Lower Mac Commissioners Seek Input Concerning Police Survey

Lower Macungie Township Commissioner President Roger Reis reported at the Aug. 18 meeting that the joint meeting of the Public Safety Commission and the Lower Macungie Board of Commissioners on Aug. 17 “went very well.”

“It was a very spirited workshop on how to deal with the proposed survey,” he said.

Reis said although the group agreed that a survey is essential, they remained divided as far as how to word the questions and when to send it. It was suggested to look into hiring an outside, neutral organization to conduct the survey and needs to be discussed further.

The commissioners decided to open its Sept. 15 meeting for public comment concerning the police survey and a possible regional police department.  It will be held at 7 p.m. in the on Brookside Road.

In other business, the commissioners said they have received 46 applications for the position of zoning officer.  Current Zoning Officer Jim Lancsek will retire Dec. 31, but he wants the position filled as soon as possible in order to begin training the new hire.

The applicants have been narrowed to six, said Bruce Fosselman, township manager.  All six have been interviewed and the group will be narrowed to four.

Commissioner Douglas Brown commented that replacing the long-time zoning officer is not easy.

“This will be very difficult. All are very well qualified. We will interview the candidates again on Aug. 26 and have a recommendation for the Sept. 1 meeting of commissioners,” Brown said.

Fosselman also reported the cell phones for soldiers will be held again this year.  The collection point is the from Oct. 15 to Nov. 15.  All cell phones received will be refurbished and sent to soldiers in time for the Christmas holiday.