Supervisors approved a changer order for Phase III, at a cost of $90,213, adding line extensions across Arnold Avenue to residences to the north.

That extension had been planned for Phase IV, but there was money left over from Phase III funding so the work was moved up.

Supervisor Dave Crise abstained from the vote, saying he is doing electrical work for the contractor on the project.

Chapel Road objections

But not everyone was pleased with the plan to expand the water and sewer infrastructure to Crown.

Ken Hogue of Chapel Drive said he was not informed of plans to extend water and sewer lines into the Chapel Drive neighborhood, until he was approached regarding easements to install the lines. He and some of his neighbors were not asked about the matter on a survey the township conducted.

Hogue said he does not object to extending sewage service to his property, but does not want to be forced to connect to “city water” as he does not like the chlorine taste and his water is of much better quality.

Supervisor Gene Frederick said a survey was conducted and he did not know why Hogue was not included. He said the township is required by the state to manage sewage and that there were documented sewage problems in the Crown area.

Frederick said the rule that homeowners close to the lines must connect to them is a required part of the agreement with funding agencies.

The township maintains a reasonable rate for sewage service, he said, charging around $40 per month compared to rates in other area reaching $100 per month.

Maudené Hogue, Ken’s wife, said she felt that, unlike her native South Carolina , local governments in Pennsylvania work against the people rather than for them, and that small town politics are corrupt.

Frederick said the township tries to keep people informed and has not singled out the Hogues.

Jenna Wolbert of the Chapel Road area said she was also surprised by the plan to extend water service to her property, and said the spring water she uses is plentiful and of good quality. She said she and her neighbors who were surveyed and indicated they did not want water service.

Ken Hogue brought up the matter again during a work session following the voting meeting, asking about costs and the time frame of the project.

Crise said the project is not out to bid yet; Frederick said the township was getting the project funding in place.

“Is there no way to turn this off even if the people are opposed?” Hogue asked.

“It is pretty likely it will happen,” Frederick said.

Maudené Hogue said she did not like Pennsylvania and wanted to move back to South Carolina ; she then angrily left the meeting.

Ken Hogue asked more questions about costs and whether there would be assistance to cover tap fees and connection line installation. He said he would write down more of his questions and concerns for later discussion with the township.