East Franklin Sells Faulty Pressure Washer

by Jonathan Weaver

An unused piece of machinery was sold by East Franklin Township supervisors earlier this month.

Supervisors last night recognized the sale of a Hydro Tek pressure washer/steam cleaner to area resident Pete Douglas for $125.99 – nearly double the minimum bid officials would accept.

Only one bid (via a Frank Shaffer) was accepted in February and March for the faulty pressure washer until supervisors voted to re-advertise with the minimum $64.75 bid. East Franklin Township supervisors had replaced the model previously.

The third advertisement led to four more bidders, including Douglas.

Supervisor David Stewart previously estimated scrap price to be under $2.

According to Township Secretary/Treasurer Debra Cornman, Douglas paid for the pressure washer/steam cleaner in cash and has already taken the equipment.

In other news, supervisors unanimously approved their first LERTA application since a new 10-year real estate tax abatement ordinance was passed at the end of January.

Tim Bunta and his girlfriend bought a house along Butler Road last month.

“We’re glad to be in the township,” Bunta said.

While township ordinances previously allowed a two-year tax abatement schedule on any residence or business that increased its property value, the new ordinance offers relief on a 10-year scale, with taxes increases gradually by 10 percent each year.

Residents curious if their property qualifies under the new ordinance should contact each of the local taxing authorities by submitting a written request on the form provided at the township municipal building. The form is required to be submitted at the time the owner acquires a building permit.

Trash Week concludes at noon tomorrow.