TREVORTON - Zerbe Township officials announced Monday they continue to seek reimbursement for the $300,000 in infrastructure losses caused by damage during the September flood.
Michael Schwartz, chairman of the township board of supervisors, said the township completed paperwork for reimbursement from the federal (FEMA) and Pennsylvania emergency management agencies on Feb. 2, and is awaiting approval.
"We have expended about $20,000 already for some repairs, but we need to do more work on the creek wall, bridges and streets," Schwartz said.
The township will get some help soon, since it has been approved for a FEMA project to clear flood debris from the Zerbe Run creek bed in March or April. The program, similar to one done in Shamokin and Coal Township earlier this year, will hire unemployed laborers to do the work, at no cost to the township.
In other business, the board heard presentations from township engineer William Hill on sewage management reports for 2011 and from a Your Choice Energy representative. The township's electric bills will be analyzed for possible savings on electricity rates.
Schwartz thanked FNB Bank for donating used security cameras, digital video recorders and monitors. The township is looking at a proposal to install cameras at the municipal building and the recreation area/tot lot to curb vandalism.
Township zoning officer Ron Lesher reminded residents and commercial entities about the need to apply for permits for any construction in the township. This is particularly important because Zerbe Township opted to follow the Uniform Construction Code beginning April 1.
Lesher said zoning permits are required for any exterior changes, such as additions to buildings or swimming pools. All interior and exterior structural changes are subject to a building permit. According to the zoning ordinance, all willful violators will be issued a fine, not exceeding $300 per violation.