JACKSON TWP — Township supervisors are examining the benefits of signing a lease for Marcellus Shale natural gas wells on two properties.

They voted last week to seek special legal counsel to help with the matter, but they have not set a timetable for deciding whether to sign a lease.

The township has two possible properties for natural gas drilling: one on Tollgate Road and another at Porter's Cove.

The supervisors said they plan to talk about the matter at later meetings.

They acknowledged the lease issue has been on the township's "back burner" for several months because of more pressing issues, such as the plans for The Buncher Co.'s flex warehouse/office development off Route 19.

Township solicitor Tim Bish told the supervisors because his law firm represents oil and gas drilling companies, he would be unable to provide them with counsel.

Tom Bichler, a representative of Rex Energy, based in State College, attended last week's supervisors meeting and urged the township to consider the company's offer to share in gas royalties.

The company already has two active wells in the township on Tollgate and Textor Hill roads and has signed leases for a number of other properties in the township.

Rex is the only natural gas drilling firm in operation in the township, officials said.