Susquehanna looking at new police pension investment

BY HELEN B. FOSTER

Correspondent

Susquehanna borough council members were told at the August 28 meeting that Merrill Lynch is closing the borough’s police pension funds account.

At the present time the police pension fund is underfunded. According to Secretary Diann Robbins shares are being sold off to meet the borough’s obligation to the two people covered under this fund, a retired police officer and the widow of a deceased police officer.

Treasurer Margaret Biegert is looking into new investment opportunities at Peoples Neighborhood Bank that would pay the approximate $22,000 yearly needed to cover the two individuals receiving pensions.

John Sholtis reported he is looking for mowing volunteers for the parks. Sholtis said the security light has a new sensor; received credit on the old locks that have been replaced with a new system; the concession stand clean-up is complete.

“It is the time of year to do some painting,” Sholtis said.

He gave the secretary a list of materials he will need to do this job. He asked that the parks finances be checked to see if sealing the blacktop around the park is possible as according to Sholtis, it will save money down the road. He has received two quotes and is waiting on the third.

Codes Enforcement Officer Mary Weaver gave her report which covered issues  brought to council’s attention during public comment. Several had already been resolved. Councilman Roy Williams said he and Weaver will be visiting each property in question and address the many problems.

Weaver said she will be requesting an updated map from the county, looking for property transfers to determine owners of the properties not in compliance.

Councilman Joe Varsik gave council a list of street projects to be considered and approved at the regular September meeting.

Secretary Robbins spoke to council regarding the upcoming budget meetings. The purpose of the Sept. 25, meeting is to discuss any 2012 budget items before beginning the budget process for 2013, she said. The 2013 budget meeting has been advertised for Oct. 11.

Council approved the purchase of the new Borough Code books available through the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs. The secretary reported the new doors are ordered and will be in near the end of September.

Council President Roberta Reddon said she will be suggesting several projects to be considered during the 2013 budget meetings. Reddon also said she will discuss with Susquehanna County Housing/Redevelopment Authority Grant Administrator Bobbie Jo Turner what could be available for the borough in 2013.