After 30 years helping Washington Township children safely cross the street to school, longtime crossing guard Marcella Dausel is putting down her stop sign.
Washington Township Mayor Joann Gattinelli opened last week’s council meeting by honoring the retiring crossing guard during a presentation. Dausel has lived in the township for 44 years, raising several kids and also serving as a foster parent, currently fostering a second child.
“She is very selfless,” said Council President Joe Perry.
At the Sept. 9 meeting, it was also announced that the township’s annual 9/11 ceremonies would not be held this year due to COVID-19. The Washington Township Fire Department will still be honoring those lost on Saturday, Sept 12 at 9 a.m. by walking to the Washington Township firefighter memorial in Washington Lake Park, as well as to the Municipal Building to place American flags.
The 2020 census deadline has been extended to Wednesday, Sept 30. According to Perry, Washington Township has collected 80.2 percent of census surveys this year.
“We want to make sure we are getting proper representation in the state,” Perry said. “It’s just a reminder for everyone to do it and how important it is.”
In other news:
- The municipal building is back open five days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fifteen resolutions were passed including a collective bargaining agreement between the township and Police Sergeant’s Association which was ratified and approved effective January 2020 through December 2023, as well as a resolution amending an interlocal services agreement between the township and Washington Township Board of Education for School Resource Officers for the 2020-2021 school year.
- Two ordinances were adopted concerning affordable housing in the township, including updating the requirements and obligations for the Fair Housing Act and updating the township code to comply with State Affordable Housing regulations.
The next council meeting is scheduled for Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.
