Bethlehem Township Commissioners unanimously passed a resolution stating their opposition to the controversial expansion of the Bethlehem Landfill during their March 6 meeting.

The commissioners are the latest to add their voice in opposition to the landfill. Easton, the Borough of Hellertown and the City of Bethlehem have all expressed their concerns about the proposed Bethlehem Landfill expansion.

Among the concerns cited was the effects this expansion would have on the overall quality of life of the residents of the township, including increased pollution.

The township’s solicitor was also instructed to request “party status” for the hearings pertaining to the plans for the landfill expansion by Lower Saucon Township.

Commissioners also heard an update on the Active Transportation Plan. Drafting of the plan began at the start of the calendar year, with a nine-month timeline.

Part of the WalkWorks grant, an initiative of the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, its “mission is to increase access and opportunities for physical activities, such as walking, biking, wheeling, and using public transit.”

Concerns over unfinished sidewalks due to Route 22, as well as Route 33, were raised.

The plan can be viewed at: www.bethlehemtownship.org/active-transportation-plan.

Commissioner Dale Sourbeck’s passing on Feb. 26 has left a vacancy on the Board of Commissioners. Anyone interest in filling the seat must live in Ward 1.

A letter of interest must be sent to Township Manager Doug Bruce at: Board of Commissioners, Bethlehem Township, 4225 Easton Ave., Bethlehem, by March 17.

A staunch defendant of open space, Sourbeck had raised his concerns about an increase in illegal dumping in the township back at the Dec. 20 commissioners’ meeting, with both his fellow commissioners and The Press.

His presentation was based on a prepared information package, containing his research and pictures. It would be one of his last meetings.