaround economy,” Grabus said.
The goal, says Brown, is to relieve property tax pressure on homeowners, who are now facing their largest tax bills in school district history.
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State Rep. Tom Houghton, the Octorara Regional Planning Commission, and the Chester County Economic Development Council have invited about 40 commercial realtors to breakfast at Westminster Place on First Avenue in Parkesburg.
Bob Grabus, (Editor's note: spelling corrected) an executive with the 30-year-old CCEDC, told Octorara Area School Board members July 13 the realtors will breakfast from 7:45 to 9 a.m. and be educated about the commercial and industrial development properties available to businesses which locate in Octorara.
“There are reasons people would want to be here,” said Grabus, adding that the development council will also have business financing packaging information available.
According to Doug Brown, a legislative assistant in Houghton’s office, the organizations are hoping for some economic development in economically distressed areas and so-called “brownfield” properties. There are vacant but handyman-special properties along the quaint Old Main Street in Parkesburg, and plenty of commercially and industrial-zoned fields on Route 372 between Parkesburg and Atglen, and along Route 41 in Sadsbury Township, Lancaster County.
The event is reminiscent of one held in 1989, when then-Superintendent Richard McAdams hosted realtors in a school library, touted school district accomplishments. and encouraged them to bring economic development into the district. McAdams also held classes in education funding, warning the district could face tough times if the largely rural property tax base did not broaden.
Current Superintendent Tom Newcome has continued that message at town meetings, and has also been working with the ORPC, state Rep. Bryan Cutler and Houghton. The politicians and groups are seeking commercial economic development and a solution to the loss of revenue from Clean and Green, which has helped farmers in the rural district but placed an additional burden on homeowners.
Grabus, who said he works with 36 Chester County municipalities, said he is aware of the perception that the Octorara community feels left out of regional economic development.
However, he said over the past few years his organization has brought a “couple of dozen” companies to the district but they have chosen to locate elsewhere. Grabus said an intern from West Chester University’s Center for Social and Economic Reform will this fall spend a semester doing demographic research to, in part, find out why those firms did not land in Octorara.
“We want to create taxable properties and get ready for a turnaround economy,” Grabus said.
The goal, says Brown, is to relieve property tax pressure on homeowners, who are now facing their largest tax bills in school district history.
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Monday, July 05, 2010
Fitness Center to open this month
The Octorara High School Fitness Center will be opened to the community July 19 for two months as the district explores whether it makes financial sense to offer public use of the center.
While the district considered an offer from teacher Tom Hurley to run the center, Athletic Director Jim Weagley recommended the athletic department assume responsibility due to legal concerns, and the school board unanimously voted June 28 to give public fitness center use a trial run.
Residents will pay a $20 per month fee to use the center, while senior citizens will pay $15 and non-residents will pay $35 per month. The center will be open early morning, late afternoons and evenings, and on weekends.
The school board also asked Business Manager Dan Carsley to seek legal counsel about a reassessment in Londonderry Township, Chester County. Carsley said Honeycroft Village, in phase one of construction, removed 257 parcels from the tax rolls, resulting in a $4.2 million reduction in assessed values.
According to Carsley, this and numerous other reassessments have contributed to a fiscal challenge and the school district used an additional $100,000 in fund balance, $474,320 in all, to avoid raising taxes any higher.
Brian Campbell of Cedar Knoll Builders, Honeycroft developer, said in an email Honeycroft Village has added $4 million in total assessments to date and will continue to add $1.5 million annually. He said a revised plan added single family homes and reduced the number of townhomes.
Richard Brown, Londonderry Township supervisor, said in an email only approximately 20 units were completed by this past spring. He said market conditions encouraged the developer to build more single-family detached cottages rather than triplexes or quadriplex units.
“The retired lots represent the old plan and lots not completed at this time,” Campbell said.
In personnel matters the school board hired: Lindsay Mitman as a long-term substitute third grade teacher; Amanda Lenton as a long-term substitute sixth grade teacher, and Candice Manning as a long-term substitute primary art teacher.
The school board also transferred these teachers: Jennifer George to eighth grade English; John Atlee to middle school guidance; Amy Steinmetz and Jodie Pitt to Title 1 reading, Kim Cabry to learning support, Drew Duggan to middle school science, Amanda King to sixth grade, Laura Brotman to intermediate school learning support, and Alison Manetta to second grade.
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While the district considered an offer from teacher Tom Hurley to run the center, Athletic Director Jim Weagley recommended the athletic department assume responsibility due to legal concerns, and the school board unanimously voted June 28 to give public fitness center use a trial run.
Residents will pay a $20 per month fee to use the center, while senior citizens will pay $15 and non-residents will pay $35 per month. The center will be open early morning, late afternoons and evenings, and on weekends.
The school board also asked Business Manager Dan Carsley to seek legal counsel about a reassessment in Londonderry Township, Chester County. Carsley said Honeycroft Village, in phase one of construction, removed 257 parcels from the tax rolls, resulting in a $4.2 million reduction in assessed values.
According to Carsley, this and numerous other reassessments have contributed to a fiscal challenge and the school district used an additional $100,000 in fund balance, $474,320 in all, to avoid raising taxes any higher.
Brian Campbell of Cedar Knoll Builders, Honeycroft developer, said in an email Honeycroft Village has added $4 million in total assessments to date and will continue to add $1.5 million annually. He said a revised plan added single family homes and reduced the number of townhomes.
Richard Brown, Londonderry Township supervisor, said in an email only approximately 20 units were completed by this past spring. He said market conditions encouraged the developer to build more single-family detached cottages rather than triplexes or quadriplex units.
“The retired lots represent the old plan and lots not completed at this time,” Campbell said.
In personnel matters the school board hired: Lindsay Mitman as a long-term substitute third grade teacher; Amanda Lenton as a long-term substitute sixth grade teacher, and Candice Manning as a long-term substitute primary art teacher.
The school board also transferred these teachers: Jennifer George to eighth grade English; John Atlee to middle school guidance; Amy Steinmetz and Jodie Pitt to Title 1 reading, Kim Cabry to learning support, Drew Duggan to middle school science, Amanda King to sixth grade, Laura Brotman to intermediate school learning support, and Alison Manetta to second grade.
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Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A line item 'cut' sends four graduates on their way
A little more than a year ago, Octorara Area School District Superintendent Tom Newcome had conversations with Ed Elvin III of Cochranville, then 18, and the entire Octorara School Board.
Elvin, who had dropped out of high school in the eleventh grade, told Newcome he wanted to keep his promise to his mom, who had passed away, to graduate.
Newcome took Elvin’s promise, and his own promise to board members to trim the 2009-10 budget, and joined them with a program. On Monday, June 28, Newcome handed Elvin his high school diploma and the school district more than $150,000 in savings.
Elvin, Trey Burkholder, DJ Camoirano and Heather Frank were the first to graduate from Octorara’s alternative education program at a small ceremony with more warm hugs and quiet conversation than pomp and circumstance.
“Through hard work and perseverence you navigated your path to graduation,” said program director Brian Dikun. “You each endured.”
When Newcome told the school board he calculated the school district could save more than $150,000 by running its own alternative education program, the school board embraced that line item cut. Dikun, with the help of teacher Ashley Brennan, high school counselor Sandy Federici and two instructional assistants, set up a twilight classroom in the middle school computer lab last September and welcomed students to alternative ed.
Many of the students, like Elvin, a carpenter, worked during the day and then attended classes from 3 to 6 p.m. Academic courses were taught online through Brandywine Virtual Academy, with staff providing what Newcome called “the human touch.“
According to Dikun, the program began with 14 students but two were lost to the court system. The program, which is now the district’s choice for alternative education rather than paying tuition to programs run by intermediate units, will continue in September.
Newcome said it’s district policy to ask students and their families to stop and think before going the alternative route, and staff is directed to help younger students get their behavior under control so they can, ideally, finish high school via the traditional route.
Burkholder, of Christiana, said he was not doing well in high school and at first he felt backed into a corner when he was offered the alternative, but the program was a good choice for him.
“You could work at your own pace one-on-one or with teachers too,” Burkholder said.
“They helped me out a lot,” said Elvin, who also credited his girlfriend for her support. “I definitely would recommend it to anyone who has trouble with behavior.”
“Oh, I’m definitely grateful they had this for free,“ said Camoirano, of Parkesburg.
“Students are in this program for many different reasons,” said Dikun. “If was a very successful year, for a first year.”
Following the ceremony the school board met and gave final approval, by an 8-1 vote, to a $46,026,385 2010-11 budget. Bob Hume, calling the budget “totally unfair,” was the dissenting vote.
The spending plan, up an overall 4.5 percent over 2009-10, will increase taxes to 28.13 mills (up 1.63 percent) in Lancaster County, and to 35.12 mills (up 8.97 percent) in Chester County.
In order to come to an agreement, the school board cut $1 million in other line items including the $105,000 middle school sports program (now to be privately funded by booster organizations), the positions of 10 retiring teachers, one guidance counselor, five clerical/support positions, and one administrative position.
Also, rather than cutting the program, four administrators (Newcome, Nancy Bishop, Scott Rohrer and Dan Carsley) made a $12,000 donation to the district to operate the Student Assistance and Heroes programs, since the state cut funding to the programs.
“It’s discouraging me to make tremendous cuts and still have this increase,” said board member Brian Norris.
“I don’t believe there’s the political will to change the system,” said Newcome, adding the long-range health of the community depends on bringing business sales and property tax income into the community.
Elvin, who had dropped out of high school in the eleventh grade, told Newcome he wanted to keep his promise to his mom, who had passed away, to graduate.
Newcome took Elvin’s promise, and his own promise to board members to trim the 2009-10 budget, and joined them with a program. On Monday, June 28, Newcome handed Elvin his high school diploma and the school district more than $150,000 in savings.
Elvin, Trey Burkholder, DJ Camoirano and Heather Frank were the first to graduate from Octorara’s alternative education program at a small ceremony with more warm hugs and quiet conversation than pomp and circumstance.
“Through hard work and perseverence you navigated your path to graduation,” said program director Brian Dikun. “You each endured.”
When Newcome told the school board he calculated the school district could save more than $150,000 by running its own alternative education program, the school board embraced that line item cut. Dikun, with the help of teacher Ashley Brennan, high school counselor Sandy Federici and two instructional assistants, set up a twilight classroom in the middle school computer lab last September and welcomed students to alternative ed.
Many of the students, like Elvin, a carpenter, worked during the day and then attended classes from 3 to 6 p.m. Academic courses were taught online through Brandywine Virtual Academy, with staff providing what Newcome called “the human touch.“
According to Dikun, the program began with 14 students but two were lost to the court system. The program, which is now the district’s choice for alternative education rather than paying tuition to programs run by intermediate units, will continue in September.
Newcome said it’s district policy to ask students and their families to stop and think before going the alternative route, and staff is directed to help younger students get their behavior under control so they can, ideally, finish high school via the traditional route.
Burkholder, of Christiana, said he was not doing well in high school and at first he felt backed into a corner when he was offered the alternative, but the program was a good choice for him.
“You could work at your own pace one-on-one or with teachers too,” Burkholder said.
“They helped me out a lot,” said Elvin, who also credited his girlfriend for her support. “I definitely would recommend it to anyone who has trouble with behavior.”
“Oh, I’m definitely grateful they had this for free,“ said Camoirano, of Parkesburg.
“Students are in this program for many different reasons,” said Dikun. “If was a very successful year, for a first year.”
Following the ceremony the school board met and gave final approval, by an 8-1 vote, to a $46,026,385 2010-11 budget. Bob Hume, calling the budget “totally unfair,” was the dissenting vote.
The spending plan, up an overall 4.5 percent over 2009-10, will increase taxes to 28.13 mills (up 1.63 percent) in Lancaster County, and to 35.12 mills (up 8.97 percent) in Chester County.
In order to come to an agreement, the school board cut $1 million in other line items including the $105,000 middle school sports program (now to be privately funded by booster organizations), the positions of 10 retiring teachers, one guidance counselor, five clerical/support positions, and one administrative position.
Also, rather than cutting the program, four administrators (Newcome, Nancy Bishop, Scott Rohrer and Dan Carsley) made a $12,000 donation to the district to operate the Student Assistance and Heroes programs, since the state cut funding to the programs.
“It’s discouraging me to make tremendous cuts and still have this increase,” said board member Brian Norris.
“I don’t believe there’s the political will to change the system,” said Newcome, adding the long-range health of the community depends on bringing business sales and property tax income into the community.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Octorara cuts budget with retirement incentives
Community boosters said June 14 they will preserve and pay for a middle school athletic program for about 229 Octorara Area School District athletes, but missing from the campus this September will be nine teaching positions the district is leaving vacant in order to trim $1.1 million from a tight 2010-11 budget.
The school board accepted with regret the retirement resignations of nine teaching staff who will not be replaced. The district is also reducing clerical staff, one administrative position by combining the positions of accounting supervisor and human resources coordinator, and two staff resigning to have children will not be replaced. The changes, made following a mid-meeting executive session for personnel issues, brought next year’s spending plan down to $46,026,385.
The school board approved a memorandum of understanding with its teachers union offering an early retirement incentive to staff resigning by June 1, and the outgoing retirees will receive $10,000 per year for three years, toward their health care costs.
The budget, up 4.55 percent from the current plan, faces its final vote at 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 28. The millage rate will be 35.12 mills in Chester County and 28.31 mills in Lancaster County.
“We have made significant cuts which are going to affect the education of the students,” said Lisa Bowman, school board president.
When asked by a citizen how the district will continue with its math improvement program while cutting one secondary math teacher, Superintendent Tom Newcome said the district will move forward, albeit “with one less person working on the plan.”
Retiring are science teacher Nancy Beaton, fifth grade teacher Judy Benne, eighth grade English teacher Carol Bronson, high school social studies teacher Neil Chippendale, reading specialist Aleta Connell, eighth grade science teacher Anthony DiSipio, high school math teacher Terry Johnson, fourth grade teacher Vicky Mundy, and middle school guidance counselor Judy Turzi.
As for athletics, Athletic Director Jim Weagley thanked community sports boosters for their hard work and said boosters agreed to float the middle school athletic program, a $105,000 program cut from the budget, through fundraisers and activity fees.
Weagley said the program is also shifting its focus to place training and skill development first, and competition second. He warned tight boosters budgets may still mean making cuts from the teams, and seventh and eighth grade teams will be combined. Weagley said the volunteer-run program will be in compliance with Title IX regulations. Most sports will move forward with intramurals plus a small competitive schedule.
“The idea of cuts is giving me serious heartbreak,” said board member Sam Ganow.
Weagley also presented an idea from gym teacher Tom Hurley, who also runs Tom Hurley Fitness Performance, which could potentially bring the district $10,000 in revenue. Hurley has offered to contract to open the high school Fitness Center early morning, after school and evenings, plus weekends, oversee certified trainers and promote Fitness Center memberships.
Alan Brown of Atglen said the board should charge Hurley a rental fee and “let him charge whatever he wants.”
Ganow, however, questioned whether the arrangement would be “policy” and if the board would be on legal standing with such an arrangement. The matter will come up for a vote June 28.
Finally, the board unanimously approved spending $207,500 to make repairs to the middle school roof this summer. The job will go to Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc. And, Kim McCully was hired as the new human resource coordinator/accounting supervisor at a $70,000 salary.
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The school board accepted with regret the retirement resignations of nine teaching staff who will not be replaced. The district is also reducing clerical staff, one administrative position by combining the positions of accounting supervisor and human resources coordinator, and two staff resigning to have children will not be replaced. The changes, made following a mid-meeting executive session for personnel issues, brought next year’s spending plan down to $46,026,385.
The school board approved a memorandum of understanding with its teachers union offering an early retirement incentive to staff resigning by June 1, and the outgoing retirees will receive $10,000 per year for three years, toward their health care costs.
The budget, up 4.55 percent from the current plan, faces its final vote at 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 28. The millage rate will be 35.12 mills in Chester County and 28.31 mills in Lancaster County.
“We have made significant cuts which are going to affect the education of the students,” said Lisa Bowman, school board president.
When asked by a citizen how the district will continue with its math improvement program while cutting one secondary math teacher, Superintendent Tom Newcome said the district will move forward, albeit “with one less person working on the plan.”
Retiring are science teacher Nancy Beaton, fifth grade teacher Judy Benne, eighth grade English teacher Carol Bronson, high school social studies teacher Neil Chippendale, reading specialist Aleta Connell, eighth grade science teacher Anthony DiSipio, high school math teacher Terry Johnson, fourth grade teacher Vicky Mundy, and middle school guidance counselor Judy Turzi.
As for athletics, Athletic Director Jim Weagley thanked community sports boosters for their hard work and said boosters agreed to float the middle school athletic program, a $105,000 program cut from the budget, through fundraisers and activity fees.
Weagley said the program is also shifting its focus to place training and skill development first, and competition second. He warned tight boosters budgets may still mean making cuts from the teams, and seventh and eighth grade teams will be combined. Weagley said the volunteer-run program will be in compliance with Title IX regulations. Most sports will move forward with intramurals plus a small competitive schedule.
“The idea of cuts is giving me serious heartbreak,” said board member Sam Ganow.
Weagley also presented an idea from gym teacher Tom Hurley, who also runs Tom Hurley Fitness Performance, which could potentially bring the district $10,000 in revenue. Hurley has offered to contract to open the high school Fitness Center early morning, after school and evenings, plus weekends, oversee certified trainers and promote Fitness Center memberships.
Alan Brown of Atglen said the board should charge Hurley a rental fee and “let him charge whatever he wants.”
Ganow, however, questioned whether the arrangement would be “policy” and if the board would be on legal standing with such an arrangement. The matter will come up for a vote June 28.
Finally, the board unanimously approved spending $207,500 to make repairs to the middle school roof this summer. The job will go to Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc. And, Kim McCully was hired as the new human resource coordinator/accounting supervisor at a $70,000 salary.
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Families cope with recession and zoning
The recession economy and job losses - which are causing some citizens to look for creative ways to generate income for their families - are also bringing zoning problems before municipal officials.
Sadsbury Township supervisors June 1 told craftsman Jeffrey Williams they have to look at their zoning ordinance with legal rather than creative eyes.
Williams, a reproduction furniture maker who has a home and shop at the corner of White Oak Road and Route 372, said he recently lost his job and would like to independently make reproduction furniture at home to support his family.
Supervisor Eugene Lammey, a neighbor of Williams, said he would like to support Williams’ efforts, but Williams would like to use about 750 feet of workshop building on his property, and the limit under current zoning is 500 square feet.
Supervisor Linda Swift said variances are a “hard sell” in Sadsbury Township. The board suggested he instead apply to the zoning hearing board for a home occupation, which would be permitted provided he keep the work area to 500 square feet.
In other business supervisors said they will look into borrowing traffic counting equipment to do an in-house traffic study on Jackson Road, rather than spend $1,200 to $1,500 for an outside traffic study. Swift said residents are very concerned about speeding on the road, where the current speed limit is 55 mph.
Supervisors also agreed to proceed with LED signal installation for the light at Route 41 and Pine Creek Drive, even though some cities are finding there are questions about whether these comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Swift suggested the township may install updated equipment if compliance becomes an issue in all municipalities.
Finally, residents who are planning a party or picnic should contact the township office prior to the event if there will be parking issues. Parking along the following streets is prohibited in all weather: Carolyn Drive (south side), North and South Christiana Avenue, Diana Lane (west side), Mary Drive, Meadowview Drive, Parker Drive, Pleasant View Road, Ridge Lane, North and South Sadsbury Court, Saddler Drive, and within 25 feet of the center point of the intersection of Carolyn Drive and Diana Lane, in all directions.
Sadsbury Township may be reached at 593-6796 between and 8 and 3:30 Monday through Friday.
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Sadsbury Township supervisors June 1 told craftsman Jeffrey Williams they have to look at their zoning ordinance with legal rather than creative eyes.
Williams, a reproduction furniture maker who has a home and shop at the corner of White Oak Road and Route 372, said he recently lost his job and would like to independently make reproduction furniture at home to support his family.
Supervisor Eugene Lammey, a neighbor of Williams, said he would like to support Williams’ efforts, but Williams would like to use about 750 feet of workshop building on his property, and the limit under current zoning is 500 square feet.
Supervisor Linda Swift said variances are a “hard sell” in Sadsbury Township. The board suggested he instead apply to the zoning hearing board for a home occupation, which would be permitted provided he keep the work area to 500 square feet.
In other business supervisors said they will look into borrowing traffic counting equipment to do an in-house traffic study on Jackson Road, rather than spend $1,200 to $1,500 for an outside traffic study. Swift said residents are very concerned about speeding on the road, where the current speed limit is 55 mph.
Supervisors also agreed to proceed with LED signal installation for the light at Route 41 and Pine Creek Drive, even though some cities are finding there are questions about whether these comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Swift suggested the township may install updated equipment if compliance becomes an issue in all municipalities.
Finally, residents who are planning a party or picnic should contact the township office prior to the event if there will be parking issues. Parking along the following streets is prohibited in all weather: Carolyn Drive (south side), North and South Christiana Avenue, Diana Lane (west side), Mary Drive, Meadowview Drive, Parker Drive, Pleasant View Road, Ridge Lane, North and South Sadsbury Court, Saddler Drive, and within 25 feet of the center point of the intersection of Carolyn Drive and Diana Lane, in all directions.
Sadsbury Township may be reached at 593-6796 between and 8 and 3:30 Monday through Friday.
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Be aware - controversial weapon now in local use
Quarryville Borough Police want the community to know they are now armed with tasers.
The stun guns are “a deterrent, number one, and officers just need a little more protection from drunk and unruly criminals,” said Mayor Joy Kemper, who is also chairman of the borough’s police committee.
Tasers, which can deliver a low-amperage bad shock from 20 feet, caused controversy in May when a police officer tasered a Philadelphia Phillies fan who ran onto the ball field.
“People don’t want to get shocked,” said Kemper, who said at a borough council meeting June 7 she wanted to inform the community of the availability of the new weapon but also that they will only be used “as a last resort thing.
“We usually only have one officer on duty and backup is pretty far,” Kemper said.
Police Chief Ken Work said his officers have been trained and certified in taser use. The department also polices New Providence Township, and Eden Township is also considering hiring services from the Quarryville police. Kemper said it is feasible the department could, in the future, become a regional force.
During their meeting council members directed Borough Manager Al Drayovitch to review records and contracts with the Arro Group of engineers and consultants to see why the speed on all streets was not reduced to 25 mph as the borough directed. They also want to know why the firm is recommending that an infiltration basin in the Quarry Ridge development be filled in.
In other street concerns council President Robert Landis Jr. asked members to review their list of streets for future improvements. Landis said Seiple Avenue, for example, “looks like a war zone.”
Drayovitch said work on Fourth Street is proceeding, and all businesses on the road have chosen to install radius curbing.
He said he has also received citizen complaints about trucks making deliveries to Sam’s Pizza, which are to be made at the side door rather than from Church Street. The matter will appear on next month’s council meeting agenda.
Work recommended council amend its parking ordinance prior to painting yellow curbing and declaring no parking due to site visibility on areas of South Hess Street. Council, however, tabled the issue.
Finally, council held an executive session for a personnel, a real estate and a legal issue.
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The stun guns are “a deterrent, number one, and officers just need a little more protection from drunk and unruly criminals,” said Mayor Joy Kemper, who is also chairman of the borough’s police committee.
Tasers, which can deliver a low-amperage bad shock from 20 feet, caused controversy in May when a police officer tasered a Philadelphia Phillies fan who ran onto the ball field.
“People don’t want to get shocked,” said Kemper, who said at a borough council meeting June 7 she wanted to inform the community of the availability of the new weapon but also that they will only be used “as a last resort thing.
“We usually only have one officer on duty and backup is pretty far,” Kemper said.
Police Chief Ken Work said his officers have been trained and certified in taser use. The department also polices New Providence Township, and Eden Township is also considering hiring services from the Quarryville police. Kemper said it is feasible the department could, in the future, become a regional force.
During their meeting council members directed Borough Manager Al Drayovitch to review records and contracts with the Arro Group of engineers and consultants to see why the speed on all streets was not reduced to 25 mph as the borough directed. They also want to know why the firm is recommending that an infiltration basin in the Quarry Ridge development be filled in.
In other street concerns council President Robert Landis Jr. asked members to review their list of streets for future improvements. Landis said Seiple Avenue, for example, “looks like a war zone.”
Drayovitch said work on Fourth Street is proceeding, and all businesses on the road have chosen to install radius curbing.
He said he has also received citizen complaints about trucks making deliveries to Sam’s Pizza, which are to be made at the side door rather than from Church Street. The matter will appear on next month’s council meeting agenda.
Work recommended council amend its parking ordinance prior to painting yellow curbing and declaring no parking due to site visibility on areas of South Hess Street. Council, however, tabled the issue.
Finally, council held an executive session for a personnel, a real estate and a legal issue.
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Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Octorara asks residents to pay taxes and pitch in
The Octorara Area School Board, saying they were finely tuning next year’s budget in the midst of “harsh realities,” said May 10 they are looking for community help to fund both a playground for Octorara Intermediate School and the middle school sports program.
The $105,000 middle school athletic program, which impacts 200 students, has been cut from the school district’s proposed $47.6 million budget, which is scheduled for a preliminary vote May 17 and final approval in June.
However, board members told athletic director Jim Weagley he had their blessing to explore the possibility of recommending whatever part of the program he could salvage with income from activity fees and fundraising from community booster groups.
Weagley said he will see if there is volunteer support either to retain the entire program, combine seventh and eighth-grade teams, or simply run an intramural program.
“We need to encourage kids as far as fitness, well-being and character,” parent and special education aide Chris Lawrence told the school board.
“There are many programs the district has discontinued or has never funded,” said Superintendent Tom Newcome. “We’re not questioning the value. The question is whether we can pay for them.”
The school board recently trimmed $1.2 million from a budget business manager Dan Carsley called “challenging.” The rural district is coping with rising personnel, medical, retirement and transportation costs, uncertain state and federal funding, and a tax base with limited business funding.
“This is the way things are going to be,” Newcome said. “The way we fund schools has got to change.
District representatives are also working with state Rep. Bryan Cutler and Rep. Tom Houghton to bring more businesses into the district, and toward legislation which would replace tax revenue lost to Clean and Green.
As for the playground, board members said they would likely next week follow through with spending $16,000 from the capital reserve fund to build a playground for middle school students. The PTO has over the last two years raised $5,600 for the equipment, and board members said they are hopeful volunteers will continue to reimburse the fund for the balance.
Weagley also told the school board teacher Tom Hurley, who runs Hurley Fitness Performance, will bring to the school board a proposal to operate the high school fitness center for students, staff and the community. A joint venture with the Brandywine YMCA recently fizzled during YMCA management changes.
Carsley said the school district spent $40,000 on snow removal last winter due to heavy storms. He’s hopeful the district will receive some FEMA reimbursement.
The school board next meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 17 in the multipurpose room at Octorara Intermediate School. Newcome is recommending the school board then approve a proposed preliminary budget which will deliver to Lancaster County residents a tax bill of 28.32 mills (up .64 mills) and a bill of 35.12 mills (up 2.89 mills) to Chester County residents.
Carsley said the average tax bill for Lancaster County residents will be $3,978, and the average bill in Chester County will be $4,998. These most recent figures have lowered slightly since April, and school board members and administrators say figures could very well change before final adoption in June.
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The $105,000 middle school athletic program, which impacts 200 students, has been cut from the school district’s proposed $47.6 million budget, which is scheduled for a preliminary vote May 17 and final approval in June.
However, board members told athletic director Jim Weagley he had their blessing to explore the possibility of recommending whatever part of the program he could salvage with income from activity fees and fundraising from community booster groups.
Weagley said he will see if there is volunteer support either to retain the entire program, combine seventh and eighth-grade teams, or simply run an intramural program.
“We need to encourage kids as far as fitness, well-being and character,” parent and special education aide Chris Lawrence told the school board.
“There are many programs the district has discontinued or has never funded,” said Superintendent Tom Newcome. “We’re not questioning the value. The question is whether we can pay for them.”
The school board recently trimmed $1.2 million from a budget business manager Dan Carsley called “challenging.” The rural district is coping with rising personnel, medical, retirement and transportation costs, uncertain state and federal funding, and a tax base with limited business funding.
“This is the way things are going to be,” Newcome said. “The way we fund schools has got to change.
District representatives are also working with state Rep. Bryan Cutler and Rep. Tom Houghton to bring more businesses into the district, and toward legislation which would replace tax revenue lost to Clean and Green.
As for the playground, board members said they would likely next week follow through with spending $16,000 from the capital reserve fund to build a playground for middle school students. The PTO has over the last two years raised $5,600 for the equipment, and board members said they are hopeful volunteers will continue to reimburse the fund for the balance.
Weagley also told the school board teacher Tom Hurley, who runs Hurley Fitness Performance, will bring to the school board a proposal to operate the high school fitness center for students, staff and the community. A joint venture with the Brandywine YMCA recently fizzled during YMCA management changes.
Carsley said the school district spent $40,000 on snow removal last winter due to heavy storms. He’s hopeful the district will receive some FEMA reimbursement.
The school board next meets at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 17 in the multipurpose room at Octorara Intermediate School. Newcome is recommending the school board then approve a proposed preliminary budget which will deliver to Lancaster County residents a tax bill of 28.32 mills (up .64 mills) and a bill of 35.12 mills (up 2.89 mills) to Chester County residents.
Carsley said the average tax bill for Lancaster County residents will be $3,978, and the average bill in Chester County will be $4,998. These most recent figures have lowered slightly since April, and school board members and administrators say figures could very well change before final adoption in June.
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Quarryville needs input about Fourth St. curbing
Current warm temperatures make February’s record snowfalls a distant memory, but municipal managers are still sharpening their pencils over last winter’s unanticipated snow removal costs.
Quarryville Borough manager Al Drayovitch told Quarryville Borough Council May 3 he is likely to receive good news about budgetary relief from a Federal Emergency Management Agency representative. Drayovitch said he estimated the borough spent $7,600 on snow removal during the designated 2010 snow emergencies and anticipates receiving a refund after his May meeting with a FEMA official.
In other business, council members said they are looking forward to hearing from an Aro engineer after he examines some alleged drainage problems in the Quarry Ridge development.
Council president Robert Landis Jr. said developers must fix any problems which linger, even if the drainage measures were installed properly. Council also approved three new sewer service agreements for Quarry Ridge, although council member Mike Sullenberger said he would prefer to wait to approve new hook-ups in the development.
Council also said Fourth Street businesses should notify them very soon if they would prefer radial or depressed curbing during the upcoming street improvement project.
Finally, council approved sending the Quarryville Fire Police to direct traffic in front of Smith Middle School after school on June 14 when students return from a field trip to Hershey Park.
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Quarryville Borough manager Al Drayovitch told Quarryville Borough Council May 3 he is likely to receive good news about budgetary relief from a Federal Emergency Management Agency representative. Drayovitch said he estimated the borough spent $7,600 on snow removal during the designated 2010 snow emergencies and anticipates receiving a refund after his May meeting with a FEMA official.
In other business, council members said they are looking forward to hearing from an Aro engineer after he examines some alleged drainage problems in the Quarry Ridge development.
Council president Robert Landis Jr. said developers must fix any problems which linger, even if the drainage measures were installed properly. Council also approved three new sewer service agreements for Quarry Ridge, although council member Mike Sullenberger said he would prefer to wait to approve new hook-ups in the development.
Council also said Fourth Street businesses should notify them very soon if they would prefer radial or depressed curbing during the upcoming street improvement project.
Finally, council approved sending the Quarryville Fire Police to direct traffic in front of Smith Middle School after school on June 14 when students return from a field trip to Hershey Park.
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Thursday, April 22, 2010
Octorara trims budget, cuts some athletic programs
Acting on the recommendation of their superintendent, Octorara Area School Board members April 19 trimmed $1.2 million from their proposed 2010-11 budget, cutting the $105,000 middle school athletic program, $80,000 in technology, two bus runs costing $100,000, and about $700,000 in salaries and benefits through attrition.
School board president Lisa Bowman said she was “in despair” about the cuts, made just one week after board members learned in a work session the district was granted an exception to raise taxes higher than the Act 1 index of 3.17 percent. This means the district may approve a hefty tax increase without going to voter referendum.
According to business manager Dan Carsley, Octorara was granted an exception based on about $1.3 million in higher-than anticipated expenses: $295,000 in retirement benefits, $387,677 in health care expenses, $358,456 in higher special education costs, and $292,742 in construction debt service.
Carsley also suggested the district could use about $1.1 million in its fund balance to offset a tax increase. School board members Monday said they would prefer to make the suggested cuts and dip into reserves rather than to also eliminate the $365,000 high school athletic program, about $50,000 in supplemental contracts for staff leading extracurricular activities, and $607,000 for students to attend the Technical College High School.
Board members said they would likely approve cutting about $1.2 million from the $47,609,008 budget in May, and give the budget final approval by June 30. According to Newcome, Lancaster County homeowners will see a .71 mill increase to 28.39 mills (up 2.57 percent) and there will be a 3.18 mill increase to 35.41 mills (up 9.87 percent) for Chester County residents.
Many property owners in Lancaster County will face tax bills of around $4,313, and most Chester County homeowners will pay around $5,378, according to Carsley. However, these bills will be offset by gambling revenue. Taxpayers last year received $284 gambling checks, according to Carsley.
Newcome explained the school district, which has been working with state Rep. Bryan Cutler and state Rep. Tom Houghton to attract more business revenue to the district, is in a difficult financial situation because of rising costs such as a 72 percent increase in PSERs contributions, and a recession. The budget originally called for a 9.7 percent increase in Lancaster County and a 17.5 percent increase in Chester County.
However, both administrators and school board members said the budget was not realistic, and menus of potential cuts have been proposed by both staff and board members.
“Our funding and our millage rate are way out of line,” said board member Bob Hume.
Carsley said the recession has lowered the school district’s tax base.
“Property values have declined and there have been many, many reassessments throughout the district,” said Carsley.
Newcome also suggested the school board could cut $75,000 by eliminating mid-day transportation for kindergarten students. However, board members expressed concern that families would instead opt into charter schools, many of which offer all-day kindergarten, thus costing the school district more in both tuition payments and transportation.
“It’s almost like we take two steps forward and three steps back,” Bowman said. “We need to broaden our tax base. We don’t have enough ratables in this area. I don’t think state aid is going to be forthcoming. We have to do some things ourselves.”
High school principal Scott Rohrer said staff is looking at the possibility of providing technical college education to high school students right on campus in the future to save money.
The school board also read a letter from a parent asking for increased drug and alcohol education, and heard parent Scott Grimes of Parkesburg ask for statistics on drug and alcohol use in district schools. Newcome said figures will be provided at a future meeting, and that prevention education is ongoing.
In personnel matters the school board accepted with regret Linda Persing’s retirement resignation as human resource coordinator, awarded a $78,400 contract to Altchem Environmental Services for exterior asbestos abatement at the high school, and approved the CCIU core services budget of $17,192,748 and the CCIU occupational education budget of $22,239,178.
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School board president Lisa Bowman said she was “in despair” about the cuts, made just one week after board members learned in a work session the district was granted an exception to raise taxes higher than the Act 1 index of 3.17 percent. This means the district may approve a hefty tax increase without going to voter referendum.
According to business manager Dan Carsley, Octorara was granted an exception based on about $1.3 million in higher-than anticipated expenses: $295,000 in retirement benefits, $387,677 in health care expenses, $358,456 in higher special education costs, and $292,742 in construction debt service.
Carsley also suggested the district could use about $1.1 million in its fund balance to offset a tax increase. School board members Monday said they would prefer to make the suggested cuts and dip into reserves rather than to also eliminate the $365,000 high school athletic program, about $50,000 in supplemental contracts for staff leading extracurricular activities, and $607,000 for students to attend the Technical College High School.
Board members said they would likely approve cutting about $1.2 million from the $47,609,008 budget in May, and give the budget final approval by June 30. According to Newcome, Lancaster County homeowners will see a .71 mill increase to 28.39 mills (up 2.57 percent) and there will be a 3.18 mill increase to 35.41 mills (up 9.87 percent) for Chester County residents.
Many property owners in Lancaster County will face tax bills of around $4,313, and most Chester County homeowners will pay around $5,378, according to Carsley. However, these bills will be offset by gambling revenue. Taxpayers last year received $284 gambling checks, according to Carsley.
Newcome explained the school district, which has been working with state Rep. Bryan Cutler and state Rep. Tom Houghton to attract more business revenue to the district, is in a difficult financial situation because of rising costs such as a 72 percent increase in PSERs contributions, and a recession. The budget originally called for a 9.7 percent increase in Lancaster County and a 17.5 percent increase in Chester County.
However, both administrators and school board members said the budget was not realistic, and menus of potential cuts have been proposed by both staff and board members.
“Our funding and our millage rate are way out of line,” said board member Bob Hume.
Carsley said the recession has lowered the school district’s tax base.
“Property values have declined and there have been many, many reassessments throughout the district,” said Carsley.
Newcome also suggested the school board could cut $75,000 by eliminating mid-day transportation for kindergarten students. However, board members expressed concern that families would instead opt into charter schools, many of which offer all-day kindergarten, thus costing the school district more in both tuition payments and transportation.
“It’s almost like we take two steps forward and three steps back,” Bowman said. “We need to broaden our tax base. We don’t have enough ratables in this area. I don’t think state aid is going to be forthcoming. We have to do some things ourselves.”
High school principal Scott Rohrer said staff is looking at the possibility of providing technical college education to high school students right on campus in the future to save money.
The school board also read a letter from a parent asking for increased drug and alcohol education, and heard parent Scott Grimes of Parkesburg ask for statistics on drug and alcohol use in district schools. Newcome said figures will be provided at a future meeting, and that prevention education is ongoing.
In personnel matters the school board accepted with regret Linda Persing’s retirement resignation as human resource coordinator, awarded a $78,400 contract to Altchem Environmental Services for exterior asbestos abatement at the high school, and approved the CCIU core services budget of $17,192,748 and the CCIU occupational education budget of $22,239,178.
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Thursday, April 01, 2010
Staff proposes cost-saving steps
Octorara Area School District employees have suggested 50 cost-saving measures which could help the school district close a $3.4 million shortfall in its proposed $47,609,008 million 2010-11 budget.
The suggestions aren’t quite (with thanks to singer Paul Simon) 50 ways to leave your lover, and many of them would not likely be adopted without controversy, but each “way” is a plan which could save as little as $200 or as much as $1 million per annum.
“We’re taking a stab at some numbers,” said Superintendent Tom Newcome, who asked school board members on March 15 to weigh in on the list before the school board’s April 12 meeting.
“Some of these deserve some close consideration,” said board member Sam Ganow. “If we’re $3 million off we’ve got a long way to go.”
The names of the working “Stans” who are trying to make some new plans for the cash-strapped district are being kept anonymous. They have suggested: eliminating two assistant principals to save $137,400 per salary; cutting a guidance counselor to save $96,656; providing career and technical education in-house to save $1,036,397; eliminating one sub per day per school to save $106,605; and shutting down buildings to all outside use after 6 p.m. to save $16,275.
The district could move to a four-day week, extending the 180-day school year into the summer, which would save $65,100 in heating and cooling, $606,237 in transportation, and $324,679 in custodial costs.
Board members could also: save $40,491 by offering no raises to non-contractual employees; cut the $356,600 athletic budget; and eliminate the summer reading program and kindergarten outreach to save $40,000.
According to Newcome the district could save $67,000 each by taking these measures: offer no high school class with less than 15 students, make sure each high school teacher has responsibility for six classes, and eliminating or reducing the number of study halls.
Although both board members and administrators have said it will be trimmed, the preliminary budget is up by $3,587,000, or 8.15 percent, from last year. The school district has applied to the state for an exception, allowing it to raise taxes by more than the 3.7 percent allowed under Act 1, due to sharp increases in pension and health care costs.
Preliminary figures mean real estate taxes would rise 2.69 mills, or 9.7 percent, for Lancaster County residents, from 27.68 mills to 30.37 mills. Taxes would rise 5.65 mills, or 17.5 percent, for Chester County residents, from 32.23 mills to 37.88 mills.
During the March 15 meeting the school board also approved an agreement to pay $10,000 to settle claims in a U.S. District Court case involving a minor special education student. Newcome said while there was no admission of guilt by either party involved in the suit, the written agreement and financial settlement were recommended by legal counsel for the school district.
The school board also heard from Scott Grimes, volunteer director of the district’s Lacrosse program. Grimes said the program is supporting 41boys and 14 girls on a budget of $9,000 which students and boosters raised themselves.
The school board held executive sessions for personnel and legal issues. The next meeting is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 12 in the intermediate school multi-purpose room.
The suggestions aren’t quite (with thanks to singer Paul Simon) 50 ways to leave your lover, and many of them would not likely be adopted without controversy, but each “way” is a plan which could save as little as $200 or as much as $1 million per annum.
“We’re taking a stab at some numbers,” said Superintendent Tom Newcome, who asked school board members on March 15 to weigh in on the list before the school board’s April 12 meeting.
“Some of these deserve some close consideration,” said board member Sam Ganow. “If we’re $3 million off we’ve got a long way to go.”
The names of the working “Stans” who are trying to make some new plans for the cash-strapped district are being kept anonymous. They have suggested: eliminating two assistant principals to save $137,400 per salary; cutting a guidance counselor to save $96,656; providing career and technical education in-house to save $1,036,397; eliminating one sub per day per school to save $106,605; and shutting down buildings to all outside use after 6 p.m. to save $16,275.
The district could move to a four-day week, extending the 180-day school year into the summer, which would save $65,100 in heating and cooling, $606,237 in transportation, and $324,679 in custodial costs.
Board members could also: save $40,491 by offering no raises to non-contractual employees; cut the $356,600 athletic budget; and eliminate the summer reading program and kindergarten outreach to save $40,000.
According to Newcome the district could save $67,000 each by taking these measures: offer no high school class with less than 15 students, make sure each high school teacher has responsibility for six classes, and eliminating or reducing the number of study halls.
Although both board members and administrators have said it will be trimmed, the preliminary budget is up by $3,587,000, or 8.15 percent, from last year. The school district has applied to the state for an exception, allowing it to raise taxes by more than the 3.7 percent allowed under Act 1, due to sharp increases in pension and health care costs.
Preliminary figures mean real estate taxes would rise 2.69 mills, or 9.7 percent, for Lancaster County residents, from 27.68 mills to 30.37 mills. Taxes would rise 5.65 mills, or 17.5 percent, for Chester County residents, from 32.23 mills to 37.88 mills.
During the March 15 meeting the school board also approved an agreement to pay $10,000 to settle claims in a U.S. District Court case involving a minor special education student. Newcome said while there was no admission of guilt by either party involved in the suit, the written agreement and financial settlement were recommended by legal counsel for the school district.
The school board also heard from Scott Grimes, volunteer director of the district’s Lacrosse program. Grimes said the program is supporting 41boys and 14 girls on a budget of $9,000 which students and boosters raised themselves.
The school board held executive sessions for personnel and legal issues. The next meeting is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 12 in the intermediate school multi-purpose room.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Octorara school - YMCA joint venture ends
The Octorara YMCA and Octorara School District briefly pumped some virtual iron together, but on March 15 ended a month-long agreement which would have given the YMCA use of district facilities by providing services in kind to the school district.
Acting on the recommendation of Supertintendent Tom Newcome, board members voted 6-2 to end the fledgling agreement.
Newcome said while the district was “taking a step back,” it was not closing the door on a future joint venture under different circumstances.
The superintendent suggested ending the relationship -- which would have given the YMCA an opportunity to build local membership by staffing and running the district’s fitness center and some child care programs -- based on recent administrative changes within the Brandywine Valley YMCA.
“We were negotiating with the Octorara YMCA and I very much was advocating for an organization called the Octorara YMCA,” Newcome said.
Carol Beam of Sadsbury Township, board chair for the Octorara YMCA program center located at the community center in Cochranville, spoke during the meeting and affirmed there is an Octorara YMCA program center.
However, Beam said the Brandywine Valley YMCA recently made some administrative changes and also demoted the Octorara YMCA from a board of directors to an advisory board.
After the agreement between the two entities was approved last month, the Brandywine Valley YMCA made the board changes and appointed the Jennersville YMCA to oversee the Octorara joint venture.
“It feels like there was some bad faith negotiating,” Newcome told the school board.
“I am deeply saddened by your decision,” said Denise Day, a spokeswoman for the Brandywine Valley YMCA. “Nothing has changed. We want to provide services and increases services,” said Day, also apologizing for any miscommunication while the YMCA was “streamlining services.”
“I really hope there will be an opportunity to look at this sooner rather than later,” Day said.
The YMCA is no longer staffing the fitness center or offering YMCA memberships based on Fitness Center use. Newcome said the YMCA will continue to run after-school child care until June 30, but will then begin paying facility rental fees. He said the district will seek local proposals for after-school child care for the fall.
Some residents expressed relief the agreement ended.
“If we can’t afford to put playground equipment across the street (at Octorara Intermediate School) then we shouldn’t be subsidizing the YMCA no matter what name they go by,” said Ellen Brown of Atglen.
“I want to go on record saying I agree with Ellen Brown,” said board member Sam Ganow.
During the meeting Loree Lonsinger, speaking on behalf of the Octorara PTO, said the PTO has raised $5,635 toward a $33,000 GameTime playground system for OIS students. Lonsinger said the PTO would continue to raise funds but also asked for school district financial support.
Board member Brian Norris said a playground would benefit many students and suggested using capital reserve funds. The Facilities Committee has placed the matter on its agenda for next month. If recommended by the committee, the board will vote on the issue in April.
John Malone, Ganow, Nelson Stoltzfus, Lisa Bowman, Brian Norris and Shawna Johnston voted to sever the relationship with the YMCA, with dissenting votes cast by Bob Hume and John McCartney.
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Acting on the recommendation of Supertintendent Tom Newcome, board members voted 6-2 to end the fledgling agreement.
Newcome said while the district was “taking a step back,” it was not closing the door on a future joint venture under different circumstances.
The superintendent suggested ending the relationship -- which would have given the YMCA an opportunity to build local membership by staffing and running the district’s fitness center and some child care programs -- based on recent administrative changes within the Brandywine Valley YMCA.
“We were negotiating with the Octorara YMCA and I very much was advocating for an organization called the Octorara YMCA,” Newcome said.
Carol Beam of Sadsbury Township, board chair for the Octorara YMCA program center located at the community center in Cochranville, spoke during the meeting and affirmed there is an Octorara YMCA program center.
However, Beam said the Brandywine Valley YMCA recently made some administrative changes and also demoted the Octorara YMCA from a board of directors to an advisory board.
After the agreement between the two entities was approved last month, the Brandywine Valley YMCA made the board changes and appointed the Jennersville YMCA to oversee the Octorara joint venture.
“It feels like there was some bad faith negotiating,” Newcome told the school board.
“I am deeply saddened by your decision,” said Denise Day, a spokeswoman for the Brandywine Valley YMCA. “Nothing has changed. We want to provide services and increases services,” said Day, also apologizing for any miscommunication while the YMCA was “streamlining services.”
“I really hope there will be an opportunity to look at this sooner rather than later,” Day said.
The YMCA is no longer staffing the fitness center or offering YMCA memberships based on Fitness Center use. Newcome said the YMCA will continue to run after-school child care until June 30, but will then begin paying facility rental fees. He said the district will seek local proposals for after-school child care for the fall.
Some residents expressed relief the agreement ended.
“If we can’t afford to put playground equipment across the street (at Octorara Intermediate School) then we shouldn’t be subsidizing the YMCA no matter what name they go by,” said Ellen Brown of Atglen.
“I want to go on record saying I agree with Ellen Brown,” said board member Sam Ganow.
During the meeting Loree Lonsinger, speaking on behalf of the Octorara PTO, said the PTO has raised $5,635 toward a $33,000 GameTime playground system for OIS students. Lonsinger said the PTO would continue to raise funds but also asked for school district financial support.
Board member Brian Norris said a playground would benefit many students and suggested using capital reserve funds. The Facilities Committee has placed the matter on its agenda for next month. If recommended by the committee, the board will vote on the issue in April.
John Malone, Ganow, Nelson Stoltzfus, Lisa Bowman, Brian Norris and Shawna Johnston voted to sever the relationship with the YMCA, with dissenting votes cast by Bob Hume and John McCartney.
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Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Octorara gives nod to budget, administrative changes
While assuring the community the final 2010-11 budget will look quite different in June, the Octorara Area School Board Feb. 15 unanimously approved a preliminary $47,609,008 budget which will increase property taxes by 2.69 mills for Lancaster County residents and by 5.65 mills for Chester County residents.
However, both administrators and school board members said the budget will be trimmed before June.
“This is a starting point,” said board president Lisa Bowman.
The millage in the preliminary budget is 37.88 for Chester County, and 30.37 for Lancaster County.
The board also allowed administrators to apply for Act 1 exemptions due to high increases in health care benefits and retirement contributions.
“This is a starting point,” said board president Lisa Bowman.
The school board plans to use $508,000 of the district’s $1,174,250 in reserve funds to meet expenses.
The school district is facing many large line item increases including: a 57 percent increase, to $606,000, in retirement contributions to PSERs; a 20 percent increase, to $437,000, in medical insurance; a 20 percent increase in tuition to area vocational schools, to $175,000; a 10 percent increase in tuition to Pennsylvania charter schools, to $531,000; a 10 percent increase in debt service, to $531,000; a 7 percent increase in transportation, to $193,000; a 6 percent increase in salaries, to $1,151,000; and a 5 percent increase to IU services, to $124,000. These line items alone total $3.8 million.
On the revenue side interim real estate taxes are down 30 percent, earned income tax revenue is down 6 percent, and unemployment is causing some families who formerly sent students to private schools to instead choose charter schools. Charter school tuition is paid by school districts.
Superintendent Tom Newcome warned the district is facing a $3.4 million difference between expenses and revenues and presented the school board with a menu of programs it could cut.
These include: cutting the $70,000 building budgets; saving $100,000 by cutting supplemental contracts; not automatically filling vacancies to save salaries and benefits; dropping a bus route to save $50,000; and reducing energy consumption.
Newcome also presented a menu of self-coined “bad ideas”: cutting salaries of staff not under contract; discontinuing athletic and extra-curricular activities; not sending 75-80 students to area vocational schools; cutting conferences and travel; cutting the summer reading program; closing buildings at 6 p.m. to save utilities; using more of the fund balance; and selling ads on the district Website.
While struggling with what to cut, school board members were also asked by parents of students from Avon Grove Charter School to add a bus. Some of these students, who receive district transportation, have bus rides of approximately one and a half hours.
The proposal was not warmly received.
“We do provide transportation and abide by the law,” said board member John Malone. “We don’t have the money.”
Board member Brian Norris said if the board met this request, some community members would ask, “Why are we spending money of mine for a choice they made?”
“We need to cut the budget by about $500,000,” said board member Sam Ganow. “The best solution is to meet with parents, find out why they are going to charter schools, and win them back.”
West Fallowfield resident Eric Stuehrmann spoke to the board and introduced himself as a charter school parent. He said he made the switch for several reasons, including a better math program and earlier foreign language instruction.
Stuehrmann said he would also like to see better communication – more of a school board/citizen debate – at school board meetings.
In personnel matters the school board made several administrative position changes. Jon Propper was moved from middle school principal to interim high school assistant principal. Cliff Blantz was moved from high school assistant principal to interim middle school assistant principal. Elena Wilson was moved from middle school assistant principal to middle school principal.
“It was a decision of the superintendent for personnel reasons that will not be discussed publicly,” Newcome said in an email. “The positions will be interim until June 2010, at which time long-term decisions will be addressed.”
Finally, by a 6-3 vote, the school board approved spending $49,190 (the lowest bid) from the capital account to install a cable television distribution and video-on-demand server for the district from ATV Digital Media.
Some board members argued the purchase is frivolous at this time, while the majority said the purchase was agreed upon during Facilities Committee meetings and is necessary now while district schools are under construction.
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However, both administrators and school board members said the budget will be trimmed before June.
“This is a starting point,” said board president Lisa Bowman.
The millage in the preliminary budget is 37.88 for Chester County, and 30.37 for Lancaster County.
The board also allowed administrators to apply for Act 1 exemptions due to high increases in health care benefits and retirement contributions.
“This is a starting point,” said board president Lisa Bowman.
The school board plans to use $508,000 of the district’s $1,174,250 in reserve funds to meet expenses.
The school district is facing many large line item increases including: a 57 percent increase, to $606,000, in retirement contributions to PSERs; a 20 percent increase, to $437,000, in medical insurance; a 20 percent increase in tuition to area vocational schools, to $175,000; a 10 percent increase in tuition to Pennsylvania charter schools, to $531,000; a 10 percent increase in debt service, to $531,000; a 7 percent increase in transportation, to $193,000; a 6 percent increase in salaries, to $1,151,000; and a 5 percent increase to IU services, to $124,000. These line items alone total $3.8 million.
On the revenue side interim real estate taxes are down 30 percent, earned income tax revenue is down 6 percent, and unemployment is causing some families who formerly sent students to private schools to instead choose charter schools. Charter school tuition is paid by school districts.
Superintendent Tom Newcome warned the district is facing a $3.4 million difference between expenses and revenues and presented the school board with a menu of programs it could cut.
These include: cutting the $70,000 building budgets; saving $100,000 by cutting supplemental contracts; not automatically filling vacancies to save salaries and benefits; dropping a bus route to save $50,000; and reducing energy consumption.
Newcome also presented a menu of self-coined “bad ideas”: cutting salaries of staff not under contract; discontinuing athletic and extra-curricular activities; not sending 75-80 students to area vocational schools; cutting conferences and travel; cutting the summer reading program; closing buildings at 6 p.m. to save utilities; using more of the fund balance; and selling ads on the district Website.
While struggling with what to cut, school board members were also asked by parents of students from Avon Grove Charter School to add a bus. Some of these students, who receive district transportation, have bus rides of approximately one and a half hours.
The proposal was not warmly received.
“We do provide transportation and abide by the law,” said board member John Malone. “We don’t have the money.”
Board member Brian Norris said if the board met this request, some community members would ask, “Why are we spending money of mine for a choice they made?”
“We need to cut the budget by about $500,000,” said board member Sam Ganow. “The best solution is to meet with parents, find out why they are going to charter schools, and win them back.”
West Fallowfield resident Eric Stuehrmann spoke to the board and introduced himself as a charter school parent. He said he made the switch for several reasons, including a better math program and earlier foreign language instruction.
Stuehrmann said he would also like to see better communication – more of a school board/citizen debate – at school board meetings.
In personnel matters the school board made several administrative position changes. Jon Propper was moved from middle school principal to interim high school assistant principal. Cliff Blantz was moved from high school assistant principal to interim middle school assistant principal. Elena Wilson was moved from middle school assistant principal to middle school principal.
“It was a decision of the superintendent for personnel reasons that will not be discussed publicly,” Newcome said in an email. “The positions will be interim until June 2010, at which time long-term decisions will be addressed.”
Finally, by a 6-3 vote, the school board approved spending $49,190 (the lowest bid) from the capital account to install a cable television distribution and video-on-demand server for the district from ATV Digital Media.
Some board members argued the purchase is frivolous at this time, while the majority said the purchase was agreed upon during Facilities Committee meetings and is necessary now while district schools are under construction.
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