During the Oct. 14 Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners meeting, several residents challenged two resolutions. Both resolutions focused on pending developmental projects in different areas of the community.

The ordinances, approved by the commissioners, called for “deferring the required installation of sidewalks” for reportedly relatively small portions of the more considerable developments. One project focused on Hokendauqua and North Front streets. The second resolution focused on a development in the area of Center and North Front streets.

Residents raised concerns about safety, child protection, handicapped access and tree removal. The commissioners clarified the minor portions of the larger projects had been deemed safe, so commissioners passed the resolutions.

In other business, township Treasurer Tina Koren asked the commissioners to come to an agreement on the rate schedule and assessments for garbage fees that would have to be sent out to residents before the beginning of the new year.

Deputy Mayor Jack Meyers suggested a three-payment schedule.

It was also discussed the commissioners needed to review the current discounts for the age of residents with respect to the garbage rate.

Mayor Joseph Marx Jr. commented on the integrity with which the garbage bid was reviewed, scrutinized and approved by the commissioners. He also pointed out that other surrounding towns have been facing the same problem.

During public comments, residents reasserted their concerns over the treasurer’s office and the inability to pay taxes at that window.

The township had earlier issued a statement that it would not comment on personnel matters; as a result, no responses were made to the public comments.

Under discussion items, Commissioner Ken Snyder repeated his interest in establishing a committee to examine the 30-year-old charter for potential updating and corrections. Attorney Jacob Oldaker pointed out this would be a regular board committee that could be officially appointed at the November meeting.

In addition, the commissioners approved the sale of the former police station on Lehigh Street for $610,185.99.

Commissioners agreed to meet Oct. 28, 29 and 30 to begin preparing the 2025 budget.