The Banks Township supervisors are going to get more serious with code enforcement this year.

The supervisors voted Tuesday night to approve an ordinance to opt into the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), and to hire ARRO Engineering to enforce it, with the more complicated code enforcement issues.

The supervisors also approved a set of resolutions adopting fee schedules for building permits associated with the UCC.

“They (ARRO) can do commercial (code enforcement),” said Supervisor Charles Schalles, who took his seat for another six-year term as a supervisor. “The UCC gives us more clout.”

Schalles said the township had subscribed to the UCC in the past, but didn’t have the expertise to enforce it.

“L and I (the state Department of Labor and Industry) did our commercial stuff, because we didn’t have the expertise,” Schalles said.

The effective date for the UCC is July 1, because it takes six months to opt in, Schalles said.

“We need something with teeth,” said Supervisor Rick Porpiglia. “We need someone with experience.”

The activity in the McAdoo Industrial Park - particularly with the Little Leaf lettuce facility - has the supervisors concerned.

“With everything going on in the industrial park, there may be things we are missing,” said Supervisor Bill Nice Jr. “Look at all the building they (Little Leaf) are doing up there.”

The supervisors said Little Leaf has built two, 500,000 square-foot greenhouses, and is planning four more of the same size.

Other business

The supervisors urged township residents to pay their per capita tax, which many do not realize is $5 per year.

“Even if you owe for five years, it’s only $25,” Schalles said.

• Schalles said the township is looking for part-time workers to help collect trash.

“They have to be at least 14 years old,” Schalles said. “They are guaranteed seven hours a week for collecting garbage. In the summer, they will help with patching potholes, cutting grass and general cleanup.”

Those who want to apply can visit btbs@ptd.net, Schalles said.