Five Things for Palmer/Forks for 2013

It's a new year for Forks and Palmer Townships.

And the governments will have a lot on their laundry lists to take care of in 2013.

Here are some of the things -- not in any particular order -- to watch for this year in Palmer and Forks.

• Route 33 Interchange (Palmer) -- It will be interesting to see how construction takes place. The project was initially expected to be completed by December 2013, but has been pushed off until at least the spring of 2014.

• Public works facility (Forks) -- This building should be nearing completion. It's a monstrosity that has caused a lot of headaches for Forks supervisors and residents in terms of its cost, which has exceeded its $4 million budget by nearly $2 million.

• Taxes (Forks) -- The Forks supervisors are trying to put a five-year spending plan in place. While the 2013 municipal budget holds the line on taxes, Forks officials believe it is highly unlikely they can avoid a tax hike next year.

• New Garbage Collection System (Palmer) -- Palmer residents will be in for a treat come May when a new garbage collection system begins, one that's more automated and focuses a great deal on recycling efforts.

• Municipal elections (Palmer/Forks) -- November 2013 will mark the year for municipal elections. It will be interesting to see if there will be any changes in Palmer and Forks, especially if residents of Forks believe they're not pleased with how their tax dollars have been spent on projects like the amphitheater and public works facility, which both went over budget.

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