Neshannock officials battle water problems

NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Neshannock Township supervisors are trying to fix water runoff problems in the township.
Residents pleaded with the supervisors at the Aug. 6 meeting for solutions to the water problems on their properties after this summer's heavy rains.
Supervisor John DiCola Jr. said supervisors approved an agreement Wednesday with Joseph Marinelli of Lilac Drive to have township crews come on to his property to make repairs to ease water problems east of his property on Manor Avenue and Beaver Street.
Supervisors also approved an agreement between the township and Vernon Kerr of Chapin Road. The supervisors are trying to secure easements with all property owners whose properties abut Chapin Road and Fairhill Drive.
The township engineer said a swale of water runs in the back yards of these properties.
Township Secretary Leslie Bucci said one resident hasn't agreed to let the township onto his property. Supervisors authorized Solicitor Richard Harper to take the property by eminent domain if the resident fails to comply.
After the severe rainstorms, the supervisors asked the Lawrence County Emergency Management Agency to consider the township a disaster area. Bucci said the township has not been notified of the decision.