LH City Council Holds First Virtual Meeting

LOCK HAVEN – With City Hall closed in the short term, City Council on Monday held its first-ever virtual meeting, council members hunkered down at home in the wake of the coronavirus.

The meeting went off in a timely manner and according to the city online provider, had 12 viewers. It last little more than half an hour.

Approved were several matters related to the virus, including first reading of an ordinance providing for installment payments of 2020 real estate taxes for those economically affected by COVID-19. Council agreed to suspend late fees on monthly payments for the city’s commercial loan program and sidewalk replacement program during the Commonwealth’s state of emergency.

Other approvals, all unanimous, included a request for $30,000 in County Liquid Fuels Funds toward a stormwater replacement project on Spring Street for the benefit of the new Geisinger Clinic to be built there.

City Manager Greg Wilson made a point to thank city employees at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, stating he was “so proud of these people” for their work during the virus pandemic. He noted the regional nature of the wastewater system which serves much of the greater Lock Haven area and extends into Walker Township in Centre County.

Wilson also expressed appreciation for the city police force, city workers and volunteer firemen for the sacrifices they make to serve the public.

Council’s next scheduled meeting is April 6, but it was noted that session may not occur, depending on the extension of recommendations and orders from Harrisburg.