LACROFT - The Liverpool Township Board of Trustees discussed the need for upward wage adjustments of township employees at their regular meeting Monday evening. Board Chairman Karl "Butch" Kontnier said that the township had been unable to provide wage increases for its employees over the past several years, chiefly due to insurance concerns. He stated that people have asked him about how much township employees pay into their health insurance. "They pay a considerable amount because they do it through not getting raises for several years," he said. Kontnier assured those in attendance however, that it would be a priority following the township's chip and seal road work.
Trustee Keith Burke announced a modification to the township's agreement with FirstEnergy Solutions that would raise the savings rate of township residents from three to eight percent and moved to amend the formal agreement with FirstEnergy to reflect the change. The board unanimously accepted the amendment.
Fire Chief Mike Bahlen addressed trustees with concerns about the condition of the department's pair of aging squad trucks, which are 1984 and 1986 models, respectively. Bahlen said he hoped to take action on the matter soon, given the length of time it would take, from deciding on which trucks to purchase and placing bids to taking delivery of the vehicles. Kontnier replied that he agreed with Bahlen's assessment, but said trustees needed to settle other matters before moving forward on that issue.
Melissa Taylor of Brighton Avenue in Dixonville spoke before council requesting that a ditch be dug in front of her home towards the installation of new drainage pipe. She stated that she and her husband have already purchased the pipe, which they hope will mitigate flooding on their property. "It's really eroding our front yard," she said. Kontnier said that the road department is currently busy preparing for the upcoming county chip and seal program in the township, scheduled to begin May 8, but following that, road foreman Bill Hutchman would be available to assist them.
In other news:
* Police Chief Charlie Burgess announced that he had received a letter of resignation from Joe Rayle, a part-time officer with the police department. Council unanimously approved the resignation, effective April 28.
* Kontnier announced a reminder that the township will hold a used tire collection from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 12 at the township garage on Digman Alley. There is a 10-tire limit per household, and only automobile and light truck tires will be accepted.
The next trustees meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, May 14.
