LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS PAUL NYMAN VIRGINIA EATON JOHN BOWER, JR MICHAEL REED RICH TROWBRIDGE
Editor - Sue Edler
Loyalsock Recreation Department 1607 Four Mile Drive Williamsport, PA 17701 570-567-7525 www.loyalsocktownshipbos.com
TREASURED TRADITIONS
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS SPRING CLEAN UP DATE 2026 POOL PASS HIGHLIGHTS 2026 SUMMER/FALL YOUTH PROGRAM REGISTRATION DETAILS
TALK OF THE TOWNship
Loyalsock Township Office 2501 East Third Street Williamsport, PA 17701 570-323-6151
February 2026
2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
BUILDING AND ZONING Building and zoning inspections – 1,617 New home permits issued - 14 New commercial building permits issued - 1 Property maintenance investigations and zoning/building violations -136 Rental unit inspections - 161 Commercial fire inspections - 36 Building and zoning permits issued - 443 Township Planning Commission met 11 times to review and comment on: 12 subdivisions, 3 conditional use reviews, 1 land development, and 5 other matters Continuing with updating the zoning ordinance and zoning map in its entirety. There was an unexpected delay as a result of having to switch consultants. PUBLIC WORKS Road Improvements Paving project was completed by GOH, Inc. Approximately 4,325 tons of asphalt and 48,123 square yards of milling was completed Sealcoating FiberMAT project completed by Midland. Approximately 23,734 square yards of road were sealcoat Line painting consisting of 92,872 white and 106,818 yellow paint completed Applied meltdowns for all crosswalks and around manholes Hot mix was applied by township crews Routine maintenance consisting of patching (cold & hot) and milling Dug out and rebased the roads for paving and backed up the shoulders from our paving program Milled low spots in streets and paved Cleaned all country roads with road broom Repaired multiple sinkholes on Township roads Finished crack sealing Kenmar area east of Westminster Completed ADA ramps along Lincoln Drive Placed and responded to PA One calls Stormwater Installed new inlet and storm pipe along Country Club Lane prior to the paving project Installed 1000 lineal feet of underdrain along the curb at Northwood Drive to reduce water seepage Repaired creek bank along Log Run Road with large rock to reduce erosion Removed silt and debris from Hidden Valley Estates stormwater pond and installed new modified soil and 80 lineal feet of 36" storm pipe to obtain MS4 credits Cleaned and inspected over 15,000 lineal feet of storm pipe and inlets as part of the yearly MS4 inspection program Removed debris from garage center island Installed snout inlet at Callie's Garden for sediment control. Parks and Recreation Completed construction of the softball field's concession stand (Heshbon Park) Rototilled 6 acres of park property for wildflowers Cleaned and installed boat docks at Riverfront Park Repaired bike path curb near United Rental Roadway/Tree Vegetation Maintained rural roads with John Deere Boom Mower Sprayed curb areas to prohibit weed growth Sprayed rural road shoulders to prohibit weed growth Cut brush along roads and intersections Swept all streets in our township with our street sweeper a minimum of 6 times per street Removed low hanging branches and opened tree canopy on rural roads to allow sunlight to access roads Conducted annual leaf program consisting of collection of leaves with the township and transferring them to our mulch pile Recycling Program Performed township wide spring clean-up in conjunction with DEP guidelines Ground mulch 2 times - assisted by Palcon grinder Pushed up brush pile, loaded mulch, and maintained the mulch pile in general Sign, Traffic Light, and Street Light Maintenance Installed new and maintained existing signs of all types within our township Installed no parking signs throughout the township Placed flashing stop signs around the school area Placed signs monitoring travel speeds Inspected traffic light and street light locations to maintain safety and security Trimmed around street lights for better visibility Bull Run Flood Protection and Maintenance Maintained Bull Run Pump Station Mowed and sprayed the impound area Cleaned and maintained related channels Added rock where needed Applied caulking to flood wall Inspected flood station monthly Mowed the levee by Hampton Inn Exercised the closure gate on Russell Avenue Weather-Related Events Responded to 18 snow events Maintained employee parking lots; cleaned snow and ice from walks and bridges Received salt & antiskid and mixed & loaded trucks as needed Patrolled roadways to check freezing conditions and spread material as needed Maintenance/Vehicles Maintained a preventative maintenance program on ALL equipment including in-house and out-sourced repairs or service Continued maintenance program of checking vehicles before leaving the garage Cleaned and repaired spike strips Sold 2016 CAT Backhoe Overview comment from Public Works Superintendent, Anthony Stopper: "This year, our department focused on infrastructure maintenance, stormwater management, and community improvement. Every project reflected the dedication and teamwork of our Public Works crew." RECREATION AND PARKS The Recreation Department offered 18 programs to the community. These included programs in the parks, pool, and the Recreation Center Employed approximately 42 staff Recreation Center Programs Offered: Walking, Kids Basketball, Kids Soccer, 30 and Up Open Gym Basketball, the After-School Program, and STEP's programs and activities Parks Programs Offered: Flatwater Challenge, Summer Youth Program, Tennis Lessons & Tournament, Beginner Pickleball Camp, Swim Lessons, Swim Team, Lifeguard Certification Course, House Decorating Contest, Holiday Parade, Holiday in the Park Event, and the Holiday Elf Contest Received $8,655.00 in donations for Sally Short's Holiday in the Park event. Awarded DCED grant to design the pedestrian bridge over East Third Street for Phase III of the Miller's Run Greenway: $416,000.00 Planted approximately 5.5 acres of wildflowers throughout the parks Installed 4 windscreens at the pickleball courts at James Short Park Painted the exterior of the new concession stand at James Short Park Paved Heshbon Tennis Court in addition to lining it as a joint tennis/pickleball court Added 2 LED parking lot lights to Heshbon Park Replaced the restroom doors at James Short Park Purchased Toro 60" mower z-turn (replaced x-Mark z-turn) Replaced rusted sections of the waterslide railing at the pool Sprayed weeds throughout the parks and pool Sprayed clover at the pool Added playground mulch to Heshbon Park Trimmed & mulched trees throughout the parks Removed downed trees and debris from multiple storms Painted parking lot lines at the parks and pool Serviced vehicles and mowers Mowed and maintained 4 parks, Faxon Circle, portions of the bikeway and along the dike, the Loyalsock Pool, Freedom Road Cemetery, the Township Building grounds, Dog Park, and the Recreation Center Offered one free Senior Theatre show and one free Children's Theatre show at the Community Theatre League Overview comment from Recreation Director, Shannon Lukowsky: "The Parks and Recreation Department was busy this year with various maintenance projects, programs, and the community pool. Thank you to the residents that came out to enjoy the facilities and participate in the programs we offered!"
MULCH LOADING Township residents with a key card can load mulch themselves at any time during normal mulch pile hours. The township does load mulch for a fee (when crew is available), but only during the following times: from May 30 to August 31, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:15am and 2:00pm; all other dates, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:15am and 2:30pm. By appointment only. Please call at least the day before you wish to be loaded to schedule your time. If you want to be loaded during the morning, you must also come in the day before to pay as you will need a receipt to be loaded and the office does not open until 7:30am. A receipt is always needed to be loaded. 2026 MULCH LOADING FEES Pickup Truck........................$10.00 Dump Truck.........................$20.00 Tri-Axle................................$30.00 Tractor Trailer......................$50.00
MULCH/RECYCLING AREA The Loyalsock Township Mulch/Recycling area is a great benefit to the residents of our community. It provides a place to discard any unwanted yard waste, which is then turned into reusable mulch. The Township has a security gate at the mulch/recycling area entrance which requires a key card to open. This gate helps keep people out who are not township residents and landscaping businesses that have not registered and paid the $5,000 dumping fee for using the mulch pile. To register for a key card you must come to the township office, fill out a registration form, and pay the $10.00 registration fee (cash or check only). Registration forms are available on our website – click on Publications, then Forms & Applications. A valid PA driver’s license, or a photo of the license, will be required at the time of registration for each name listed on the form (up to 2 names). Also, the make, model, and license plate number for each vehicle/trailer that will be used (up to 3 combined and they must be registered to household member) is needed to fill out the form. Only one key card will be issued per household. The key card will need to be renewed yearly at a cost of $5.00. There is a $15.00 fee to replace a lost card. Key cards are non-transferable and cannot be used by anyone other than the household members using vehicles listed on the registration form. They are also to be used only for yard waste from the property address listed on the registration form. Any violation of the mulch pile or key card rules and regulations may result in the key card being deactivated which would forfeit the registrant’s right to use the mulch pile. For a list of the rules and regulations go to our website under Recycling, click on Mulch Area, and then click on Rules/Regulations for Key Cards. If you see anyone breaking the rules please get the following information if possible: their license plate number, the make/model of car, and the time of the incident, and report it to the township office at 570-323-6151. As you approach the mulch/recycling area there are storage areas used by the township for materials such as stone and scrap metal. These items are not for the residents to take. There is also a pile where items are discarded until they can be disposed of. This is not to be used as a dump pile for anyone other than the township crew. Always scan your key card when going through the security gate.
NEW IN 2026 Loyalsock Township will be providing a designated area for residents to drop off leaves and grass clippings. This new space will be constructed by the Public Works Department using retaining blocks and will be clearly marked with signage for easy identification. We kindly ask residents NOT to place leaves or grass clippings on the brush piles. When mixed into the brush, these materials begin to decompose and can cause blockages during our mulch grinding process. Keeping them separate also allows the Township to compost leaves and grass more effectively. By maintaining a dedicated composting pile, we can offer fresh, high-quality compost to residents throughout the year. We appreciate everyone's cooperation as we continue improving our yard-waste services for the community.
LOYALSOCK tOWNSHIp mULCh pILE /RECYCLING aREA Conveniently located behind the Loyalsock Township Office 2501 East Third Street, Williamsport You must have a key card to open the security gate and enter the mulch/recycling area
KEY CARD RENEWAL The mulch/recycling area key cards must be renewed annually. Please do not throw your card away. All cards that have not been renewed by January 12, 2026 have been deactivated. The $5 fee (check or cash) is to renew or reactivate your current card. You may pay the renewal fee at any time and your card will be reactivated (unless deactivation was due to a violation of the rules). Renewal fees can be paid at, or mailed to, the Township Office at 2501 East Third Street, Williamsport. If you mail your payment (check only), please make sure to include your key card number (first five numbers on your card), and allow time for processing.
Lycoming County handles recycling. Call the Recycling Hotline at 1-800-736-7559, or go to the county website at www.lyco.org under departments and click on Resource Management Services for more information. For information on single stream recycling go to www.oneforallsinglestream.com
KEY CARD - CHANGES TO REGISTRATION FORM DATE: ________________________________________________ KEY CARD # ______________________________________ NAME: _______________________________________________ PHONE # _________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ VEHICLE/TRAILER (Please circle add or delete. The make model, and plate number are required to add a vehicle or trailer). ADD / DELETE _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADD / DELETE _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADD / DELETE __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
HOURS OF OPERATION SPRING/SUMMER HOURS Begin 2nd Monday in March Monday thru Sunday 8am - Dusk FALL HOURS Begin 2nd Monday in November Monday thru Saturday - Closed Sunday and any weekday the office is closed. 8am - 4pm WINTER HOURS Begin 2nd Monday in January Monday thru Friday - Closed Weekends 8am - 3pm SPEED LIMIT: 10 MPH -THIS AREA HAS SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS, A SECURITY GATE, AND IS PATROLLED BY SECURITY & TOWNSHIP STAFF. Violators will be prosecuted according to Loyalsock Township Code Sections 180-5,180-6, 180-30 and others that may apply. Violations may result in fines up to $1,000.00 per violation and/or deactivation of key card. RULES FOR USE 1. You must ALWAYS use your key card to enter. You may not follow another vehicle in. 2. DO NOT LEAVE PLASTIC BAGS OR CONTAINERS. 3. This area is reserved for Loyalsock Township based businesses and residents only. 4. Recyclable Items: trees & trimmings (NO stumps, and trees must be 20” or less in diameter and should be cut to 6 feet in length or less), brush & shrubs, garden plantings, grass clippings, and leaves. 5. All other items are prohibited (including construction debris). 6. Township-based businesses must register at the Township Office. Registrations run from January thru December and must renew annually. Contact the Township Office at 570-323-6151. 7. Mulch & leaves must be loaded by hand unless you make arrangements with the Township Office at 570-323-6151. 8. Do Not block road when loading or unloading. 9. Do Not disturb Township equipment or materials.
MULCH KEY CARD VIOLATIONS DEACTIVATION OF KEY CARDS FIRST OFFENSE: Deactivation of key card and suspension of all usage privileges for 30 days. Key card and privilege reinstatement is available after 30 days at the Township Office by paying a $35 reinstatement fee. SECOND OFFENSE: Deactivation of key card and suspension of all usage privileges for 90 days. Key card and privilege reinstatement is available after 90 days at the Township Office by paying a $35 reinstatement fee. THIRD OFFENSE: Permanent deactivation of key card and suspension of all usage privileges. Residents may request reinstatement of key card privileges after one (1) year by requesting an appeal before the Township Board of Supervisors. Any fees associated with violations and reinstatement can be imposed if approved. Note that all residents and businesses are responsible for their key cards. Misuse by other parties is not a valid excuse for violations. Any resident or business found within the gated area of the mulch pile without valid key card privileges may be prosecuted for criminal trespass. Cardholders are required to update their key card registration whenever there is a change with their vehicle/trailer. You may use the form below to update your information and return it to our office. Do not follow another vehicle in without using your key card.
STREET LIGHTS If you notice a street light out, you can contact the township office at 570-323-6151. Please provide the pole number, which consists of two sets of numbers that are located on the street side of the pole.
TOWNSHIP WEBSITE www.loyalsocktownshipbos.com The Township website contains information that may help residents answer building, zoning, recreation, and other frequently asked questions.
WRONG
YARD SALE
Compliment - Public Works Dept.
RIGHT
WHO ARE YOU GOING TO CALL?
OVERHEAD WIRES AND TREE ISSUES
SURGE PROTECTION FOR YOUR HOME
A resident phoned the township office regarding a concern that he had. He remarked that whenever he has reported a condition the matter was handled promptly and efficiently. Loyalsock Township's Public Works Department has 158 years of combined experience in this field and are committed to providing the best service to the community often going above and beyond what is expected. Their competence and experience is invaluable.
STREET LIGHT ISSUES
The Township often gets calls from residents regarding tree limbs in overhead wires or wires being pulled down by limbs. We cannot remove limbs from wires. You must contact the utility company to let them know there is an issue.
If you notice a street light out, you can contact the Township Office at 570-323-6151. Please provide the pole number, which consists of two sets of numbers that are located on the street side of the pole.
BUILDING & CODES
Spring Clean-Up
TREE TRIMMING The Loyalsock Township ordinance requires all tree branches to be trimmed to a minimum of eight feet above sidewalks and fourteen feet above street level, especially if branches are blocking visibility of stop signs or the sight distance at intersections. If you do not keep trees properly trimmed that are located in the township right-of-way, the township crew may trim the ones that do not meet these standards. We do not send letters before doing this work. Any property owner that has a tree that is not in the township right-of-way that hangs over the sidewalk or street, and does not meet the height requirements, will be sent a letter letting them know that it needs trimmed. If the work has not been done by the completion date in the letter, then the township crew will trim it to our specifications. When the township trims trees it will trim up higher than the eight or fourteen feet needed so that we do not have to go back every year and trim the same trees. In some cases, this upsets the property owner who says the tree was butchered or they weren't notified. Those who wish to avoid having trees trimmed by township crews must do so themselves or hire a professional service. The township crew and staff seek to keep our streets as safe as possible and your cooperation is appreciated.
Surge Protector Strips offer device-level protection for devices that are directly plugged into the strip. They are best for frequent, smaller surges and voltage fluctuations. These are plugged into a standard wall outlet. They can easily be found at any local retailer. The surge protectors do wear out over the course of time and will lose their effectiveness. It is a good idea to replace them every 3-5 years even if the indicator light shows they are still working. Whole-Home Surge Protectors provide comprehen- sive protection for your entire home's electrical system, which inclues your major appliances, heating/cooling systems, washers, dryers, etc. They provide protection against significant surges that originate from external sources such as lightning strikes and downed power lines. The devices provide a first line of defense, diverting the excess voltage from traveling through your electrical system. These protectors must be installed by a qualified electrician and are placed at your electrical panel. Whole-Home Surge Protectors generally work for 5-10 years. It is important to periodically check the unit to be sure the indicator light is not showing a red light or no light at all, which both indicate the unit has failed and should be replaced. Layered Protection using both surge protector strips and a whole-home surge protector is your best defense against potential damage, but it is not a substitute for individual surge protectors. The whole-home surge protector will guard against external surges, and surge protector strips will give extra protection for your sensitive electronics such as computers and smart devices. Surge protection provides peace of mind. The initial investment of surge protection far outweighs the cost of replacement or repair of your damaged electronics and appliances, or most importantly the possible loss of health or life as some electrical fires have been attributed to sudden power surges.
BEES IN THE HOUSE? Call: 1-800-BEE-BUZZ
KEEP TOWNSHIP RIGHT-OF-WAYS CLEAR WHY SIGN PLACEMENT MATTERS The township street right-of-way (ROW) may not be immediately obvious or clear to most people. In fact, our street right-of-way boundaries vary throughout the township. Where public sidewalks are present, the township right-of-way is relatively easy to determine. The area between the curb of the street and the private property side of the sidewalk is generally township owned street right-of-way. There is a common misconception among many residents that they own to the curbline, and this area gets confused as part of someone's front yard. Most front yards end about 1-2 feet behind the public sidewalks. The Ordinance refers to these areas as either the street or tree lawn and the public foot walks. There are to be no obstructions placed within these areas abutting the public street. Exceptions are made for township or state-installed signs necessary for directing traffic, designated mailbox locations, and garbage cans with lids being placed within these areas 24 hours in advance of being picked up by your chosen refuse collector. One of the most common obstructions we find in the ROW's are temporarily placed signs. The township sign ordinance prohibits the placing of all signs within the right-of-way. So as not to discriminate, this includes all types of signs and does not matter the content or size of the sign. The most common illegally placed signs range from contractors actively performing or having completed work at a property, political signs, real estate signs, business advertising signs, and garage sale or special event signs. When these signs are seen in the right-of-way, any township employee has been directed to remove said sign. It is at the discretion of the township employee whether to relocate a sign in the right-of-way onto private property or confiscate the sign without notice. Per the ordinance, confiscated signs will be held at the township building for up to 30 days and may be claimed by the owner. If a sign is not claimed within 30 days, then it would be disposed of as abandoned property. The township would like to prevent spending too much employee time and resources enforcing these illegally placed signs, so we ask all residents for their cooperation with this requirement. Some examples of assisting us with this would be asking a contractor that you may have hired who unknowingly placed his business sign between the curb and sidewalk to relocate it to your private front yard. If you notice one of your neighbors with a sign inside the right-of-way, you could remind them of this requirement. If you hire a landscaping service to mow, and they move a sign out of your front yard and into the right-of-way, please relocate it back to your private property. We hope this article was able to explain some things about preventing obstructions, such as signs, in the street right-of way. Any resident unsure of a ROW boundary can contact the township office for further guidance.
Loyalsock Township will be holding one Spring Clean-Up to pick up yard waste on Monday, April 20. All items must be placed out between the curb and sidewalk PRIOR TO 7:00AM ON THAT MONDAY. Nothing should be bagged. The crew will only go through the township once during the scheduled collection, so if your items are not out, they will not go back to pick them up at a later time. The clean-up will continue after Monday if needed to get through the whole township. Please do not place any items in the street. If you don't have curbing, place the items as close to the road as possible without causing a safety hazard. The following yard waste items will be picked up: leaves, small debris, shrubbery, tree trimmings, and brush. Nothing will be picked up if bagged. If there is anything placed in a pile that is not listed above, the property owner will be responsible for removing all of the debris. This pick up is for residential properties within the township only. There will be no commercial pick up.
PUBLIC WORKS
ELECT Billy Helps for Mayor
B0C4DE
If you file for the PA State Tax Rebate, ask for a “SIGNED RECEIPT” when you pay your tax bill. This is slightly different from a regular receipt, and will expedite your refund. There is a 25-cent charge for this special receipt. Once again, ask for it when you are paying your tax bill please or include when paying by mail. Include a self-addressed envelope for receipt and/or rebate copy.
Some years ago, we believe in the 1930's, the Faxon Land Company created a plot plan for the major part of what we now call Faxon in Loyalsock Township. The plot plan was entered in the Recorder's Office and as a result of that record certain areas in the Township were designated "alleys" by the Faxon Company and offered in dedication to the Township. For whatever reasons they had, the Board of Supervisors in those days (1930's) chose not to accept the alleys. This was not an oversight, but an active choice. Having not accepted the alleys, the Township's rights to those alley-ways would have expired after 21 years. Having not been accepted, and 21 years having passed, the land upon which the alleys lie would then have reverted, by law, half to each of the adjoining owners. That is, the adjoining owners would own the land in fee, however, that ownership would be burdened by the easement created upon dedication which would run in favor of every person who purchased out of that plan their successors and assigns. In laymen's words, this is what happened. When people bought from the Faxon Company they also bought the right to drive upon the alleys. Even though, as a result of passage of 21 years of non-acceptance, the land of the alleys reverted to the adjoining owners, that has not eliminated the right of the neighbors to use those alleys. The right is a personal right of the present land owners and has nothing to do with the Township. The alley-ways do not change individual property lines. In summary, the Township has no interest in those alleys, and even though the neighbors have purchased lots in the Faxon Plan they have the right to make use of those alleys, those rights are personal and must be enforced by the neighbors. The Township would certainly encourage all residents who adjoin the alleys to make use of them only in a fashion that does not infringe upon the rights of their neighbors. Any maintenance in these alley-ways becomes the responsibility of indivdual property owners who abut the alleys and not the Township's. The alley-ways in the Township are meant to stay open and cannot be blocked by any structure or vehicle. We hope that this explanation can answer some of the questions that we receive about the alleys in the township. (This article pertains to all alleys in the township.)
Dottie White Mertz Loyalsock Township Tax Collector 2132 Northway Road, Williamsport, PA 17701 570-321-8020 for Real Estate Taxes 570-601-1212 for Business Taxes, License, and Local Service Taxes
WHO DO THOSE ALLEYS BELONG TO ANYWAY?
THE COUNTY AND TOWNSHIP TAX BILL WILL BE ISSUED SOON WATCH YOUR MAIL THE FIRST WEEK OF MARCH My office collects the following: REAL ESTATE: County and Township (mailed MARCH) and School (mailed JULY) BUSINESS: 1) License Fee (due the end of January) 2) Business Privilege Taxes (due April) 3) Local Services Tax - $52.00 per employee due $13.00 per quarter County and Township Real Estate Tax bills will be mailed the first week of March 2026. Your Real Estate Taxes are based on the assessed value of your property as set by Lycoming County. The Township millage rate remains the same at 0.5 mills. The County tax rate will be 7.0 mills. If you do not receive your tax bill by March 15th please contact my office immediately. Non-receipt of a bill does not eliminate the tax and does not change the due dates. If you recently bought or sold a property the tax bill may not have been updated by the County Assessment Office by the time tax bills were processed. You may call their office at 570-327-2301 to verify that a change of ownership has occurred, or to correct or change your mailing address. All Real Estate tax bills have 60 days at discount (2% discount); 60 days at the face amount; and then are in penalty (10% penalty) until the last public day of December 16th or postmark of December 31st. Postmark counts for all due dates, and there is a locked drop box at the office for 24 hour service. Office hours generally are Monday and Wednesday from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, but may change throughout the year, with extended hours at the end of each discount period. Please read the tax bill and information on the back of the bill carefully for office hours during each tax cycle. With your safety in mind, my office is closed when the Loyalsock Schools are closed for inclement weather. In the event of a disruption to scheduled hours, my office answering machine has the latest office hours and collection details. This will be different from any other municipality, so please only rely on information from the Loyalsock Tax Office! This office also collects all business related taxes. Packets with all forms required for 2026 were mailed the first week of January. Business License fee of $10.00 is due each January, and your license is to be posted for public viewing. Business Privilege Taxes are due by the end of April each year. There is also a Local Service Tax ($52.00 per employee, owner, president, etc.) that is withheld from each employee and submitted quarterly. As always feel free to contact me with your questions regarding Real Estate or Business Taxes. I wish you a Happy and Healthy 2026 and look forward to serving you for my 29th year. Dottie
Residential Car Washing and Stormwater The weather will soon be changing and our thoughts turn to giving our cars a good hand washing. But, washing your car on a paved driveway is never a good idea. The winter dirt, grime, salt, oil, and soapy water that run off the car are pollutants that will most likely find their way to the storm drains. These pollutants adversely affect our lives in so many ways and destroy aquatic life and habitat as the storm drains are a direct link to our local water bodies. Can you still wash your car at home? The answer is yes if it is done responsibly. Wash your car on a grassy or gravel area that absorbs the water without it washing into the street as the ground will filter it naturally. Use soap sparingly. Try to use non-phospate detergents. Use a hose that is high pressure, low volume, and has a triggle nozzle to save water. Wash one section of your car at a time, and rinse it quickly. When you're done, empty your bucket of soapy water in the sink, not down the street. If you plan to clean the engine or the undercarriage of your car, it is wise to use a commercial car wash.
The township office periodically gets calls from residents that have questions about the alleys that adjoin their properties. This article was previously in The Talk Of The Township, August 2022 issue.
IT'S GOOD TO KNOW
FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR
WHAT STARTED OFF AS A BEAUTIFUL DAY WENT RIGHT DOWN THE DRAIN
YOUR PROPERTY TAX DOLLAR Assessed value of a residence in Loyalsock Township $100,000 Taxes: Loyalsock Township School District - $1,535 Lycoming County - $700 Loyalsock Township - $50 School District 67₵ County 31₵ Township 2₵
LOYALSOCK SWIM TEAM REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN (Sponsored by Loyalsock Township Parks and Recreation) Visit Sockswim.org to register - Registration closes June 1st
The Loyalsock Garden Club begins their new year with excitement for the upcoming garden events and sharing their joy of gardening.
Secretary's Highlights Home Occupation for Heidi's Furry Rescue at 413 Elwood Road approved with conditions. W. Daniels resignation from the Planning Commission accepted. M. Sortman approved as full-time Planning Commission member. 2026 Tree Quote awarded to Dincher & Dincher. Resolution 2025-22 - DCED grant for bucket truck approved. K. Healy appointed to vacant alternate seat on the Planning Commission. Ordinance No. 402 - Building Code update adopted. 2024 Audit approved. Home Occupation for Miller's Undercoating at 2465 Edercrest Road approved with conditions. Three-year extension given to the land development for 66 Liberty Lane. 2026 Fuel Bid awarded to Button Energy. 2026 Budget adopted. Resolution 2025-23 - 2026 Property Tax Levy adopted.
Riverfront
Pool membership passes are now available in the following ways: - Print from our website: www.loyalsocktownship.org - Request to have an electronic copy emailed. Email request to: recreation@loyalsocktownship.org - Obtain a hard copy from the Loyalsock Township Recreation Office, 1607 Four Mile Drive, Williamsport Membership passes are available at the Recreation Office during their business hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm (closed holidays). 2026 POOL MEMBERSHIP PRICES: Resident Family Seasonal: $210.00 Non-Resident Family Seasonal: $270.00 Individual Seasonal: $140.00 Non-Resident Individual Seasonal: $185.00 * Receive a $10 discount if you purchase on or before May 1, 2026 (no exceptions) * Senior Citizen Discount (10%). You must be 65 or older (discount applies only to memberships) * Monthly passes are also available 2026 DAILY ADMISSION PRICES: Resident Daily Admission - $7.00 per person ages 12 & up, $6.00 per person ages 2 to 11, under 2 free Non-Resident Daily Admission - $9.00 per person ages 12 & up, $8.00 per person ages 2 to 11, under 2 free Non-Swimmer - $4.00 Resident and Non-Resident (must receive special wristband) Senior Citizen Resident Daily Admission - $6.00 Senior Citizen Non-Resident Daily Admission - $8.00 Senior Citizen Non-Swimmer - $3.00 Resident and Non-Resident (must receive special wristband) ** Note: Senior Citizen Discount is extended to those who are 65 or older (ID is required)**
2026 POOL MEMBERSHIP PASS INFORMATION
Pool Members: $55 first swimmer $50 each additional swimmer in family Non-Members: $70 first swimmer $65 each additional swimmer in family No school district boundaries apply. Swimmers must be able to swim 25 meters across the pool. Stay updated and connected --- visit sockswim.org for the latest news and information.
JAMES SHORT
RECREATION & PARKS
Compliment - Parks & Recreation Department A resident commented that the holiday lights at James Short Park are always beautiful, but this season they were exceptional. The Parks & Recreation Department start decorating the park mid October with the stringing of lights. The figurines are then set out mid November. Approximately 4000 zip ties are used. When it comes time to flip the switch the lights shine bright, burdens are lightened, spirits are lifted, and joy fills the air. All those responsible for putting it in place have a sense of pride knowing they have once again done their job very well. The magnitude of it all highlights the dedication of the Parks and Recreation Department.
BRUCE HENRY
AED'S in the Parks Each of Loyalsock Township's 4 parks now contain an Automated External Defibrillator to aid in sudden cardiac arrest situations. The AED's are located on the restroom buildings at James Short Park, Heshbon Park, and Riverfront Park. The AED at Bruce Henry Park is located on the concession stand at the Little League Baseball major league field. The AED's are secured in a temperature-controlled locked box in which the user would need to contact 911 to receive the code before being able to access the unit - the 911 Center would then provide further instructions on the use. Also included in the box is a "Stop the Bleed" kit and a Narcan kit, which also needs a 911 code to gain access.
heshbon
Loyalsock Garden Club News
2025 Swim Team Photo by Albright Studio
The officers of the club continue to be the same as those elected for 2025. Becky Baker continues as President with Patty Havens accepting the role of Vice President. Sandy Person will serve as Secretary and Diane Warner as Treasurer. Joan Downs will continue as Assistant Treasurer. Directors are Barb Flock and Leah Flanigan. February 16th at 7:00pm the first meeting of the year will take place at the Loyalsock Recreation Center. Master Gardener, Dr. Warren Robinson, will present a program on seed propagation entitled "Seeds to Supper". March 16th at 7:00pm the club will meet at the Loyalsock Recreation Center for a presentation by Vicky Killian on "Air Plants". There will also be a Chinese Auction mini fundraiser. April 25th at 12:00pm the club will meet at Basil's Wood Fired Kitchen Lounge in Muncy to celebrate the arrival of spring with their Annual Spring luncheon. This is always a great time of relaxing with friends as they anticipate the upcoming chores in their gardens. The contact person for this event is Patty Havens. May 15th at 6:00pm the club will hold their annual meeting at Tebbs Greenhouses on Four Mile Drive where they are assisted by the wonderful crew at Tebbs as they plant beautiful containers for their spring and summer enjoyment. This meeting is always enjoyed by all. Barb Flock is the contact person for this event. On June 15th at 7:00pm the club members will tour the garden of Rick and Anne Mason on Grandview Road, Williamsport. Members are asked to carpool because parking is limited. It is also suggested that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Patty Havens is the contact person for this event. New members and visitors are always welcome. For information contact President Becky Baker at 570-337-5955 or email: rebecca71@comcast.net
Loyalsock Township may be hiring summer help for the following positions. Priority is given to employees who worked in 2025. The number of openings will depend on how many staff members from last season plan on returning this year. Employment applications are available at the Recreation Department. Positions may include: Pool Manager/Assistant Manager; Pool Staff- Lifeguards/Office/Concession; Swim Team Coaches, Summer Youth Staff, and Tennis Instructors Lifeguards and Swim Lesson Instructors are needed and here are some of the benefits: Flexible Schedule Certification Reimbursement $12.00/per hour starting pay Fun & friendly work environment Meet new people and help your community The Recreation Department may be holding a certification class this spring. Minimum age is 15 years old. If you are interested, contact Shannon at the Loyalsock Recreation and Parks Department: 570-567-7525
LOYALSOCK CENTER FOR HEALTHY AGING The STEP Loyalsock Center for Healthy Aging is open for dine-in meals Monday through Friday offering a lunchtime hot or lighter fare option. Menu options as well as a schedule of activities can be found on: (https://www.facebook.com/STEPOfficeOfAging). Exercise programs are being offered weekly which includes Tai Chi for Arthritis, Zumba Gold, and Healthy Steps in Motion. Additionally Make and Take Ceramics, Tech Savvy, Cards, and Fibre Arts (crochet, knit, quilt, needlepoint, etc.) programs are also being held. Volunteer opportunities are also available for those groups or individuals interested in delivering Meals on Wheels. For more information on activities, to check out the menu options, or to make a reservation, contact Carly Engel, Center Coordinator at 570-601-9590.
"FREE AT LAST" DOG PARK Fall/Winter Hours: 2nd Monday in November through the 2nd Monday in March Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm; Saturday - Sunday 8am - dusk Spring/Summer Hours: Daily 8am - dusk The dog park may be closed without notice due to conditions at the park, weather, or other reasons. We will try to keep our Township Facebook page updated when this happens, but are unable to provide any other prior notice. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.
LOYALSOCK CENTER FOR HEALTHY AGING IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED WITH EASY ACCESS AND PARKING.
FREE WALKING PROGRAM The Loyalsock Recreation Department offers a free walking program for people ages 18 and over at the Loyalsock Recreation Center Gym at 1607 Four Mile Drive. You can walk for free Monday through Friday between 10am and 12pm. Walking is done around the perimeter of the gym. Gym shoes are required. Registration forms are available at the Recreation Department or online. Questions call 570-567-7525.
2026 Employment Opportunities
Hector, Ranger of Loyalsock, has his heart set on going to the Dog Park with all of his camping gear, doggie treats, and toys just in case the rules were changed and overnight camping is permitted.
2026 Summer/Fall Program Highlights & Registration Information SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM - (Bruce Henry Park) Children are exposed to arts & crafts, nature activities, educational games, sports, swimming at the Loyalsock Pool, one scheduled field trip, and much more. Monday thru Friday. Children ages 5 - 12 (must have completed kindergarten) are welcome. Parents provide lunch and any desired snacks. Open to Loyalsock residents only. Cost: $300/participant. Space is limited. Registration opens: March 9, 2026 Program begins: June 15, 2026 SUMMER SWIM LESSONS - (Loyalsock Community Pool) A life-long skill for your child, lessons progress from basics to advanced stroke development. Monday thru Friday. Ten days of instruction, with safety activities on rain days. Minimum age 5 (must be comfortable in the water). Cost: $40/resident, $50/non-resident. Space is limited. Registration opens: March 9, 2026 Programs begins: June 8, 2026 SUMMER SWIM TEAM - (Loyalsock Community Pool) This is a fun summertime sport where all ages compete on the same team and the younger swimmers count just as much as the older swimmers for the team score. If you have any questions, please email sockswim@gmail.com or call Bridget Lingle 570-220-4607. Cost: Pool Members - $55 first swimmer/$50 each other swimmer in family. Non-Pool Members- $70 first swimmer/$65 each other swimmer in the family. (All registrations need to be done online: www.sockswim.org) Registrations are being accepted at this time SUMMER TENNIS LESSONS - (Bruce Henry Park) Learn the game or improve your skills with USTA 1-2-3 and Team Tennis. Sessions are offered for youth (ages 5--17) and Adult (18 & over). Cost: $70 resident, $80/non-resident Registration opens: March 9, 2026 Program begins: June 8, 2026 2026-2027 AFTER-SCHOOL RECREATION PROGRAM (GRADES 1st - 5th) - (Loyalsock Recreation Center) The After-School Recreation Program is offered to Schick Elementary students (Grades 1st - 5th) for the 2026-2027 school year. This is an active program where the kids participate in sports, games, and arts & crafts. The program is offered from time of dismissal until 5:30pm on each full-school day and scheduled half days. It is not offered on non-scheduled early dismissals due to weather or other reasons, and it is not offered on days there is no school. Space is limited. Registration opens: June 17, 2026 Program begins: First day of school Registration forms are available starting on the specified dates on our website: www.loyalsocktownshipbos.com or forms can be picked up in the Recreation office at 1607 Four Mile Drive, Williamsport. If you have any questions about any of these programs, please call the Recreation Department at 570-567-7525. All programs are first come, first served.
DON'T MISS EARLY REGISTRATION
CANDY CANE ($51.00 -- $100.00) CONT. Stanley & Linda Bausinger Chuck & Nora Coffey David & Sally Craig Dincher & Dincher Tree Surgeons, Inc. GP Metal Fabrication Wheeland Industries Tony & Lois Grieco In Memory Of: Jim Haladay Betty Hall The Hartman Group James & Susan Hine Don & Donna Krupilis Dr. Mark C. Oberheim, DMD, MDS, PC John & Margaret Piper, Jr. Spectrum Larry & Karen Stopper The Terpak Family Woodlands Bank SNOW FLAKE (UP TO $50.00 Karen & Francis Daly Ginny Eaton Ecker Family Dental, Eric M. Ecker, DMD Mary & Atiyeh Elliftawi William Geyer Ed & Sandy Grier Nancy Lady Loyalsock Animal Hospital, Inc. Mr. Sticky's Rick Wheeland
HOLIDAY IN THE PARK The 20th Annual "Sally Short's Holiday in the Park" took place on December 6th at James Short Park. Loyalsock Township would like to thank all of the businesses and individuals listed who donated to this event. We were able to purchase more lights and displays with your contributions. We would also like to give a special "Thanks" to St. Ann's Troup 38G; Loyalsock Township School District Music Department; Loyalsock Township High School Master Singers; Ben Hepburn for the use of the hay wagon; It's My Party Store; the Township employees who decorated the park; the volunteers who helped at the event; and to all who helped make this event possible. THANK YOU TO ALL THESE GENEROUS SUPPORTERS OF THE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK
Light up the holidays
"LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS" HOUSE DECORATING CONTEST
LOYALSOCK RECREATION CENTER GYM & COMMUNITY ROOM RENTALS The Loyalsock Recreation Center Gym and Community Room are both located at 1607 Four Mile Drive and both are available for rentals. The gym and community room can be rented for parties, meetings, special events, etc., and the gym can also be rented for sports use. Political events are not permitted. If you are interested in renting either of these spaces please contact the Recreation Department at 570-567-7525. The prices are listed below. A security deposit equal to the amount of your rental fee (up to $100) will also be charged. This will be returned following your rental, after we verify that all of the rules were followed and the area was returned to the way it was prior to your rental. GYM: Sports Use Resident: $25.00 / hour - $15.00 / ½ hour Non-Resident: $45.00 / hour - $25.00 / ½ hour Net Set Up Fee: $5.00 flat fee Parties/Events Resident: $35.00 / hour - $20.00 / ½ hour Non-Resident: $55.00 / hour - $30.00 / ½ hour Discount: Weekdays Noon - 2:30pm Resident: $15.00 / hour Non-Resident: $25.00 / hour Net Set Up Fee: $5.00 flat fee
Here are the results of the 2025 annual House Decorating Contest. The winners are as follows: Traditional: 1st place, 1811 Northway Road; 2nd place, 2141 Warrensville Road; and Most Christmas Spirit: 1st place, 1526 Country Club Lane; 2nd place, 2066 Lincoln Drive. The Most Unique: 1312 Mansel Avenue, and Best New Addition: 1925 Sheridan Street. There were a total of 14 homes that participated in the contest this year. As usual, it was hard deciding which houses were the winners. We would like to thank all of the participants for being involved in this "fun" competition and for helping to brighten up our community during the holidays.
COMMUNITY ROOM: Parties/Events Resident: $35.00 / hour - $20.00 /1/2 hour Non-Resident: $55.00 / hour - $30.00 / 1/2 hour Kitchen Use: $25.00 flat fee (Does not include use of stove and dishwasher) Businesses and organizations will need to provide a certificate of insurance with the Loyalsock Township Board of Supervisors listed as certificate holder and additionally insured.
We would also like to thank the following businesses for their donations and prizes for this event: Bruster's Ice Cream, Buffalo Wild Wings, Community Arts Center, Denny's, Dunkin Donuts, Faxon Lanes, Giant, Hana Asian Bistro, Hoss's Steak & Sea House, Janet's Floral, Jiffy Lube, Kost Tire & Auto Service, Mr. Sticky's, Pizza Hut, Subway, TGI Fridays, Texas Roadhouse, Venice Pizza, The Villa, Weis Markets, 21st Century Signs and River Valley Transit.
2025 HOLIDAY PARADE The Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Company, in conjunction with the Loyalsock Township Recreation Department, sponsored the 2025 Holiday Parade which was held on Saturday, December 6th. We would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for participating: Backyard Broadcasting; Loyalsock Fire Company; Montoursville Fire Company; Loyalsock High School Band; Northway Community Church; Lycoming County Commissioners; Valley View Rehab & Nursing Center; Loyalsock FC Soccer; St. Ann's Pack 38; Scouting of America Pack 38; Woodlands Bank; and, of course, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and friends.
James Short Park has transformed into a beautiful Christmas wonderland for the last 20 years. This all started with a vision that Erdean White and her husband shared. They put their thoughts into action and through much effort we have what we know as "Holiday in the Park". Others continue to follow in their footsteps to assure that their dream will live on in Loyalsock Township.
SANTA CLAUS ($501.00 -- ABOVE) Allison Crane & Rigging, LLC Mike & Terry Gaetano Herbal Haven Smoke Shop Mike & Nicole Reed "The White Family" FROSTY ($251.00 -- $500.00) Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Hodrick Realty Carey Family Kaufman Funeral Home Jeffrey & Jennifer Patterson Jeff & Chris Rauff Seneca Resources ELF ($101.00 -- $250.00) Mark & Karen Bergren Fagnano's Pools Fischer Insurance Agency The Killians - Shawn, Sandy, Colby & Caitlyn Martin & Gail Maurer Paul Nyman / Stephanie Charnesky Rich & Alice Trowbridge Erdean White Bob & Dottie White Mertz Rowan & Gwendolyn Winton The Woodruff Family CANDY CANE ($51.00 -- $100.00) A-1 Portable Toilets
ADA Compliance - Loyalsock Township is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in our programs, facilities, services and activities. To make a request for reasonable accommodation, contact the Loyalsock Township Office at 2501 East Third Street, Williamsport, PA 17701. Phone 570-323-6151. ADA Coordinator Bill Burdett, bill@loyalsocktownship.org
LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP "The Place to Live"
FREE THEATRE FOR CHILDREN Charlotte's Web - Saturday, February 28, 2026 @ 2:00pm A young pig named Wilbur befriends a spider named Charlotte, who uses her web to save him from being slaughtered. Charlotte's cleverness in weaving words like "Some Pig" into her web helps convince the farmer to spare Wilbur's life. The story explores themes of friendship, love, and loss, culminating in a bittersweet ending with Wilbur carrying on Charlotte's legacy. LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP'S THEATRE FOR CHILDREN IS FOR CHILDREN BETWEEN THE AGES OF 3-12 YEARS OLD. CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT. CHILDREN'S THEATRE IS LIMITED TO LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS ONLY. TWO ADULTS PERMITTED PER RESERVATION. DOORS OPEN ONE HOUR PRIOR TO THE SHOW WITH FUN ACTIVITIES FOR THE CHILDREN. AFTER THE PERFORMANCE THE CAST CAN COME BACK ON STAGE FOR AUTOGRAPHS AND PICTURES. NO PHOTOS DURING THE PERFORMANCE. Performances are on the Community Theatre League Stage in the Trade & Transit Building at 100 West Third Street. For reservations call the township office at 570-323-6151 by noon of the preceding Friday. When making reservations please be sure to let us know if you need space for a wheelchair as the theater has a limited number of spaces available. If you have made reservations and cannot make the show, please call the township office and cancel.
There are no more Adult or Children's performances scheduled for the 2025-2026 Season. Please watch future newsletters for the upcoming 2026-2027 Season.
FREE THEATRE FOR SENIORS
Loyalsock Township Board of Supervisors 2501 East Third Street Williamsport, PA 17701 HOURS: Monday through Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm www.loyalsocktownshipbos.com "Like" us on Facebook for the latest Township news