Attendees at the Cranberry Township supervisors meeting on Thursday learned of flaws at both of the township’s water sites, and that the township is looking to significantly expand broadband coverage.
Utility Supervisor Mike Erwin said the Department of Environmental Protection inspected both water sites and found three major deficiencies that were related to backflow, and that the township is working on a time plan to add check valves on certain parts to comply with DEP’s regulations.
He said tap water is “tested weekly at CWM laboratory and has come back with no trace of contamination.”
In regard to broadband, township Manager Eric Heil said the Federal Communications Commission last month released an interactive map of coverage that should be reviewed by every resident before Jan. 13, which is the deadline for reporting.
State funding provided by the federal government is based on FCC findings, which trickles down to local communities. Residents can challenge the current map results, which can lead to significant changes in broadband availability.
“It’s important that all township residents go to the FCC broadband map and check their specific area for coverage,” Heil said. “If inconsistencies are found with broadband or mobile services listed, I strongly encourage you to challenge these inconsistencies.
The map can be found at fcc.gov/broadbanddata or by going to psats.org.
Other business
An ordinance proposal was introduced by the Township Planning Commission that would allow residential owners in all areas to operate short-term rentals on their properties, would add standards for use of the rentals, and would introduce licensing fees payable to the township to attain or renew permits.
The ordinance would also provide enforcement procedures for ordinance violations, assign responsibility for compliance, provide for appeals from the decision of an enforcement officer, and assess penalties for violations of the short-term rental provisions of the ordinance.
Board members were to take two weeks to read the ordinance and deliberate.
Road Supervisor Ted Williams said leaf collection is complete, with 28 tandem loads of leaves picked up over a seven-day period. Five additional days were spent on ditches and four days were spent unclogging road drains.
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