Trending
I am a township resident since 2017 and read with interest the letter to the editor from Thomas G. Schaech on our upcoming election for Township Supervisor of Muncy Township. He was negative and accusatory of mismanagement of the current supervisor so I felt obligated to investigate his accusations for accuracy. Of note is that Mr. Schaech was a township supervisor however did not get re-elected 4 years ago.
It is true that we had a tax increase in 2023 of 0.5 mil taking us to 2.5 mils to provide us all our services. Of note this was only the 3rd increase in 25 years, with the previous two increases under the supervision of Mr. Schaech. There are NO plans to raise the taxes in 2026.
There was $22,000 in overtime last year however $14000 of that was services to Little League which was reimbursed. It is a service that has been rendered for over 14 years including during Mr. Schaech's tenure. Of note also there was NO deficit in the 2024 budget.
I saw no evidence that our current supervisor, Mr. Harmons, employment has any influence over the project at the District of Lycoming Valley. The business itself would receive tax breaks for 6 years, similar to the KOZ Mr. Schaech approved while in office with a tax abatement for 7-10 years.
As for the purchase of equipment, the money was taken form an established savings account for said purpose. This account in fact was set up during Mr. Schaech's tenure.....a good idea!
Total revenues of the township are from various sources other than the real estate tax of $496000. The total revenue is around $940000.
The township owns the entire building where the fire company is also located. In the lease agreement the township was to pay their portion of the gas bills, which apparently was not done for several years. It was agreed upon the township would pay for some repairs to the fire company to make up for the non-payment of the gas bills. Going forward the township is now paying their share.
As for health care....yes the costs have gone up like all of ours have. The township does their due diligence to explore options yearly to minimize costs.
It is important to know the facts. From my research, I feel our current Supervisor Gary L. Harmon is doing a great job for all of us in the township. The most important thing is to be sure to go out and VOTE for who you feel will best serve the interests of ALL the residents.
SUSAN SHULTZ EVERETT
Pennsdale
Submitted by email