South Strabane Declares Disaster Emergency

Fire Chief Jordan Cramer reported that Berry Road is closed long-term from Old Mill Boulevard to Manifold Road due to severe structural damage. “This will be a long-term closure. The road will not reopen anytime soon” Cramer explained, citing the recent storms as the cause. In direct response to the growing impact of repeated flooding events, the board also unanimously authorized a Declaration of Disaster and Emergency for the township which ended June 23. The declaration activates South Strabane’s Emergency Management Plan, allowing the township to coordinate efforts with Washington County, the state, and other relevant agencies. Chief Cramer noted that geospatial data, or GIS, played a crucial role in post-flood damage assessments, helping evaluate the impact on residents’ homes, local businesses, public infrastructure, and for future floods. In other matters, firefighter Wendi Wentzell resigned, and while Cramer didn’t disclose details due to privacy concerns, the board promoted part-time firefighter Broderick Balanti to full-time to address staffing needs. Additionally, another candidate from the part-time eligibility list was moved up to the next level to fill the department’s personnel gap. In a separate matter, Township Manager Jeffrey Ziegler announced his resignation, submitting a 60-day notice to the board. Ziegler, who has served South Strabane for two years, said he is taking a similar position closer to home.