Cranberry leaders urge residents to follow virus-related directives

Cranberry Township supervisors took a strong stand on coronavirus-related health directives at a brief meeting Tuesday.

“We emphasize that people in this township need to follow the health directions. Wearing masks is important for themselves and others’ safety,” said Harold Best, chairman of the supervisors.

Matt McSparren cautioned residents that “this will probably get worse” from Thanksgiving through the Christmas holiday. He, too, advised residents to heed health advisories.

Fred Buckholtz said public access to some facilities, including banks, are now being restricted and added, “Everyone needs to be careful and be safe.”

Township manager Chad Findlay said he believes there may be more directives coming through the state that may affect some township operations. The township office will remain closed for in-person visits.

Findlay also told the supervisors he has agreed to renew a contract with the UPMC health insurance plan for the township’s 15 employees. He said the insurance premium has dropped somewhat from the current rate.

Findlay also noted figures in the preliminary 2021 township budget haven’t substantially changed from what the supervisors tentatively approved Nov. 12. The nearly $6.4 million spending plan doesn’t include a property tax hike and maintains all municipal services.