Salute part of Peace Officers Memorial Day, May 15
By Jamie Richard, Staff Writer, CoatesvilleTimes.com
CALN – In honor of the upcoming Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, the Caln Township Police Department was recognized for their service to the community at Thursday’s board of commissioners meeting.
Police Chief Brian Byerly recognized 12 officers for outstanding service in the line of duty and awarded them with distinguished citations and certificates of merit. Board President Vincent Rose then presented Byerly with a Declaration of Appreciation on behalf of Caln Township.
“On behalf of our citizens, the township staff and fellow board members, I thank your for all that you do to keep us safe and protected within our everyday lives,” said Rose.
Chief Bylerly also presented Caln Town Watch President Steve Baker with a Distinguished Unit Commendation for their efforts.
“The town watch has watched over our children and made our community a better place to live in, said Byerly. “The Caln Township Police
Department appreciates your dedication and all the valuable assistance you have given us over the years.”
Peace Officers Memorial Day began in 1961 when Congress asked President John F. Kennedy to sign a bill designating May 15 to honor
peace officers. The week in which Peace Officers Memorial Day falls is known as Police Week.
Residents Ralph Jilek and Christie Fritsch came before the board regarding storm drain maintenance issues. Jilek and Fritsch came
before the board in Jan. about a malfunctioning pipe causing sinkholes on both of their properties. Although the township came out to
examine the sinkholes and a small section of the pipe, Fritsch felt that there were still issues with the pipe.
“I still believe there’s an issue with that pipe somewhere along the line,” said Fritsch.
The pipe connects to the storm pipes on Seltzer Ave. and Watson Ave., both of which are public works. Fritsch and Jilek assert that the
township installed the pipe and is thusly accountable for its maintenance.
“Those pipes were put in by the township in 1970,” said Fritsch.
Further complicating the issue is the fact that there is no documentation to show who or when installed the pipe. The board informed Jilek and Fritsch that, unless they could prove otherwise, the board would not be able to take any further action on the maintenance of the pipe.
“Unless you can come back and say here’s proof that it’s the township, there’s nothing we can do,” said Rose.
In other business, the board approved a land development plan for the proposed Giant gas station on Lincoln Hwy. The station will be
constructed at the site of the former Shell station and will offer discounts for shoppers at Giant Food Store.
The board of commissioners will hold their next meeting on May 31.
