Penn Township to vote on termination of disaster declaration

Penn Township commissioners are scheduled to vote this week on drafting resolutions to terminate the municipality’s disaster declaration.

The declaration was initiated in response to the corona­virus pandemic. It has allowed the township’s emergency management coordinator to “take all appropriate action needed to alleviate the effects” of the pandemic, according to official township documents. It also allowed the township to employ temporary workers, rent equipment and purchase supplies and materials, as well as enter into public work contracts and agreements relating to the pandemic.

Township Secretary/Manager Mary Perez said the state has terminated its declaration, and the commissioners no longer believe the township’s is necessary.

At their business meeting Wednesday, commissioners also are to vote on drafting a resolution to authorize promotion and advertising for a police lieutenant. Chief John Otto said the lieutenant position has been vacant for three or four years because the department wanted to allow its sergeants to complete the training required to test for the position.

Commissioners also may vote on drafting a resolution to execute a five-year agreement regarding police wages if the Police Wage and Policy Committee is ready to do so.

Last week, commissioners discussed the third phase of the Penn Township Municipal Park Project.

Perez said the project involves the addition of fitness equipment and two restrooms — one by the playground and one by the dog park — as well as electrical work throughout the park.

Bids have been advertised and will open July 29. Commissioners anticipate bids will be approved Aug. 11.

Voting on all issues will take place at the commissioners’ business meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the municipal building, 2001 Municipal Court, Harrison City.