Milford Township weighs burn ban order

FEMA has warned that wildfires are currently the number one risk to Pike County. Currently, Milford Township doesn’t have a burn ban ordinance, having been told previously that they may be held liable for implementing one, but at the November Board of Supervisors meeting, it was suggested that it may be more of a liability not to do so.

Fire chief Mike Bello has asked the supervisors to rectify this. In accordance with state law, a ban would last for 30 days and be enforced by the fire chief, who would be able to issue a document of violation to anyone burning during the ban. The violation would then be presented to the township, and a fine would be implemented. This would also allow for any fire to be extinguished if the burner violated the ordinance.

The Milford Township Board of Supervisors would need to implement a ban during a meeting and while there wouldn’t be an ordinance change until early into the next year, the township wishes to convey to the public that now is not the time for burning.

Other business

Cold patch has been going into potholes as the township readies itself for winter. Sanders and plows are prepped and on standby.

The 2025 budget had two amendments on income and expense. No tax increase was proposed. Public comment is encouraged and there will be further discussion at the December 16, meeting.

A Statewide Local Shares Account (LSA) application was successful in attracting two-thirds of the finances that were sought for repairs to the roof and the parking lot of the township building. How the funds will be distributed are still being discussed.

There were some issues with the latest version of Act 537, also known as Pennsylvania’s Sewage Facilities Program, that came from civil engineering company Herbert, Rowland, & Grubic Inc., in particular the dichotomy between the summary, the body of the document, and the appendix. It also stated that Milford Township would be responsible for installation and maintenance expenses, which has not been agreed to by the township. The plan also indicates that there will be no connections for the township, even though it will run through the area.

There was a request for the township to waive consent for repository sales. A repository sale is a public auction of properties that were previously available for sale, but are delinquent on taxes and did not sell. The supervisors elected not to waive consent and appreciate further letters from the public be sent to the township for review.

The current 306 Zoning Ordinance is being amended so that the current wording can be updated and a motion will be sent to the county for review. The change aimed to have the planning board make recommendations, but the board would maintain enforceable oversight.