(11/2023) I hope that everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for in our lives and in our community. We are a very blessed nation, and we should be thankful for that. We had a very active October. Within the Road Department, we have finished all our scheduled projects. This includes putting double yellow lines on roads and new stop lines at various intersections. The Road Department has recently been cutting back the brush and trees that are hanging over roadways. Please be courteous of the mowing and cutting going on. Fall is setting in, we are not sure what snow will come, but it is predicted that there will be significant snow.

Please be careful as it gets colder for black ice, ice, or snow on the roads. In November, we will be upfitting our trucks with plows and salt spreaders to be ready for this winter. We have plenty of salt and anti-skid in stock to be ready for this year’s weather. As soon as possible after a snowfall, the Road Department will be out plowing and clearing the roads. If it is a significant snowfall, then you will see the Road Department out plowing during the snow. Don’t forget to winterize your vehicles and check your heating system in your homes. Also, remember to have your chimneys checked. Even with the time change on November 4 and it is still quite dark in the morning. Drive carefully and be aware of children waiting for the bus, as they may not be dressed in bright or reflective clothing. Please do not ignore the flashing yellow and red lights on school buses.

On October 5, the Zoning Hearing Board granted a special exception authorizing construction and use of a proposed new and larger dog kennel facility and the related expansion of an existing use permitted by special exception at 2575 Tract Road. On November 9, Adams County (ACCF) will start its Giving Spree Program at the Gettysburg Area Middle School from 3 to 7 p.m. The funds from this will go directly towards the construction of the new Gettysburg welcome center on Baltimore Street. The contact number is 717-337-3491 if you have any questions about the Giving Spree Program.

The 16th Annual Foothills Artists Studio Tour is taking place on November 18 and 19 from 10 to 5. Meet fourteen artists and tour their studios in the Fairfield, Orrtanna and Cashtown areas. Eight studio locations will feature paintings, pottery, sculpture, woodworking, photography, printmaking, fiber and textile arts, enamels, jewelry, calligraphy, and bookbinding. The event is free, and all ages are welcome. Please visit www.foothillsartists.net for more information.

I want to thank the staff here at Liberty Township for all they do every day. I want to make sure that our Township employees get the thanks they deserve. I want to continue to praise our Police Department for a job well done to keep our Township safe. It has been brought to my attention that there has been an increase in criminal activity. There have been car break-ins and various other break-ins. Please make sure to lock your cars and remove your valuables from your vehicle. Make sure your home is locked and secure as well.

The Municipal Election is Tuesday, November 7th and Liberty Township building will be open to voters from 7am-8pm. I encourage everyone to come out and vote. I am up for re-election this year for a 6-year term, I am humbly asking for your support and vote this year. Richard Swiat is running for re-election as elected auditor, and Gwen Myers is seeking your support by write-in votes to fill the remaining term of another vacant elected auditor position. The Township business office will be closed on November 7, and our monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 8 at 6 p.m.