Eicher Named Board of Supervisors Chairman, Creese Re-appointed Manager

The last night voted, 5-0, to appoint Marv Eicher as the board's new chairman, replacing former chairman Jim Vitale.  

The board also unanimously approved the re-appointment of Jeanne Crease as the township's manager, secretary and treasurer for the year and swore in supervisors Andrew Gribben and John Hertzer to six-year terms on the board. 

Gribben was named vice chairman of the board, and the board approved the appointment of resident John Wink as the board's vacancy board member. 

"I want to thank the other members of the board for electing me as the chairman," said Eicher, who has served on the board for eight years. "There's always the saying be careful what you wish for, you just might get it." 

Board members approved the re-appointment of Pittsburgh-based Babst, Calland, Clements & Zomnire as the township's solicitor and the Michael Baker Corp. as its engineering firm. 

Supervisor Frank Sinatra said though he has been pleased with Babst, Calland, Clements & Zomnire's performance, the cost of using the firm "has increased substantially. 

"I don't agree with the amount that we're paying Babst, Calland," he said. "I'd just like to keep things in check with the township. We're in a situation where the economy is not doing well." 

Vitale said the township dealt with "unusual and unique legal situations" in 2011. 

"That was the difference between what was paid [in 2011]," he said. 

The board also agreed to maintain its monthly meeting time at 7 p.m. and use PNC Bank as the township's official depository.

Check back with Patch for a full list of township appointments.