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Nazareth, Pa., United States

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Bethlehem Tp Asks: What Mandamus Action?

Earlier this month, I reported a mandamus action filed against Bethlehem Township by Traditions of America. According to the lawsuit, filed October 11, Township engineer Pidcock Company has been actively engaged in what can only be described as a shakedown of the Green Pond active senior community developer. Traditions, which has an approved plan and all the necessary permits, wants the Township to engage the previously appointed back-up engineer while the dispute with Pidcock is resolved. Township Commissioners and Pidcock, decline to comment on the pending litigation. But Solicitor Jim Broughal has an interesting observation. The Township has yet to be served.

This is no fault of Traditions. On the day the action was filed, an Order of Service went to Sheriff Rich Johnston. But ten days later, he has failed to serve the complaint.

This is inexcusable.

Service of process is a core function of the Sheriff's Department.

It's not as though the Township is hiding.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

He's been way too busy working on Commissioner Hudaks 4 driving offenses he was charged with on October 6th!

Anonymous said...

It's exciting to watch government inaction.

I'm certain it's a misunderstanding. The sheriff should have the opportunity to publish his and his department's daily schedule/log to show the duties he properly prioritized. Go ahead Sheriff. We're here to listen.

Anonymous said...

What kind of person doesn't render aid?

Anonymous said...

This can't be possible. McClure runs the County with such perfection. Ha Ha

Anonymous said...

There have been bad sheriffs in Northampton County, also a few good ones. This sheriff leaves a lot to be desired. He isn't the worst sheriff but he is far from the best. Morale in the rank and file is low and his own deputies do not speak of him in a positive manner. It's a shame, because he is a very nice person. There is definitely something wrong there. Either his deputies hate leadership with change, or maybe they see something we don't. Is it because his administrative rules are holding them accountable and he expects a days work for a days pay?

Bernie O'Hare said...

"What kind of person doesn't render aid?"

We do not know the facts. I will wait for the hearing.

Bernie O'Hare said...

". There is definitely something wrong there. Either his deputies hate leadership with change, or maybe they see something we don't. Is it because his administrative rules are holding them accountable and he expects a days work for a days pay?"

No, it is because he is a control freak who believes every piece of constructive criticism is a challenge to his authority. This is a man who should know what it is like to be bullied, and he is now doing exactly what happened to him. I am extremely disappointed in this choice for Sheriff.

Anonymous said...

I miss Sheriff Dave. What a good man.

Anonymous said...

Where's Jeff Hawbecker when we need him.