To begin the June 1 virtual meeting of North Whitehall supervisors, township Manager Christopher Garges and the board welcomed Caleb Muñoz as the municipality’s summer intern.

In other matters, Secretary Brenda Norder noted the township office will be closed July 3 in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

For new business, supervisors approved a land development waiver request from two sections of the township’s SALDO regarding plan submissions for land developments for the Binny Mart addition at 4473 Mauch Chunk Road.

This is subject to three conditions regarding PennDOT requirements, SEO confirmation and stormwater management plans.

Attorney Daniel Dougherty, speaking on behalf of Ishika Realty, said under the SALDO any building expansions over 2,000 square feet would be considered land development, however, the planned Binny Mart expansion is only 1,500 square feet.

He also noted the plan has gone before the planning commission, which had recommended approval.

Supervisors authorized distribution of recreation funding to youth associations per recommendations from the recreation board.

This included $3,000 to North Parkland Athletic Association, $5,000 to Ormrod Playground Association, $5,000 to Laurys Athletic Association, $4,500 to Schnecksville Playground Association, $3,000 to Orefield Athletic Association and $1,500 to Neffs Playground Association.

Garges also noted the Schnecksville Playground Association has a shed on township property in need of maintenance.

The association has agreed to pay up to $1,000 for materials for the township to install, and the actual funding distribution would be the difference between $4,500 and material costs.

Supervisors also approved a reduction in the letter of credit for The Ridings at Parkland development per a recommendation from township engineer Steve Gitch.

The reduction will release $642,676.43 from the maintenance/improvement letter of credit, leaving a balance of 1,317,049.73.

Next, Norder said in order to remain in compliance with the workmen’s compensation carrier, the township had developed a safety manual for public works department employees which put in place guidelines and general safety practices.

Supervisors approved the manual’s adoption and distribution to each public works employee.

The board also approved the appointment of Gilmore and Associates as the township’ special projects planning consultant in place of Boucher and James Consulting Engineers, and also approved a related fee schedule amendment.

Lastly, the board approved a sewer planning module for the Fairland Farms 3 development.

During the manager’s report, Garges announced the planning commission would meet virtually 7:30 p.m. on June 23 and the zoning hearing board would meet 7:30 p.m. June 17.

Regarding planned Senior Day celebrations, Garges said the office of state Sen. Pat Browne, R-16th, will not support the celebration this year due to COVID-19 and said as a result of the pandemic’s financial stresses, the most sensible action would be to cancel the 2020 celebration.

The board approved a motion to cancel this year’s Senior Day, and to resume in 2021.

Regarding developments at Kolapechka Park, Garges reported handicap parking spots have been paved for the dog park, and fencing has been ordered and will be installed shortly.

He also said holes for the handicapped-accessible playground area are being dug for the equipment and the rubberized surfacing will soon be laid.

The project is expected to be completed within 14-20 days.

Solicitor Lisa Young reported to the board Lehigh County President Judge Edward D. Reibman has extended the judicial emergency through June 30 and noted most normal civil actions would not be accepted at this time.

The next board of supervisors meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. July 6.