East Union begins eminent domain process for park parking lot

SHEPPTON – East Union Township Supervisors voted last week to begin eminent domain proceedings for two Sheppton properties for parking for a public park.

The properties in question are 12 and 16 West Cranberry Alley, both of which are owned by Cary C. Keno, of Hollywood, Florida, according to the Schuylkill County Parcel Locator.

Township Solicitor Donald Karpowich explained the process, saying that the township first offers what it believes is fair market value.

“We tendered that offer, and it was refused, so we filed eminent domain action to take the property, and then there’s a window in which the property owner can argue that there’s not a public purpose,” Karpowich said. “When that window closes, then the only issue left is the value of the property. We put what we believe the value of the property is in escrow with the court, and then they have six years to file a petition for a board review.”

In other business, township supervisors approved the purchase of a 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utility to replace the township’s 2008 Chevy Impala police vehicle.

Supervisors Chairman Dennis Antonelli said the township will keep the Impala for use by township officials and public works crews for general errands, when a dump truck isn’t necessary.

The new vehicle is being purchased through a $7,600 USDA grant and a loan for the remainder.

The car will be purchased for $41,811 from New Holland Auto, with equipment upfitting and graphics. The township will also purchase lighting from J. Yurick’s Emergency Equipment, Sheppton, for $4,275 and a mobile data terminal for $3,298 from CDWG.

In other business, supervisors:

• Approved payment of $444.85 to Kass Construction for a vandalism incident over the Labor Day Weekend. Insurance covered half, and the township had to pay the remainder,
• Approved payment of $500 for the insurance deductible related to the Labor Day incident,
• Approved hiring Michelle Moyer as a code enforcement officer for $325 per month,
• Approved appointing Bob Gabardi and Rod Currier as assistant code officers with no salary,
• Approved loaning $5,805 for payment for a park project.

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Kaylee Lindenmuth

Kaylee Lindenmuth is a Shenandoah native with a passion for journalism and the community she calls home.

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