Forks Supervisors Approve Recreation Board Ordinance

After several months of laboring and more than a dozen meetings, the Recreation Board ordinance for Forks Township has finally been approved -- with little fanfare.

Last night, the township Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the final version of the ordinance, which replaces the original 1960 ordinance.

“I think it’s a great advance for Forks,” said Supervisor Lilly Gioia.

“I’m very proud of the work we did,” said Supervisor C. David Howell. “It was probably the most transparent process we ever had."

“It’s been a disappointing, embarrassing long road that could have very easily been avoided,” said Supervisor Erik Chuss.  “I think we did a disrespect and a disfavor to the township."

Chuss was referring to the arguments that occurred during several meetings involving the recreation board, the supervisors and the Forks Township Youth Sports Organization.

Under the new ordinance, the board will still consist of seven members. The members will be appointed by the supervisors and each will serve five-year terms. Terms under the former ordinance were the same as those in the new law, thus current board members will remain in place and will be eligible for re-election once their terms have expired. The new ordinance will take effect on April 12.

Earlier this year, the board's bank account was closed and all funds were relinquished to the township. A $10,000 petty-cash fund was established so the board can pay for miscellaneous bills such as referee fees and last-minute supply purchases.

Under the new ordinance, the board treasurer will present a statement of account at every board meeting and will present a financial report to the supervisors every December, if necessary.

The board will also advise the supervisors and the township Planning Commission on any future recreational facilities.