In a significant year-end meeting, Neshannock Township supervisors finalized the budget for 2025 and outlined plans for upcoming projects in 2026. The township secured financial agreements and initiated infrastructure improvements that promise to enhance community services and economic growth. Notable decisions included approving an Assumption of Developers Agreement following a substantial payment from the Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation (LCDEC) and setting the stage for the groundbreaking of Steelite International's new distribution center. Additionally, supervisors addressed long-standing issues related to sewer funding and approved various infrastructure projects aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.

Details of the Meeting and Key Decisions

In the crisp chill of late December, Neshannock Township supervisors convened for their final meeting of the year, focusing on securing the township's financial future and preparing for significant development projects. One of the highlights was the approval of an Assumption of Developers Agreement after receiving a considerable sum from LCDEC under the Forward Lawrence initiative. This payment, amounting to over $346,000, stemmed from a developer's agreement dating back to 2006 involving the Millennium property. The closing of this deal was processed on December 18, marking a significant milestone in the township's financial recovery efforts.

Supervisor Leslie Bucci emphasized the importance of recovering funds previously owed to the township, particularly those related to the construction of sanitary sewers. To address this, the township partnered with Al. Neyer, a commercial real estate development company, which purchased the Millennium property for the expansion of Steelite International. This partnership ensures the township receives a percentage of the sale proceeds for approximately 96 acres. Moreover, Al. Neyer will oversee the realignment of Kings Chapel Road, moving it out of the floodplain and creating a new entrance onto Pulaski Road. The area near the boat launch will be transformed into a cul-de-sac to reduce riverfront traffic.

The township is also awaiting approval from PennDOT for high-occupancy permits to proceed with road realignments and traffic signal installations. Another key project involves the installation of a left-turn signal and lane at the intersection of State, Grant, and Sampson streets to mitigate truck traffic and backups. Supervisors also discussed the potential use of generators for traffic signals in the future.

To support these initiatives, the township has received a $1.2 million Multimodal Transportation Fund award from the Department of Community and Economic Development, along with a $200,000 local match from the county. The approved budget includes a modest tax increase to fund essential services like the fire department. Residents with an average property value of $250,000 will see a monthly tax increase of about $3.13.

Further, the township approved a final payment to GEM Inc. for renovations at the Hutchison Center, paving the way for Bucci to apply for additional grants. Robinson Pipe Cleaning Company was awarded a contract to inspect and repair the sewer system, while Gateway Engineers will handle general sanitary sewer services. Body cameras for police officers are set to be implemented in 2025, with video storage managed via cloud technology.

Looking ahead, Aldi and Starbucks are expected to open new locations in the township, though delays due to property subdivision have been noted. The next supervisors' meeting is scheduled for January 6, followed by an auditor's meeting on January 7.

From a journalist's perspective, this meeting underscores the township's commitment to addressing long-standing financial and infrastructure challenges while fostering economic development. The strategic partnerships and investments made by Neshannock Township reflect a forward-thinking approach that promises to benefit both residents and businesses in the coming years. It's clear that the township is taking proactive steps to ensure sustainable growth and improved quality of life for its community members.