Towing operations amendment approved in Tobyhanna Township

by Ruth Isenberg

With no public comments pro or con during a public hearing at the start of the April 3 Tobyhanna Township Supervisors meeting, supervisors voted to adopt the zoning ordinance amendment regulating towing operations.

Supervisor Joy Colyer abstained.

In other business, Joe Crandall was appointed a vacancy on the Zoning Hearing Board.

The Lumberjacks Team from Pocono Mountain Softball League was given permission to use Locust Ridge Field on Sundays through September 24. In a separate motion, the township manager or assistant manager was authorized to make such decisions regarding parks use in the future.

Permission was granted for the annual Memorial Day parade.

A decision to designate Tobyhanna Township Bureau of Fire Station 44 as a designated fire company for the township raised some questions. Ed Tutrone asked if Station 44 met the criteria in the township ordinance, and alleged that the 23year old truck that had been purchased does not meet NFPA standards. He also asked who the officers and members are.

Solicitor Harry Coleman responded that the action just designated Station 44 as a fire company. “It does not authorize them to operate.” He also said the members would select their own officers.

Kelly Hickson asked “When are we going to have a fire department?”

Supervisor Dave Carbone responded “As quick as we can.” All supervisors voted in favor of the designation.

During public comment,

Tutrone asked about a letter sent by Station 41 seeking a meeting with the board to try to move forward. Atty. Coleman explained that he had responded to Station 41’s counsel, asking for specific topics of discussion.

A resident of Old Route 940 complained abut speeding and street racing on Fire House Road. She asked supervisors to consider speed calming tactics. She had been informed by the police that in order to stop it she would have to obtain video evidence that included the faces and/or license plates of the participants.

The Short-Term Rental process is moving along. Assistant manager Crystal Butler said they have issued over 100 permits, and have about 270 under review. Alexis Wilkinson is now sending out letters to STR owners who are advertising their properties, but who have not yet begun the application process.

The supervisors meet next on Monday, April 17 at 6 p.m.