Jeff Warren A Bad Choice For Hanover Tp

Once upon a time, people who ran for local office would first spend years in their community doing volunteer work. They were true volunteers, and brought that spirit with them when they became public servants. They were involved in their community, and you could see and talk to them at Fall Festivals and National Nights Out. Two such people are John Diacogiannis and Steve Salvesen, who are seeking re-election to their seats in Hanover Township. Unfortunately, there's also a new breed of politician who have no sense of community. These people are driven by nothing more than raw political ambition. One such person is Jeff Warren. He's running against these true public servants.

Warren is a former legislative aide to State Senator Lisa Boscola. It appears that his specialty was drinking. In addition to being charged by Washington, D.C. police, he was cited again in 2010 after being stopped by Hellertown police with a 0.18 blood alcohol content. He was admitted into a special program for first offenders because his records at the U.S. Capital mysteriously vanished.

At the time of the Hellertown charges, Warren was a member of Easton City Council. When a police detective was charged with drunken driving, Warren argued public servants need to be held to a higher standard. He never applied that logic to himself.

Incidentally, he bought his seat on Easton City Council. When he ran in 2007, he raised more money than all other candidates, including even the mayoral hopefuls Sal Panto and Mike Fleck. Only $300 of the money he raised came from actual Easton residents. The rest was from developers and other special interests. He spent $14.90 per vote compared to 8 cents by Ken Brown.

When he left Easton City Council in 2014, he went to work for one of those special interests, Gilmore and Ass'ts Engineering. He lasted there for three years.

Now he's a political consultant and also does podcasts about Philly sports.

He's treating his race for Hanover Townshiip Supervisor as though he's running for Congress, getting endorsements from NorCo Exec Lamont McClure and, of course, the Lehigh Valley Labor Council.

He has complained about potholes in Hanover Township,which prompted Township Manager Jay Finnigan to ask where they are. He also wants lower taxes in a township that has held the line on tax increases for 13 years straight. He claims to be a long-time resident, but has only lived in the Township for five years.

He shot a video on primary day from inside the polling place at Asa Packer Elementary, which is illegal.

He is allied with a group interested in building several three-story apartment buildings in Hanover Tp.

Finally, after he announced, he was slapped with a municipal lien on March 28 for $642.50 by Hanover Tp. (2019-ML-2635). This was quickly paid off, but is yet another indication he cares little about the community he claims to want to serve.

Hanover Tp (NC) Asked to Endorse Redistricting Reform

Terry Schettini pitches redistricting reform in Hanover Tp

Hanover Tp (Northampton County) Supervisors have been asked to join 19 counties and over 250 cities, townships and boroughs to fight for redistricting reform in Harrisburg. About 20 people from Fair Districts Pa. filled the municipal building June 26 to complain about the gerrymander.

Fair Districts Pa describes itself as a "nonpartisan, citizen-led, statewide coalition working to create a process for redistricting that is transparent, impartial, and fair."

Resident Cecil Blocker, wearing a Fair District Pa. T-shirt, was very blunt. "My vote won't count in the coming election," he complained. He explained that he is a Democrat in State Rep. Marcia Hahn's Legislative District, and that his vote will never count because her boundaries are gerrymandered to ensure she has solid Republican support. "Her District looks like a fat 'I' with warts," he lamented.

A bill that would end gerrymandering and replace it with a independent citizen commission has cleared the state senate, but Hahn has yet to sponsor any of the bills under consideration in the House. Her opponent in November's election, Bethlehem School Director Dean Donaher, supports an independent citizen commission.

Hanover Township resident Jean Shenk, who met with Hahn, said she was told no one seemed that concerned about the gerrymander. Hahn did agree to poll constituents in newsletters, and Shenk claimed that 70% of those responding do consider redistricting reform an issue. "This isn't a ninth grade civics lesson that you forgot about a long time ago," said Shenk.

In addition to the remarks made by Shenk and Blocker, Supervisors heard a brief presentation from Fair District Pa.'s Terry Schettini. He told them that gerrymandering has led to the current gridlock in Harrisburg, and this prevents local government from serving their community.

He also pointed out gerrymandering is a double-edged sword, and that Democrats could just as easily manipulate the process as Republicans.

Time is running short on redistricting reform. This must be approved by voter referendum, and before that can happen,the state legislature must pass a law calling for a referendum in two consecutive sessions. If this fails to happen this year, it will be toolate because the next census is in 2020. Redistricting reform will have to wait another ten years for the 2030 census.

In the Lehigh Valley, resolutions supporting redistricting reform have passed in Lehigh and Nortampton Counties, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Coopersburg, Lower Macungie, Lowhill, Lynn, Macungie, North Whitehall, South Whitehall, Upper Milford,Upper Saucon, Washington, Weisenberg, Whitehall, Bethlehem Tp and Williams.

Supervisors were provided a sample resolution to consider, but took no action.

In other business, Public Works director Vince Milite reported that is being repaved. Macada Road is next, after the July 4 holiday.

Manager Jay Finnigan said he will soon be seeking proposals for an update to the Township's comprehensive plan, which should cost between $50,000-80,000.

The next scheduled meeting for Township Supervisors is on Tuesday, July 8, at the municipal building on Jacksonville Rd, starting at 7 pm. Supervisors only meet once in July.

Hanover Tp Welcomes New Supervisor

On Monday night, Hanover Township welcomed Susan Lawless as its newest Supervisor. She and John Nagle, who was re-elected in November, were administered the oath of office by Judge Emil Giordano. Some sources claim that Nagle had his fingers crossed.

Lawless is actually pretty lawful. She's a partner in the Florio Perrucci law firm, and is a highly regarded litigator.

Above you can see members of the Hanover Township Board of Supervisors with Judge Emil Giordano. From left to right, they are Vice Chairman Michael Prendeville, newly elected Susan Lawless, Esq., Judge Giordano, Chairman John Diacogiannis, Stephen Salvesen and John Nagle.

Hanover Tp Thanks First Responders With a Park

 First Responders Park is the product of the efforts of, from left to right, Supervisors John Diacogiannis, Michael Prendeville, Mark Tanczos and Jack Nagle, as well as Manager Jay Finnigan. Supervisor Steve Salvesen was unable to attend. 

Numerous Lehigh Valley municipalities think pretty poorly of your own need for public safety. Many of them have no police, choosing to let you wait for the time it takes Pennsylvania State Police to respond to what could be a life-and-death emergency. You could live in Bath Borough,which has scheduled a special Town hall. Or you could live in Allentown, whose fire engines are breaking down because Mayor Edwin "Fed Ed" Pawlowski slashed their operating budget by 65.52% since 2008. That's just a tragedy waiting to happen. But things are different in Hanover Township, which is blessed with excellent police, fire and emergency medical protection. Instead of ignoring or maligning them, Hanover Township thanked its first responders on Saturday with a park named after them.

A large contingent of Colonial Regional officers came,including retired Chhief Dan Spang.  

Supervisor Michel Prendeville came up with the name for this park, which was built almost entirely with grant money.

Firefighters, cops and EMS personnel pose together. The white-shirted man in the center is
Joseph Moser,a 48-year veteran of the Hanover Tp Volunteer Fire Co.  

As the park was being dedicated, sirens wailed all over because first responders were spending their Saturday morning drilling for a hospital disaster that hopefully will never happen.

Prendeville's stirring words:

"Thank you for turning towards things that most people turn from. Thank you for bringing and maintaining order in times of chaos. Thank you for providing compassion for complete strangers in a time of dire need. Thank you for making the world a better place. Thank you for being role models. Thank you for the countless hours of training and education. Thank you for protecting us. Thank you for making us feel safe. Thank you for providing service above self. There is no greater contribution to society than to be in the service of others."

Colonial Regional Police Chief Roy Seiple said that, unlike many other communities, Hanover Township has always gone out of its way to make first responders feel welcome. "The last few years have been very difficult for men and women in law enforcement," said Seiple. "Officers have been preyed upon at an alarming rate." In the midst of all the controversy over police nationwide, Chief Seiple said he arrived at work one morning to see the yellow line replaced with a black and blue line painted in the road outside of the police station.

Jim Millot is the Township Engineer who turned this dream into reality, on time
and under budget. He always claimed he was"on target," which became a running
joke for Supervisors.But it is an apt description of township governance.  

That was Prendeville's idea, too.

Seiple thanked the people of Hanover Township

After the event was over, Finnigan told me first responders will be able to visit the park for free.

So will every one else.

He also told me the Township is considering naming something after me - a dumpster.

The colors of Colonial Regional and Hanover Tp Volunteer firefighters are unfurled. 

Hanover: Two More Big Boxes Planned Along Jaindl Blvd

PennDOT improvements planned along Schoenersville Road

After hearing Hanover Township resident Lorna Rossnagle complain about "extremely disruptive" truck traffic along Jaindl Boulevard, Hanover Tp Supervisors last night heard that developer J.G. Petrucci is planning to build two more big boxes along the same road. Kevin Horvath, P.E., representing Petrucci, presented plans for two flex warehouses (99,000 sq ft and 94,300 sq ft), which he said would be 70% warehouse and 30% light industrial. Supervisors unanimously agreed to consolidate three tracts into one 16.3 acre lot, but the development itself is only in the initial stages.

Residents of Traditions of America, through a spokesperson (I neglected to ask his name), expressed concerns about the noise from truck traffic that already exists along Jaindl Boulevard, which is made worse when trucks go over storm drains. In addition to noise, they are concerned that the larger building will seem higher because it will be built along a higher elevation. The berm in that area is only 2' high and will do little to reduce noise, he observed.

Steve Salvesen said that they will consider these concerns as development progresses, but Township Manager Jay Finnigan warned that if the plan submitted complies with local ordinances, there is little that can be done. "It is what it is," he cautioned.

Michael Prendeville to donate funds to library
for kindle raffle to increase usage

Township engineer Brien R. Kocher later explained that there are sumps at curbs, and if a truck goes into them, it's going to make a loud noise. Finnigan told Supervisors that there's a perception that a large truck is going faster than it actually is,noting he will get complaints about township trucks driving at high rates of speed when GPS shows they are under the speed limit. A truck inspection officer regularly patrols the area.

In other business, Supervisors and residents alike heard from PennDOT on intersection improvements along Schonersville Road, between Eighth Avenue and Stoke Park Road, planned for next Spring.

In a less controversial matter, Supervisors voted to approve a conditional use application by Lehigh Valley Academy for an expansion of their school at 1650 Valley Center Parkway.

Michael Prendeville also reported to fellow Supervisors on a recent visit he had with Bethlehem Area Public Library, in which Hanover Township is a participant. "It's a very difficult industry to be in," he said, explaining that advancing technology presents challenges to a library. He notes that one thing the library does, and does very well, is provide services to children. This includes homework assistance. In order to promote membership and usage by Hanover township residents, he will be donating money to the library for a raffle of kindles to new township users.

Solid Privacy Fence OK With Hanover's ZHB

There's been a lot of talk about building a wall, a really big one, in the Presidential race. But locally, people are more concerned about fences. Privacy fences. At their April 14 meeting, Hanover Township's Zoning Hearing Board unanimously decided to grant Brian and Gina Kutz a variance that will enable them to build a solid privacy fence at their property at 4408 Tracey Lane.

Though the zoning ordinance permits only see-through fences, Solicitor Ted Lewis noted that it permits residents to build walls, really big ones (six feet high). He questioned why a wall is permitted, but a solid fence is banned.

The Kutz' fence, which will be 208' long and six feet high, will connect to a neighbor next door who had a fence before the Zoning ordinance took effect.

Kutz explained that, in addition to privacy, the fence will buffer some of the noise from traffic. The fence is inside of landscaping he already has planted.

No one opposed this request.

Hanover Tp Director of Administration Receives Major Award

Ryan Kish receives Major Award from Vince Milite

Hanover Township Director of Administration Ryan P. Kish was presented with a Major Award by Public Works Director Vince Milite during the March 10 Supervisors' meeting. Kish was presented with a plaque and handshake for "satisfactory completion of snow operations" during some recent storms.

Milite was in a bind because his road crew was two men short, when Manager Jay Finnigan volunteered Kish to hit the road, plowing away in his wing tips. "No mailboxes were knocked down," reported Finnigan.

Kish, who had never driven anything larger than a Volkswagon, was still quite elated.

"Kids waved at me. Adults, too!" he gushed.

"Are you sure that was waving?" Milite asked.

Milite told Supervisors that this year, the Township spent $125,428.74 for snow removal operations on the Township's 63 miles of roads. That's significantly less than the $180,385.00 spent last year. The primary reason for this is that gas and diesel fuel is significantly cheaper this year.

New Snow Emergency in Hanover Tp, Easton

Hanover Township - Hanover Tp (Northampton) announces a Snow Emergency effective at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2014 through 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2014.

Easton - via Mayor Sal Panto - SNOW EMERGENCY GOES INTO EFFECT TONIGHT AT 9PM IN THE CITY OF EASTON. The resident on these main roads will need to move their cars for proper plowing. The city parking garage will be open for free all night until tomorrow morning. This is posted now to try and give as much notice as possible. Yesterday's snow emergency required no cars to be towed. Thank you for your cooperation and thank you to all of the public works, police and fire employees for doing a great job.

Stray Dog Problem Eludes Hanover Tp

A bucket truck arrives in Hanover Township

Though Northampton County has a growing animal control problem, it has thus far eluded Hanover Township. According to Township Manager Jay Finnigan, only five strays were picked up in 2012, and the Township was able to find homes for them all. Four of those five dogs were a pit bull breed.

"We've been lucky," said Finnigan at Supervisors' September 10 meeting. "It's a huge problem," he conceded.

While on the topic of dogs, Finnigan reminded everyone that FreshPet is hosting a September 14 movie night at the Township Park, featuring "Hotel for Dogs." In addition to free FreshPet samples, there will be a K-9 demonstration, Search and Rescue dogs and therapy dogs galore.

"Finnigan must have forgotten that dogs are banned in the park," mumbled Public Works Director Vince Milite, who also doubles as Animal Control Officer. He'll look the other way.

In other business, Milite reported that he's finally taken possession of a one-ton bucket truck that will enable his 13 employees to replace lights and install banners as needed.

Supervisors also heard from Cherry Avenue resident Paul Gerra, who is concerned about the marketing of airport land near his property. "We know what you know," explained Supervisor Glenn Walbert, who told Gerra there are no plans or discussions with the Township concerning that property.

Village View Park Construction Imminent

Engineer William Erdman  discusses SMI Billboard

Hanover Township's plans for a 25-acre park on the east side of Airport Road are about to become reality. Village View Park, first unveiled to Supervisors last year, will include four playing fields for soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. Two larger fields (108,000 sq ft each) can be used for professional and international events. The other two (75,600 sq ft each) are large enough for high school and NCAA games. Each of the fields can also be divided for youth tournaments.

There will also room for 210-220 parking spaces.

USA Soccer has approached Township officials, and is interested in funding some of the improvements at the site. Open space money from Northampton County, a gaming grant from Monroe County and land donations from the Lehigh Valley International Airport is what makes this park possible. Manager Jay Finnigan hopes eventually to extend the park to Weaversville Road, East Allen Township's Bicentennial Park and the five-mile long Nor-Bath Trail.

At their August 27 meeting, Supervisors unanimously approved a $835,452.94 construction contract with Livengood Excavators the low bidder on the project. Asked for a timetable, Public Works Director Vince Milite responded, "Quickly." He expects the park to be ready next Spring.

In other business, Supervisors unanimously approved a conditional use application for a 146.9 sq ft billboard near Route 22, requested by Specialty Minerals Inc (SMI). The billboard will be lit up at night by two spotlights, and is designed only to market the company.

Leon Nigohohosian, in house counsel, testified that Specialty Minerals, Inc is a division of Minerals Technologies, a billion dollar corporation. Marketing, Research & Development and counsel are based at the Highland Avenue facility.

"We're trying to get a corporate identity," he explained. "People do not know who we are, what we do."

William A Erdman, from Keystone Engineers, assured Supervisors that the sign, located in the middle of an industrial park, will have no impact on any residences.

SMI, represented by Easton Attorney Steven N. Goudsouzian, already obtained a permit from PennDOT for the red and black non-reflective sign that will only be visible from the highway.

Finally, in response to a flood of emails and phone calls, Manager Jay Finnigan announced that "Trick-or-Treat Night this year will take place on Friday, October 25. "We might have to start scheduling this at our reorganization meetings in January," he joked.

Bethlehem's Loss Is Hanover's Weight Gain

Sticky buns. Whoopie pies. Chocolate peanut butter mousse bombs.

Believe it or not, that's what you'll find at Vegan Treats, currently located at 1444 Linden Street in Bethlehem. But sadly for Bethlehem sweet tooths, this popular vegan baker is moving to a larger, 16,557 sq. ft., shop at 310 Stoke Park Road in Hanover Township.

Representing owner Danielle Konya before Hanover Township supervisors on January 25 in a "conditional use" hearing, Bethlehem Attorney Joe Piperato gave the most compelling argument for giving Danielle whatever she wants.

"Has anyone here ever been to Danielle's location?" asked Piperato.

"No, we don't eat sticky buns," lied Township Manager Jay Finnigan.

"It's right by the, the ... "

"... the Cup," answered several Hanover Supervisors.

Konya, who expects to employ 10 bakers in the back of her store and 2 out front, told Supervisors her business is "bursting at the seams" in Bethlehem, and needs the larger location available in Hanover Township. In addition to her retail operation, she ships cakes to restaurants in New York City and Philadelphia.

Her vegan products avoid heavy cream, butter and eggs, containing about 30% less fat than in other products. "You wouldn't know the difference in the taste buds," she promised.

Hanover Supervisors will decide whether to grant Vegan Treats' conditional use application at their February 8 meeting.

In other business, Supervisors unanimously approved the purchase of two 1-ton Chevy trucks at a price of $31,699.56, from Penske Buick GMC. Both rucks will be upgraded with a snow plow, dump body and hydraulics at a cost of $26,200 for one truck and $22,98 for the other. These trucks are part of the budget approved last year.

At the end of the meeting, Township Manager Jay Finnigan announced he has been re-elected Chair of the Northampton County Gaming Authority. "Our condolences," wisecraked Solicitor James Broughal.