MILL HALL — Park upgrades, investment of township funds and ongoing concerns over code enforcement highlighted discussion during the Lamar Township Board of Supervisors’ July meeting.

Code enforcement concerns

The longest discussion of the evening centered on frustrations with the township’s current code enforcement process.

Supervisor Larry Rhine cited several recent construction projects where applicants allegedly changed demolition or building plans after receiving permits, creating confusion between zoning officials, building inspectors and township staff.

Supervisor Dan Chappell expressed concern that residents who carefully follow township regulations are being treated differently than those who make changes after approvals are issued.

“I think the main thing is what just happened… You have two different opinions reading the same ordinance,” Chappell said in regards to a current demolition permit given within the township.

Supervisors also discussed communication issues between the township’s zoning contractor and building code officials, along with the challenges of finding qualified inspection services.

While no action was taken, supervisors agreed the issue warrants additional discussion and possible future changes.

Investing township funds

Supervisors discussed what to do with a joint bank account shared with Mill Hall Borough that was originally established years ago for an air compressor jointly owned by both municipalities.

Township secretary Tracy Roberts said the equipment has seen little use in recent years, and the approximately $3,600 account is in danger of becoming dormant.

Rather than allowing the funds to sit unused, supervisors discussed potential options for the account to share with Mill Hall including: splitting the money, purchasing replacement equipment both municipalities could share or selling the aging air compressor if Mill Hall Borough agrees.

Mill Hall Police Chief Brandon Coleman suggested attending Mill Hall Borough’s sewer/highway committee meeting on Monday, July 13, to further discuss a solution.

With more than $1 million in its general fund, supervisors also discussed investing a portion of township funds in a short-term certificate of deposit (CD) while awaiting decisions on pending transportation grants.

Township officials presented several CD rates ranging from three to 12 months, with rates between 3.25-3.6 percent, and debated whether investing approximately half of the general fund for six months would generate additional interest without tying up money needed for future road work.

“I like the idea of six months,” Chappell said, noting the 3.6 percent rate.

Before making a final decision, the board agreed to have Roberts connect with First National Bank staff to calculate expected returns, determine whether state funds can legally be invested and prepare the information for a future meeting.

Park updates

Following discussion of repair versus replacement costs, supervisors voted to award a contract to replace the roof on two of the township park pavilions to Brentsees Carpentry.

The accepted bid, totaling $10,775, includes removal of the existing metal roof, installation of new roofing materials, structural improvements and a five-year warranty.

The township also approved hiring Lakeview Fence to drill holes to install sleeves and concrete foundations for pickleball net posts at the township park.

Lakeview Fence submitted a proposal of approximately $1,400 to drill the holes, pour concrete and install the post sleeves.

In other business:

— Fire company officials also announced an upcoming Hunter-Trapper Education Course scheduled for Aug. 8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lamar Township Volunteer Fire Company.

— The next regular meeting of the Lamar Township Board of Supervisors is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 11, due to the Clinton County Fair.