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Local timber company says Shenango Township charged $30 per load; commissioners say county cannot override township fees
Summary
A representative of a timber operation told Lawrence County commissioners on June 17 that Shenango Township charged a $30 per‑load reload fee after the company posted bonds for road repairs tied to timber‑stand improvement work.
A representative of a timber‑harvesting business told the Lawrence County Board of Commissioners on June 17 that Shenango Township charged a $30 per‑load reload fee after the company posted bonds for road repairs tied to timber‑stand improvement work.
“It’s a direct violation of the municipal planning code and the acre law,” the speaker said, urging the county to be aware of the charge after the company posted a $12,500‑per‑mile bond and a $100 inspection fee. He said his company paid the reload fees to avoid delaying work and later notified the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, which reportedly sent the township a letter asking the legal basis for the charge.
Commissioners said they do not have authority to override a township’s decision. The chairman suggested a phone call from a commissioner to Shenango Township to ask about the $30 fee, and county planning staff offered to review township ordinances. County staff also recommended the timber operator’s attorney contact the township solicitor; the chairman named a local solicitor by reference.
Why it matters: Municipalities have authority over road‑bonding and local ordinance enforcement. County commissioners said the matter may require solicitor‑to‑solicitor communication or state review if a township exceeded its statutory authority.
Background and details: The speaker said road‑bonding and inspection fees were paid under the township’s requirements. Commissioners and staff noted the difference between county code and the “second class township code” that governs townships and reiterated the county cannot compel municipalities to change local ordinances. Commissioners offered to mention the issue when they meet township officials and to have planning staff check relevant ordinances.
Next steps: County planning staff and the speaker will follow up; the speaker’s attorney has contacted the township solicitor and the state attorney general’s office has reportedly asked the township for an explanation.
