Lower Providence Summer 2024

TOWNSHIP HUMAN RELATIONS

COMMISSION: OUR MISSION AND ROLE

HRC

Discrimination is without place in Lower Providence.

The Township prides itself on the diversity of its citizens and fosters an attitude of respect among its residents.

The Lower Providence Township Human Relations Commission (HRC) was established by Ordinance No. 674 approved by the Board of Supervisors on November 17, 2022. The ordinance adopts an official policy of non-discrimination in matters involving employment, housing and commercial property, and public accommodation and declares that such discrimination is without place in Lower Providence. The Township prides itself on the diversity of its citizens and fosters an attitude of respect among its residents.

The Township's HRC, which operates under the terms, conditions and provisions of the PA Human Relations Act and the PA Human Relations Commission, consists of four members appointed to fouryear terms by the Board of Supervisors. All members are residents or business owners of Lower Providence Township and serve without compensation. Members receive training on the functioning of the Township Commission as well as the provisions of the PA Human Relation Act and operation of the PA HRC.

A Township Supervisor acts as a liaison to the Commission. Meetings are held on an as-needed basis with

dates and times posted to the Township's website calendar.

Ordinance No. 674 specifies that discrimination is prohibited in housing and commercial property, employment and public accommodation on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religious creed, ancestry, sex, age (except in public accommodations), national origin, veteran status, handicap or disability, use of guide or support animals because of the blindness, deafness or physical handicap of the user or because the user is a handler or trainer of support or guide animals, or because of an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

If you live or work in Lower Providence Township and feel that you have been discriminated against based on any of the criteria under the Ordinance, you may contact the Township by calling 610-539-8020 to leave a message for a return contact from the HRC.

An HRC representative will contact you to discuss your concern, ascertain whether it is within the Township HRC's jurisdiction and provide a complaint form as indicated.

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

100 Parklane Drive

Eagleville, PA 19403

610-539-8020

610-539-6347 (fax) www.lowerprovidence.org

Hours:

Monday through Friday 8:00 am 4:30 pm

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

Dr. Janine Darby, Chair jdarby@lowerprovidence.org

Gary Neights, Vice Chair gneights@lowerprovidence.org

Sarah Charles scharles@lowerprovidence.org

Peter MacFarland pmacfarland@lowerprovidence.org

Terri Neufeglise tneufeglise@lowerprovidence.org

Board of Supervisors meetings: First & third Thursdays of the month at 7:00 p.m.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Police/Fire/Ambulance....................................911

Police Non-Emergency....................610-539-5901

Fire Marshal/Emergency Manager .610-635-3546

Firehouse Voicemail........................610-539-5408

Hall Rental.......................................610-539-9084

www.lpfire.com

Ambulance Business Office.............610-539-8465 www.medic322.com

Library.............................................610-666-6640

Sewer Authority..............................610-539-6161

Tax Collector ...................................610-666-1980

Methacton School District ..............610-489-5000

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COMMUNITY ACCESS

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FEEDBACK

We welcome your comments; if you'd like to send us your feedback, please email us at admin@lowerprovidence.org

PHOTO POLICY

Photos may be taken of individuals enrolled in our programs, attending Township events and using Township facilities. Please be aware that the images are for Township use only and may be used in future promotional material.

THANK YOU!

We are grateful to those businesses that support the newsletter. Our advertisers make it possible to provide the newsletter to residents and businesses at a greatly reduced cost.

NEW MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

Terri Neufeglise joined the Lower Providence Board of Supervisors in February 2024. She was appointed to fill the vacancy that resulted from the resignation of Supervisor Cara Coless. Her term expires in 2025.

Supervisor Neufeglise is a retired federal civil servant with over 42 years of service, including 22 years as a Department of Army civilian, one year of service with the US Agency of International Development and nearly 20 years with US Customs and Border Protection. Terri hails from Rochester, NY. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1976 with Bachelor's Degree in Criminology and, in 1985, earned a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

In 1980, Terri started working with the US Army in Germany, and later served in Belgium, along with stateside locations in South Carolina and Maryland. She specialized in management of family services, substance abuse and mental health counseling, and military/civilian training and education programs. In 2002, she joined the US Customs and Border Protection managing the employee assistance and random drug testing programs. Terri went on to direct the strategic workforce

management and analysis functions for the US Border Patrol and later the US Customs in Washington, DC and Boston, MA. As part of her job, Terri traveled extensively throughout the United States visiting US Border Patrol stations and Ports of Entry. She retired in January 2023.

Supervisor Neufeglise has lived with her family in Audubon since 2021. She enjoys traveling, reading, exercising, hiking, baseball and, most importantly, her neighbors and community.

2024 MONTHLY MEETING SCHEDULE

Agendas and any specific meeting instructions can be viewed on the Township website, www.lowerprovidence.org. All meetings are listed in the online calendar If a meeting is held virtually via Zoom, those without computer access can attend via phone. For phone-in instructions, call 610-539-8020.

Board of Supervisors

First & third Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Environmental Advisory Council

Third Monday at 7:00 p.m.

Human Relations Commission As Needed

Library Board of Trustees

(Library board room, 50 Parklane Drive)

Third Monday at 7:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Board

Third Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.

Planning Commission

Fourth Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

Sewer Authority (Sewer Authority meeting room 20 Parklane Drive)

Second Monday at 4:30 p.m.

Zoning Hearing Board

Fourth Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Upcoming Office Closures

Memorial Day.....................Monday, May 27

Juneteenth....................Wednesday, June 19

Independence Day ...............Thursday, July 4

Labor Day ...........................Thursday, Sept. 2

Columbus Day .....................Monday, Oct. 14

Veterans’ Day .....................Monday, Nov. 11

Thanksgiving ....................Thursday & Friday Nov. 28 & 29

Christmas ..................Tuesday & Wednesday Dec. 24 & 25

View Meeting Videos

Board of Supervisors' and Zoning Hearing Board meeting videos can be viewed on the Township website, lowerprovidence.org. Click on “Agendas & Minutes” in the Citizen Action Center.

Supervisor Terri Neufeglise

WELCOME NEW EMPLOYEES

Parks and Recreation Department Welcomes New Coordinator

Nicholas Walker joined the Township's Parks and Recreation Department on January 8, 2024. In his role as Program Coordinator, Nick oversees the daily activities of the department including special events, recreation activities, summer camp, children and adult programing, and facility usage.

Nick graduated from Coastal Carolina University in May 2023 with a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation and Sports Management. He gained experience serving as an intern with the university's Athletic Department, working as a facilities and event assistant and media relations intern.

New Employee Joins Public Works Team

Aaron Sorgini has joined the Public Works Department as a highway maintenance worker. In this role, Aaron will perform varied tasks involving road maintenance, construction and repair of Township roads, buildings, landscaped areas, and other Township property.

Aaron, who started with the Township on March 18, has experience in the construction field. He most recently worked for Upper Merion Township as a wastewater

PUBLIC WORKS

2024 Road Improvement Project

The Township is continuing its infrastructure improvement efforts with the 2024 road improvement project. The contract was awarded to Allan Myers construction, the low bidder.

The contract total is $546,185.46. Work is expected to get underway in early summer

Roads to be included in the Township's project are:

• Hildebidle Road

• Highley Road

(Sunnyside Avenue to Redtail Road)

• Stoughton Road

(Dorchester Road to Winthrop Road)

• Smith Road

• Second Street

• Allison Circle

• Wilson Boulevard

• Theresa Street

Nick coordinated athletic events for the university, managed content for social media accounts and operated and facilitated game-day experiences. Nick also has several years' experience working at a summer camp where he planned and organized sports-related activities for the campers.

Nick enjoys watching and playing all kinds of sports, visiting parks and giving back to the community. He carries his love of sports and recreation to his work and hopes to make the lives of community members better in any way he can.

Nick is proving to be a valuable addition to the Township and Parks and Recreation team.

Welcome Nick!

plant mechanic performing maintenance and repairs on treatment equipment.

In addition to working full-time, Aaron has served as a volunteer firefighter for the Lower Providence Fire Department for over five years. He enjoys fishing, golfing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends.

Aaron brings a commitment to performance excellence and will be a valuable addition to the Township and the Public Works team.

Welcome Aaron!

Nick Walker

Aaron Sorgini

DEVELOPMENT NEWS

ON-GOING CONSTRUCTION / RECENT COMPLETION:

Crawford Estates, 37 Crawford Road

There are to be eight lots, six of them being new. This project adjoins the intersection of Park Ave./Crawford Rd./Eagleville Rd., site of ongoing intersection improvements. The last of the homes is under construction and the others are occupied. We are looking forward to the site work being completed shortly

Whitetail Ridge (Gambone Family) Development

This is a nine-lot single family home development on Woodland Avenue, near the ball fields and Woodland Elementary School. Salvi Builders has purchased the development. All but one of the homes are occupied.

Audubon Square V

The existing mixed-use development along South Trooper Road has been revised to add a larger retail space, two restaurants, a small stand-alone retail space, and the conversion of a building in Park Pointe into a self-storage facility. This project involves the extension of Norris Hall Lane. The revised plan has received approval and once the final approvals from the state are received, site work will begin. We anticipate construction in 2024.

Branca 420 Church Road

This subdivision plan for 25 single-family homes has been approved by the Township and we anticipate construction this summer

Shannondell Phase III

The next series of five buildings for the residential portion of Shannondell have been reviewed and approved by the Township. The applicant has recently received all the required approvals from outside agencies. We anticipate the construction of one of the residential buildings to take place later in 2024.

BrightView Landscaping

BrightView Landscaping is proposing to use their Lower Providence location on North Park Avenue as a model for innovative sustainable energy design for their 300 locations across the country. The proposal involves construction of solar arrays to generate the energy for their trucks, estimating vehicles, and equipment. They are also proposing to reconstruct buildings on the site to make it more efficient and attractive. These plans have received approval from the Township, with final design and state permitting underway.

Tidal Wave Car Wash

Tidal Wave Car Wash proposed a new modern car wash facility just west of Lidl Supermarket in the 2600 block of Ridge Pike. The proposal has received Township approvals. The developer may not be proceeding with this project.

960 Rittenhouse

Applicant proposes to demolish existing building from the contaminated site, remediate, and construct a 66,000 square foot warehouse facility. The Board of Supervisors has recently granted their required local approvals.

Encompass Health

A national operator of rehabilitation facilities, Encompass Health is proposing a 75,000 square foot 80-bed hospital for a site at 2660 Audubon Road. Plans have been presented to the Board of Supervisors, with a vote anticipated for May 16.

Mr. Car Wash

Applicant is seeking to construct a new car wash facility on the grounds of the former Wells Fargo bank at 2738 Ridge Pike (Ridge Pike and S. Park Avenue). They have recently submitted a Conditional Use application. The date for this hearing has not been set yet.

Please check the Planning and Development page on the website, lowerprovidence.org, or call the Community Development Department at 610-635-3521 for details and updates.

Property Tax Explanation

Where Do My Property Taxes Go?

The collection of real estate taxes and just exactly where the money goes can be confusing.

A real estate tax bill includes three separate taxes: The property tax that’s levied by the county, the property tax levied by the school district and the property tax levied by the township. Each entity has a different tax rate, so each receives a different percent of the total taxes paid.

Smallest allotment, big impact: The Township is ultimately responsible for the health, safety and welfare of its residents, businesses and visitors. The many services provided by the Township include repair and maintenance of roads, bridges and other infrastructure, snow removal, police and emergency management services, community planning and code enforcement, parks and recreation management and programming.

Encompass Health Rendering

POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

Department Welcomes New Members:

Officer Ryan A. Frederick Officer Albert N. Passanante

Officer Richard L. Henning III

Ryan was raised in East Norriton Township and attended Pope John Paul II High School, graduating in 2013. Upon graduation, Ryan attended Pennsylvania State University, Altoona Campus, transferred to Pennsylvania State Main Campus, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising and Public Relations. In 2019, Ryan was accepted into the Montgomery County Municipal Police Academy and graduated in June of that year. After graduation, he accepted a position with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department and was hired as a Patrol Officer with the Upper Saucon Township Police Department in 2020.

Albert was raised in Lafayette Hill and attended Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School, where he graduated in 2010. Following graduation, Albert attended Montgomery County Community College and then transferred to Widener University, where received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice in 2014. While at Widener, Albert completed an internship with the U.S. Marshals Service in Philadelphia. In December 2014, Albert was accepted into the Philadelphia Police Academy and graduated in August 2015. Upon graduation, he accepted a position with the Philadelphia Police Department as a patrol officer and served primarily in the th14 District.

Richard was raised in Hatfield Township and attended North Penn High School, graduating in 2017. Richard earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice at Kutztown University. In 2023, he was accepted into the Montgomery County Municipal Police Academy and graduated in December of that year. Prior to entering the law enforcement field, Richard worked as a laborer, carpenter, and iron worker

Accreditation and Grants Coordinator Lauren Cook

joined the Department on April 8, 2024. Raised in Lower Providence, Lauren is a graduate of Methacton High School. She holds both Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Criminal Justice from West Chester University. She previously interned with the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) and served as a legal specialist in the private sector before joining the LPPD.

As the accreditation and grants coordinator, Lauren is responsible for maintaining the Department's state accreditation through the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC). She also researches and applies for grant funding to help offset the costs that enable the Department tocontinue to provide excellent police services.

Vacation Home Checks

The Police Department provides vacation home checks for residents and property owners. A police officer will checks the property at least once per day in the absence of the property owner

To register for the service, complete the online form at: https://www.lowerprovidence.org/police-department/pages/forms-documents or call (610) 539-5901 prior to the departure date.

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POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

Understanding the Dangers and Fatal Consequences of Speeding

Driving is a daily activity for many people, providing convenience and freedom to travel. However, the consequences of reckless driving, particularly speeding, can be devastating. Speeding is a leading cause of fatal crashes worldwide, posing a significant threat to both drivers and pedestrians alike.

Understanding the Dangers

Reduced Reaction Time: Speeding significantly impairs a driver's ability to react promptly to unexpected situations. When driving above the designated speed limit, the distance covered during the reaction time increases, making it difficult to avoid potential hazards or collisions. A split-second delay can have catastrophic consequences.

Higher speeds require more time and distance to bring a vehicle to a complete stop. This means that when a speeding driver encounters an obstacle or suddenly needs to brake, the chances of a collision increase exponentially.

Loss of Vehicle Control: Speeding amplifies the risk of losing control of the vehicle. High speeds make it challenging to negotiate turns, curves, or sudden maneuvers, leading to skidding, sliding, or rollover accidents. Increased speed also exacerbates the effects of poor road conditions, such as wet or icy surfaces, further compromising control.

Fatal Consequences

Severity of Injuries: The impact of a collision at high speeds often results in severe injuries and fatalities. Seatbelts and airbags can only provide limited protection, making it crucial to adhere to speed limits and drive responsibly.

Pedestrian Vulnerability: Speeding not only endangers drivers but also poses a significant risk to pedestrians. The likelihood of a pedestrian surviving a collision decreases significantly as the speed of the vehicle increases.

Chain Reaction Collisions: Excessive speed can trigger a chain reaction of collisions, especially on busy roads and highways. A single speeding vehicle that loses control can set off a series of crashes involving multiple vehicles, causing extensive damage and endangering numerous lives.

Conclusion:

Speeding not only compromises the safety of the driver but also puts pedestrians, passengers, and other motorists at risk. By recognizing the perils of speeding and adopting a cautious approach on the road, we can help prevent tragic accidents and make our communities safer for everyone.

Requesting Copies of Public Records

Act 3 of 2008, Pennsylvania's Right-To-Know Law, provides for access to public records created and maintained by state and local agencies.

The first step to filing an effective Right-To-Know (RTK) request is to determine which agency is most likely to have the records you're interested in. Because misdirected requests are so common, the PA Office of Open Records has produced a table which tells you where you can obtain some of the most commonly requested records. Visit https://www.openrecords.pa.gov/RTKL/CommonlyMisdirected.cfm

Identify the records you want as specifically as you can, so that the agency can quickly locate them and determine whether they are public record. Keep mind that the Right-To-Know Law is designed to provide access to records; it does not require agencies to answer questions.

Filing a request is always free, but you may be required to pay certain fees before receiving or inspecting your records. Fees for duplication of records by the Township have been set in compliance with the Right-to-Know law and may be found in the Township's Fee Schedule.

Due to restrictions imposed by the Federal Copyright Act, the Township cannot make copies of building, site, or development plans, including sealed architectural and engineered plans. The plans may be inspected at the Township but may not be photocopied or photographed.

Finally, when submitting an RTK request, always retain a copy for your file. A copy of your RTK request will be necessary if you're denied access to any records and decide to file an appeal to the Office of Open Records.

Records request forms and additional information are available on the Township website: https://www.lowerprovidence.org/open-records-office.

FIREWORKS: IT'S ALL ABOUT RULES AND RESPECT

If you intend to use fireworks for your summer celebrations, please familiarize yourself with Township regulations and remember to be respectful of your neighbors.

Consumer fireworks are defined as any combustible or explosive composition or any substance or combination of substances intended to produce visible and/or audible effects by combustion. The term does not include devices such as "ground and handheld sparkling devices.”

Under Township Ordinance 656, any person purchasing, possessing or using consumer fireworks must be at least 18 years of age. Additionally, under the Ordinance, a person may not intentionally ignite or discharge:

FIREMAN’S FAIR

• Consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the owner

• Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within, or throw from, a motor vehicle or building.

• Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle, building or person.

• Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug.

• Consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.

• No person may ignite or discharge consumer fireworks more than one day per week.

• No property may be utilized to ignite or discharge consumer fireworks more than one day per week.

• No consumer fireworks shall be ignited or discharged after 10:00 p.m., except on the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve.

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WOODLAND CONSERVATION TIPS

Think Twice About 'Cleaning Up' the Woods

We often hear landowners mention the need to “clean up” their woods. Generally, they are referring to fallen trees and large limbs that have fallen onto the forest floor While the aesthetic reasons for wanting to tidy up are understandable, leaving these natural elements in place can provide significant benefits to the forest ecosystem.

As fallen trees decompose, they play a crucial role in replenishing the soil with important nutrients. The woody material breaks down over time returning vital nutrients and minerals to the forest soil.

In addition, fallen trees and branches create important shelter and food sources for a wide variety of forest creatures. Many species of birds, small mammals, insects, and fungi rely on this decaying organic matter as a place to nest, forage, and take cover. Leaving these natural elements in place preserves the biodiversity that is so essential to a thriving woodland ecosystem.

Finally, in areas prone to heavy rains or steep terrain, fallen trees can help prevent soil erosion by slowing the flow of water

and stabilizing the ground. Their roots and trunks create natural barriers that trap sediment and organic matter, keeping it in place rather than allowing it to wash away

By resisting the urge to tidy up our local forests, we can play an important role in supporting the natural cycles and overall vitality of these precious green spaces.

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the handthe median nerve is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist.

In addition to numbness and tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause swelling, weakness, and night time pain. Patients sometimes describe dropping things unexpectedly and may have difficulty with buttoning shirts, tying shoelaces, or handling loose change.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is frequently seen in individuals who develop swelling or inflammation in their hands. People who smoke, as well as those with connective tissue diseases, diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism, may be at greater risk. Repetitive work activities can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

The median nerve acts as an electrical wire between the spinal cord and the hand. The nerve passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist along with nine tendons that bend the fingers. When the tendons in the

wrist become swollen and inflamed, the median nerve can become compressed by the transverse carpal ligament (see figure), leading to carpal tunnel symptoms.

Early on, symptoms commonly occur during sleeping hours. In more advanced cases, the symptoms can become problematic during waking hours. Many sufferers describe symptoms with benign activities, like reading the newspaper or driving a car.

What can a hand surgeon do to help?

A hand surgeon can order special nerve tests to verify the extent of the problem. Custom wrist splints are helpful for early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome. These splints are worn at nighttime to relieve pressure on the median nerve and to prevent the wrists from bending during sleep.

Cortisone injections often provide excellent relief from symptoms. Unfortunately, symptomatic relief is only temporary, and most people experience a recurrence of symptoms after 3-4 months.

For chronic or more advanced cases, carpal tunnel surgery is often recommended as the best course of treatment.

What can I expect from surgery?

Surgery provides more space for the median nerve and relieves pressure on the median nerve and tendons. This procedure is typically done under light sedation and local anesthesia and usually takes only minutes to complete.

While there are several different approaches to performing carpal tunnel surgery, usually a 1/2 inch incision is made near the wrist and use of a camera to release the tunnel under direct visualization. This minimally invasive approach minimizes discomfort following surgery and allows patients to return to activities more quickly. Over 95 percent of patients improve dramatically following surgical intervention, with most returning to daily activities within days. Many patients can resume heavier job-related activities after 2-4 weeks.

Contact us at 1-610-768-5959 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

14 Offices in Pennsylvania & New Jersey including:

King of Prussia · Havertown Paoli · Langhorne · Limerick Center City Philadelphia South Philadelphia Willow Grove · Lansdale Rockledge · Glen Mills

Cape May Court House Cherry Hill Hammonton

PET HEALTH & WELL-BEING

How to keep your dogs and cats safe in the car

Dogs and cats may need to be transported in the family car for short trips, such as to a veterinary appointment, or the local park, or longer trips, such as family vacations. Proper pet car safety will ensure that everyone can enjoy a trip while staying safe.

Restraint and Positioning

It is safest to keep a cat or dog in the back seat during car travel. An airbag in the front seat that deploys in a collision can severely harm a pet whether they are in a carrier or not.

There are several ways to reliably restrain a dog or cat in a car. In general, the safest way to secure a pet is in a crate or carrier However, crates can break or bend during a collision, and it's important to pick one with high safety ratings. A good resource is the Center For Pet Safety. Other restraint devices for dogs include harnesses, car seats, or hammocks. These devices can vary in safety and reliability of tensile strength in straps and buckles. Researching safety ratings and reviews are helpful in picking a device.

Temperature Safety

It's vital to keep a dog or cat in a safe temperature during car rides. Pets can overheat easily as their fur keeps them well insulated, and they have limited sweat glands. Therefore, it's important to keep the air conditioner running in the car when the

weather is warm, and they should not ride extensively in direct sunlight. Dogs and cats should never be left unattended in a closed car when the temperature outside exceeds 60 degrees. The interior of a car can heat up quickly and can be extremely harmful or even fatal to pets. During cold weather, the heat should be turned on.

Planning ahead

Pre-existing health issues should be taken into consideration when deciding if a car ride is safe for a pet. While a veterinary visit is important for an ill animal, a lengthy car ride can put a sick dog or cat in danger Frequent stops are helpful, as a dog can walk around and eliminate outside, and take a drink of water, and a cat can be offered water

What not to do

A pet should not go for a car ride without identification. In the event of an accident, or a door kept open too long, a dog may run away. Therefore, they should have a collar with an ID tag, as well as a microchip implanted. While a cat usually stays in a crate for a car ride, the crate should be labeled with their information. If a cat is taken out during the ride they should have a collar or harness on with an ID tag.

A dog should never be able to hang their head out the window during car travel, as they can get injured or fall out of the moving vehicle. As a reminder, a pet should never ride on an owner's lap. Additionally, a pet should not be fed while the vehicle is moving, as they are at risk of choking.

With proper preparation, car rides for dogs and cats can be safe. If an owner is not sure how to proceed, they should contact their veterinarian with questions.

SEWER AUTHORITY NEWS

Disposable Wipes Causing Problems

The photo above shows wipes caught in a Sewer Authority's pump. These entangled wipes were two feet long and six to eight inches diameter. We've mentioned this in previous newsletters, but it can't be stressed enough. Even if a wipe is labeled “flushable” or “disposable” they don't degrade in the system. Flushing them is like flushing a handkerchief or other items made of cloth.

Wipes gum up the system, clog pipes and pumps, and cost taxpayers and residents a lot of money in maintenance costs. Homeowners also may face expensive maintenance issues at home.“Disposable” doesn't mean flushable. Most baby/adult wipes are not flushable - this information is usually written in tiny letters somewhere on the package.

Bag it and trash it... don't flush it!

Sewer Line Replacement Work

The Sewer Authority consistently does maintenance work on its sewer lines and is continuing its efforts to remove I/I* from the Sanitary Sewer System. We will be replacing the main lines and manholes in the street and the laterals from the main to the roadway right of way. Sewer replacements are costly and timeconsuming projects but are necessary to extend the life of our sewers and ensure they continue to serve Lower Providence Township for generations to come.

The most recent Sewer Authority project that was done has proven to be very

successful. The work for the next project is scheduled to begin early 2024 will include the following streets:

Rogers Road from MH T81 (at house number 323 and 324) to Rogers Road MH T5 (at intersection of Rogers and Trooper Road)

MH T77 Rogers Road (between the houses number 232 and 296) to the Pump Station (between houses 233 and 301 Trooper Road)

Woodlyn Avenue from MH T56 (at house number 147 and 148) to Woodlyn Avenue from MH T50 (at intersection of Woodlyn and Trooper)

Oakdale Avenue from MH T71 (at house number 142 and 149) to Oakdale Avenue to MH T14 (at the intersection of Oaklyn & Trooper Road)

*Inflow and infiltration (I/I) is clear water that seeps into the sewer system from a variety of sources. Infiltration occurs when groundwater seeps into sewer pipes through cracks, leaky pipe joints and/or deteriorated manholes may cause sewage flows to exceed design capacity.

Assistance Program

The Pennsylvania Housing Assistance Fund (PAHAF) provides financial assistance to eligible homeowners to help cover wastewater charges. Please visit their website https://pahaf.org/ or call 888-987-2423 for more information and to apply.

Contact Us First

The Sewer Authority wants our customers to know that our employees are always available during regular business hours by calling 610-539-6161 to address emergency situations. After hours emergencies, please call 1-888-831-7818. If you should have a backup in your outside line, contact us so that it can be verified that it is not being caused by a blockage in our main line before you call your plumber

Moving?

Please make sure to notify the Authority by calling 610-539-6161 or email lptsewer@lptsa.org. If you have your account set up on automatic payments with your bank or through the portal, it is your responsibility to discontinue these payments. The Authority does not have access to do this. Your attention to this is appreciated.

When Sending Your Payment

Please return the top portion of the stub or make sure your correct account number is on your check. Please do not use gel ink green pen to send in your check — the check scanner does not pick it up.

Paperless Billing

Get your bill sooner! Sign up to receive your monthly sewer bill by email. If you haven't already signed up, go to http://www.lowerprovidence.org/ sewer.htm to complete the form. Emailed bill(s) will come from “sewerbill@lptsa.org”. Past due and/or shut off notices will not be emailed. They will be mailed to you in paper form.

Assistance Program

The Pennsylvania Housing Assistance Fund (PAHAF) provides financial assistance to eligible homeowners to help cover wastewater charges. Please visit their website https://pahaf.org/ or call 888-9872423 for more information and to apply.

Late Fee:

If payment is not received by LPTSA by the due date printed on the sewer bill, a 10% penalty is added on the current amount due only. The aggregate amount thereof shall bear interest from the penalty date at the rate of .5 % per month (1.5% quarterly). Failure to receive your bill does not relieve you of your obligation to pay, nor waive customer of paying penalty.

Delinquency

Delinquent sewer bills will result in water being shut off and/or property liens. Water turn off/on and property liens will result in additional fees charged to your account.

TRASH, RECYCLING & YARD WASTE INFORMATION

Report

a Service Issue

Service-related trash, recycling and yard waste issues can be reported by phone at 610-635-3599 or email trash@lowerprovidence.org.

Please provide your name, address and phone number, date the service issue occurred, and description of the problem.

Bulk Item Collection

Bulk item collection takes place once per month on the last second trash day of the month. For example, if your second trash collection day of the week is Thursday, then bulk collection for you is the last Thursday of the month. If a holiday affects bulk pickup collection, a notice will be posted on

the Township website, www.lowerprovidence.org/trash-recyclingyard-waste. Mattresses and box springs must be placed in disposable mattress bags. For an additional fee, you can schedule an extra bulk item pickup. For appliances with freon, such as refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners, please call to schedule an appointment, 484-518-7026.

Billing Information

Residents are billed directly by J.P. Mascaro four times a year under a Township-wide contract. The current five-year contract went into effect March 2022 and provides for twice per week trash collection, once per week recycling collection, and yard waste collection every Wednesday yearround with a 10-bag limit.

The current annual cost per household is $551.76. Annual household costs for the remainder of the contract are: $601.32 (March 2024-February 2025), $655.44 (March 2025 -February 2026), and $716.16 (March 2026-February 2027).

* Take off lid, dry out paint, discard can without lid; or pour paint into plastic bag with absorbent material (clay based kitty litter, saw dust, rags) place bag and can without lid, in trash. Paint hardener can also be purchased at hardware stores.

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Department

PARKS & RECREATION OFFICE STAFF

Jane C. Delaney

Parks & Recreation Director

Nick Walker

Program Coordinator

Karen L. Barron

Administrative Assistant

PARKS & RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS

Amy Johnston-Smith, Chair

Beth Ann Mazza, Vice Chair

Michelle Brown

Erin DiPaolo

Ray Lotfi

Stephanie Padula

Kasey Walker

Ash Jeyapratap - Student Rep. (V)

Kaitlyn Phan - Student Rep. (V)

Thomas MacNeel - Student Rep. (Alt)

The Lower Providence Township Parks and Recreation Department strives to provide professional and diverse program services to the community.

Our mission is based on a passion of enriching the lives of our residents through recreation, cultivating natural beauty, and maintaining safe and clean parks.

We foster the development, the promotion, and the administration of recreational activities and services that enhance the quality of life for all our residents.

To get started, please visit the website and create an account with all your household information. The data provided — emergency contacts, medical information, etc. — will help us better serve you. This information will also be automatically placed into your registration forms.

2024 Summer Recreation Programs are now on www.lptrec.com! There’s lots of fun and exciting programs and events for everyone!

Science Explorers Camp (Fizz, Bang, Boom, Bop)

Science Jr. Explorers Camp

US Sports Multi -Sport Camp

Kids pottery Camp

Shining Knights Chess Camp

Young Rembrandts Drawing & Cartooning Camp AND MUCH MORE!

You Snooze…You Lose! Nothing cancels a good class quicker than waiting until the last minute to register. If there are not enough registrations a week before, the program will be cancelled! No walk-ins accepted at program site, so please register early!

LIKE LOWER PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM & TWITTER!

Keep up to date with all the fun things going on in the Lower Providence community!

Follow Lower Providence Township on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @LowerProvTwp to get the latest on Township news and happenings!

SPECIAL WAYS TO REMEMBER LOVED ONES

Consider tree, bench, or brick donations

Memorial trees, benches and Walk of Honor brick pavers are welcomed donations at sites within the Lower Providence Township Parks system and are special ways to honor the memory of a loved one.

If you or your family enjoy a park and wish to place a lasting memorial to a family member, friend or pet consider donating a tree or bench. Memorial brick pavers are added to the Walk of Honor in front of the Township's Veterans' Memorial located at the Administration Building. Memorial gift forms are available at the Administration Building or on-line at the Parks & Recreation website www.lptrec.com

The Township must approve any wording that will appear on any plaques and/or bricks. Once the form is received by the Parks and Recreation Department, we will contact you to confirm your donation.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the memorial donation programs, contact Jane Delaney, Director of Parks and Recreation at 610-635-3543 or jdelaney@lowerprovidence.org.

HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER PROGRAM

Lower Providence Township is pleased to announce our Hometown Heroes Banner Program, a tribute created for the community to recognize and honor those who are serving or have served our country in the United States Armed Forces.

Banners will be displayed within the Eagleville Park Complex from Memorial Day 2024 through May 1st, 2025. Each Banner requires the Hometown Hero Form to be filled

out, along with a photograph of the hero in uniform and payment of $135.00 for each banner, payable to Hometown Heroes. Please mail payment, form & photo to:

Anne Henning Scheuring 225 South Line Street Lansdale, PA 19446 or email to: heroes@verizon.net

If you have questions, please call 215-855-1743

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Discount Amusement Park Tickets

Lower Providence Township offers savings on discount amusement parks! These admission tickets may be purchased at the Township Building, Monday - Friday, between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm. Cash or credit cards are accepted to purchase tickets. No personal checks, refunds or exchanges. Tickets will be available May through August.

Amusement Parks tickets available for in-person purchase include: Adventure Aquarium, Dorney Park, Hershey Park, Dutch Wonderland, Knoebel’s, Sesame Place, Six Flags & MUCH MORE!

Discount Movie Tickets

Lower Providence Township Department of Parks and Recreation offers discount tickets to the “Movie Tavern” & “Regal Entertainment Group” theatres in our area. These ticket vouchers may be purchased at the Township Building, Monday Friday, between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm. Cash and most major credit cards are accepted to purchase tickets. No personal checks, refunds or exchanges.

Movie Tavern Tickets are $9.00

Regal Entertainment Group tickets are $10.50 **

**Participating Regal Entertainment Group theatres include United Artists, Regal Cinemas & Edwards Theatres. Regal Entertainment Group ticket vouchers do not expire.

On July 21, 2024, communities across the commonwealth will celebrate Annual Pennsylvania Park & Recreation Professionals Day.

The Pennsylvania Park & Recreation Society (PRPS) is sharing a way for communities across Pennsylvania to celebrate: a Good Gratitude

campaign that invites local citizens and leaders to share the reasons they love their local park and rec facilities and the folks who keep these facilities safe, clean, and inviting. The Good Gratitude campaign honors park and rec employees; however, the greatest benefit of participation for local municipalities will be to remind residents of the impact of their local park and recreation services on their lives.

More Events!

June 23

EAGLEVILLE PARK AMPHITHEATRE

July 28 Saturday, October 5, 2024 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Eagleville Park Rain Date: Sunday October 6, 2024 Check

Bring chairs and/or blankets. Concerts in the Park

Lower Providence

Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024

Time: 8:00 am - 2 pm

Come ONE, COME ALL

Do you want it out of your house now? Clean out your closets and garage and earn a few extra dollars along the way. Join Lower Providence Township Parks and Recreation and sign up to participate in a community wide yard sale! LPTREC.com (LP Residents Only)

5th Annual Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 19, 2024

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Holiday Pet Photos with Santa at the Winter Wonderland! Winter