Message From Limerick Township Board Chairman - May 21

Press release from Limerick Township:

May 21, 2020

Dear Limerick Residents,I am writing to update on several Township changes that will take place due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. With the realization that social distancing guidelines will be in effect for Montgomery County for several more weeks, the Board was forced to cancel Limerick’s popular summer camp program. New and exciting events and programs were planned to enhance the camp that annually provides a safe and fun-filled summer time experience for over 300 children. While the camp will not take place this year, we look forward to its return in the summer of 2021. All recreational programs, field and pavilion rentals were also canceled through August. The Township is in process of refunding all camp and registration fees. We ask for your patience in receiving the refunds and if you do not hear from our staff within the next few weeks, please contact Dawn Householder dhouseholder@limerickpa.org to check on the status of your refund.

The Board continues to recognize the struggles of all Limerick businesses, especially small and family run operations, who have been forced to shut down and/or are experiencing a loss of revenue due to the continuing Stay at Home Order. In addition to providing jobs, goods and services to so many within our community, they contribute to the tax base which supports our schools, fire company and emergency medical services. Prior to the COVID crisis, the Limerick business community was thriving and expanding due to a robust economy, a factor that contributes to the ability of Limerick to maintain below average Township Real Estate Taxes. Similar to the struggles of businesses, the Township is also predicting revenue losses of approximately $1.1 million due to rising unemployment and reduced business activity. To offset these projected losses, the Board recently approved operational cuts of approximately $750,000 which includes the furlough of several Township employees, and reduction of weekly hours for many others. All staffing reductions are short term in nature and limited to non-life essential personnel. These reductions did not affect the police force, public works, code enforcement, Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Officer. All remain at optimum staffing levels and ready to answer all calls for service. The Board remains committed to the health and security of all furloughed employees and their families, and will continue to provide health benefits for the duration of their temporary furloughs. Cuts of this nature are never easy but the Board is confident that these short term measures will enable the Township to address the financial challenges of the COVID crisis, without the need to deplete capital reserve funds or increase taxes. Maintaining below average township real estate taxes will also assist our struggling business community as they, and all of us, look to the end of this unprecedented health crisis, and a return to normalcy.Sincerely,Tom NeafcyChairman, Limerick Township Board of Supervisors

This press release was produced by Limerick Township. The views expressed here are the author’s own.