Development News for East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Sanbo Creek Restoration Project Faces Challenges; Council Approves Report Submission

The borough engineer provided an update on the Sanbo Creek Stream Bank Restoration Project, which is part of the borough's MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) program and a requirement of their water quality permit. Efforts to reduce sediment in Sanbo Creek include water quality swales and inlets with deeper basins, implemented as part of the Willow Street improvement project. The original plan included stream bank stabilization on ESU property, which is permitted but awaiting final confirmation from the EPA regarding credit for sediment reduction. A new request for a monitoring plan for the opposite bank of the creek has arisen, creating uncertainty about potential borough liability. The engineer recommended submitting a final PRP (Pollution Reduction Plan) report to DEP to document completed actions and ongoing efforts while investigating alternative sediment reduction solutions. A motion to authorize the submission of this report was approved.

Police Chief Reports on Enforcement, Hiring, and Traffic Safety Concerns

The police chief reported on departmental activities, highlighting that the department is hiring and encouraging applications. He also noted strict enforcement on Washington Street and throughout the township for speed violations, with over 500 vehicles stopped in the previous month. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of local police using radar, with efforts to advocate for legislative changes. Additionally, concerns were raised about excessive noise from vehicles with loud mufflers and dangerous driving behaviors. The fire department chief provided an update on training activities and confirmed that an audit for the firemen's association had been cleared.

Sewer and Water Infrastructure Updates: I-80 Crossing, Floodplain Tank, and Manhole Replacements

An update was provided on the I-80 sewer trunk line replacement project, with the application submitted to PennDOT and under review. The project involves boring under I-80 to increase capacity from one side to the treatment plant. Additionally, updates were given on wells 3 and 4, specifically filter improvements and a backwash tank installation in Vansbury Park. DEP is reviewing the water permit for this project, which is located in the floodplain. The borough is working with DEP to determine if a Section 106 permit is required for the tank construction and is also considering a modification to the floodplain ordinance. A GP-5 permit application for utility line crossings across regulated waterways and wetlands was ratified for relocating a water distribution line as part of the lower dam removal project. The borough manager was authorized to execute documents for the purchase of manhole lids and risers from LB Water Service, not to exceed $14,000, to address low manhole levels that can cause flooding and sewer backups.

Council Reviews Financial Reports, Hears Infrastructure Updates

Council reviewed various financial reports, including cash and council student reports, budget to action reports, adjusting journal entries, and finance reports. A question was raised about exceeding the budget for general professional services, which the director of finance will investigate further for the next agenda. The council also approved a motion to accept and attach these financial reports to the minutes. Additionally, a zoning report and a borough engineer's report on the Sanbo Creek Stream Bank Restoration Project were reviewed. A discussion and motion regarding the proposed amendments to the ESU Keystone Information Conference project, including schedule extensions and phasing changes, were also conducted.