At the Oct. 11 East Allen Township Board of Supervisors meeting, township Manager Brent Green presented a draft of the township capital plan. Green noted the township never had a capital plan and, in the past, relied on the township comprehensive plan to guide future large, capital expenditures.

An operating budget helps municipalities plan financially for daily operations, but a capital budget helps a municipality plan for the future. Capital budgets include large expenditures that are above an agreed-upon price point.

Green explained the 20-page capital plan draft packet he presented contains suggested projects that may carry large prices. He reported it is a look at future expenditures of more than $5,000 for items with a long life of perhaps five years or more.

“It is a plan for the future,” he said.

Green presented the six categories he used to assemble the capital plan draft. These include buildings and facilities, parks and recreation, roads and bridges, stormwater management, equipment and vehicles and public safety.

“The draft plan is simply a plan that can be revised, changed as the board wishes,” Green noted.

Green explained the township will be facing large expenditures that require thorough planning. He cited the municipal building needs renovations that will make it accessible for those residents who need assistance. He envisions a small elevator for wheelchair-bound residents and other changes that will make the building more efficient.

Each of the six categories has a number of items for the board to consider for acceptance and planning. When the capital plan is complete, it will be available for review by contacting the township office.

The board also approved general fund checks for payment.

Earth Engineering was authorized for engineering services to conduct testing for in-ground contaminants at select locations in open spaces in the township that may have sports fields developed on them.

The board agreed to purchase a rear offset flail mower. A flail mower is a garden/agricultural machine designed to cut and manage heavier grass and shrub areas where a lawn mower cannot cope. Flail mowers excel at cutting vines and brush, making them a better choice for areas that are not only grassy but also overgrown with other types of vegetation.

The board accepted the developer request for withdrawal of the Locust Manor land development plan.

Green reported the 2023 general fund budget “is in a positive position, ending this year with a surplus that can go into the 2024 general fund” if the board agrees. No decision was taken regarding the potential 2023 general fund surplus.

Trick-or-treat night in the township is set for 6-8 p.m. Oct. 27.

A trunk or treat will be held 5-7 p.m. Oct. 21 at Bicentennial Park West, pavilion B. See the township website at eatwp.org for details.

The next board of supervisors meeting will be 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at the township municipal building, 5344 Nor-Bath Blvd. It is a hybrid meeting, with both in-person and virtual options. Visit eatwp.org for the virtual meeting access numbers.