Trending
Lycoming County commissioners have put the brakes on erecting a flood wall required for relocating a district judge's office in Old Lycoming Township.
The most recent development surrounding the wall came Tuesday when commissioners decided to table action on hiring Turnkey Construction, Inc. to do the work for $189,500.
Commissioner Tony Mussare questioned if the wall is necessary, even if the building is in a flood area.
He said he feared that now all commercial enterprises locating in the township will be faced with putting up flood walls.
"This will set a precedent," he said. "Now … my job is to protect the taxpayers."
He pointed out that this appears to be first time a flood wall has been required for protecting a building in the township.
Judge William Solomon is scheduled to move into the building being erected for his offices in July.
Commissioners have been critical of the need for the wall, apparently required under the township's elevation and flood proofing guidelines, but until now have gone along with moving ahead with the project.
They've noted that the site has only experienced flooding once in the past 100 years.
"There has to be a solution to this dilemma," Mussare said.
Commissioner Scott Metzger agreed erection of the flood wall could set a precedent.
"It can't be good for business. It can't be good for the tax base," he said.
Commissioner Rick Mirabito said he agreed with tabling action on the matter until next week.
County Sheriff Mark Lusk said he applauded commissioners for their action.
"This is a travesty. This is why we can't get business," he said.