‘Volume 117, No. 24- September 8, 2016 THIS WEEK With $3.4M Loan Upper Perkiomen Infusion of Freshmen ‘Story on page 17 CClassios Rule at Annual ‘Story on page 25, Community Calender. Dining & Entertainment 12,13, Letters to the Editor. News rom Bally, Douglass, East Greenville, Green Lane, Hereford, Lower Salford, Marlborough, Milford, New Hanover, Pennsburg, Quakertown, Red Hil, Trumbaver East Greenville Votes to Leave U By Bradley Schleget ‘Sta hrter East Greenvilleisleaving the Upper Perk Police Commission. On Tuesday, borough council voted unanimously tend the agree ment that establishes the Upper Perk Police District. “The resolution, introduced by council Cost of Trash Hauling Going Up in Pennsburg Espansion proposed for Penasburg Square Shopping Center By Lary Roeder She AtitsSept. 6council meet officals announced the results ofthe solid waste removal in the borough. ‘Six bidders are vying for the contract, including Waste Management, Whitetail Disposal, Advanced Disposal, J.P. Mascaro and Sons, A. J. Blosenski and Republic Services. The bids range from $636,660 to 51,559,240 for a three-year contract, Bids include curbside recycling. Thecost for trash pickup in the borough for 2016 was $136,000. ‘Councilor Diane Stevens reported that ‘one of the bidders commented thatthe cost increase was caused, in part, because "You dont have three boroughs anymore” for ‘combined services During Tuesday's also passed a motion to recycling. (Officials and thei solicitor will review all bidsfor compliance with thebid requests and services provided and could makeadecision at their next meeting In other business, John Kennedy of ‘Westover Companies presented aconceptual plan of an expansion proposed for the Pennsburg Square Shopping Center. ‘According to Kennedy, the properties Pennsburg, continued on page 7 eeting, officals mandatory. ‘www.upynews.com sulle, Upper Hanover, Upper Salford, Washington Township and nearby communities. 7B.cents pper Perk Police that we have voted to terminate the cont Vice President Tracey Hunsinger, takes effect at 12:01 asm. March 6,2017, accord ing to information provided by municipal officials "We regret to announce that we will serve natice to the Borough of Pennsbarg [Residents React - Story on page 6| that establishes" the commission, said Hun singer, reading from a prepared statement “Unfortunately, our partnership has dete Horated tothe extent that ii ieretrievabl broken’ East Gresnville’s elected officials cas East Greemite continued on page 2 ‘ab Esposto/ Town and Coury Car Hits Diner - Pennsbury firefighters check on damage done to the New Penns burg Diner in the 300 biock of Pottstown Avenue after a car struck the building a ‘noon on Wednesday. The vehicie drove over a parking barrier, knocked down a sia and railing betore striking the building. The woman driver was able to walk from the crash. Police were stil investigating at press time. “We Still Remember” 9-11 Tribute Scheduled for Sunday By Larry Roeder Eat ‘The event, hosted by the Sons of th American Legion Post 184, will inclade 1 area fice companies escorted by motorcycles and riders from several organizations, in ‘lading the American Legion Riders. “The procession startsat | pam. atthe Rd Hill Fre Company, 71 Fourth St, Red il B11 Tribute, continued on page 9 A 15-year tribute called “We Still Re member” will be held on Sunday with a [procession of more than 200 motorcycles Teading the way. ‘The parade promises to bea memorable event to watch and par: ticipate in, > UNITED TAEK See Our Ad On Page 2 For Details! WON-DO STUDIOS AR2 TOWN ano COUNTRY September 8, 2016 East Greenville, ‘commission, Ryan Sloper ~ East ‘continued from page 1 Greenvilles mayor ~ said muniet pal officials would not comment Further on the station “Two yee ag, anid budget negtistions between members of thepolice commision, Slayer pro- posed that East Greenville sever it contract with Pennsburg and start sown three—person police Aepartment, according to an ar- ticle in the Dec. 3, 2018 Tow and Country. At that ime, te mayor to the article ‘Tensions ran high during po lice commission mestings over the past few months, with members froen both communities sparring lover issues of transparency and ‘whether ae not commission Soi tor Phil Gazan has shown special bis towards East Greenville But according to Hunsinger, East Greenville hat not bee et ‘das an equal partner in recent ‘nant the vote around 9:50pm. Tuesday, fllawing an executive sesion Council member Lee Seine did not asta vote, He attended the majeityathepublicmoeting, ut left during the hour-long private Following the votetoeave the cstimated his plan woul save the Ne reached out tothe Bor borough between $120,000 and ough of Pennsburg in May, but $150,000 anoualy to no avail” she said, reading the Four months Inter, Sloyer denied that East Greeaville of- fcials were engaged in an active ‘campaign to eve the police com tmisaion, He rejected rumors of proposed split tat had been ce lating 09 an anonymous socal mediapage accordingto an article si in the March 25,2015 edition of the newspaper. “We need to work towards affordability with the Upper Perk Police to remain sustainable for the future” Sloyer wrote oa bis ‘own Facebook page, according satement Tuesday night. "The police commission eaninot con: Finue to operate in thie manner “Therefore, we believe it sin the bertinteres of oth municipalities to terminate the agreement” Problems among commis: rmembere thie year begtn Pblily brewing in Apri, when Pennsbury’s members atempred, unsuecessuly to fire Gaza Prior to tha vote, Kirkwood, the commission’ vice chair xe ‘cured the solicitor of falling to properly share information vith ‘ffials from Pennabusg: billing SALES / RENTALS INSTRUCTION ACCESSORIES naturekayak.com 215-536-8964 382 a ale Nolin UNITED TKD STUDIO Visit us at our Tent! ered COTTE for just to-an anonymous police donation last year for five months after the ierue war concluded; allowing Inaurance aves to drag on long than necessary; filing to make sure insurance carriers adhered to their contractual obligations: bing Pennsburg officials for ask ing questions about biling sues, relying on Chiet Michael Devlin to annwrer questions asked of him regarding to personnel matters and procedures: and eepresenting Soyer ina bankrupt procedure ‘Gazan deniedthe final acs tion during the meeting Pennsburg officials accused the solicitor of overcharging the borough, According t Lighteap, Nocough offal budgeted $7,500 for commission legal fees n 2015, but spent $15,238. Debate over the solictor’s allegiance commenced $1.69" Let Our Family ne aaa Help Your Family P Stay Warm for Less! 125 gal. minimum PAS 086345 the decision by the elected officials to withdraw from the commission “What you guys did made no sense,” said Doug Bishop, ‘owner of Mario's Pizza, “I dont understand where you ate go: ing with this” Borough Mayor Ryan Sloyer told the erowd that the decision to leave the police ‘commission was based on fi- nancial concerns. Reading from his own prepared statement, Sloyer said, “There have been rancial issues over the years regarding the police de partment and East Greenvilleés ability to maintain service and manage the numerous needs oF ‘our community Several speakers rejected Sloyer’ financial argument dur ing the 90-minute public com- ment period. Most concluded that personal conflicts between East Greenville and Pennsburg officals fueled the decision. Furthermore, Michelle Forsel, East Greenvillés slici- tor, confirmed that the munici- pality would be responsible for paying its share of the police officers’ contract ~ which ex- pites at the end of the 2017 — even if follows through with the plan to withdraw from the “Lbelieve the police com- icihedett Sa bela? Bait Conte ‘Bob Espasto/ Town and County Mayor Ryan Sloyer reads a prepared statement at Tuesday's East Greenville Borough Council meeting. Sloyer and the ‘council members explained and defended their decision te leave the Upper Perk Police Commission during the three: hour public meeting yan Pugh appeated to raise hi right index finger in an affirms Ithough he woul ville Lon Brinckman said tothe lected oficial. “The damage you have done may beiretriev- abl... IFyou cannot set aside your personal agendas, feel free fo resign tonight” Sloyertejected several sug- gestions by attendees to resign Some ofthe exchanges betwoen, residents and council members, including one between resident Eric Grubb and Couneil mem- ber Marita Thomson, became heated. Audience members supporting council’ decision traded verbal jabs with those in opposition. “The public outcry left East Greenville officials scrambling for solutions. Officials voted ‘unanimously to investigate ing an independent arbitrator ‘who could help the commu: tios sate their diferences, The motion included an amend- ment, proposed by Thomson, ‘which would allow the mani pality to proceed with plansto “Not a single soul ques terminate its contract with the tioned Pennsburg on this de commission. cisive decision to invite Eas "Weneed tokeepmov- Greenville to leave the co Ing forware,” Thomson said, mission. It was as if no on “"Pennsburg has to be willing cared," Hunsinger read from tonegotiate,andwe don'tknow thestatement. “From that poi ‘what we are going to get from East Greenville was pushed them” even harder and further t One community member the decision we were forced attending the meeting asked to make. Unfortunately, thos council whether anyone regret-- that now care are questioning ted the vote to leave the com- the weong borough council sh delaiem, eid Colracll mieniset °capative tesa® He did, however, make notion to rescind the vote t withdraw from the commis son. Buti was never seconded Twas trying to keep ar ‘open mind,” Pugh said after the resting "Twas trying to iste to the residents and conside the mayors plan. It was nota ‘easy decision to make the mo: tion, far from it He also suggested the creation of a new police com: son that does not includ lected officals to avoid polit «al conflicts Borough officials in thei statement seemed blindside by outrage over the vote anc ‘questioned why residents wer speaking out now, but didn afier the April police comin Son meeting‘Volume 117, No. 28 October 6, 2016 THIS WEEK East Greenville Requests ‘50/50 Split of All Police District Assets Story on page 10 East Greenville Residents Organizing to Save Police District, ‘Story on page 8 Perkiomen shuts out Nativ- iy BVM 38-0, Story on page 21 FEATURES ae 43rd Annual Apple Butter Frolic held in Havleysvile ‘Story on page 33, INSIDE Business News. a4 Church Directory, 30 Classiede. 4656 Comics 40-43, Community Calendar... 32 Dining & Entertainment 14.15, Leter to the Editor... 34.35 Obituaries 28.28, Police Report 45 Senior Menu, “ SPCA Pals, What ef, Ware BLACK w OT JEWELERS 321 Main St. Pennshurg wy 215-679-2042 1} ments from residents opposing News from Bally, Douglass, East Greenville, Green Lane, Hereford, Lower Salford, Marlborough, Milford, New Hanover, Pennsburg, Quakertown, Red Hil, Tumbaversvlle, Upper Hanover, Upper Salford, Washington Township and nearby communities. www.upynews.com 7Bcents Motion to Reverse Police Decision Fails in East Greenville By Bradley Schlegel ‘Stat Yneer Lee Steinert wants the Upper rk Police District to remain in East Greenville “The officersknow [support them,’ said Steinert, a member of borough council. "And I know they have my (back): Steinert has at leat one ally n council, Ryan Pugh seconded SteinertS motion Monday night to rescind a recent vote to leave the Upper Perk Police Commis sion. Council again met at the Upper Perkiomen Middle School auditorium to accommodate the ‘crowd of more than 100 citizens. Steinert said he thought council member Joe Arahill ‘would also support the motion, Following multiple com: ’s decision to fhe commission next spring, Arahill expressed concems that borough officials ‘did not have sold financial fig tures when they cas the vote last month, He suggested extending the deadline, “There area couple things'we need to resolve" suid, Arahill The council member pro: posed an amendment to tempo- arly dlay the decision to sae hove ‘mediationbetween East Greenville and Pennsburg progresses, ert ejected the amend ment, and his motion failed 4-2 East Greenville, continued on page 9 ‘Bob Esposito / Town and Court Tanya Keller, a single mother of three, wipes away tears while addressing East Greenwile Borough Council. Lon Brinekman passes out paperwork tothe elected offcials during Monday's public meeting Both residents asked council o reverse ther decision to leave the Upper Perk Police Commission. Pennsburg Council Agrees to Pursue Mediation with East Greenville By Bradley Schlegel ‘Sta eter Last week, East Greenvlle’s Borough Council expressed a willingness to work with Pennsburg representatives in an at tempt to salvage the relationship between (On ‘Tuesday, Pennsburg Borough Coun: cil committed to take the first step towards ‘mediation with its neighboring municipality. e members voted unanimously to attend meeting to begin that discussion, T dont see any harm in ity Solicitor Chuck Gamer sad prior to the vote ‘During the public meeting, Garner he would reach out to East Geeemlle Sol tor Michelle Forsll to set up the meeting Diane Stevens, 8 member of Pennsbury ‘council sid she would prefer thatthe meet ing occur as soon as possible. EastGreenvillis poised to withdraw fron the police commission at 12:01 aim, March 6 2017. Pennsburg Borough Council Presiden Kris Kirkwood, Mayor Viki Lighteap -- bat Pennsburg, continued on page 5 Red Hill Man Accused of Selling Marijuana-Related Paraphernalia in Pennsburg By Bradley Schlegel ‘Sta Wrter ‘A Red Hill man was charged lst wook > with selling marijuans-related parapher nalia at his Pennsburg smoke shop. Last month, authoritiesarrested Emilio Jose Robles, 36, of Carrington Drivein Red Hill, and charged him with dealing in pro ceeds of unlawful activities, «first-degree felony, as wea three misdemeanor co ‘each of possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent to sell and possession sith the intent to deliver drug paraphernalia, as well as one misdemeanor count of posses a small amount of matijuan Soon after Good Smokes, located a 349 Main St. in Pennsburg, opened in May, {wo officers from the Upper Perk Polic trict noticed that items used only fo the consumption of marijuana were being Paraphernatia, continued on page 6 € Ae ‘Stop in & place Your Cuslomawelrg Order torthe tloli Hogs! Watch & Jewelry Bales Wy Jewelry Depeirs ‘¢ op. we Sarees hecrredand y Pepa aOctober 6, 2016 TOWN ano COUNTRY 9 Residential Service e Repairs $1.83° Let Our Family sof 105/16 Bob Expoato/Town and County | Help Your Family d Ed Buchinsky, over of the Grand Theater in East Greenville, addresses borough council. | Stay Warm for Less! He spoke multiple times at Monday's meeting, each time imploring the members torescind their motion to leave the Upper Perk Police Commission, East Greenville, oticers make ws (safe, We encemembersastede sound Benita M Beck comet jon popes” stn eres, Meret? | __ Certified Public Accountant vote, police department with full and Borough residents could Individuals & Small Business Tax Services ingtovote ith us" Stinertsaid supply local coverage between contract of the Upper Perk po- Quarterly & Year End Accounting Compilation & Review Reporting after the meeting. “I washoping 75 and 85 percent ofthe time, lice officers from March 6 until Followingthemecting, Ar He said the proposal would in- severed, according to Solicitor * For Profit Businesses & Non Profits rice changes daly 125 gal. minimum 635 someone else would go frit? accordingto Mayor RyanSloyer. Dec. 31 even ifthe agreement is hill sid he thought the amend. clude some coverage from the Michelle Forel - ment wasin the‘ bestinterestof Pennsylvania State Police Tm not saying its definite? Callfor an Appointment 267-374-0555 the people we serve” “The frst step is to hite ashe said during the meeting. “It Mfr 67-374 East Greenville chief who would deteemine the could bea potential expense for Providing year-round support autores schedule to end the ag ‘department’ needs and set upa the remainder of the contract” 246 MAIN STREET RED HILL ereprowaes that establishes the Upper Perk schedule Sloyer said du Police District. The resoation, approved Sept. 6 by a 6-0 vote following an executive session, owner in the borough, called Sloyer’s estimates of local cov 2017. Sti erage overly optimistic. He a'vote on Sept. 6. The coun- and several residents said they cil member left borough hall didn't want to rely on the state during the executive session police, who might not be able because of tsues related to his to respond to incidents quickly Multiple Sclerosis. Several East Greenville “We need the Upper Perk residents chided the elected police here” he said after Mon- officials for voting to leave the day’ mesting. “We don't want commission before gaining a to lose them, They are our fist realistic grasp of the potenti responders” costs of starting is own police ; TinysKallachglemoibh- dupertnent, “Wa oad dl tha Lown Renovation setieohenetcnl Rotor ct ted deel on ee-Lawn. isthe Lawn Overseeding Thicken on existing vn, mente esol ha dat: “Theuprese arit : : Goat ee “ad oun al eee Where Bee-utiful Lawns bee-gin “Please do not take our Donna Steinhauer, «30-year bial ties 215.679.8204 + beelawn.com police department avay” Keller resident ofthe horough, said, fighting back tears. “The A handful of other audi- Insured, LicenseNews from Bally, Douglass, East Greenville, Green Lane, Hereford, Lower Salford, Marlborough, Milford, New Hanover, Pennsburg, Quakertown, Red Hil, Tumbaversvlle, Upper Hanover, Upper Salford, Washington Township and nearby communities. ‘Volume 117, No. 34 November 17, 2016 THIS WEEK Buchinski Offers to Purchase Borough Property to Preserve Police District www upynews.com Pennsburg Borough Council Makes Offer to Save Police Commission By Bratley Schlegel as ‘urbe ‘Sige en page 2 Inn attempt to preserve the Upper Perk Po- lice District for another yet Pennsburg Borough ‘SPORTS Council is willing to increases funding contrib aa During 2017 budget deliberations Tuesday f night, elected officials voted to pay an addtional 5 2.5 percent towards the departments operating ‘costs, The borough currently covers 55 percent of he expenses, The increase would cost Pennsbiurg an additional $36,000 and cover only next year, according to Council member Diane Stevens. ‘A representative of the borough will contact East Groenvile lawmakers immediately to officially New athletic dcector takes over at Upper Pet Story on page 24 make the offer A Penasburg representative will rake a similar public offer atthe Nov, 22 East, FEATURES — GreenvilloBorough Council mest Unaler the agreement, Pennsburg would as. sume 57.5 percent ofthe department’ costs. East eee eae cnet Beautiful Day for a Run - On Sunday, nearly 200 people took par Greenville’ burden would drop from 45 percent 1042.5 percent If East Greenville officials accept the offer, the borough would only have to contribute an ad Pennsburg, continued on page 2 ‘rea veterans honored in the Upper Perk Police Officers Association Foot Pursuit Sk/S-mile. Par ticipants ran the cart trails at the Macoby Run Golf Course in Mariborouat Township. Joining them in full uniform was Cpl. James McVeigh, secon« from the right, who ran the 5k. Additional photos on page 24. at events in the Valley, Photos on page 33 INSIDE Business News. 45 Church Directory... 32 Classifeds, Comics Community Calendar... 38 Dining & Entertainment 1d 15 Letlers te the Editor. 34,35 Obituaries. 26.26.32 Palos Reports 45 Senior Men 4g SPCA Pets, What sit Where ‘i East Greenville Officials Mull Tax-Increases, New Police Department By Bradley Schlegel ‘Sta Wester East Greenville Borough Council is considering two draft budgets for 2017 -one that increases the tax rat, but preserves the Upper Perk Police District, and another that creates an independent police department and could save the borough more than $230,000 annually. ‘Under the first proposal, introduced by Council member Marita Thomson ata Nov. 7 pble meting borough property s could see a tax increase of 2.15 ls, which would help to make up a 526,000 budget deficit. By raising the millage rate from 6.3 to 84, owners with a property assessed a $95,000 would see a $204 increase in rea estate taxes, according to Thomson. “Thomson said the $1.7 million proposed East Greenville, continued on page 6 Sloyer: “I Am Not the Puppet Master of East Greenville” By Bradley Schlegel ‘Stan Vitor ‘The need for long-term financial stabil ity provided the major motivation for East Greemille Borough Council's decision to withdraw from the Upper Perk PoliceCom- mission, according to Mayor Ryan Sloyer. During a 69-minute interview at East Greenville Borough Hallon Monday night, Sloyer laughed at the suggestion that he is orchestrating the dissolution ofthe Upper Perk Police Commission in order to create aan East Greenville Police Department tha he would oversee If that assertion was true, Sloyer argued it would make more sense to wait until a ter his reelection contest next year for th Stover, continued on page 6 as. UNITED TAEKWON-DO STUDIO Great Christmas Gift deal! 510 MAIN STREET, PENNSBURG 1 BR‘ TOWN ano COUNTRY November 17, 2016 ‘Sloyer, ‘and-a-half years before that, 3 also scoffed at the notion that continued from page} controls borough council counciltoend the commission, He called the idea that he is which was founded in 1973, “pulling the strings” of council “For people to think this members “hilariou is for me to have control of __“Iammnot the puppet mas- my owndepartmentisajoke” ter of Fast Greenville.’ the the mayor said. “This could be _ mayor said. “If was, I would political suicide. WoulditItell_get seven votes on every issue ‘The people on council have untilTsecuremy next four their own minds, and they years so I could be the God af make their own des East Greenville” dont always Sloyer, who has served as According to Sloyer, East ajor since July 2000 and was Greenville’ decision to leave & council member for two- the commission on March 6, STONEWALL’S Plumbing - Oil Heating - A/C Schedule Your Discounted Ot Burner or Portable Kerosene Tune Ups Today! IS Sales: Service «Installation Ol Tanks we Water Heaters: Kerosene WicksiParts Sales SS 610-748-1490 (fone Price ania fe. $1.73" Let Our Family sof ne Help Your Family ized minimen Stay Warm for Less! Pas ons INDEPENDENCE COURT OF QUAKERTOWN, ‘Senior Care Communi Caring for seniors for over 20 years! Assistance with meications, showers, dressing & much more, ‘Three nels dais + Transportation to doctor appointments, local shopping, and + Recreational activites thr include daly exercise clas, eras, bingo & musical entertainnent Call Suzanne for more information: 215-538-7050 < Feel fee to stp in visi Monday - Friday between 9 am 4 por call to sebedule an sppoiament ata ne ha suits you. Mionbiapeniecrcincin aba Aca ‘wwwaindependencecourt.com Quakertown, PA = aero 2017 has nothing to do with the officers who work for the Upper Berk Police District. ‘The decision was made based solely on the horough’ rela Uonship with Peansburg and the financial strain on the borough, he said. Pennsburg officials “did not treat the East Greenville council with respect and dig. nity” Sloyer said. think Peonsburg pushed. (Bast Greenville) council into the wall where something sded to happen.” the mayor i. “They Kept pushing and ‘making demands, and then \wouldait give us any informa East Greenville, ‘continued from page 1 budget ncludes funding forthe Upper Petk Police District at current levels During the same meeting, East Greenville Mayor Ryan Sloyer presented an alternative budget estimated at $1.5 ml: lion, with a one-time transfer ‘of $49,000 from savings. The proposal wouldholdthelineon taxes and includes expenses for an independent police depart ment. Sloyer said the proposal would save the municipality $232,436 in 2017 and $250,000 annually in subsequent years, allowing borough officials to invest in infrasteucture as needed. The proposed budget alsocallsfor spending $186,610 in salaries for East Greenville police officers in 2017, com. pared to the $786,606 East Greenville now contributes annually for staf members of the Upper Perk Poice District, Borough officials expectto tify a 2017 budget at the Dec Smeeting, according to Thom. ‘On Monday aight, Soyer said he would veto any 2017>ua get that includesa tax increase. ‘Alsoat themeeting, Thom: son said that municipal ofcials considering @ 5 percent Increase in the water Fates to help pay back a Penmvest loan, Shesid residents who consume 153000 gallons of water would sce their bills increase from S147 to ‘$154 if the increase isapproved, tion, We were not treated like a business partner” He said East Greenville’s lected officials also grappled with the need to fund the police department and simul- taneously make the borough affordable for several years. ‘On Monday, the mayor staked his claim as an ardent financial watchdog for the municipality "Ifyou do the history and ago back to when I first started serving, T have always tioned finances of the police department,” Sloyer said. "I've been saying we need to be financially smart tobe sustain- able” “The mayor ssid he has spo- ken privately with “uttes few” seniors and working people since 2000 who say they like the Upper Perk Police District, Dut cant afford to pay the taxes tomaintain the department. “Enough is enough.” he said. "We cant afford to keep going. We need a financial break. We need to work out the financial differences with ennsburg, and then go from, there” Percieved disrespect by Bast Greenville oficals Pennsburg counterparts and financials concerns, coupled with proce dural conflicts with Pennsburg’s ‘commission members exacer- bated Bast Greenville’ issues, Sloyer sad. He identified three recent events that helped faclitate East Greenvilles decision to leave the commission During the Apell 25 com- mission meeting, Kris Kirk: wood - the president of Penns- burg Borough Council and a police commission representa tive — read a statement both Jnviting the neighboring com- ‘munity to leave the commis- son “quietly and amicably” oF asking East Greenville to “put aside petty differences and start thinking about what greater possiblities exist” ‘The mayor also claimed Pennsburg officials unfairly criticized Bob McCluskie, an East Greenville council mem- ber and chair of the commis- son, for seeking the history of previous contractual issues from Solicitor Phil Gazan. ennsburgs absence at the ‘Aug. 22 public meeting “had ‘good amount of influence o1 the decision” tovoteto disso the commission, according t Sloyer, "He called the behavior “ob noxious and rude" “They wouldnt even send ‘one person so we could pay te bills" the mayor said. ‘On Sept. 6, during an ex ‘ecutive session held before the ‘contraversial votz, the coun members discussed “possib litigation that has to do wit ‘everything within the borough with the police and everythin ‘else? Sloyer said, “It wasall per factly legal, and in accordance With the Sunshine Law" During the executive ses sion, there was no vote taker ‘on the police issue, according to Sloyer. He sad the member did not come to an agreement ‘on the vote during the execativ session and that he did not take ‘shead count. ‘The mayor said the vote ‘though the issue was not spe cifically identified on the meet ing agenda, fell under the Po lice Commission agenda iter Sloyer said hecould understand why some people might b upset with how the Isste wa handled. “On the other hand, you Ihave this chain of events going ‘on ancl there's nobody (atthe ‘meeting) to ark, ‘What’ goin ‘on?’ So you ean Took att both ways’ ‘Sloyer expressed hope tha the mediation between th neighboring boroughs car preserve the commission and its multi-borough police de partment. He said that once thecommanities work out hei personality issues, they can move on tothe financial ones. it would mean a lot les headaches if we could work i ‘out to maintain the Upper Perk District and be one big happy family? the mayor suid. “ifwecan figure out how t rake the commission functio aandif wecan figure out how t financially support the depart ment for the next 20 years then that isthe best option”‘Volume 117, No. 97- December 8, 2016 THISWEEK Vocal Crowd Opposes New Middle School at UP School Board Meeting TOLIDAY. ‘Story on page 10 Pennsburg Approves Tentative 2017 Budget with Tax Increase ‘Story on page 3 indians Looking to Make Additional Stides on Court ‘Story on page 17 INSIDE By Candace Perry Correspondent East Greenville Votes to Stay in Police Commission until June 1 By Bradley Schlegel ‘Sta iter Lee Steinert stood and an- nounced at Monday's East Green- ville Borough Council meeting that Ihe was there to save the Upper Perk Police District. Steinert told the audience at the East Greenville Fire Company that an officer in the department recently helped to save the life ofhis step-daughter a 25-year-old kidney recipient Steinerts comments came council debated a motion by Marita ‘Thomson to extend the date to dis- solve the Upper Petk Police Com- mission an additional 13 weeks, Susinaes News. 40 : Crack Drecery an tole 12017. The motion event: Classifeds “Gaia ally passed, 5-2, with Steinert and Comics 3e.40 Jennifer Morancasting theopposing Community Calendar....38 Vor Dining &Erterainment 12,13 Steinert then motioned to re- According to the large majority of at tendees at Monday night’ Upper Perkiomen School Board meeting, the proposed new ‘middle school is not needed of wanted, ‘The near capacity crowd loudly com- mented and applauded as district residents stepped up to the microphone at the boards ‘monthly meeting to offer their opinions on www.uipynewsicom the why the school should not be built. Only a small number of residents stepped ‘up osupport the project, and those speak: ers were met with just a smattering of ap- plause, “The new school for grades six through cight is slated to cost nearly $59 million, ‘nd would be built between Montgomery “Avenue and Green Lane Reservoir. Residents! comments ranged from de News from Bally, Douglass, East Greenville, Green Lane, Hereford, Lower Salford, Marlborough, Milford, New Hanover, Pennsburg, Quakertown, Red Hil, Tumbaversvlle, Upper Hanover, Upper Salford, Washington Township and nearby communities. 7Bcents mands for greater transparency for decision making by the board and more support fo teachers instead of building @ new facility te concerns about higher taxes and tra problems. Hereford resident Steve Cunningham ‘who advocated renovation of the ex middle school, said thi been “pushed forward with{out| the inpu ‘Schoo! Board, continued on page 3 , the project had Zern’s Farmers Market for Sale By Bradley Schlegel ‘Set Writer Zern's Farmers Market, the iconic business in Gilbertsville is forsale. The listing price is 8 lion, according Ryan Corte Philadelphia real estate agent. Bobbi Gail Lipton, whose fanny has owned the market sinc 1948, wants the facility to continue in its current iteration, according to Cortez. “Her goal is to sell it t someone who would maintai a farmers market, and take itt ‘the next level” said Cortez, with Kurfis Sotheby's International Realty agency. On Tuesday, Cortez declined to comment further on th property, citing long relationshi With Lipton, He forwardeda listo {questions tothe woman, who lives in Hawai, However, the response were not returned before press Police Reports. 4,58 _ year, That motion failed by one vote. mi ‘Bob Esposito /Town and Country of Smiley's Auction, said the busi- Senior Menu, 36 Ryan Pugh and Jennifer Moran Leading the Way for Santa - Dog owners asso- ness received a letter last month SPCA Pets, 32 also voted for Steinerts measure, Slated with Mill Pond Veterinary Cinic in Miford Township announcing that the property a IS; UNITED TAEKWON-DO STUDIO © Great Christmas: Gift Idea!!! ‘510 MAIN STREET, PENNSBUR(6 ‘TOWN wo COUNTRY December 8, 2016 Keith Gerhart, a borough resident who expects to run against Mayor Ryan Sloyer next ‘year called out Aral for previ ‘ous otes on the same issue. (On Nov. 22, Arahill voted {fora motion to hold off leaving the commission until Dec. 31, 2017. Mayor Ryan Slayer’ vote East Greenville, ‘continued from page 1 sion unil the contract with the department’ oficers expires. Robert McCluskie, Thom son, Joe Arahllandactingcoun- ail President Tracey Hunsinger voted against the motion, which sent more thanhalfofthe nearly snapped a 3-3 tie, Steinert did 1O0peopleintheaudiencetothe not attend that meeting, and ext did not cata vote, Gethat also Residential Service & Repairs <= Serving the Community with Pride and Respect {for 29 years + Licensed & Insured + oct Technician Operated — MISA ESS) =) Military & Senior Citicens Discount: 10% Off 215-679-5518 - www.powerhouseelectricpanct_] (ALLA Electric “Aaing canbe ict when youcan no | ee | d wand I Nurses * Homecare Aes * Companions * Live-in Caregivers heir Cre & Actin, mae Peri’ care Revoie "a taivned a tanded- Cow ers harte 2th ‘aimed Arahilrecently voted favor ofa measuretoextend the deadline to June 30. “fel ikem being played? Gerhart said during the meet. ing. “You are making a lot of people wonder” “Arahill told Gerhart he misunderstood the motion that ‘would have delayed the disso tion until the end of next year. “it seems like every time Mr.Steinertisnot here, ou vote yes! Gerhart said. “When he is haere, you vote no" ‘Municipal officials chose the June 1 datein order to allow mediation with Pennsburg to proceed, accordingto Hunsing: fr After the meeting, she cited several delays in the proces for resetting the meeting date Hlunsinger sid they would be willing to consider pushing the deadline back to the end of the year should they see progress inthe mediation with henelgh- boring municipality. ‘Council also voted to have Sloyer, Hunsinger and borough Solieitr Stephen Kramer tepre sent East Greenville at the table “Themayor told theaudience that officals from both communities willlold a pre-mediation meet: ing this week. at Frederick Living! Ournen cottage neighborhood, The Meadows vil fer st what you re loaking for=matanancs es ng with accel al he campus ames 1 SSbrand new cottages 2 Selec ustomtion package options + Bulg ste solcton ail ovlable een amin (Calan tocny st 610:784:7878, ext 100410 schedule See tec ee sierra aera Meadows ‘t FREDERICK "4 2849 Big Rood, Frederick PA 19435, reienting oo i tome Ba {B00 Esposto/ Town and Country East Greenvile Borough Council member Lee Steinert stands 1 address Tuesday's public meeting, while Ryan Pugh listens Steinert announced that he came tothe meeting wth the mission cof saving the Upper Perk Police Distict Brooklyn Woman Accused of Stealing from Sears in Quakertown ATrooklyn,N-Y, woman who allegedly attempted toparchas set of tools with a counterfeit credit card on Nov. 27 from Sear in Quakertown faces a series of charges. “April Cullum, 27 faces three felony counts of receiving stor property, access device fraud, simple assault, disorderly conduc and harassment, according tothe police criminal complain ile in the Quakertown court of District judge C. Robert Roth. ‘Authorities responded toa disturbance atthe store, located a 2408. West End Blvd, of female fighting with the store manager sccording tothe affidavit of probable cause. “The tore owner told police thatthe woman came i looking Fo blender or tools purchaseas ahouse warming gift. Atcheckout Cullum attempted to purchase a254-piece too et, valued at $299 ‘with a fake Citi Bank Sears card, according tothe legal document ‘When the woman refused to show the card and ran toward the exit, the store owner locked the door to prevent her fron leaving. Cullum then allegedly pushed the owner to the ground hhithim seven or eight times with aclosed stand kicked him whil attempting to ran aay according to authorities, “The woman, who fled the scene heading north on Route 30 ina silver PT Cruiser, was topped by police and brought back the store, The store over then identified Cullum as the feral who entered the store the dacument states It claims the womat hha other items in her possession from other Seats locations. District Judge Maggie Snow, of Doylestown, set Cullumsbai st 10 percent of $25,000 during a Nov. 27 arraigament, ccordin {o information posted oma state judicial website, She posted $2,50 the next day. ‘A prelimi scheduled for Jan ry hearing in the case, before Roth, has bee 2017. Visit Us on the Web Www.upynews.com