Even exact numbers, statements from experts, and the possibility of equipment failure was not enough to forestall continued debate on the thorny issue of renovating or replacing the township’s dilapidated headquarters.

“I did the figures,” said Clinton Township Supervisor Kenneth Coles, “If we were to knock down this building and put up a new building big enough to house all of our equipment, as well as have meeting space and room for offices, we’re looking at around $122,000. That’s not using the old foundations; they’re poured concrete and wouldn’t be very stable.

“To renovate this building, including blown in insulation, vinyl siding, smaller windows, a new heating system, and a shed to house the equipment, that would be more like $112,000. So a savings of $10,000.”

Supervisor Donald Salak said the tax increase needed to repay the investment of renovating or rebuilding would likely run about ten dollars per citizen. But there were many questions still unresolved.

Some questioned the necessity of housing the township’s construction equipment.
“It’s very important to house the equipment, elements, and especially the sun, can drastically reduce the life of your tools. Over time, it definitely pays for itself,” said Coles. Nonetheless, he estimated that renovating the existing building without constructing an equipment shed would run around $60,000.

Questions were raised about applying for grants or designation as a historical building. Despite being told by the Wayne County Historical Society that the headquarters did not qualify, Coles promised to look into the matter further.

“In order to get grants, we need to open up the building for public use,” Coles said.
Lastly, one citizen suggested contacting South Canaan township to see if the blueprints worked up for their township building could be used for Clinton, to save design costs.

“That’s a good idea,” Coles said. “No need to reinvent the wheel.” Coles promised more information at next month’s meeting.

COG Dust Control Bid Approved

The Supervisors had one bid sent in for the township’s requirements for dust control.
“Sucoat bid us $1.104/gallon on Pennzsuppress and $.894/gallon on liquid calcium,” said township secretary Lois Terrel. “However, we’re eligible to take part in the COG (Council of Governments) plan, which has $.915/gallon on Pennzsuppress.”

Despite the fact that the COG plan was slightly higher in liquid calcium, the supervisors accepted it in order to start laying down dust suppressant on township roads as quickly as possible.

Other Business

• The supervisors wished to inform their townspeople that replacing stolen road signs is costing the township significant amounts of money.
“We have 4 or 5 missing right now,” said Supervisor Salak, “and they cost $150 to replace. Even big signs are getting stolen.”

• Clinton Township will be the latest township to take advantage of PP&L’s fluorescent light bulb recycling plan. Citizens wishing to recycle their fluorescent light bulbs are asked to bring them to the township’s next regularly scheduled meeting.

• The township is looking into bonding the roads to protect them in the event of natural gas drilling taking place in the area.
“I looked at the old road bond, and it’s a pretty weak document,” said solicitor Henry. “You should consider amending the existing ordinance so it has more teeth.”
The supervisors voted to draft an amendment to the ordinance, which will be presented at the next meeting.