Lower Allen Web Log

At last night's meeting, the BOC was presented with several opportunities to influence the future complexion of local government in the Township. Guided by some stark facts, it made one very hard, very necessary decision to reduce another full-time staff position.

In advance of the BOC meeting and to help guide discussion, I asked staff to provide a snapshot of LAT revenue and expenses after the first two months of the year. To its great credit, staff delivered...again when Finance Director Nancy Dietel presented a stark but heartening snapshot.

On the revenue side, 2009 performance is lagging behind 2008's lackluster pace to date, with $176,169 fewer dollars received by the end of February. Heartening lives on the expense side, where LAT staff have managed our business so well that they have spent $420,556 fewer dollars than they did through the first two months of 2008.

So, when asked to replace a full-time records clerk with another full-time employee, discussion last night turned to the possibility of filling the position with a part-time employee instead. After a lengthy exploration of the issue, the BOC chose to go the part-time route, with a caveat to the department head to inform the Commissioners if the plan is not working.

During an earlier discussion last evening about raising select staff salary pay bands, I advocated holding the line. Upon request, staff presented a report which indicated no LAT staffer will be impacted until 2013, which is after the next salary pay band survey.

The pay band increase matter is not dead, though. The resolution will be on a future agenda for a vote.

We can't turn back the clock. The tax bills are in the mail, and some residents are starting to ask questions about the 25% tax increase.

That's good; late, but good. Folks should have been paying attention last December, but questions at any time are welcome. Regardless of when a person engages, they're still engaged, and hopefully will remain engaged.

So far, I've received one message loud and clear: LAT residents wants quality services at the best price possible. To that end, I'll do all I can to ensure LAT continues to manage our business smartly to limit the tax burden on Township residents and businesses.