Middle Smithfield Township Midyear Report 2016 · 2017-03-08 · Midyear Report 2016 July 14 ......

Middle Smithfield Township

Midyear Report 2016

July 14

Otter Lake Camp Report in Middle Smithfield Township

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Overview • Mission and Vision

• Operations

– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications

– Budget and Finance

– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads

– Recycling/Composting

– Parks and Recreation

• Public (Committees)

– Economic Development Committee

– Historical Commission

– Parks and Recreation & Litter and Beautification

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Overview

Golf Advisory Committee

Economic Development Committee

Historical Commission

Parks and Recreation

Litter and Beautification

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Overview

Golf Advisory Committee

Economic Development Committee


Parks and Recreation

Litter and Beautification

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Simply put:

Make things better.

For everyone.

Vision Statement We will restore the pride to Middle Smithfield Township. By the end of

the decade, we will be the model township of the Poconos, a most

desirable place to live and work with vibrant Main Street village

centers we can all be proud of.

Middle Smithfield Township is in an important transition period right

now – we need dedicated employees and volunteers now more than

ever.

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2012:

Repair the Relationships.

Rebuild the Trust.

Renew the Commitment.

Restore the Pride.

2013:

Reinvent

Revolution: Evolve

Resolution: Solve

Restore the Pride.

2014 & 2015:

Build a sense of community

Engage our residents.

Collaborate

Grow with Pride.

Moving Forward: Progressive Goals:

2016:

Invest in our community

Encourage business growth.

Leaders in municipal government

MST Means Business!

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Expand on the Growing sense of Community

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Middle Smithfield Township and Delaware Water Gap Borough officials join

state officials Sen. Mario Scavello, center, and state Rep. Rosemary Brown, R-

189, right, as Middle Smithfield Township on Friday donated a truck sorely

needed by Delaware Water Gap Borough. (Pocono Record, Apr. 8, 2016 )

"Our neighbors in Delaware Water Gap had their township vehicles break down

and they were in a bind. They contacted their PennDOT District 5 Rep, Jeff

Roback, looking for assistance," Middle Smithfield Township Board of

Supervisors Supervisor and Roadmaster Mike Dwyer said. "Jeff called us and

we were able to provide DWG with a 1995 Ford F-250. The truck is in fair

running condition, but is ample for their temporary use while their trucks get

repaired. We are always willing to help our neighboring taxpayers when it is

possible."

2016 Goals: Investing in our Community

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2016 Goals: Encourage Business Growth

Middle Smithfield Means Business!

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WELCOME:

The first half of 2016 saw a number

of new businesses opening in the

township – we have high hopes for

the second half of 2016!

2016 Events

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Spring

Leaf Composting Facility’s Spring Hours 7a-2p

3/16 Easter Eggstravaganza

4/1 Golf Course Opens

4/2 Homeowners Association

Networking Meeting

4/8 Pocono Photo Club Exhibit

Opening Reception

4/8 Restaurant Week Kickoff!

4/9 Master Gardeners classes kick off

at the Whispering Pines

4/16 1000 Feet of Street litter cleanup

4/25 Leaf Collection starts (3 weeks)

5/6 – 5/7 Dumpster Day Spring

Cleanup & Freecyle

5/12-5/14 Freecycle

5/13 Pocono Wildlife Rehab & Education

Golf Fundraiser

5/13 Painting Art Exhibit: Patti Ann Griffin

and Stephen Washington

6/4 Community Gardens Park Ribbon

Cutting

Summer

7/14 Mid Year Report

8/20 Memory Makers

Fall

9/10 Homeowners Association

Networking Meeting

10/7 & 8 Dumpster Day Fall Clean Up Freecycle

10/12 Fossil Day! Marshall’s Creek Mastodon

10/13-15 Freecycle

10/15 1000 Feet of Street litter cleanup

10/22 Trunk or Treat

10/24 Leaf Collection (4 weeks)

11/18 Person of the Year at Whispering Pines

Winter

11/26 4th Annual Tree Lighting at

Echo Park; Toys for Tots and

Bushkill Outreach

12/1 Presentation of 2016 Budget

12/17 Wreaths Across America

Overview

•Operations

•Public Works

•Public: (Committees)

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Overview • Operations

– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads







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Overview: Operations

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications

–Budget and Finance

–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 12

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–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 13

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IssueTrak: – IssueTrak is a new software that

allows our Township to keep track

of resident concerns, resident

suggestions, internal workflow and

payments.

– Since the BETA (introductory)

implementation of Issuetrak we

have seen a decrease in response

time to our resident concerns, a

more efficient workflow with our

staff and better overall

communication not only with residents but with staff.

Operations: Administration Examples:

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Operations: Administration: Human Resources Examples:

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Operations: Administration: Human Resources Examples:

Operations: Administration

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications

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Operations: Administration: Human Resources Training: – Employee and Committee training

– Over 130 hours of webinar/seminar were attended by township

employees in 2016.

– Public Works Department – Continue to attend various PennDOT and LTAP webinars and training sessions.

– Planning Commission – Land Use Webinar Series, and PMPEI

Zoning

Examples:

– PWD Warm Mix Asphalt, Road Surface Management and Principals of Paving

– Operations –Workplace Safety Training, Business Writing Tips, How to Effectively

Handle Customer Complaints, Sign & Billboard Ordinances, Health Care Reform,

Controlling Heath Care Costs to name a few.

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Planning Commission Training and Support

Overview:

• Trade Organization Memberships and Publications

– American Planning Association: http://www.planning.org/aboutapa/

– Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association: http://planningpa.org/.

– Monroe 2030: 2030 materials provided to the PC with a 5 minute update at every Planning Commission meeting

• Classes:

– PMPEI Welcome to the Zoning Hearing Board (Thurs, noon-1:30p, webinar)

– PMPEI Welcome to the Planning Commission (Thurs, noon-1:30p, webinar)

– Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series. These air twice a day, including 7-8pm.

• Materials Supplied to every new Planning Commission Member

• Introduction to Planning Commission from Penn State

• The Planning Commission (and the entire land planning series.) – Local Land Use Controls in PA

– Special Exceptions, Conditional Uses and Variances

– Understanding the Comprehensive Plan

– Zoning

– The Zoning Officer

– SALDO

• Municipalities Planning Code

• Monroe County 2020 comprehensive plan

• Middle Smithfield Comprehensive Plan

• PSATs materials

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http://www.planning.org/aboutapa/

http://www.planning.org/aboutapa/

http://planningpa.org/

http://planningpa.org/

http://www.boroughs.org/cgi-bin/calendar/webdata_tcal.cgi?cgifunction=form&fid=1354110291

http://www.boroughs.org/cgi-bin/calendar/webdata_tcal.cgi?cgifunction=form&fid=1354110651

http://www.cvent.com/events/land-use-webinar-series/agenda-fc30407637ce40cbab68e52f3377983f.aspx

http://pubs.cas.psu.edu/FreePubs/pdfs/ua348.pdf

http://www.newpa.com/webfm_send/1506








http://www.co.monroe.pa.us/planning_records/cwp/view.asp?A=1551&Q=605195

http://www.middlesmithfieldtownship.com/CompPlanUpdate2007.pdf

Operations: Administration: Human Resources

Expanded Intern Program

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EMILY HETU Kutztown University class of 2017

“I’m going into my senior year a Kutztown University, majoring in marketing

and minoring in supply chain management. After graduation I plan on

attending graduate school to further develop my marketing career, with my

ultimate goal in becoming a marketing professor”.

Emily said that she has learned a lot about local government as an intern.

DANA HOLLINGER Penn State University class of 2017

“I’m going into my senior year at Penn State, majoring in communications

and minoring in business studies with a focus in Advertising/Public

Relations. My future plans include creating an exciting and fulfilling career

in these areas of study”.

As a MST Intern, Dana said that “she sees first hand what goes into

running and being a part of bettering the community that she grew up in”.


Expanded Intern Program

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BRIAN RUSSELL East Stroudsburg University class of 2017

“I’m going into my senior year a East Stroudsburg University, majoring in

political science. After graduation I plan on doing some form of

government work and enjoying what life has to offer”.

Brian said that “getting experience and working with good people” is

what he likes best about being an intern at MST.


Intern Program Graduate

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ROBERT RENGIFO East Stroudsburg University class of 2016

“I was extremely excited when Middle Smithfield Township brought me on

to work part-time after my internship with them in the spring. I hope that I

can be an asset to not only the township staff but an asset to the

residents of Middle Smithfield.

I plan to stay at Middle Smithfield until March when I will be leaving to

attend Infantry Basic Officer Leaders Course at Ft. Benning, GA. I hope

to be attending law school upon my return from military training.

Working for Middle Smithfield Township has been a great experience, I

have learned so much in my short time here and know I will continue to

learn much more in the months to come”.


Expanded Intern Program:

Producing results!

• To create a baseline, historical data / previous

issues have been entered into IssueTrak

• Assist the zoning department by filing zoning and

on-lot septic permits (you’ll hear more later)

• Updating MST’s Business Directory

• Compiling MST’s Sign Inventory (you’ll hear more later)

• Update the HOA contacts list

• Contribute to township newsletter with articles,

research, photos

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Operations: Administration: Communications

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications

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Communications

In progress:

–West End of the Township: Banners across Coolbaugh and Creek Road

–HOA’s: Message centers at mail

cluster boxes

–Looking into automated phone

calls (for those resident who

WANT to subscribe)

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Communications

Accomplished:

Expanded newsletters

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–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 27

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Operations: Budget and Finance

We continue to do what we said we would do: • Not Borrow; and pay unnecessary interest

• Not Spend; stay within budget and get competitive bids for major

purchases

• Apply for State and County Grants:

• Year to date, we have been awarded:

• Dirt and Gravel Roads: $47,000

• Recycling: $249,660

• Recycling: $247,000 (Oak Grove Mulit-Municipal)

• We are still awaiting notification if we are awarded a $3,000,000 Multi-

modul grant from the Department of Transportation

• Maintain employee contributions to health benefits plan.

Expanded recycling, free-cycle, paper shredding

• Capital Improvements Plan for sewer, municipal buildings, parks

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For more details, ask for the Budget Presentation made December 7th!

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Middle Smithfield Township is growing:

• We continue to see an increase in income

from commercial growth and there is much

interest in our LERTA zones

• Earned Income is improving throughout our

township (in 2016, EIT increased 4% from the

same period in 2015)

• Real estate transactions are improving (In

2016, year to date, Transfer Tax income has

increased over 214% compared to 2015 ytd.)

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Solid Financials:

2015 audit is being finalized: • General Funds

• Balanced budget for the last 4 years • Building reserves for much needed capital improvements • Still cutting expenses where possible

• Sewer Funds • Balanced budget and collections sufficient for capital

improvements • Income balanced against expenses • Still cutting expenses where possible

• Golf Funds • Loss from operations declining steadily each year

• Liquid Fuels Funds • Balanced budget and expending wisely

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We did it again!

Our S&P Credit Rating has improved again!

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One of the largest “unknowns” when establishing a budget is winter

weather. Some winters we “skate” by with little or no snow/ice/rain

events, while others, like this past year, are very treacherous.

Remember this past winter?:

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The Winter of 2015/2016 wasn’t as severe as the prior year. . .

Manpower = 1,305 hours

Fuel = 2,083 gallons

Materials

Anti-Skid = 292 tons

Clearlane = 254 tons

Approximate totals

Date Storm Date Storm

01/08/16 Snow 02/09/16 Snow

01/11/16 Snow 02/10/16 Freezing Temps



01/14/16 Snow 02/15/16 Snow/Ice

01/15/16 Ice/Rain 02/16/16 Ice/Rain


01/19/16 Freezing Temps 02/18/16 Freezing Temps



01/22/16 Snow 02/23/16 Ice/Rain

01/23/16 Snow 02/24/16 Ice/Rain





01/29/16 Freezing Temps





• Grants:

In December, 2015, we applied for grant funds to be used for

a Side path Project along Route 209 in our township. That

would include the installation of a 6 foot wide pathway for

pedestrian and bicycle facilities along the entire length of

Route 209 within the Township.

This project perfectly complements Penn Dot’s 2016 plans to

pave Route 209. (Work on Route 209 is about to start and

we are working with PennDOT and are asking our legislators

to ensure the work is completed, as promised)

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–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 34

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Operations: Sewer

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Goals for 2016: Capital Improvements

• Sellersville Pump Station #6 Control Panel Replacement:

Replacement was completed by Derstine Co. in March

2016 and the Township completed the wall.

• The North Park Pump Station #7 rehabilitation: This

rehabilitation is estimated to cost $115,580. This project

includes new pumps and piping, and a new control

panel. Shop drawings have been approved. New pumps

have been delivered to the contractor and the new control

panel is being built.

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Operations: Sewer • Big Ridge Pump Station rehabilitation:

This rehabilitation project is to include a new generator, new

piping, fiberglass building and new chemical feed system. This

rehabilitation is estimated to cost

$275,000. The new generator,

Chemical feed system and con-

trol building have been set in

place. The new control panel is

being installed and the electrical

work is being done.

• In 2016 we are also striving to rehabilitate the Steel Bridge

Pump Station in Winona Lakes and the UV disinfection system

at the Fernwood Treatment Plant. The estimated cost of these

rehabilitations is $400,000. The Engineer is putting together

bid package for the UV disinfection system at the Fernwood

Treatment plant in July.

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Operations: Sewer Goals for 2016: Operational Efficiency

• Utility Savings: In order to fully maximize our utility savings at

the Treatment plants, Basic Power devices were installed in

the Treatment Plants in 2014 and in 2015, we locked in a low

utility rate for 3 years. Between these two features, we have

seen a savings of approximately $12,000 so far in 2016 and a

savings in the electrical usage of 17% at the Winona

Treatment plant and 18% at the Fernwood Treatment Plant.

• Collections: The Sewer Department has actively been

attempting to lower our past due accounts. In 2016, we have

collected approximately $169,000 in old debt. We also are

working with our customers to help bring their accounts

current. In 2016, we have 28 accounts on payment plans and 3

accounts that have completed their payment plans and are

now current.

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Operations: Sewer: PS #6

Goals for 2016: Capital Improvements

• Sewage Pumping Station #6

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Operations

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 39

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Operations: Municipal Golf Course

The golf course continues to capitalize on it’s successes

from the 2015 season with even greater increase in 2016.

The course is on track for double digit increases in both

rounds played and course revenue.

The well maintained golf course and its operations continue

to be a source of township pride, dedication, and enjoyment.

The banquet hall is a terrific asset for community events.

The course and banquet hall contribute to the local

economy by providing employment and income for

peripheral businesses, such as food service, supplies, gas,

etc.

For 2016, the Golf Committee has been tasked

with preparing the course for sale.

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2016: The Best is yet to Come!

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Continue in our quest to attract over 15,000 annual rounds

• Increase rounds of play by 5%.....Currently at 18%

• Increase NEW Outings added:

Juvenile Diabetes, Boy Scouts and Stroudsburg Wrestling

• Increase League play – up 14%

• Enhanced marketing – increased presence

in the Lehigh Valley and Northern NJ

• Increase Revenue by 5%...............Currently at 21%

• Increase Pro Shop Sales – added:

new clothing lines and sales are up over 30%

• Increase Bev Cart sale - up well over projection at 18%

• Increase Bar sales…sales are up 45%

• Reduce expenses by 5%%.............On Target • Continue to limit OT

• Cut electricity expenses (Basic Power)

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2016 Goals: 5 - 5 - 5

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• Increase Bev Cart sale - up well over projection at18%




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2016 Goals: 5 - 5 - 5

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2016 Goals: 5 - 5 - 5

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2016 Goals: 5 - 5 - 5

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• Increase rounds of play by 5% - we’re at 18%!

• Twilight play up about 60%

• Senior rounds continue increase.

• Resident rounds up over 75%

• Member play remains steady

• Increased outings

• Increased play from Lehigh Valley, etc.

• Increase Income by 5% - we’re at 21%

• Reduce expenses by 5% - we’re on target!

• Limit overtime

• Further cut propane usage

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2016 Goals: 5- 5 - 5

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• Increase rounds also came from:

• Fathers Day Special

• Group Golfers Sales

• Standard rack rate play

• Radio Advertisements

• Social Media Marketing

• Stay and play (Pocono Palace)

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2016 Goals: 5 - 5 - 5

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Through a combination of unique partnerships, targeted online and

social media advertising and targeted email blasts, we’ve dramatically

increased traffic on the website. This has contributed to the vast

increase in play.

Marketing campaigns through the first half of the year included:

• Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau Golf Co-Op

• Golfing Guide of Lehigh Valley

• Great Golf Magazine

• ESPN Radio

• Cat Country Golf Card

• Social Media Marketing

• Banners over 209

• Email Blasts

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Operations: Golf Marketing

Successful Digital Marketing:

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Up 6.4% increased total pages per session by 6.4%

(the number of pages browsed while visiting the website)

Up 18.83% increased the number of visits to the “Bar and Grill” page by

18.83%

Up 12.45% increased scorecard page traffic by 12.45%

Up 14.68% increased the total number of young golfers (age 25-34) by

14.68%

Operations: Golf Digital Marketing

http://www.ccppagolf.com/bar-and-grill/

Some Examples of Successful Campaigns:

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Operations: Golf Marketing

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Operations: Golf for the Good

Country Club of the Poconos supports our local charitable

organizations by offering free to low cost use of our facilities. For

example, the annual Mady’s Angels golf tournament.

Some others include the Knights of Columbus, Boy

Scouts, Marshall’s Creek Fire, Juvenile Diabetes, etc,

$40 Friday FORE the Wildlife

Golf Fundraiser benefiting Pocono Wildlife

Rehabilitation and Education Center, paired

with the Natural Wonders and Wildlife Art

Show Opening Reception, raised over

$2,000!

The Whispering Pines Banquet Hall has

45 non-golf events booked so far for

2016, a 55% increase over 2015.

Many of the 45 events are non-profit

groups and fundraisers including:

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• Cub Scout Pack 100 dinner

• Delta Sigma Theta

scholarship fundraiser

• Penn State Master Gardeners

gardening classes

• Pocono Mountain Economic

Development Corporation

membership luncheon

• Pocono Photo Club exhibit

• Pocono Wildlife Rehab Center

fundraiser

• St. John’s Senior Group picnic

• Stroud Region Open Space

and Recreation Commission

StroudKids Camp semi-formal

• Vet Stock fundraiser

Operations: Banquet Hall

Operations: Banquet Hall: Culture in the Clubhouse

Natural Wonders- Fine Art Exhibit • Featuring wildlife and landscape paintings by local artists

Patricia Griffin and Stephen Washington the month of June

• Opening Reception catered by new local business

CasaCulinarian and wine tasting by Blue Ridge Winery (now

open at Regina Farms)

• Live animal wildlife talk by Katie Uhler of Pocono Wildlife

Rehabilitation and Education Center.

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Pocono Photo Club Exhibit: Focus on Food

Paired with the Kick Off

for Restaurant Week

2016, the Pocono Photo

Club Exhibit for the

month of April featured

food, along with photos

of local people, places,

and events.

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Penn State Co-Op

Extension’s Master

Gardener Program

from Pike and Monroe

Counties hold half day

workshops

Pocono Wildlife

Rehabilitation &

Education Center

Directo Katie

Uhler gives her

“Amazing Animal

Adaptations” talk.

Operations

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 55

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Operations: Zoning Goals for 2016:

• Ordinances • Re-sale Use and Occupancy (Move-in Move-out)

• Dog Ordinance

• Annual Fire Inspection (commercial buildings)

• Zoning Map

• SALDO

• Administrative: • Complete re-organization of all MST property files

• File all septic permits into property files

• Sign Inventory

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Operations: Zoning Permits:

Overall permits 2016 vs. 2015 saw considerable

increase in both permits issued and fees collected.

• Total Permits Issued: up 23%

• 2015 – 149

• 2016 – 183

• Total Fees Collected: up 74% • 2015 – $42,750.69

• 2016 - $74,178.31

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Operations: Zoning Zoning Permits: 2016 vs 2015

Total permits issued: up 30% (2015-71 vs 2016-92)

Total fees collected: up 52%

(2015-$11,126.83 vs 2016-$16,931.67)

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10

15

20

25

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2016 YTD

2015 YTD

Operations: Zoning Building Permits: 2016 vs 2015

Total permits issued: up 23% (2015-66 vs 2016-81)

Total fees collected: up 94%

(2015-$29,126.86 vs 2016-$56,366.64)

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2015 YTD

Operations: Zoning Zoning Hearing Board:

The Zoning Hearing Board has not been called for a

meeting in the first 6 months of the year but have two

upcoming matters on their schedule.

• Classic Quality Homes • Seeking variance from the required front yard setback.

• Initially scheduled for July 13 but has been continued to a future date that is

yet to be determined.

• Theng Ng • Appealing the action of the Zoning Officer

• Enforcement Notice issued for establishing a B7 Dwelling and residential

conversion without permit.

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Operations: Zoning Enforcement:

Enforcement in 2016 is down slightly from 2015

TOTAL: down 27%

• 2015 – 42

• 2016 – 33

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Enforcement Notice Notice of Violation Outdoor Burning Notice Unsafe Building

2015 YTD

2016 YTD

Operations: Zoning Goals for 2016:


• Dog Ordinance

• Annual Fire Inspection (commercial buildings)

• Zoning Map

• SALDO


• File all septic permits into property files

• Sign Inventory

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Operations: Zoning Accomplishments thus far:

• Ordinances • Dog Ordinance

• Reviewed by Zoning, Board of Supervisors & Planning

Commission

• Stand alone ordinance considered to be unnecessary at

this time. We may include sections of the proposed Dog

Ordinance in amendments to our zoning ordinance in the

future

• Parking Ordinance – Chapter 138 • Not originally on our list of goals for the year

• Highlighted changes

• Parking on township roads during a winter weather

event

• Parking of commercial equipment on public roads

• Increased fines

• Appointment of code officer •

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• Filing all septic permits into property files

• Sign Inventory

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A few words about the Sign Inventory:

In December of 2015 the township adopted a new sign

ordinance.

Less is more!

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ordinance.

Less is more!

Less bad signs mean more attention for good signs.

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ordinance.

Less is more!


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ordinance.

Less is more!


More is Less!

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ordinance

Less is more!


More is Less!

The more signs there are competing for a driver’s

attention, the less attention will be paid to them.

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• Landowners in C1 commercial were required

to send in documentation for all signs on their

property (deadline was 7/5)

• Sign Inventory Log created

• NOW: Visiting each property, taking photos of

every sign, and starting enforcement

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• Administrative: • Re-organization of all MST property files is complete

When Zoning was first instituted in MST, Zoning files were

organized by last name of the property owner and year of the

permit. This made it impossible to maintain the history of the

property and it’s improvements.

All Zoning files have now been organized by PIN number

(Property Identification Number – assigned by Monroe County

and will not change). This undertaking could not be

accomplished without the help of our interns.

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Operations: Zoning In the works:


• Reviewed by the Zoning Office and Board of Supervisors

• Next step – preliminary review by Planning Commission

• Expected to be adopted this fall

• Will only affect properties in the C1, C2 & I districts with

commercial uses

• Zoning Map

• SALDO

• Added to our goals: • Yard Sale Ordinance

• Zoning Ordinance amendments

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Operations: Zoning In the works:

• Administrative:

• File all septic permits into property files • Septic Permits are being assigned the appropriate PIN

(Property Identification Number) and filed in the property file

• Septic Permits were previously filed by year or by development.

This undertaking will assist current and future residents when

the need arises to repair or maintain their septic system.

• Sign Inventory

• Completing Sign Inventory Log

• Verifying permitted signs

• Enforcement (removal) of unpermitted signs

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Operations

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 74

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Operations: Planning • The Middle Smithfield Township Planning

Commission reviewed and provided

recommendations to the Board of Supervisors

on: (1) sketch plan, (1) minor subdivision, (1)

land development, Ordinance No. 207 (Cable

Franchise Renewal Agreement as well as the

revised Parking Ordinance and the Move-In-

Move Out

• The Planning Commission continues to help

the township Plan for the Future, with the

review of the SALDO and Zoning Map and

overall Zoning Ordinance

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Operations

–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal 76

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Overview: Operations Retaining Engineers when projects are

being developed.

We are minimizing our Professional expenses

each year by retaining Engineers for specific

projects:

• Grant documentation

• Sewer improvements

• Conceptual design of parks, road

improvements, and buildings

By using professional information, pricing by

contractors and vendors are more accurate

and work within budget

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–Administration

–Human Resources

–Communications


–Sewer

–Golf

–Zoning

–Planning

–Engineering

–Legal

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Operations: Legal

Resolutions passed in 2016

03-2016-1 Approving, Amended and restated bylaws for the Township Workers

Compensation Safety Committee

03-2016-2 Resolution Adopting child Protective Clearances Policy

04-2016-1 2016 Peterbilt Hook Lift truck

04-2016-2 Approving and Authorizing MST sale of a used 1996 Ford Truck to the

Delaware Water Gap Borough

04-2016-3 CAT Used 950H Wheel Loader

04-2016-4 Joinder Deed for Robert and Dawn Miller

04-2016-5 Authorizing Disposition of Certain Records

06-2016-1 Authorizing the submission of a PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund

Grant Request, designating a township official to execute all documents

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Operations: Legal Ordinances passed in 2016

• Ordinance 206 AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE TOWNSHIP OF

MIDDLE SMITHFIELD, AS HERETOFORE AMENDED; AMENDING PART II, “GENERAL

LEGISLATION”, CHAPTER 200 “ZONING”; PROVIDING USE CATEGORY B2, DWELLING,

APARTMENT COMPLEX, SHALL BE A CONDITIONAL USE IN THE C1 AND C2 ZONING

DISTRICTS; ADDING A DENSITY LIMITATION AND OTHER SUPPLEMENTARY

REGULATIONS FOR USE CATEGORY B2, DWELLING, APARTMENT COMPLEX;

AMENDING THE REQUIREMENTS OF AN H8 NO-IMPACT HOME-BASED BUSINESS AS AN

ACCESSORY USE; AMENDING AND RESTATING SECTION 081-050, ENFORCEMENT; AND

PROVIDING FOR OTHER MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS Adopted 03/10/2016

• Ordinance 207 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MIDDLE SMITHFIELD,

MONROE COUNTY, PENNSLVANIA, AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF THE CURRENT

AMENDED CABLE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWNSHIP AND BLUE

RIDGE COMMUNICATIONS FOR AN ADDITIONAL EIGHT (8) YEAR TERM AND EXECUTION

OF A RENEWAL AGREEMENT WITH BLUE RIDGE COMMUNICATION, AND AMENDING THE

CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MIDDLE SMITHFIELD, APPENDIX, CHAPTER A203, CABLE

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT, BY ADDING A SECTION A203-2, AUTHORIZING THE

AFORESAID RENEWAL ADOPTED 05/23/2016

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– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads







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Public Works

• Roads

• Recycling/Composting

• Parks and Recreation

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Public Works

•Roads



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Public Works: Roads

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Road Action for 2016

Upper Lakeview Drive Spot pave, tar and chip COMPLETED

Timber Mountain Drive Pave

Marjorie Court Pave

Coolbaugh (Crown Pointe to Park) Tar and Chip COMPLETED

Wooddale Road Tar and Chip COMPLETED

Frutchey Drive Pave (shoulder work & prep complete)

Tego Lake Pave (shoulder work & prep complete)

Besecker Drive Full Pave

Pocono Drive Pave

In 2016, we expect to receive $496,912 in Liquid Fuels funds

from the State (assuming the legislators that we elected to

keep the State running actually come to a budget agreement).

We continue to be ahead of our 10-year Road Improvement Plan

(by every 10 years, each township road will have been re-paved)

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Public Works: Roads: Church Hill

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We continue to be ahead of our 10-year Road Improvement Plan

Spring 2016: Folks from DCNR and

other state agencies came to look at

Church Hill Road to see how we did it!

Church Hill Road

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Public Works: Roads: Church Hill

86 Spring 2016: Folks from DCNR and

other state agencies came to look at

Church Hill Road to see how we did it!

Church Hill Road

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Public Works:

New Equipment/Vehicles

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• Peterbilt J-Hook Vac and Cat 279D Skid Steer (grant)

Purchased a 2016 Peterbilt Dump/Plow/Spreader

Public Works: Roads:

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Frutchey Road Frutchey Road

Drainage Community Drive

In 2016, we received $505,708.60 in Liquid Fuels funds from the State

(we are glad the legislators we elected to keep the State running finally came

to a budget agreement for 2016-2017!)

Public Works: Roads: Freeman Tract Road

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Freeman Tract Road:

Done so well, the state had to see it!

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Spring 2016: John Motts of the Monroe County Conservation District and

Middle Smithfield Township Public Works Department shared their experience

with other road crews.

Public Works: Roads: Pit /Quarry Project

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New Vehicle: Traded 1987 950B

for a 2011 950H Cat Loader

Materials available: Dirty 2-A

modify (dirt with stone less than 1-

1/2 inches)

Clean Fill (shoulder material -

stone which is various sizes from 2

inches to boulders)

Public Works continues to process

their own road building materials

Public Works

• Roads

•Recycling/Composting


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Public Works: Recycling/Composting • Composting

– Update on Oak Grove Facility

• We now own a new Kenworth Crane/Hook Truck and a

stacker conveyer which was received from Coolbaugh

Township.

• We applied for a processing facility grant on behalf of the

Oak Grove Board to obtain the Beast, turner and blacktop.

• -Leaf Pick Up:

• Fall, 10/24 – 11/18 (4 weeks)

• Installed a shed, electric, paved and sold 3 Commercial

Permits

• Leaf Collection in HOA’s

– Implementing Community brush and leaf pick up

– HOA’s, particularly Lake of the Pines and Mountain

Top have done an exceptional job of leaf collection/recycling

• Recycling: Spring Clean Up Enhancements

• Clean Up: Friday & Saturday, October 7th & 8th

• Free-Cycle! We’ll also accept books, used furniture, household

items and clothing!

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Public Works: Recycling

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Public Works: Recycling/Composting • Composting http://ogmmcpb.com/

Grand Opening May 11, 2015 –

INCREASING IN POPULARITY!!

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Waste Received Brush Chips Leaves Total Yards

January 356 yards 120 yards 11 yards 487

February 338 yards 260 yards - 598

March 530 yards - 110 yards 640

April 511 yards 132 yards 184 yards 827

May 658 yards - 235 yards 893

June 580 yards 80 yards 88 yards 748

Total 2,973 yards 592 yards 628 yards 4,193

Product Distributed Ground Mulch Compost Chips Total

556 yards 144 yards - 640

http://ogmmcpb.com/

Public Works

• Roads


•Parks and Recreation

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Public Works: Parks & Recreation

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2016 Projects:

In 2015, we established “Capital Improvements Funds” which

will be used to enhance our parks, infrastructure, and other

township property, HOWEVER, grants are pending for these

projects:

• Leroy Lane Dog Park– Restrooms are anticipated to be

added (for the Dog Owners) We didn’t get the LSA grant.

– Echo Lake Park– New playground equipment will be

professionally installed along with portable restrooms and

fencing; post and rail borders DONE! (except the porta pottie

upgrade. See note above. )

– Community Gardens – Plans are being conceptualized

for “Phase 2 – Gardens to Inspire and Educate” with a shade

gazebo, separate picnic pavilion with grills and possible

walking trail. Playground, picnic tables and grills – DONE!

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– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads






– Parks & Recreation and Litter & Beautification

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Public: committees

Commit for a year – or just a project or event !

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– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads







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Public: Economic Development Committee

Mission

• To be a resource for the business community:

– Growing and supporting local business

– Marketing existing businesses and the community

– Attracting new businesses that will be complementary to our

existing base

• To create a stable and viable economic foundation:

– Advocacy for businesses

– Collaboration

– Education of both public (e.g., Shop Local) and Business (e.g.,

advertising seminars)

– Information 100

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Vision

• MSTEDC will create a diverse business

community that is prosperous and innovative

while built on a stable economic foundation.

• MST will be a community that facilitates

growth while preserving its tourist friendly

identity and natural resources for future

generations. 101

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2016 Goals

• Since LERTA was completed in 2015, attract

new business and educate existing businesses

• Identify key businesses the community desires

• Expand Shop Local: discount cards, etc.

Attract new businesses to the area

• Get involved with Vision 2030 for Monroe

County and Delaware Water Gap

• Increase community feel; Facebook, WhereMST

app, events – Side path project! 102

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2016 Goals Accomplished so far:

• Since LERTA was completed in 2015, attract new business and

educate existing businesses

• Identify key businesses Done! (But ongoing) Answers to the survey of residents has given our team focus

(light industrial, department/clothing, pet supply, school

supply/sporting, office supply, hardware/ home improvement

supply, etc.)

• Expand Shop Local: Done! (But ongoing) May Mastodon

Madness, Restaurant Week expanded: ?Loyalty cards?

• Get involved with Vision 2030 for Monroe County and

Delaware Water Gap (e.g., Small Business Committee

• Increase community feel; Facebook, WhereMST app, events

– Side path project!

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2016 Goals Accomplished so far:

Ongoing: Outreach to Commercial Realtors to

explain LERTA program, & Zoning Products

Spring of 2016:

• Michael Baxter & Associates

• The Daniel Perich Group/KW Commercial

• Pocono Mountain Association of Realtors

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Speaking of LERTA and

new businesses . . .

WELCOME:

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WELCOME: • Theresa’s Lake View Bar & Grill - Owner Theresa Butler

• Harjaap Chatha - Bought Four Seasons Diner

• George Strunk - Bought the Quick Stop Sunoco

• CasaCulinarian.com -

• The Fruit Shack –

• Little Home Boutique –

• Retro Fitness

• Blue Ridge Winery

• Pub 570 (new beer house & meals to go)

• Pocono Springs Camp

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http://casaculinarian.com/




WE LOOK FORWARD to some folks on the

horizon . . .

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Public: Economic Development: Restaurant Week

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Goals:

•Build awareness of

eateries

•Increase traffic to

eateries during their

“slow” time of year

•Get people to try new places, new dishes

A dozen eateries participated

with a “dining deal” for the week.


New & Improved:

Kick-Off: opening reception at Whispering

Pines on Friday, April 8 showcasing restaurants

and their signature dishes

•Pocono Photo Club Photo Exhibit with a

“Focus on Food” theme

•Blue Ridge Winery paired their wines with

the signature dishes; they also did a full wine

tasting

We were filled to capacity! Event ran long!

No one wanted to leave! 109

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THANK YOU:

To the Restaurants who fed our residents,

gratis, at the Kick-Off! • Big A Grillehouse

• Giuseppe’s Pizza & Pasta

• La Rosa’s Pizzeria

• Miggy’s Deli & Mini Market

• Pub 570

• Royal Asian Buffet

• Tom X Pub

• Werry’s Pub

• Wintergreens Bar & Grill

Public: Economic Development:

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Goals:

•Scavenger hunt to drive traffic into MST

stores and special places

•Build awareness of the Marshalls Creek

Mastodon

•Joint effort between the township and the

Eastern Monroe Public Library

•Collaborative effort of Township’s

Economic Development and Historical

Committees

May Mastodon Madness:


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How it Worked:

•Each child received a clue card (from one of the

Smithfield Libraries, MST building, or download online)

•Visit each business on the clue card, have

card stamped, collect toy dinosaur

•Bring completed clue card; attend Kiwanis

Story Time at Hughes Library for prizes

•Prizes donated by the Bushkill Group (Pocono

TreeVentures, Blue Lighting, etc.)


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– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads







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Public: Historical Commission

Mission:

• Identify sites: significant architectural, historical, and natural

sites in Middle Smithfield Township and maintain a detailed

inventory and map(s) of these historic resources including

informational data appropriately classified;

• Create an awareness of the history of the Township from the

native Americans to the present day, including their cultural,

agricultural, business, educational, and religious endeavors;

• Research and record the history of Middle Smithfield

Township and serve as an advisory resource for owners of

historic sites involved with preservation and/or restoration;

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Mission: (cont’d)

• prepare appropriate reports

• cooperate with and advise the Board of Supervisors, the Township Planning Commission, and all Township

officials and agencies in relation to the preservation and restoration of

significant historical structures, sites, and natural features including the review of zoning and/or

subdivision/land development proposals and building/demolition permit applications which have the potential

to impact on historical resources;

• GRANTS: consider, promote, and with the approval of the Board of Supervisors, apply for

technical and financial assistance from all appropriate local, county.

state, federal, and other agencies in the preservation of significant architectural, natural, and historic sites

within Middle Smithfield Township and report all related action to the Board of Supervisors;

• prepare and submit an annual report at year’s end as well as a yearly agenda and

budget to the Board of Supervisors for sums deemed necessary to carry out the objectives;

• cooperate with and advise Township officials regarding the possible acquisition and use

of significant historic structures and sites, including their

research and nomination to the National Register of Historic Places in accordance with the provisions of the

National Historical Preservation Act of 1966, as amended;

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Public: Historical Commission 2016 Goals

• Expand membership/ Public Interest (it’s working!)

• 2017 Historical Commission Calendar

• Create a photo archive for historical sites and

buildings within Middle Smithfield Township

• Particularly National Park Service list of

properties in the DWG area to be razed,

• Memory Makers: Poconos Resorts

• Marshall’s Creek Mastodon Marker installed

and dedicated

• Apply for more Historical Markers

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Expand Public Interest:

Lake of the Pines, once known as Sunnybrook

Farms, is the subject of this old aerial

photograph.

Lake of the Pines Board Members Stacey Goetz interested in their

past accepted this large photo, to hang in their clubhouse,

from Township Supervisors at a recent meeting.

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Historical Commission Another exciting year:

• 2016 with Memory Makers

• Mastodon Foot Historical Marker

• Mastodon Foot loaned to Library

• May Mastodon Madness

• newest appointed Historical

Commission member Marie Summa

• 2017 Middle Smithfield Calendar

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Mastodon Historical Marker

Dedication on (or about)

Fossil Day The Historical Marker for the

Mastodon was installed on April 29,

2016, near its excavation site. The

Marshall’s Creek Mastodon remains

were first discovered by John W.

Leap, his wife Claire Leap, and his

employee Paul Strausser on July 5th

1965. The Township in conjunction

with the National Park Service will

have an official unveiling of the marker

on National Fossil Day, October 12th.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRxqFQoTCITF85e88cYCFYQZPgod_8cA3Q&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.middlesmithfieldtownship.com%2Ftownshiphistory.htm&ei=EfuwVcT4EoSz-AH_j4PoDQ&bvm=bv.98476267,d.cWw&psig=AFQjCNFsUQta0yiyzmVXEuygsrUKlM1BCQ&ust=1437748353186141

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• The Mastodon foot replica was on display at the Monroe

County Public Library in Stroudsburg during March-May. Both

local residents and county residents were pleased to have an

opportunity to visit the library and not only see the replica on

display, but also to learn more about the Mastodon discovery.

• The Township in conjunction with the Historical Commission

has been researching possible sites in Middle Smithfield

Township that historical markers can be placed. Some of the

sites that are being reviewed are:

• Middle Smithfield Presbyterian Church

• Pocono Indian Museum/Coolbaugh Mansion

• Wesley Chapel

• More sites are being considered and the Historical Commission

members are excited that some of these historical sites will be

marked.

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Historical Commission MEMORY MAKERS:

Saturday, August 20th at Pocono Palace

The theme will be on historical events of local resorts such as the

Hillside Inn. This year’s guest speaker will be Dr. Lawrence

Squeri, author of Better in the Poconos.

Skytop Lodge

Dr. Squeri is a retired

Professor of History of

East Stroudsburg

University. He is the

author of numerous

articles and co-author

of the book Pride and

Promise: A Centennial

History of East

Stroudsburg University

(1993).

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Historical Commission MEMORY MAKERS:

Saturday, August 20th at Pocono Palace

Dr. Squeri’s presentation will be based on his research of our

local resorts history. Middle Smithfield Township along with their

Historical Commission hopes to see our local Memory Makers

residents; invitations will be sent out soon!

The Kittatinny

Hotel


– Administration

– Human Resources

– Communications


– Sewer

– Golf

– Zoning

– Planning

– Engineering

– Legal

• Public Works

– Roads







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Public: Parks & Recreation

Mission:

• Retain enough open space for citizen use.

• Maintain the beauty and character of the areas.

• Provide safe havens for the Pocono’s signature wildlife.

• Provide safe havens for native flora in natural habitat.

• Provide clean park environments.

• Provide well-equipped parks.

• Maintain full functioning park equipment and facilities.

• Assist community groups in recreation activities/events.

• Maintain fiscally sound park operations and management.

• Provide safe, open space environments for residents 126

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Completed 2016 Projects:

• Judy Putek Memorial Park on Municipal Drive

• Old fence removed, now open for nature walks and improvements

• Echo Lake Park on Milford Road

• Playground installed in March, officially opened on May 22

• Veterans Memorial completed and dedicated by Eagle Scout on May 22

• Dog Park at Leroy’s Lane

• Eagle Scout project – flag, benches, landscaping, completed July 8

• Community Gardens Park on Coolbaugh Road

• Playground installed in March

• Official ribbon cutting held on June 4

• Increased number of raised beds from 33 in 2015 to 77 in 2016

• Shared tool shed completed by Eagle Scout

• Classes by Penn State Master Gardeners

• Resica Park on Gravel Ridge Road

• 9th Annual Egg-stravaganza held on March 19

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2016 Park Pavilion Rentals:

• 31 total pavilion rentals:

• Resica Park on Gravel Ridge Road

• 14 pavilion rentals so far this year

• Echo Lake Park on Milford Road

• 17 pavilion rentals so far this year

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Several of the rentals are by non-profit groups including: • Resica Elementary School

• Pocono Head Start

• The Young and the Rest of Us

• The Knights of Columbus

• Faith International Church

• Family of God Church

• Reformed Church of Bushkill


Pokemon in the Pokenos!

• Posting on Facebook to encourage

people to visit the parks to play Pokemon Go

• GetS people to explore our parks

• A safe environment to play the game

• Ask people to post photos of the

Pokemon they have found in our parks

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9th

Annual Egg-stravaganza at Resica Park


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New playgrounds

installed at Echo Lake and

Community Gardens Parks


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Community Gardens Park officially

opened with ribbon cutting ceremony,

June 4.

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Good things are growing in

Middle Smithfield Township!


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2016 Eagle Scout Projects:

– Flag Pole at Dog Park, by Dustin Diaz

– Veterans Memorial at Echo Lake Park, by Joe

Schuon

– Tool Shed at Community Gardens Park, by James

Senholzi

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Dog Park Flag Pole

Dustin Diaz has “embarked” on a new

flag pole, seating area and landscaping.

After fundraising this spring, Dustin

finished his project on July 8.


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Echo Lake Park Veterans Memorial Joe Schuon completed a veteran’s memorial at the park adjacent to

the flag pole. The memorial includes placards for each branch of

the service and a monument to all that served our country. A

dedication ceremony was organized by Schuon on May 22.

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2016 Eagle Scout Projects

Community Gardens Tool Shed

James Senholzi, completed his tool shed for the

Community Gardens, where it is being used for storage

of garden tools and other gardening equipment. Thank

you to Steve Stoltzfus of R&G Services for helping to

move the shed to the park.

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Public: Litter & Beautification

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Streetscaping: Milford Road

We’ve been working on Streetscaping Route 209

(Our Main Street)

In 2015, we have worked with PennDOT, business

owners, and our Parks & Rec/L&B committee and

made much needed improvements.

Our goal for 2016 is to install new side paths, along with

the associated ADA improvements and intersection

improvements, at five locations to help further the

Township’s vision for a comprehensive, integrated, and

connected pedestrian environment to help our citizens get

where they need to go.

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Side path

Project

2016:

Multimodal

Transportation

Grant

Resolution #

12-2015-3


Now

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We’ve been working with property owners on our Main

Street and have successfully removed several eyesores.

The white school bus at the entrance of our township has

been relocated off 209, with the mobile home soon to be

demolished, and evergreen plantings to take root.

Our rock hardscaping along 209 is appreciated by all except

the tractor trailer drivers.

You may also have noticed the old stone house next to Pub

570 is also undergoing a clean up (stay tuned for another

“New Business in MST” announcement!)

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Get involved! Get engaged!

Invest in our community

Encourage business growth

Leaders in municipal government

MST Means Business!

Middle Smithfield 2016

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Questions? Comments?

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Middle Smithfield Township Midyear Report 2016 · 2017-03-08 · Midyear Report 2016 July 14 ......

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Transcript of Middle Smithfield Township Midyear Report 2016 · 2017-03-08 · Midyear Report 2016 July 14 ......