BY MICHAEL HIRSCH

Special to The Press

North Whitehall Township supervisors discussed two resolutions for the Strawberry Acres development, one for a waiver request, the other for the preliminary plan during their Dec. 4, 2023, meeting.

The applicant submitted a preliminary plan for the development, which includes vertical retention walls within five of seven ponds and a 3:1 slope exceeding the township ordinance.

A waiver was requested to allow these deviations.

The planning commission recommended denial of the waiver and the preliminary plan due to straight walls and vertical retention walls being prohibited by the ordinance.

There was a lack of demonstrated hardship and minimum necessary relief for the waiver.

Continued presence of vertical walls in the submitted plan despite the recommended denial.

Supervisors needed to decide whether to approve the plan as is, table it for further exploration, or deny it.

Resident concerns and environmental considerations remain key factors in the decision-making process.

The board tabled the plan.

Resident Bob Allen said the applicant claims the land needs retaining walls due to steep slopes, but retaining walls are prohibited.

“This is a circular argument justifying an exception based on the land’s unsuitability,” Allen stated.

He alleged the applicant’s record of maintaining the land, fences and barn is poor, and raised concerns about future upkeep.

He mentioned unreliable plans and frequent changes to the plans after submission.

In other matters Treasurer Seth O’Neill reported the township general fund had a net cash gain of $93,000 in November 2023.

Across all funds there was positive cash flow of $200,000. Leaving the township with $14.22 million as of Nov. 30, 2023.

“The township is in a strong cash position that has been maintained throughout the year despite contributing in excess of $1 million in foreign equity to the capital fund, equipment fund, and Emergency Services Fund all for capital improvements and acquisitions this year and next year, so doing very well from a cash standpoint,” he reported.

O’Neill explained they are adding three new positions with benefits, new debt service and no tax increases.

Township Manager Randy Cope discussed the benefits of the four-day workweek.

He said 100 percent of administrative staff reported being as productive or more productive under the four-day model.

Increased efficiencies and technology upgrades helped maintain workload.

The majority of staff reported reduced stress and better recovery during the three-day weekend.

Some stressful days remain, but overall sentiment is positive.

He mentioned staff activities on Fridays.

The most popular activities include running errands, spending time with loved ones and pursuing hobbies.

Some reported weight loss and increased physical activity.

Overtime decreased by 64 percent, saving more than $22,000.

Sick time decreased by 13 percent, despite adding two new employees.

Electric utility costs were down 10 percent and the propane cost was down almost 50 percent, saving $40,000.

Water and gasoline usage varied due to external factors.

Cope expressed confidence in continuing the four-day work week.

Staff remains productive, healthier and more engaged, he said, adding the trial was a success and could be expanded to other departments.