DUBOIS – A committee overseeing the consolidation of Sandy Township and DuBois City met this week.
Air Tanks
During the meeting, the city announced plans to replace its fire company S.C.B.A. air tanks, which expire in early 2023.
“If we don’t do something by July, [our air tanks] will be out of date,” explained City Manager John “Herm” Suplizio.
Sandy Township Supervisor and Board Chair Bill Beers indicated the township will join the city and replace its air tanks together.
The township’s air tanks will expire one year later. Sandy Township and DuBois City have 66 and 70 air tanks, respectively.
Both communities have initiated application paperwork to seek grant funds that will cover costs for up to 135 air tanks.
Emergency Services
The committee also voted to approve a Request for Proposals (RFP) with local emergency services.
Supervisor Kevin Salandra said it was brought to their attention that there are service inefficiencies and coverage issues.
The emergency ambulance RFP is following Sandy Township’s RFP for towing services. So far with towing, Salandra said it’s been going well and efficient.
Ten-Person Committee Chair David Whitaker reported to the nine-person committee that they were ahead of schedule.
Both DuBois City and Sandy Township have provided all required information ahead of the May 15 financial deadline.
Whitaker also addressed what he called “unfounded rumors” and accusations of secret decisions being made.
“If you have any questions, feel free to call me,” he said. “I want that to be understood: there will be total transparency.”
Whitaker went on to shoot down the rumors, saying any decisions will be voted upon publicly by the nine-person committee.
“If we stop enough rumors, we have a chance to make this work – smoothly,” Whitaker said.
Section 108 Loan
Township Manager Shawn Arbaugh reported that the township is considering an $875,000 loan for an ongoing sewer extension project.
He said it would bring sewer access to two trailer parks and a new industrial park. He said the township intends to pay the loan with Community Development Block Grants and other grant funds.
Arbaugh said HUD has requested Sandy Township have the city sign off on the project since the city would become partially liable for the debt once consolidation is complete.
