Historical Commission Member Attendees: (7– Quorum)

• Dawn Coughlan – Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
• Mark Evans – Secretary
• Paul Stephens

• Tony Wagner
• Catherine Callahan
• Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

• Patti DeFroscia (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (3):

• Mike Bedrick
• Tony DiSario
• Jane Kennedy

 
OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Coughlan at 7:06 PM. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Evans continued with Members Roll Call and Introduction of Guests.
 
Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the January 20th Meeting
Moved by Paul S
Second by Mark E
Vote called by Dawn C
Motion passed 7-0
 
Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the February 17th Meeting
Cathy C asked for clarification to be noted that she was stating that it was the Hx Com’s responsibility to work on moving it to the Register. Mark E responded that he understands there are times that our verbiage doesn’t match our meaning, and that these things can be tweaked in advance of the meeting by sending an email. Paul S added that he understands her passion about Edge’s Mill.
Tony W asked for clarification on Page 4 letter D if it was meant to be his statement or Tony S? Mark said it should be Tony W, and that he will make that change and tweak the wording on Cathy’s comment.
Moved by Tony W
Second by Paul S
Vote called by Dawn C
Motion passed 7-0
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
   1. Paul S stated that he had presented the proposal to the BOC for consideration. There were some reservations about the cost, and a comment from the general public that we had spent a lot of money on the School and Barn Roof and given the circumstances might not be the right time. Paul appreciated the comment. He reported that a take away from the BOC was that we would explore other ways of completing the project and/or raising funds for it.
   2. Cathy C mentioned the email she had received from Corey at the National Register suggesting we only need the DOE at this stage. It’s still a lot of money but even Karen Marshall didn’t believe it could be done without a professional, it’s too many properties. 
   3. Commissioner Jane Kennedy arrived as a guest to share some of the issues she faced with Carver Court, how it was done as a local group effort without Township money, so that maybe we could find ways to economize. Asked if we had considered a 501C? An oral history on disc as a fundraising appeal? She asked if Mark had the docs she had sent. Mark said they did not come through.
      1. Jane shared that Elizabeth R is aware of the project, that it is viable, and with more photos and oral history how they are all connected – a common thread that makes it a district. A nice story that ties all of the properties together. She believes we can move forward on our own.
         1. Cathy shared that Elizabeth had told her a paragraph on each would be sufficient, and that otherwise it was a go.
      2. At this point there were technical issues that prevented Jane from sharing her screen, and apparently the survey form she was trying to show was too large to go by email.
         1. Jane to get the forms to Mark, and he will get it distributed.
         2. Jane asked if there is a map of the district, that it will have to be included. Cathy said submitted it with her submission, and has a copy. 
            1. Mark asked Jane if it was her understanding that we should be able to get it done, and if she expected we will get help from Elizabeth, et al. Jane said we won’t know until we get there.
            2. Mike B suggested that we give it 30-days to ID roadblocks and determine if we could do it. Cathy C repeated that Karen Marshall told her we couldn’t do it on our own.
            3. Dawn C suggested we table it until we see the forms.
               1. Paul S said photos were easy to get. He would take some himself. Asked Cathy C to notify the residents that he may be out there taking photos
               2. Dawn C added that all the histories of the homes are on the Historical Society website, the info is available
               3. Mark E said he would pull down the histories, and see what he can do. Agrees with Mike B on 30-days, though might be actually 60-90 days.
               4. Paul S said that the more we provide RGA the less it may cost
               5. Mike B added that if we come close but can’t accomplish it, we can go the BOC and say “this is as far as we could get, can you help us?”
               6. Paul S suggested that each document how much time we out into this so that we have numbers to point to
            4. Everyone thanked Jane for her help

               

1. GARDNER-BEALE HOUSE / CASD PROGRAM
   1. Paul S reported they had the first classroom exercised with the students doing sketched and elevations. A lot of the original trim is still there. House has a confused Hx as far as building changes that have occurred, Have more questions than answers, are at the beginning. About 15 students per class, 2 classes. Mix of interest levels, but a lot of fun.
   2. Mike B asked about legendary tunnel that goes up the hill.
      1. Leah said the tunnel is there but boarded or cemented over. Last seen by historian Ross Kershey. Paul S said that he didn’t see any evidence of that. There is only a basement in the front 1811 structure, only a crawl space in the back section. Paul S said it would be nice to have the historian show us where it was. It’s a long way to the hill.
      2. Leah added that the original owners of the house are buried in an unmarked grave along Lincoln Highway, just past Enterprise Car Rental, back in the woods.
   3. Paul S will try to set up an Hx Com site visit for us.
2. INVENTORY OF HX RESOURCES
   1. Mark reported that he has delivered the package to Abbey, and that Abbey and Denise will get it scanned and provide a master copy for us.
3. VA DEMO PERMITS
   1. Paul S thinks we should get a letter out. Will draft a letter this week.
4. BAKER-SMITH PROPERTY
   1. Mark said the Hx Com will have to draft a formal request asking that the Township reach out to the owner regarding historic Spring House on property.
   2. Dawn offered to draft a letter asking the BOC to contact the property owner if he is still interested in donating the property, and if he can be swayed by the historical significance of the spring house.
   3. Dawn asked Paul S if he’d checked out the integrity of the spring house. He said he hadn’t from up close due to it being private property.

 

1. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM – Paul S
      1. Mark reported that Monday at 1:30 will be the Pre-Construction meeting with Kupex.

 

1. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA – Tony W

1. Tony W had to leave the meeting early so no report.
2. Dawn asked if Lorraine or Mike had anything to share.
   1.  Lorraine said they were in the process of contacting Katie Muth, Dan Williams, and Mike McGann from the paper. Will get contact info to Tony.
   2. Leah said she “Neighborhood.com” is a great resource for marketing.
   3. Paul S suggested that if we send the Chester County Ledger “ready to publish” articles about we’re doing, they would probably run with it.
   4. Mark said he’d also reach out to Dan Williams via FB messenger.
3. Dawn mentioned the article Abbey had done in the Caln Newsletter, and that she was working on the next month’s article already. When Spackman Farm is completed, we’ll have another great story to tell.
4. Mark said that he had reached out to Catherine Quillman, that she now writes for Today Media. Hopefully she’ll respond.

 

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION – Cathy C
   1. Very concerned about signage and upset about trees being removed, the sort of things we need to protect against in the new ordinance.
      1. Leah said that she spoke with the owner about the trees and he didn’t like what she had to say, and added that he might be considering a sign along the highway. Said he was planning for new plantings.
      2. Dawn clarified that there are no protections against him removing trees, and that the signs are creating light pollution.
      3. Paul S said that there is a legitimate concern about preserving trees in an historical area, and maybe that should be considered by the Zoning Taskforce. “If a tree is over a certain height or size, or is a particular species, you need a permit”.
      4. Cathy said she was told by Ray S that you need a permit to take down a number of trees, and that they are in a flood plain, Dawn added there will be runoff issues due to the trees having been removed.
      5. Paul suggested that we approach the owner with a list of plantings that will focus the view on his building and enhance the appearance.
      6. Dawn expressed concern about the possibility of a large lighted sign. Paul S said we need to make sure Ray S won’t just give them a permit without clearing through us. Mark stated that Ray is very busy, and it wouldn’t hurt for us to make sure we’re concerned with what “could” happen. Paul S said that if not handled properly it could lose it’s integrity and be considered Industrial.
   2. Dawn specified that going forward it was important to build these protections into the ordinance, Cathy asked if there were any other suggestions for the ordinance.
      1. Mark asked if Cathy and Leah have found any language that protects trees, etc. Cathy said Chadds Ford is very strict. Mark suggested that they grab that language.
         1. Cathy stated that our overlay has language. Paul S felt the language in our overlay spoke in vague terms, that we need specific language. We need to look at other places to make ours up-to-date and enforceable.
         2. Leah added that as long as there is no DOE, there are no protections for the south side of the street.
         3. Paul said that it’s in the local ordinances that we control these things, why we need the strongest ordinance we can.
         4. Dawn asked what the timeline was with the Taskforce, what is our deadline? Mark said within 90 days we should have something ready to present.
            1. Mark stated that if we want to end up with what East Brandywine has, that we need to start by asking for what Chadds Ford has, it will get whittled down.
            2. Paul S said we could do a “buffet” menu, different pieces from multiple Townships.

NEW BUSINESS:

1. MARK E brought up PSATS’s monthly publication, and that Caln is one of the few Townships in the County that does not have information on the Historical Commission
   1. Dawn was concerned that other Caln Commissions are listed but not ours.
   2. Mike B added that Lorraine had tried to get that added a few years back with no success. Mark said we will get it done this time.

Dawn thanked everyone for their contributions, that it was a really good meeting of the minds and we had built lots of momentum.
 
Dawn asked if there was any other business. There was none.
 
Dawn asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Lorraine T
Second by Mark E
Dawn called the vote.
Motion passed 7-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM. 
​

​Historical Commission Member Attendees: (7– Quorum)

• Dawn Coughlan – Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
• Mark Evans – Secretary
• Paul Stephens

• Tony Wagner
• Catherine Callahan
• Patti DeFroscia

Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

• Leah Jennings (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (3):

• Mike Bedrick
• Bob Wise
• Tony DiSario

 
OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Coughlan at 7:03 PM. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Evans continued with Members Roll Call and Introduction of Guests.
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
   1. Chair Coughlan introduced Bob Wise of RGA, and turned the mic over to Mark E to ask specific questions.
      1. Have the rates changed in the last 6-months or are we locked in at the price in the most recent Proposal?
         1. Mr. Wise confirmed that we are locked in at that rate.
      2. Concerned about the wording in the proposal (fully confident) vs the wording in his email to Karen Marshall (good candidate, but can’t promise anything). For the HX Com to ask the BOC to fund a project of privately owned homes is new territory, and any discrepancy could lead to problems for Township and the Hx Com.
         1. Mr. Wise said that he could not predict what the state is going to say, and cannot guarantee it. But after speaking to the state he is fully confident that we will get the DOE. Most of the resources are still standing, and it’s a good candidate. Nothing standing in the way of it. He would not take our money if he did not think it was a great candidate. He stated that “fully” may have been too strong of a word, maybe he should have just said “confident”. Mark E expressed appreciation for his honesty and recognition of the discrepancy.
      3. In looking at the potential top end cost, could this get out past $9-$10K for just the DOE.
         1. Mr. Wise noted that he just saw a typo in the fee schedule, it had an extra 5, should be $6,170, not $6,1750. Believes that the quote of $6,170 for DOE and $5,765 for the National is reasonable  based on all of his experience, it should cost no more. The state could always “wake up on the wrong side of the bed”. Believes it’s a good price, but not cheap. Mark E agreed that it is a fair price.
            1. Dawn recognized Cathy C who shared that we’re going to find a way to do it with or without the funding. It took a year for her to do the work on her own home. Dawn C thanked her for all of her work.
            2. Dawn C recognized Paul S. He questioned if the fee is for the DOE? Bob said it’s about half. Confirmed that the total cost all the way through nomination would be $11,935.
            3. Dawn C asked Mark E if we would be asking the BOC for the full $11,935. Mark said that he thought it was being done in 2 phases and that we would only be requesting the $6,170 at this juncture.
            4. Paul S stated that were benefits to having only the DOE, would prefer we go all the way. Mr. Wise agreed that having the DOE provides some level of protection against any proposed developments at step 1 of the process. Paul mentioned that the widening of the Bypass Interchanges is the biggest threat.
            5. Dawn asked if Tony or Patty had any questions. Patty asked how many houses, and asked about the house at the end of Bondsville Road. Cathy responded that it is 6 homes, and that house is not a part of it. Paul S stated that it could not be added to the protections because it’s not part of the milling district. Mr. Wise said that it’s good that we have the core., and the mill is still standing.
            6. Dawn thanked Mr. Wise for his time, and excused him from the meeting.
   2. Dawn stated that we need to resolve it this evening. Asked if we can split it into 2 projects?
      1. Paul replied that we could ask him to do just DOE, and that the township only consider funding the DOE. In good conscious we need to present the 2nd part to the BOC as a future cost.
      2. Mark stated he desperately wants it to happen. But:
         1. The Township made it through the first year of Covid without laying anyone off or cutting any services. There are no guarantees that we’ll make it through this year, and won’t have an idea of what our tax income will look like until later in the year.
         2. There is no precedent in Township history of the Twp paying for something for private residences. He believes it would be good for the township, and being on the National Register could lead to us being a historical “destination”. If he was one of the owners, he would try to convince his neighbors to come up with the $ for the DOE. Once the DOE is obtained we’re on more solid ground, the Twp. could be in a better financial position post Covid, then approach the BOC and ask them to pay for the National Registry part of the process.
            1. Cathy stated that it would be insane for the Hx Com to not forward the proposal to the BOC, and Mark needed to take his Commissioner hat off and just be a part of the Hx Com. Mark clarified that he was strategizing how to get what we want. The wrong approach could destroy our credibility.
            2. Paul S recommended that we send the Proposal to the BOC, not “ask” for money up front, this has our endorsement, and ask them to consider it. This is the cost now, and could possibly go up. We don’t want to lose credibility. A lot of residents attend the BOC meetings. We must recognize that these are tough times.
            3. Cathy stated that she didn’t understand what we’re voting on, getting it on the registry or the money, and why we’re even debating it. Mark clarified that we all want it to be on the National Registry, we’re voting on if we want to ask the Township to spend potentially over $12K.
            4. Tony W asked if we could ask for a portion thereof, that there could be subsidized in a partnership with the homeowners. That it didn’t have to be an all-or-nothing. And that we should move it ahead.
            5. Mike B said we were on to something. “This is what it will cost”, and put it onto the docket for consideration throughout the year.

 

1. Dawn asked that Paul S make a motion.

Paul S proposed a motion that we forward the proposal to the BOC, with our endorsement for this area being worthy of the National Registry. The $ part is not part of our purview, but are asking that they consider it.
Moved by Dawn C
Mark asked if we could amend the motion to say that we will forward the proposal to the BOC, and that Dawn and Paul will attend the meeting to pitch it in person.
Dawn threw it back to Paul who amended the motion to include that we present it in person.
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Tony W
Vote called by Dawn C
Motion passed 7-0
               

1. GARDNER-BEALE HOUSE / CASD PROGRAM
   1. Dawn C thanked Tony W for getting us started with drafting a letter to the CASD Superintendent stating our support, and that the letter is at the Township being put on Caln Letterhead.
   2. Dawn reported that she had a wonderful conversation with the new teacher who is running the program, and that Lisa Doane-Hartley is there once a week. 
   3. Dawn asked if Paul S had any more information, and added that the teacher is very involved, wants to know everything. He’s into the Hx architecture of the building, can’t wait to get into it.
2. INVENTORY OF HX RESOURCES
   1. Dawn stated that she had provided the materials to Mark E. Mark reported that he had cleared with Kristen Denne to ask Denise to scan everything. Thanked Patty for digging it all out.
3. VA DEMO PERMITS
   1. Township has no knowledge of notification, nor does Lorraine or Josh of BOC and Cathy of Hx Com. It’s Federal property anyway, so we have no say.
   2. Paul S thinks we should at least write a letter to the State Hx Pres Office to let them know that we just found out about this, can find no record of ever being notified, yet the documentation states that we did not express interest in consulting. That would not have been the case if we had been notified.
   3. Paul’s concern is that the State and VA is aware of whether they have drawings and other documents relating to these buildings so there’s a historic record of them. We might ask if we can come and photograph to make a record for the Township. 
   4. Dawn asked if the letter should come from us or from the Township. Mark said he thought it would be best to come from us. Paul S will put together a very rough draft with what we should ask for.

 

1. BAKER-SMITH PROPERTY
   1. Mark said he consulted with the Township Manager and she feels it would be better for the BOC to approach him. Mark suggested that it be pitched at the same time as the RGA proposal.
   2. Dawn asked if there is a For Sale sign on it. Mike said he hadn’t seen one. Paul S said he saw the sign but wasn’t certain if it was on that property. Dawn will contact Ray S to see if it is for sale

 

1. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM – Paul S
      1. Paul stated that he has an email from Chris Caba, Flander-Chase-Knox House. and will forward it around to all of us.  
      2. Mark said that he got an email from Bryan K. That we have the contracts in order and will be scheduling the Pre-Construction meeting with Kupex probably for early March. They have 60 calendar days after receiving the Notice to Proceed to complete the work, which should be by late May/early June. There was much celebration
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA – Tony W

1. The main accomplishment was the letter to CASD mentioned earlier in the meeting.
2. Next step is to get endorsements from Katie Muth and Dan Williams.
   1. Mike B asked if he should forward the contact info to Tony, or make an introduction. Tony said he’d prefer an introduction
3. Tony asked if Mike had been in touch with Mike McGann from Coatesville Times. Mike replied that they had sent an email out, but had some issues and had to change their email address. So they’ll try again.
4. Tony asked Mark about the writer he knew about. Mark said it was Catherine Quillman, that she now writes for Today Media, so it could be a much bigger project if we can get her interested in what we’re doing. Mark said that he will reach out and see if we can get her involved, then discuss at March meeting what approach we want to take.

AT THIS POINT WE ACCIDENTALLY WENT OUT OF ORDER AND COVERED NEW BUSINESS. SECTION “C” BELOW WAS COVERED AFTER NEW BUSINESS

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION – Cathy C
   1. With Leah absent, and Cathy dealing with loss in the family, there was not much to report this month.
   2. Cathy said that she was concerned about the trees that were cut down on Edges Mill Road, and that is sort of things we need to protect against in the new ordinance.
   3. Cathy said that signage and brightly lit signs are true concerns for the new zoning. Mark agreed, and said that signage will be addressed in the Taskforce
   4. Mark added that he and Paul S were discussing the idea of having our own HARB, and getting it incorporated into the new zoning.

 
NEW BUSINESS:

1. CALN FB MONTHLY UPDATE – DC

Dawn recommended that we do a Monthly Historic Update in all Caln social media (FB/Website). Maybe start with Spackman or Schoolhouse.

1. Tony said that the only limiting factor is that we have no control over the FB page or website, so everything depends on Abbey’s availability, and if she’s too busy, we can’t get much done
   1. Mark asked if we should start our own FB page and ask the Township to link to it (prefaced by saying it was a stupid question)
      1. Dawn said she sees it more as a news feature, and that Patty could work with Tony to make sure the History and the Media are connected.
      2. Tony replied that we could have legal issues with moving forward with our own repository of info.
      3. Dawn doubts we would get the traffic on our own.
2. Lorraine mentioned that there was a great article in the newsletter about the Schoolhouse, and maybe we should use the Newsletter.
   1. There seemed to be agreement that the Newsletter was the best approach since it goes out in hard copy, by email and is posted to the FB page
   2. Tony reiterated that Abbey is sometimes too busy, and that he had reached out to Mark earlier in the day to see if he should follow up on an item that had been waiting response for some time. We’re still stuck with being dependent on the Township having to do the work for us.
      1. Mark said that he’s been told we’ll never have the ability to do our own work on their FB page
      2. Tony said that Abbey has been very helpful and has done a lot for us
      3. Dawn said she’d give Abbey a call and report back in March. There’s some good things happening and the more publicity the Hx Com gets, the better it will be for Hx Preservation. 

 
Dawn asked if there was any other business. There was none.
 
Dawn asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Mark E, second by Tony W
Dawn called the vote.
Motion passed 7-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.
 

​Historical Commission Member Attendees: (7– Quorum)

• Lorraine Tindaro, Acting-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Paul Stephens

• Tony Wagner
• Catherine Callahan
• Patti DeFroscia

Historical Commission Member Absent (1):

• Leah Jennings (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (3):

• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick
• Tony DiSario
• Kathleen Hood

 
OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Acting-Chair Tindaro at 7:04 PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes.
Secretary Evans continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests.
 
Approval of 1/20/21 Minutes
Chair Cathy Callaghan requested that mention of Bob Wise be removed from the 1/20/21 minutes. There was discussion, but it was decided that it was appropriate for it to be there.
PAUL S MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE 1/20/21 MEETING
SECOND BY DAWN C.
VOTE CALLED BY LORRAINE T
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY
2021 Reorganization
Lorraine T called for Nominations for the position of Chair, and thankd Cathy Callaghan for her service as chair. Everyone applauded.
Cathy Callaghan nominated Lorraine Tindaro
Mark Evans Nominated Dawn Coughlan
Tony Wagner offered a second
Mike B asked who he was seconding, Lorraine or Dawn? He confirmed Dawn just as Patty DeFroscia added a second for Dawn C.
Hearing no second, Lorraine removed her name from consideration.
Cathy C asked if we needed Leah J present before moving forward with the vote. Since there was a quorum, there was no need.
MOTION MADE BY LORRAINE FOR DAWN C TO BE NAMED NEW CHAIR BY UNANIMOUS CONSENT AND CALLED THE VOTE
DAWN C ELECTED NEW CHAIR UNANIMOUSLY
Cathy C thanked Lorraine for being her Vice Chair and never missing a meeting, also Mike B.
Lorraine T passed leadership of the meeting over to new Chair Dawn C, who in turn thanked Lorraine for doing the preparation for the meeting, especially with so much business being considered
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
   1. Mark E asked if Lorraine and Mike had reached out to Bob Wise as requested; they said that they had not. Mark expressed disappointment that they had not thought to pass the assignment on to someone else if they were unable to complete it.
   2. Dawn asked if we would be prepared to vote on recommending the District to the BOC after Mr. Wise responds to questions. It was confirmed that with more information we should be ready to vote on the revised RGA proposal.
2. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM – Paul S
      1. Paul stated that he had not heard back from Chris Caba regarding  his insights on how to make this property a successful place for events. Dawn asked if he was the manager for Valley Forge event site? Paul confirmed that yes, Chris runs the Flander-Chase-Knox House. Paul asked if any of us know someone who does similar things, such as the mansion in Tredyffrin, perhaps we could contact them.

Dawn mentioned that Leah stated at a previous meeting that  Springton Farm hosts events and asked Patty D if she knew if they still did. Patty confirmed that they had in the past, but wasn’t sure if they still do. Paul was clear that all we need is some insight of what we would need to do to make Spackman desirable, to get someone interested by public offering, what we need to do to meet the local laws of PA, and how to market it effectively.  Paul S asked if we had found out anything about obtaining an insurance rider for a one day visit by Valley Forge. Mark E stated that he had reached out to Kristen, but with all that’s going on- budget season, Covid - did not expect to hear back right away but hopes to have an answer in February.

1. Paul asked Mark if there was an update of the Barn Roof. Mark apologized for not having the answer but would get it by the February meeting. Dawn said that she thought at a BOC meeting someone said the material wasn’t available yet.
2. Kathleen Hood arrived at that point.

 
KATHLEEN HOOD of Chester County Historic Preservation Network (CCHPN) GAVE A PRESENTATION ABOUT CCHPN and WHAT IT IS, ITS ROLE BEING TO PROVIDE BOTH INSPIRATION AND SUPPORT IN THE IMPORTANT WORK THAT WE ARE DOING. THE PRESENTATION RAN FOR 15 MINUTES, HIGHLIGHTING EXCITING UPCOMING EVENTS.  MS. HOOD WILL SEND PAUL S A COPY OF THE POWERPOINT, AND STATED THAT WE ARE WELCOME TO POST IT TO OUR WEBSITE.
 

1. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA – Tony W

1. Tony W reported that he had not yet heard back from Abbey regarding the Spackman Farm news article
   1. Mark E said he had contact info for a writer who is Historic Preservation focused and will provide by next meeting
   2. Mike B said he knows Mike McGann who founded Coatesville Times and he may be interested. Mark suggested that they reach out and connect him to Tony W
2. Mark mentioned that the website looks great

 

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION – Cathy C
   1. Cathy reported that she had emailed everyone some recommendations for our Hx Ordinance
   2. Mentioned resource inventory of New Garden that she saw at last year’s CCHPN luncheon
      1. “Shall” is the key word, and is missing from ours
      2. We need to add these items and wording to our resource list
      3. Paul S said it’s a good approach, we have time to get ready for the Zoning Taskforce. Putting things out there in a way we can all digest them in the process is great.
   3. Cathy said she was not sure why Leah was not in attendance, but that they had been talking about the Bondsville Mill District. They are moving along in their process with the Register, they filed after us, and that Leah was sad about that.
   4. Dawn C thanked Cathy for sending around her Hx Ord recommendations, commenting that it’s great to have them in writing.

 
NEW BUSINESS:
Mark E requested that we go out of order and revisit Spackman Farm Sub Committee as he had found his notes from the BOC meeting regarding the Barn Roof:
Waiting on the revised contract documents. Because of the change in material, the contract had to be amended, and the docs are “in the mail”. Once they are received, the project can get underway.
 

1. ZONING TASKFORCE/HX REVIEW BOARD/AMMEND CHARTER
   1. Mark E stated that the Taskforce recommendation will be refined down from the cumulative list coming in from Cathy and Leah’s sub com, and anything else the Commission wants to include. We will vote to individually approve each item, and then submit it to the Taskforce
   2. Mark E reported that the Historic Architecture Review Board(HARB) is a “bigger picture” idea that had grown out of a conversation with Paul S. Having the ability to designate local Caln properties that have historic significance, it might be worth exploring the possibility of amending the Hx Com charter to form our own HARB.
      1. Paul S stated that by State law the BOC would have to create the Review Board, but that it goes hand-in-hand with the local designation of historic places. The question arose if we designate it historic, does it have to be done with property owner’s permission? This will have to be researched. We could establish criteria or guidelines and maintenance work that goes into keeping a property up, so we would have a say in protecting the historic integrity and the architectural character of something we deem historic. Guidelines can be extensive or limited. 
         1. Dawn asked if he was referring to HARB, and if we need any kind of professional endorsement, or if we can make that recommendation to the BOC? Paul confirmed HARB and that we should be able to do it. It is authorized by State legislature for local communities to set these up. We can recommend to BOC that we form one.
         2. Dawn said that it would behoove us to have HARB, other townships have them and they have been very useful in protecting historic resources; she cited Upper Merion township as a HARB example. Would this be a part of our ordinance?
            1. Cathy said yes, our ordinance is pretty good, but could be much better, and that’s why she and Leah are suggesting more protective language like New Garden and E Brandywine Township ordinances contain regarding  distances between historic properties and proposed development, etc. 
            2. Paul S said those numbers set the criteria to invoke HARB review. We need to establish the guidelines first and that will take some effort. At the very least, we need to look at guidelines used elsewhere successfully. Dawn stated that is what Cathy is working on. Cathy said that Karen Marshall had been suggesting we get these things into our ordinance.
            3. Paul reiterated that we need the guidelines that allow us to tell them what they can and can’t do.
            4. Mike B read from the ordinance which reads “developed in a sensitive way to the needs of the community”. Paul S stated that language is too vague to be enforced in any way. Mark E said that the ordinance will be addressed as part of the Zoning Update, and it will not cost us anything. Paul S said that once the HARB is established in the ordinance we can develop the guidelines. Dawn closed the discussion by stating that we’re working in that direction and will be submitting it to the Zoning Taskforce
            5. Mark E added that as per a conversation with Paul S. we need to start thinking of our Caln historic resource inventory past the end of 19th century
               1. Dawn asked if the resource map was something that Patty D would like to be involved in? Patty said she has all of the docs put together previously by Historic Commission members Tom and Patty DeFroscia, Lois Demchak, and Doreen Jacoby, including a color-coded map. Mark asked if she had it electronically. She said no, but there was a copy at the Township. Cathy C said she has a map.
               2. Paul S asked if these things could be copied/scanned by Township. Mark offered to scan the documents if not. Paul said that having those documents puts us ahead of the game.
2. CASD PROGRAM: GARDNER – BEALE HOUSE
   1. Paul S described the Historic Preservation curriculum at CASH – 4 year program. He met with Joe Tassoni, the new teacher, enthusiastic about the kids. Goal is to do condition assessment and produce a video this semester.
   2. Paul S said that it would be helpful if we wrote a letter of support for them. Patti asked if he had spoken Lisa Doan-Harley, the originator of the course, whose ancestors came from Calne England, suggesting Lisa would be a great source of information on the House.
   3. Patti said the CASD had once offered the Historic Commission the building for $1. Paul S said it will require a lot of time and effort over the years. The class will put the time into it, but money will eventually come into play. He again recommended that we write a letter, and invite the class to present their video to us, and potentially the BOC (perhaps even the BOC send a letter of support). Dawn said she would draft something.
      1. Mike B suggested we reach out to local politicians Katie Muth and Dan Williams. Tony W will send the letter to both to solicit their support. Mark E asked if Mike B and Lorraine T would introduce Tony W to them. They agreed to do that.
      2. Cathy C asked if the students are allowed inside. Paul S said that wearing N95 masks they should be able to go in, but it’s up to the school. He added that maintenance is supposed to be going in to clean out accumulated junk.
   4. EXPLORE IDEAS FOR CALN
      1. Dawn said that E Brandywine does free programs that are very exciting. Dan Campbell representing a National Mills group was a guest speaker  and talked about Edge’s Mill as one of the few standing mills from that time period. Maybe in the fall/post Covid, we could put together one of these programs. She would like to work with Abbey on this.  She asked for suggestions of topics,  what the group thinks about this idea. Paul S said he loves it, and mentioned PA barns, and that we have a great barn at Spackman – it could get attention for us. There is a PA Barn Association.
         1. Dawn suggested that we keep this on the back burner and plan for the fall.
      2. Mark interjected that he recently encountered kids trespassing at Spackman Farm, and suggested we all try to keep an eye on the Farm, and call the Caln Police if we see anything. Tony W asked if there is signage, Mark confirmed.  
3. BUDGET
   1. Dawn asked if we had a budget approved? Paul M stated that it was and we got $750. $150 went to the CCHPN membership and we have a $500 balance.
4. VA HOSPITAL DEMOLITION PERMITS
   1. Mark said that he will call Ray Stackhouse in the morning.
   2. Dawn stated that she heard 2nd hand that where the doctors lived is slated for demolition because it was in poor condition and too far gone for affordable repair. We didn’t know about it. Paul S said that we would only have been notified of demo permit if it were in the historical overlay district. Paul M asked how many buildings are involved. Paul M googled it and found a document that listed the building numbers and their locations on the campus, it was dated June 2019. Paul S thought they were probably getting their money together to do it this year. Mark E asked how they could demo if it’s on the National Register. Paul S said that the worst they could do is remove the historic designation due to loss of buildings. He thought it was too late for us to get involved and questioned if the BOC or Hx Com received notification in 2018 or 2019. Mark E asked Lorraine T if she remembers this from the BOC. Dawn stated that Ray Stackhouse should have a record of it. Mark and Paul M believed there should be a record. Paul S said we could ask SHPA. Cathy and Lorraine said they did not recall any communications. Paul S said that there should have been a 106 through the SHPA, unless it only went between the Feds and the State, since the property is federal. When it comes to Historical Preservation, “you can’t win when you’re arguing with Churches and Hospitals because one is saving souls, one is saving lives, and all you’re doing is saving a ratty old building, and you can’t win that argument”. Mark asked if we should try to get it to the press and get attention, or would that make it more likely that they will try to get out of the Nat registry? Paul S said that the bigger concern is that they may be planning to build something new, and what’s that going to like? Dawn suggested that we divide and conquer.
      1. Mark reaching out to Ray S
      2. Paul S reaching out to Karen Marshall to see what info she has

Dawn asked if there was any other business. There was none. Mark noted that we had 7 members present for the meeting. Cathy and Lorraine congratulated Dawn on being elected Chair.
 
Dawn asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Paul S, second by Mark E
Dawn called the vote.
Motion passed 7-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:42 PM.
 

Historical Commission Member Attendees: (5– Quorum)

• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Paul Stephens
• Tony Wagner

Historical Commission Member Absent (3):

• Catherine Callahan, Chair  (Excused)
• Patty DeFroscia (Excused)
• Leah Jennings (Excused)

 
Historical Commission Guests (4):

• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick
• Licia Carini
• Tony DiSario

 
OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Tindaro at 7:07PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes.
Secretary Evans issued a short statement of apology for his out-of-character behavior at the November Meeting.  
Vice-Chair Tindaro continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests.
 
Approval of 11/18/20 Minutes
DAWN C MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE 11/18/20 MEETING
SECOND BY LORRAINE T.
VOTE CALLED BY MARK E
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY
Vice-Chair Tindaro then read a letter from Chair Cathy Callaghan, resigning the position of Chair of the Hx Com (attached) effective 12/14/2020, adding that she will remain a member of the Hx Com.
Lorraine T stated that moving forward we may want to determine how long our officers terms should be, if we should hold reorganizations each year, every 2 years, etc. 
Paul S commented that he was glad that Cathy C would be staying with us. Mark E recognized Cathy C for everything she has done. And stated that he has been in touch with Cathy and they are both excited for 2021. He added that Lorraine T would serve as Acting Chair of the Hx Com until a new Chair is selected at the Jan 2021 meeting.
Tony W asked if the Jan reorg would involve addressing the length of terms. Mark E clarified that the Jan reorg will only be to fill open seats, terms would be open for later discussion.
Paul M stated that with the Muni Board, the option for reorg is always on the January Agenda.
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
   1. Lorraine T asked if there were any updates. Mark E replied that as reflected in the 11/20 minutes, we were all reviewing the 10/21/20 revised RGA proposal, and were supposed to discuss and vote whether or not to recommend to the BOC.
      1. Dawn said that we had clarified that it was not a conflict of interest for homeowners within the district to vote on the recommendation. She added that she was the only homeowner present at the meeting, and there would be a majority even without her.
      2. Tony W stated that his questions had been answered by Cathy C and Mark E prior to the meeting, and had all the information he needed to make a decision 
      3. Lorraine asked if since we would be voting on a new chair in January, we should table the vote for then, or are we ready now?
      4. Tony W asked how that would affect the vote, unless the future chair was not present at this meeting. As he understood it, the most recent initiative like this was Carver Court. Mark E confirmed. Lorraine T responded that it would not, and that she was ready to move forward with a vote
      5. Mark E stated that he was aware of potentially inappropriate communications between RGA and others that could raise concerns. And that as a formal Township Commission, if we went ahead with a recommendation to the BOC without investigating this, it would not look good for anyone. He stated the importance that all communications be in writing, for transparency, so that there could be no question of our process. He said that he had received an email where RGA states something different than what was written in their revised proposal. He quoted from a Bob Wise email dated 10/14/20 “I had a nice talk with Elizabeth Rairligh of PA SHPO a few weeks back. Just as I guessed, while they think it's a good candidate for the DOE, with a concentration on NRHP Criterion C, they cannot promise anything until they see the completed survey form. So we are really back to square one. Here's what [was] discussed earlier this week: I would revise the proposal with the new rates, then I would use my "professional judgement" but with no guarantees or "not to exceeds". He then quoted from the 10/21 proposal “Based on my conversation with Ms. Rairligh, I am fully confident we will obtain the DOE”. Mark added that if we recommend the RGA proposal to the BOC and it were approved, and if this information were to come out at a later date, everyone would be in trouble, and he did want to see that happen. He was committed to getting the Edge’s Mill National Registry passed, but that the Hx Com has accomplished too much to risk our credibility.

 

1. Tony W asked to confirm that the language in the 2 docs was conflicting. Mark E confirmed it was.
2. Paul S said that it was possible that in Bob’s conversation with Ms. Rairligh, they may have been more positive about the chances then he expressed in his email, but there was a difference in the language, and he was disappointed that there had been behind the scenes communication, because as a Commission we’re responsible for our actions.
3. Tony W asked which was the most recent communication, Mark responded that it was the revised proposal
4.  Lorraine T asked if we could discuss it now, and get a letter from RGA regarding this and vote on it in January. Mark E thought it would be better to have RGA at our next meeting. Tony W and Lorraine felt we needed to get clarity before moving forward. ​
5. Dawn agreed that it was a good idea to ask RGA to attend a meeting considering the circumstances. She added that we’ve been working on this for months, and this needs to be addressed before moving forward.

 
Mark E asked for a motion to table the vote and request for Bob Wise to attend the 1/20/21 meeting to address concerns.
 
MOVED BY PAUL S
SECOND BY TONY W
VOTE CALLED BY MARK E
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

1. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM – Paul S
      1. Paul stated that he had received a response from the representative for the party center requesting more details. Photos and a google map view had been sent along, and he would follow up with them. 
      2. Paul S asked if we had found out anything about obtaining an insurance rider for a one day visit by Valley Forge. Mark E stated that he had reached out to Kristen, but with all that’s going on did not expect to hear back right away – budget season, Covid, etc. Hopes to have an answer in January
      3. Mark E gave an update on the barn roof, that there were issues with the galvanized coating for the roof panels – what we asked for in specs is no longer being made, what they do make now is better but doesn’t match the specs. Bryan K is working with the contractor towards getting this resolved, and should only be a week or 2
         1. Paul S asked if we had a tentative start date. Mark E said we won’t until this is resolved, hopefully mid-late January

 

1. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA

1. Tony W reported that he had sent around his update to everyone. That there had been progress on the website. There was consensus that it looks great.
2. Working towards getting local press to write something about our progress.
3. Tweaking Spackman Farm write up. Dawn C said that there was a big error in the piece, that it was “Strawberry Pie”. Much laughter ensued.
4. Mark E asked if anyone was aware if the Zinns referred to in Maryanne Griffith’s letter to OCHS were the same ones who had the diner.
   1. Tony D said that he had worked at Zinn’s, and that there were 2 of them – one had the diner and the golf course, the other one was a builder. He had always assumed it was their land.
5. Tony W and Mark said that they would work together to edit the Spackman Farm story down to a manageable size.

Tony D said that he had been late and asked what we had just voted on when he joined the meeting. Mark E said that we were supposed to vote on the Edge’s Mill proposal, but some concerns had come to light so we decided against voting until our questions had been answered by the contractor.

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   1. Mark E noted that the 2 sub-com members were not present, but that Cathy had sent the beginning of their Wish List to all
   2. Dawn C commented that in the docs sent around by Cathy C there was a page about the Hx Preservation Overlay District, and recalled there had been concerns expressed about what would happen to it during the Zoning Update. Were there any updates from the Zoning Taskforce meeting?
      1. Mark replied that it was discussed at the Dec meeting and that Ray Ott confirmed that any protections under the Overlay will be incorporated into the zoning. Mike B confirmed.
   3. Dawn noted the Hx Preservation Wish List started by Cathy and Leah, and that she liked the proposed changes. Mark agreed
      1. Mike B asked if there would be feedback from the public when the Taskforce has completed their proposed changes, and if we could ask to be allowed to give formal feedback. Mark E  confirmed that there will be public meetings to discuss, and that his intention was for the Hx Com to present a recommended package to the Zoning Taskforce, Paul S concurred. Mark added that one of the reasons he had pushed for the Zoning Update was to get stronger preservation laws.
      2. Paul S said that surveying the Hx properties in the community should be a focus for Caln. That the OCHS has done this but are more focused on pre-1900, and there’s been a lot of history since. Isolating what has meaning to the community, that isn’t already thought of as historic, may need that type of consideration. “You can’t save things if you don’t know what they are”. Dawn C agreed. Paul said it will ultimately cost some money, to bring in somebody with expertise on more recent community history and architecture since 1900. Mark asked when the last survey, if any, had been completed. Paul S and Mike B said that it was whenever the map was done, and that it wasn’t that detailed. Historical integrity plays an important part. He used the Elementary School as an example. Just because it may have lost the integrity to be a national property doesn’t mean it can’t be a local property. Mark added that he really would like to have the ability to designate locally “this is a Caln Township Historical Property”. Paul S said that could be a great tool, people get excited about those sort of designations, and it doesn’t cost much to do – design a plaque, even just a board that’s painted.
      3. Mark E encouraged everyone to think top down over the holiday break about what we want in the ordinance. That having a local authority is the foundation, and could make developers think twice before going after something because it could bring unwanted negative attention to them.

 

1. BAKER-SMITH PROPERTY
   1. Dawn asked if there was any movement on this since our last meeting. Mark said he hadn’t heard anything. Paul M noted that he hadn’t heard anything either, other than the owner wanted to donate the land to the Township if over the next 2 years it would be dedicated as a Park in his friends name. Could be difficult to accomplish in that time period. Mike B mentioned that Kristen D had said it would be a negotiation as to what the current owner would accept as a park, if it could be done in phases over time. Mark E suggested that we dedicate it with a sign and then go after grant money, not every park needs parking, driveways, etc. All you need is a walking path and a couple of park benches. Dawn C said you can get benches donated. Tony W said it was in a perfect location adjacent to a large townhome community. Mark asked if we should draft a recommendation to the BOC. Tony asked if it was in our prevue. Paul S replied yes because of the springhouse. Mark E thought that might give the Township more leverage. Mike B asked how extensive would the recommendation be that it might be accepted. Paul S noted that the donation comes with expectations from the Township, it was okay for us to advise as to the springhouse, and make recommendations - if the expectations are not too grand, it could be doable. Mike B suggested that there be a plaque at the entrance by the springhouse that gives the history of the property and former house. Paul S said that we could do the deed research on the property, try to find some photos of the house – must be something since it was a funeral home. Mike B said the OCHS had something on it. It’s a way of providing a park to an area that doesn’t have access to have a park. Paul S said we could recommend that the Township explore obtaining it, but that’s as far as we can go. Mark offered to pull something together for the next meeting, reach out to Cathy to see what info she has. Paul S reiterated that you have to know what it is before you can plan on doing anything with it.
   2. Tony DiSario added that before it was a funeral home The Lackeys lived there, and the Fulnickeys (sp?). It had a barn that was torn down too. The house was all stone, 2-3 stories. Believes it still has a long driveway that could be used for access. The land was going to be used for The Goddard School, but they bailed out in the 1990s.  

 
NEW BUSINESS:
 

1. HISTORIC SIGNAGE
   1. Dawn C congratulated Paul S on his appointment to the Chester County Preservation Network. She said she’s seen a lot of Historic Signs out there that are not from the National Registry and wondered if Karen Marshall has any information, if other Townships that may have taken this initiative, what their format might be, if they have photos, etc. Paul S said he could do that, and that we could do a local version of the National Register criteria. “Historic Caln Township, Where it All Began”. Mark E wondered if Denron Signs does this kind of work, and if it’s something they might donate.

Mark stated that it had been a wonderful year for the Hx Com, ups and downs but that we had probably accomplished more than any of us had anticipated, and we did it during Covid, that everyone should be proud of the commitment they had made.  
Mark asked if there was any other business. There was none.
 
Mark E asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Lorraine T, second by Dawn C
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 5-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.
 

​Historical Commission Member Attendees: (5– Quorum)

• Catherine Callahan, Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Tony Wagner

Historical Commission Member Absent (3):

• Patty DeFroscia (Excused)
• Leah Jennings (Excused)
• Paul Stephens (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (4):

• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick
• Peter Callahan
• Licia Carini

 
OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Callahan at 7:09PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes.
 
Chair Callahan continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests.
 
Approval of 9/16/20 Minutes
TONY W MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE 9/16/20 MEETING
SECOND BY DAWN C.
VOTE CALLED BY MARK E
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
   1. Cathy C stated that 320 Hx properties and 27 Districts in Chester County are on the National Register, 88 in the northern area, and if approved, Edge’s Mill would be the oldest district, and the houses in it would be the third oldest (after the Bull House and the Log House). [Cathy’s Zoom kept freezing due to a bad connection]. She asked if we were any closer to making a decision about approaching the BOC re Edge’s Mill.
      1. Dawn said she was concerned about whether the 3 Hx Com members who are home owners might have to recuse themselves on the vote, since they all have a vested interest
      2. Cathy said that our responsibility as an Hx Com was to put it before the BOC
      3. There was discussion as to whether there were legal issues regarding recusing,
      4. Lorraine T stated that as long as the residents who live there disclose that they live in the District, then it’s open disclosure. It all benefits Caln in the end
      5. Tony W stated that he was in favor of moving things forward, but could not comment on legalities

Tony W proposed that we make it an action item for the next meeting to review the proposal, determine whether or not anyone needs to abstain, and then take a vote.  
 
MOVED BY MARK W
SECOND BY DAWN C
Discussion of recusal and benefits to homeowners ensued. Guest Paul M stated that he thought that if you’re going to benefit from the vote, you may have to recuse.
VOTE CALLED BY MARK E
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

1. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark E announced that at their last meeting, the BOC approved the expenditure of $134,000 (more than expected) for the Barn Roof Replacement. 2-year financing, payments to be made out of funds received from the farmer who rents the land
         1. Dawn C stated that she had spoken with Paul S and he was planning to be at the meeting. He wanted to convey that he did get in touch with the group that manages the house at Valley Forge, and sent some photos at their request. If he does not hear back from them he will follow up to find out from them if they think this is a viable project
         2. Dawn said that she is very grateful to the BOC for approving the spending, even at 50% more, and given some residents’ concerns
         3. Mark recognized the Hx Com for their foresight in requesting that the farmer’s funds be used for the farm, which laid the groundwork for the financing. Otherwise, with Covid tax losses, we could not have replaced the roof. And thanked Kristen Denne for coming up with the terms of the financing
      2. Mark E added that he had reached out to Kristen re obtaining short-term insurance for a Farm Tour, but with all that’s going on did not expect to hear back right away – budget season, Covid, etc. Hopes to have an answer in January

 

1. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA

1. Tony W reported that he had done some website updates, added new photos, and worked with Abbey to try to highlight some of the other historic properties that she has images of
2. Abbey put up a rotating image on Hx Com page, Tony is going to work with her to reformat so it isn’t so large
3. There are images of another 5 or 6 properties in Caln that have some history to them
4. Tony followed up on September Action Item (from minutes) with Abbey about getting articles in Daily Local News and Community Courier to see if she’d made any headway with the contacts he’d given her
5. Tony is interested in getting feedback from the Hx Com about doing a Profile of one of our Hx properties every quarter, with a small blurb in the newsletter to try to highlight the property and bring some awareness to the general public about the history of Caln. Asked for suggestions from members on what to profile
   1. Mark E suggested Spackman Farm and the Baker-Smith that had been offered to the Township to be a park, and read Cathy’s email about it to the Hx Com. Mark suggested that by bringing a spotlight to it could attract some $ to support a park. He also added that Lloyd Farm should be featured at some time
   2. Cathy suggested Edge’s Mill, that the owner is working so hard on it
   3. Dawn suggested that Spackman be the first one featured
   4. There was consensus that Spackman Farm should be the first featured historic property
   5. Dawn suggested that the Edge’s Mill District be next in queue, especially with a possible BOC looming
   6. Mark said that he’d draft a blurb on Spackman Farm for Tony

 

1. Tony and Abbey are working on getting an article about the Schoolhouse improvements in the DLN and Community Courier.

 
 

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   1. FLEX PROPERTY
      1. Mark reported that the Flex Property is for sale, and that the Conditional Use remains in place – meaning whatever the Hx Com hammered out is still required
   2. SIGNAGE at AUGER FABRICATIONS
      1. Dawn stated after Cathy C spoke to the owners, they planted Kale and Boxwood around it, and that the lighting appears to now be somewhat
      2. Cathy said he seems to want to work with the Hx Com, and that Ray S had also been happy with his interactions with him
      3. Dawn said she was concerned about the neighbor who had been doing a lot of work and may want to move back into the house
      4. Mark E recognized Cathy for her work on this
   3. HX PRES ORDINANANCE
      1. Cathy said she and Leah were working on things, and brought up Mary Sue Boyle who writes ordinances, but she is too expensive so they’ve been pulling together other township’s ordinances to try to pull something together as a model.
      2. Said that the New Garden ordinance was pretty good and added that ours isn’t bad but needs to be tweaked.
      3. Asked if she should distribute their suggestions to the Hx Com. Mark E said yes, that since the Zoning Update Taskforce will actually be putting the ordinance together, we should dream big with our requests.  
2. BUDGET
   1. Cathy asked where we were with the Budget. Mark E stated that the BOC would be discussing the budget the following night, and believed the requested amount was $1K, but may have only been $500
   2. Tony W asked if the budget included the $1-$3K items we were asked to suggest. Mark E replied that no, that we would continue to ask that higher dollar items be paid for by the Township, and the list was compiled so the Township would have a ballpark idea of what to put aside should it be needed

 
NEW BUSINESS:
 

1. ZONING TASKFORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
   1. Cathy C brought up that the Zoning Taskforce wants to get rid of overlays, and that scared her to death because they worked very hard to get the Hx Overlay through. Mark said that the purpose was not to get rid over the zoning changes and protections provided by overlays, it was to incorporate them into the actual Township Zoning, that Overlays are exceptions to the zoning, and when there are a number of them, the actual zoning gets confusing. “It’s taking what was an ‘overlay’ and codifying it into the actual zoning. The historical protections will carry over into the zoning. Cathy C added that the protections run from 322 all the way up Reeceville Road along Rt 30 and up. Mark reiterated that anything that is currently in the Historical Overlay would simply become “official”, a permanent part of the Zoning. Mark asked Lorraine if she could explain it better than he was able to. Lorraine stated that she believed Mark E had explained it pretty well – there will be no overlays, what is an overlay will become the standard. Cathy C asked what that means, that she’d been told by historians that you never want to lose an historical overlay once you have one. Mike B stated that it was his understanding that trying to establish policies that can apply anywhere in the township for an historic site, building, or district. Pete C asked why one choice as to the inclusion of the other? If there’s a steep slope preservation overlay district and a woodland preservation overlay district and a historical preservation overlay district, that were hard fought for 40 years ago, why would they be abandoned and how would they be replicated and protected by zoning that’s R-1, R-2, etc.? Pete C then asked how can he get to the Zoning Update Meetings, how does he listen in? Mark E said he believed they’re open to the public and it should be on the Township Website and Dec 1 was the next one. Pete said he believed it was worth exploring how overlay districts would be replicated and protected by zoning if the overlay is abandoned, forfeited, or not protected. Expanding it to other properties not in the geographical foot print makes a ton of sense. Mark E said that he believed we were all on the same page, that we want the protections in place, and his understanding is that they will be. Lorraine T again said that she agreed that no one loses any protections. Cathy C brought up the loss of Lloyd Farm due to it not being in the Historic Overlay District. Mark E said that’s why we’re going for an ordinance with teeth that will allow us to designate what is historic and what isn’t, that the Hx Com would not give up one inch of ground  

Mark asked if there was any other business. There was none.
 
Mark E asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Tony W, second by Lorraine T
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 5-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.
 

​Historical Commission Member Attendees: (6– Quorum)

• Catherine Callahan, Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Paul Stephens
• Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Member Absent (2):

• Patty DeFroscia (Excused)
• Tony Wagner (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (4):

• Karen Marshall
• Bob Wise
• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick

 
OPENING:
Due an issue with the Zoom Login, the meeting was called to order late, by Secretary Evans at 7:48PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mark E announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, and continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests.
 
Approval of 7/15/20 Minutes
Mark E asked for a motion for approval of the minutes of the 7/15/20 Meeting.
Motion moved by Cathy C, second by Paul Stephens.
Vote called by Mark E.
Motion passed unanimously.
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT PRESENTATION 
   1. Mark E turned the meeting over to Karen Marshall of CCHC, and Bob Wise of RGA.

Karen asked if all had a chance to review documentation she had sent on history of project, and the determination by PHMC that while they were very impressed with the six resources, they should all be included as one. Which brought us to the RGA proposal. Bob stated that they are under contract with Bondsville, and currently working on that project. Karen reviewed the idea of the “bookend” projects of Bondsville on the north and Edge’s Mill to the southeast. She asked if there were any questions of all the info she had sent us. Paul S was impressed with all of the documentation, and that he’d like to eventually look into all of the other properties that were left out by the PHMC. Karen said it was a shame the were being left out, and that we could possibly fill in the middle with a local district (and we can talk about that later), that the matter at hand is whether the Caln Township Historical Commission would like to move forward and recommend the Caln BOC consider this project.
 
Paul S said that he had the same question that he had before, that he wanted to confirm that this is not the actual National Register nomination that will be submitted, this is only for the DOE. He understood that any extra costs will be determined on the comments coming back from the State Historic Preservation Office, but asked if there was some kind of idea what those costs might run? He felt the overall quoted fee for the DOE is very reasonable, but can we get an idea of where this might end up overall - if they think this is true of what it might be, or if there’s more in the way of costs that the Township might incur. Bob Wise stated that since the proposal went out in January, their rates had gone up, so the quote would already be raised to $6170 as opposed to $5995. Karen M asked if the DOE is less fraught with drama then the National Registry nomination. Bob replied yes. He said this particular DOE has already been through the PHMC, so they hope it will be smoother than most. There are two things: 1. They could come back and ask for a little more information. 2. They could come back and say “on second thought, we no longer think it’s eligible”. He said he wouldn’t be proposing the project if he didn’t think they could get it through, but added that they can always come back and ask for more information, and RGA has no control over that. They know what they’re doing and hope there would be no more costs. Anything requested above-and-beyond what the PHC requested for Beaver Creek would be above and beyond what they’re budgeted for, that they don’t expect that to happen, and that it shouldn’t happen. Paul S asked for confirmation that any additional costs will be at hourly rate. Bob S said that it should be only time and materials, but it could be more extensive, at which time he would go back to PHC be to ask that if they think it’s eligible, that those particulars be held out and addressed at the National Registry nomination, and that is usually what happens: the PHMC gives the DOE, and in the National Registry process, it is asked to be proven. Paul S asked if next step is taking the DOE application and put it into the National Registry nomination. Bob said yes, but that the DOE introduces the subject, the State comes back and says they agree, with the caveat that for National Registry consideration you will need to add “the following specifics”.
 
Bob clarified that their cost proposal was only for the State DOE, and that preparing the National Registry nomination would incur more costs.
 
Cathy said that she’s been told a number of times that it’s already a done deal. Karen said they’ve been assured that “if this is written correctly that it will go right through from eligible to nomination”. Bob said he’s never seen it happen that way before, that he budgeted for a DOE only.
 
Karen asked if we can request a pre-project meeting with PHC so that Bob can hear what she and Cathy have been told by them about the odds of the project going through. She doesn’t want him to move forward with the project until he’s heard what they’ve already said.     
 
Paul S said that we need the DOE either way, and there may be more expenses for the National Registry, but that this appeared to be reasonable, is the next step, and thought we should have a motion to recommend this.
 
Mark E thanked Bob for his transparency, given that that we had been under the belief that it was “pay the money and go straight to registry”. He understands budgets, and that there’s always additional costs, but wanted to know the worst-best-probable projections for step one (DOE)? He added that the Hx Com would be going before a BOC to ask for funds from a Township that’s already given close to $100K to the Hx Com during a pandemic [*after reviewing the minutes, Hx Com President Cathy Callahan asked that there be clarification that the money was not given directly to the Hx Com, but towards projects that the Hx Com recommended]. Bob’s response was the same as he’d given earlier. Paul S asked what range he’s seen with similar projects. Bob said it could be double to 4 or 5 times more. Karen again said that she wanted Bob to hear what PHC has said, and that “he request a meeting with them at the request of the Hx Com, he’s been contracted to develop the DOE and they would like to know based on conversations they’ve had with one of the Hx Com members and Karen Marshall, what exactly are they talking about in terms of additional costs of moving to an actual National Registry nomination. If he gets blank stares, then we’ve got out answer”.
 
Paul S said that it’s important to have something actionable, because if personnel changes up there, it over.
 
Bob said he’s never done anything like that before. Cathy asked about how our Mill compares to Bondsville Mill, and if that can go through, shouldn’t ours? Bob said he’ll see what they have to say.
 
Cathy asked if additional costs can be covered by homeowners. Karen said the Hx Com could always go public/private partnership. Mark E jumped in to say yes, there should be a pre-meeting. He stated that Bondsville is municipally owned, Edge’s Mill are privately owned homes. Caln is having serious issues with flooding, going before the BOC in public, with people who have just had to have their basements pumped, and saying we need minimum $6k, and possibly a blank check to get 6 privately owned homes “maybe onto the National Registry” will not go over well. It needs to be pitched properly, well thought-out and well planned going in there. Paul S suggested that having Bob try to get a handle on what the odds are from the state is the best way to go. We need to have a fair sense of what we’re asking the Township to commit to. Karen suggested Bob reach out to Cory. Karen reiterated that Bob had said that we don’t need to be on the National Registry to reap many of the benefits. That we’ll be on the County Map, etc.  
 
Mike B reacted to Mark’s recommendation for how to pitch it to the BOC, bullet points, etc. What are the benefits to the Township if we spend this money? Someone will say why are we doing this during Covid? This is an asset that could be jeopardized if not preserved, because it can be added to a list of Historic Tours that will make us a historic destination that will generate income for our businesses and tax revenue for the Township.  
 
Cathy stated that after meeting with Kristen Denne, she knows the money is there for this; that the Township has never spent any money on the Hx Com; and why wouldn’t anyone want national recognition. Mike B concurred with Mark E that getting it through the BOC could be a challenge, especially during Covid-19, and that Marketing was the key. Karen M likes the idea of Lincoln Highway as a “Gateway” to History, thinks that “little Beaver Creek could become the mouse that roared”, and with the beautiful preservation being done right up the road at Bondsville Mill, we do have “The Gateway”. She really likes the idea of selling Caln’s “points of pride”: the schoolhouse & the barn are “Beacons of Pride”. It was suggested that Bob Wise connect with Elizabeth Rawley and Cory Kingeress, to look more deeply into the odds of Edge’s Mill getting the DOE, and what that timeline might look like. Karen M stated that Bob will know right away, especially if Cory starts talking about further research.
Paul S asked for a motion to have Bob Wise contact the State Historic Preservation Office, to try to ascertain what effort it will take, beyond the DOE, to get this project nominated to the National Register, and that he come back to us with an approximation of what those additional expenses may be, if identifiable through his initial conversation.
 
There was discussion as to whether Hx Com members who own properties in the proposed Historic District need to recuse themselves on the vote. All agreed that they should recuse. Being that we still had a quorum, the motion proceeded.
 
Motion by Mark E. 2nd by Lorraine T.
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed unanimously
 
Bob Wise said that he would email Cathy C with any progress. Mark E asked that he be cc’d on any documentation as he is the secretary. Bob said that he would. At this point, Karen and Bob left the meeting. Mark E thanked everyone for their patience and determination. Paul M mentioned that he loved the “Beacons of Pride” idea. Dawn loved “The Gateway”.


2. MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDENCE
Mark E stated that while he had hoped to announce that Mike Bedrick was being added to our membership, unfortunately the Township Handbook forbids any relative of a Commissioner to be appointed as a “member” of a Commission, or to be hired by the Township. They can, however participate in our discussions and be involved with Sub-Committees. He said that Mike has brought valuable insight as a guest, and we hope he will continue to do so. Mike said that he understood, policy is policy, and must be respected. He will gladly continue to serve.


3. SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. SPACKMAN FARM
   1. Mark E noted that Kristen Denne has approved the Hx Com tour of Spackman Farm, that it is restricted to Commission members due to insurance reasons, and must be on a weekday when Mike Fragale is working.  Potential dates: 8/26 all day, 8/28 until 1:30, 8/31 all day, 9/2 all day. All agreed that Friday the 28th from 10:00 AM-noon would work best.
   2. Paul S mentioned that Karen Marshall was not able to do the tour, but that a woman from her Technical Sub-Committee might be able to, that it was the sort of thing the SC does. He will follow up, and see if she is covered under County Liability Insurance as a committee member. Cathy C stated that Spackman should be on the National Registry.
   3. Mark E asked if anyone had spent time with the Kings Highway Masterplan, and suggested that we all get close to it so that once the roof is on the barn we can just keep moving forward.
   4. Dawn C announced there is a new roof on the Schoolhouse, all but the Cupola has been completed, that the Township will finish the work on the Cupola as per Paul S’s recommendations. Leah J expressed concern that the Cupola is sitting on the ground unprotected from thieves, that it could be stolen in a second. Mark said he will follow up with Mike Fragale.
   5. Mark encouraged everyone to take a second to acknowledge all that we’ve been able to accomplish since January, even during Covid. Schoolhouse Roof, Paint, Interior… we should be excited that we’re doing things.
2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA Tony W was unable to access the meeting, so there was no formal report. Mark E asked that the 4 sub-committee members have a conversation prior to the next full Com meeting to consider some of what Karen Marshall and Mike B had brought, including “The Gateway to History”, “Beacons of Pride”, “Historic Caln Township”, rather than having people wondering “what’s Caln Township?” It was agreed this would happen. Mark encouraged everyone to check out the Caln Website to see some of the great progress that’s been made by Tony working with Abby.
3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION  Cathy reported that she and Leah had spent about 5 hours working on this. Very excited. Cathy attended a luncheon pre-Covid where Karen M had suggested we look at New Garden Township and East Brandywine resources, which they did, and are coming up with a million different ideas to make Caln wonderful. They’ve been considering the language for an ordinance, relying on East Brandywine and New Garden’s current Ordinances. She stated that in 2019 the Hx Com had a freelancer attend a meeting to propose writing an ordinance, but it was very expensive. Mark added that the Ordinance will be written as part of the current Zoning Update Process, that it will be hardwired right in. 

4. CHESTER COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION NETWORK UPDATE ​ Mark E announced that contrary to what we thought, we are not currently members, and that it was probably a missed detail due to Covid. He said that Karen M has everyone’s contact information, and we should be good to go for the fall.
 
5. 2021 BUDGET DISCUSSION

1. Mark E stated that we had until the end of August to get our Budget request in to the Township, and asked for suggestions from the group.
2. Cathy and Leah would like to have money for Hx home signs, but that she’s been told it is the Society’s responsibility.
3. Paul S thought we should have funds for Hx Com to join Statewide Preservation group and have one or two members have annual conference fee paid. Will pull together info and send it to Mark E.
4. Mark thinks we’re best with going for a small number to cover memberships.
5. Mike B recommended not formalizing repair costs in Budget so there’s no turf battles.

 
NEW BUSINESS:

1. Paul S announced that he was being nominated to be on the Chester County Preservation Network Board. Everyone was thrilled, expressed their support, and that we are honored to work with him. Paul responded that he’s honored to serve with serve with folks who were interested in local resources and histories, and that if appointed, he will be the official liaison for Caln, Coatesville, East Fallowfield, Valley,  Sadsbury and West Caln.  
   
2. Paul S asked if there was an update of when the roof project may be starting. Mark apologized for not including that in the Spackman Farm Sub Com report. The BOC approved for Bryan K to book advertisements for bids and that they will be in the DLN on 8/24 and 8/31 (?) and that the bid should be awarded by the BOC meeting 9/24, knock on wood. He added that the bids were already on the State platform.

Mark E again asked that everyone take in all that we’re getting done, that things are happening. Paul S added that major, major things are happening. Mark said we’re accomplishing a lot because we’re the coolest bunch around, again asked if there was any additional business. As there was none:
 
Mark E asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Paul S, second by Leah J
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 6-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 9:08 PM.
 
 

Historical Commission Member Attendees: (6 – Quorum)

• Catherine Callahan, Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Paul Stephens
• Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Member Absent (2):

• Tony Wagner (Excused)
• Patty DeFroscia (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (6):

• Karen Marshall
• Seth Hinshaw
• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick
• Licia Carini
• Tony Disario

 
OPENING:
The meeting was opened by Secretary Evans at 7:05PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mark E announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, and continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests, then went right into OLD BUSINESS - Membership (see below). After realizing he was inadvertently out of sequence with the Agenda, the meeting got back on track.
 
Approval of 6/17/20 Minutes
Mark E asked for a motion for approval of the minutes of the 6/17/20 Meeting.
Motion moved by Paul Stephens, second by Lorraine Tindaro.
Vote called by Mark E.
Motion passed unanimously.
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDANCE
   1. Mark E asked if Mike B had reached out to Denise to schedule interview. Mike B said he thought the Commission was setting it up, but that he would take care of that immediately. Mark said they’d try to get the interview in before the next Historical Commission meeting.
2. SPACKMAN FARM UPDATE
   1. Mark E stated that at the 7/9 BOC Meeting, the Board authorized Township Engineer Bryan Kulakowsky to advertise for bids to replace the Barn Roof at Spackman Farm. The specs were worked on in conjunction with Paul Stephens, and will include options for Cedar Shake and Metal shingles.
   2. Paul S clarified that it would be metal roofing and wood shingles. He thought the specs prepared by Bryan K were good, but there were some slight modifications and additional information he normally includes in his specs that he shared with Bryan K, and that he expects it will move along pretty well.
   3. Karen Marshall noted that when working with Historical resources, the Township can specify that the contractor have experience with Historical resources. Paul S responded that he and Bryan did not discuss, and that he is not that familiar with PA bid requirements for public work, other than it has to be bid. Karen added that the County qualifies contractors for such projects, and that while there’s not a lot that can be done with the bidding process, when you’re dealing with a property like Spackman, you need somebody with Hx experience. Paul added that in the past they have asked for examples of 3 projects of similar size and scope. Karen added that wording the County has used is “demonstrated experience in working with “x” material”. If the lowest bidder does not have “demonstrated experience”, you do not have to award them the contract. Mark E said that he would send an email to Bryan and Kristen to make sure that is in the bid advertisement.
   4. Mark E stated that we were still waiting for a response of cost to run electric and install spot lights and security cameras at Farmhouse and hoped to have an update soon. 
3. SCHOOLHOUSE UPDATE
   1. Dawn C and Paul S met with Mike Fragale. The building has been painted and various repairs have been made. Paul S will continue to communicate to ensure project is done appropriately. Dawn C added that the inside looks great, and that the Township has also weeded around the building so the outside now looks even better. She said that Paul S recommended options to Mike F for sealing the cupola and that he was very receptive, he even asked Paul’s opinion on some of the stone.   
   2. Mark E asked Leah J to share her experience with the Edge’s Mill Bridge replacement. She stated it’s very important that all work be done to maintain Historical accuracy, and that shortcuts not be taken as were with the Bridge - everything was to be replaced exactly as it was before being taken down, but in the end the top slabs to the walls were removed and used on a different bridge in Chester County. These stone slabs were very special because they were carved with the initials of kids, lovers, hearts and dates back to the 1940’s. To make things worse, this Bridge is on the National Registry. The slabs sat in her yard the entire time the bridge was being rebuilt, and she witnessed them being carted off. She confirmed it was a Penndot project. Mark E asked Karen Marshall and Paul Mullin if there was anything that could be done to get the top slabs back. Karen M first said that Monica Herrell at Penndot should have the records, but then said she’d pull her own files on it. Mark E suggested that if we can find where they are now located, and obtain photographs, perhaps we can try to get them returned. Much discussion followed. Leah J is to email Karen M to remind her to look into it.  
4. WEBSITE IMPROVEMENTS REVIEW
   1. Tony W was on vacation. Mark E said that Tony was working with Abbey, that we now have our agendas posted prior to meetings, and that our minutes for 2020 had all been transmitted to her after the June meeting. He mentioned that he knows Abbey’s plate is very full, and will reach out to be sure they are posted.
5. CHESTER COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION NETWORK UPDATE
   1. Mark E asked Cathy C if we were members, and if we are all supposed to be receiving the monthly newsletters. Cathy said she had done this months earlier. Cathy C said she had called Denise to make sure everyone’s names and contact info were on it.
6. SUB-COMMITTEE MEETINGS – Mark E
   1. Mark E asked for confirmation for each sub-committee member as per the assignment grid he had sent around. Mark E mentioned that the Historical Preservation Sub-Com will be very busy due to the upcoming Township Zoning Update. Mike Bedrick urged that Hx Com be heavily championed on Zoning Taskforce as it will be a big group.
   2. Spackman Farm Sub-Com: Dawn C nominated Paul S, who accepted. Dawn C to Vice-Chair
   3. Hx Preservation Sub-Com: Leah will lead and Cathy C will work with her
   4. Tony W will lead Marketing and Promotion. Lorraine, Licia C, and Mike B will also be involved.

NEW BUSINESS:

1. EDGE’S MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT PRESENTATION 
   1. Mark E turned the meeting over to Karen Marshall of CCHC, and Seth Hinshaw of RGA. Karen opened by saying that the work on bridge had caused Penndot to look at entire Beaver Creek area, and a consultant felt that due to its industrial legacy, the entire creek was eligible for the National Registry. The PHMC disagreed, so the consultant’s survey was modified to take out Downingtown, and the nomination was sent out. Three years passed with no action. Eventually Cathy C started the process to get her house on the Register. Finally, a new head of the division came out to look at District, no longer found it to be a linear district, but thought that Bondsville Mill and Edge’s Mill could be bookends of an Historic District. PHMC was not certain about Bondsville, but said that if a nomination for Edge’s Mill was were to be written and presented to them, they saw no problem with moving it along quickly. Seth added that it normally takes 1 ½ years to get something through PHMC so this was a good sign. Wise Preservation/RGA was asked to prepare a proposal - they just got Bondsville Mill project approved. Karen M emphasized that because Bondsville is a public Municipal project, East Brandywine’s BOS were on board with paying for it and were also interested in Keystone matching funding. She continued by saying that she and Cathy C had met via Zoom with Kristen Denne who recommended that they meet with the Hx Com to review the RGA proposal. Karen M then asked if everyone on the Hx Com had received a copy of the proposal, and added that this should have happened before the this meeting. The only member of the Hx Com that had the proposal was Cathy. Since no other members had had the chance to review the proposal, Karen suggested the she and Seth come back to the next meeting. Seth offered to email it to everyone right then. There was an attempt to coordinate delivery via chat, but chat was not enabled in Zoom. Karen Marshall read the proposal to the Commission. Dawn C asked if there was a timeline for the project, Seth replied there was not. The proposal calls for authorization to hire RGA to prepare a proposal at a cost $5,995. Karen M and Paul S both thought the price was reasonable. Seth stated he had just send it to Mark E via email. He added that he would expect to get the proposal done within this calendar year, starting now with incorporating the State’s new list of requirements, and doing photography of the site in the fall.    
   2. Dawn C asked about photography and on-site survey/assessment.
   3. Mark E received the email from Seth and after giving it a once over confirmed that he had not seen any of it prior to this meeting, and that all members would have had to receive it in advance of the meeting. He offered to send it around to everyone.
   4. Cathy C added that she had been given the impression by PHMC that this was the last thing that needed to be done, that it was a go, and that it would be immediate. She noted that she had not shared the documents with the Hx Com because she didn’t think she was supposed to until Seth was present to walk everyone through it. Mark E responded that Hx Com members should always have advance copies of anything they are expected to consider. Cathy continued that she misunderstood, thinking that since she alone had started the process for her individual home only, and had done all of that work without requesting money, that she was still supposed to be handling everything on her own. Mark thanked her for all the great advance work she had done, but added that since this was no longer a matter of one home, and that the proposal would require asking the Township for a significant amount of money, the Hx Com could not consider it without having time to review. Karen M remarked that it was she who requested the study, and that it was her responsibility to send the proposal around. Karen then suggested that we might want to end the discussion right there until everyone has a chance to review in depth. Paul S asked about what steps would come after the study. Seth replied that it was already unofficially pre-approved, once the form is submitted and approved all that would need to be done is to copy it into the National Registry form and resubmit, but acceded that there may still be comments to address before resubmission. Paul asked if the fee stated in proposal would cover everything, Karen M was not sure of how many edits RGA would be willing to do at this price. Paul S suggested we table it for the next meeting. Mark E asked for a motion to table for the next meeting.

Motion by Paul S. 2nd by Dawn C.
Cathy C objected, and questioned why anyone would vote against adding a property to the National Registry. Paul S clarified that we were not voting on the property, that we were voting on the proposal. Mark E added that we would be outside our legal bounds by voting on it at this time. 
Karen Marshall asked to address the Hx Com. She stated that we did not have the prerogative or ability to act on it without having the proposal in front of us, that we would be voting on a contract we had never seen, that we would be shirking our duties and could get into trouble when the minutes are circulated. She clarified that we had to postpone this, and that she would be happy to come to the next meeting on August 19th.   
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 5-1
 
Tony D asked if the entire Township would get to see a copy of the proposal or only the BOC. Mark said that he believed that if the CTHC were to send it on to the BOC, that the Township would be able to review it. Other members agreed.
 

1. 2021 BUDGET DISCUSSION
   1. Mark E asked if everyone had a copy of the Ordinance that established the Hx Com. He noted that in the past there have been some confusing responses from the Township and previous BOCs as to whether or not we had the right to request a budget. He clarified that we do. While most of our expenditures involve properties owned by the Township, and are therefore funded by the Township, it would still be nice to have a “little something on hand” at our disposal should small needs arise. He asked that everyone brainstorm on what they would like to ask for. Paul M confirmed that August would be the month to get the request in, and that it was important that we specify reasons for the money, certain goals for next year/2 years out. Paul recognized the ideas and great many good things that Jim Spaulding had wanted to accomplish the previous year, but there had been nothing set aside in the 2020 budget to make it happen. Mike B suggested an email wish-list we could share with each other and an estimate of value, from marketing and hosting costs for Hx Preservation awareness, to forming the 501 C3s and fundraising. Paul S added that there were legitimate things we could do as a Commission to promote what we do and what the Township History is about that would not cost High dollars. There may be some memberships we want to look into that would be beneficial to us, including a statewide organization. Mark E suggested we all come up with  budgetary “Worst-Best -Probable” scenario wish lists prior to the next meeting. 

Mark E asked for a motion that we each come up with our 3-tiered Budget ideas within 2 weeks.
Motion by Paul S. 2nd by Lorrain T.
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 6-0
 
2.  SOCIAL MEDIA AND PROMOTION

1. Mark E noted that there wasn’t much to cover in Tony W’s absence, but inquired about “footage” of Lois telling the history of Caln, suggesting that if we could get a copy of all of that, we could begin editing it into a series of 1 to 2-minute clips to be rotated on the website titled something like “Lois Talks”. He asked if there was interest, and there was. Mike B and Lorraine T said OCHS should have it. Dawn C confirmed. Cathy added that Lois is amazing. Dawn said we could possibly get access to it. Mike B suggested we do it along the lines of Ken Burns’ documentary work. Mark E added that he’d love to shoot “new” footage of her at the locations, but understood that Covid made that currently impossible. Paul S and Mike said that just having her voice over images would do the trick.

 
3. ZONING TASKFORCE RECOMMENDATIONS  

1. Mark E suggested we all start thinking about the Zoning Update and what we want from it.

 
OTHER BUSINESS:
 

1. Dawn C asked about item #5 on the Meeting Agenda “COORDINATION WITH LINCOLN HIGHWAY COMMITTEE”. Mark commented that the Lincoln Highway Commission was starting up again and that we might want to think about how to capitalize on a rebirth of Lincoln Highway.
2. Paul S asked if we could get an in-person tour of the Spackman Farm for the Historical Commission, or at least for the members of the Sub Committee. Paul M noted that safety was the biggest factor with the property, adding that BOC members are covered under the Township Insurance but we should check with Kristen about others. Paul S also inquired about “socially distanced” in-person Sub Committees meetings, adding that he thought a tour would be useful as Spackman Farm seems to be the primary preservation project within the Township that is ongoing and has a real direction at this point. He suggested that everyone on SF Sub-Com should look at the King’s Highway Master Plan. Paul M asked Paul S his thoughts on making Spackman Farm a non-profit. Paul S replied that non-profits are generally falling on hard times, and that he would love to explore the possibility of getting RFPs out to look into the probability of a lease arrangement with someone who might convert it into an events facility. They would invest in it but the Township would still own it. You might not see money out of it right away, but the responsibility for upkeep and maintenance would be out of our hands. “It will take an active use to see that complex preserved. Without some kind of active use, it’s going to fall into disrepair. Find a way to make buildings pay for themselves”, 501 C3s are good, but will not pull in the kind of money required. Paul M asked if we would first have to make the repairs on the house and driveway, Paul S replied that all of that could be made a part of the RFP, keeping in mind that respondents will have to determine what they could invest and still make a profit, since that is their primary objective. It has to be a viable business. Other options are to do the initial work and recover it through lease payments, or put the money out ourselves and then turn it over to them for $1/year for 20 years. Mark E added that we have to be careful how we parcel it out so that we don’t lose our entire non-profit tax abatement for the property. Licia C asked Paul S about Duportail House, if that was the type of project he was suggesting. Paul S concurred. She added that something like that would be a nice gem for our Township.  ​
3. Cathy C made a statement to the Commission about her passion for the Edge’s Mill project.

 
Mark E thanked everyone for a wonderful, spirited conversation and asked if there was any additional business to be discussed. As there was none:
 
Mark E asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Paul S, second by Leah J
Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 6-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:34 PM. 

​​Caln Historical Commission Meeting Minutes
Via Zoom, Wed June 17th, 2020 (7:00-8:00 PM)
 
Historical Commission Member Attendees: (4 – Quorum)

• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Tony Wagner

Historical Commission Member Absent (4):

• Catherine Callahan, Chair (Excused)
• Paul Stephens (Excused)
• Leah Jennings (Excused)
• Patty DeFroscia (Excused) Historical Commission Guests (4):
• Paul Mullin
• Mike Bedrick
• Licia Carini
• Tony Disario

 
OPENING: Mark E stated that Chair Cathy C had been called out of town unexpectedly and had asked that he fill in as chair for the evening. The meeting was then called to order by Acting Chair Mark Evans at 7:05PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mark E then announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, and continued with Members Roll Call, and Introduction of Guests.
 
Approval of 5/20/20 MinutesMark E asked for a motion for approval of the minutes of the 5/20/20 Meeting. Motion moved by Lorraine Tindaro, second by Dawn Coughlan.
Tony W asked if there had been any more responses to 30-60-90 day priorities since last meeting, Mark E answered there were not. Tony W asked if the roof work will impede the ability to conduct Schoolhouse Tours, which are already on hold due to Covid-19. It was stated that the repairs “should” be no more than a one day job, and that once the contractor is notified of the awarded bid, work should begin soon after, so there should be no disruption of tours once reopened to the public. Tony W clarified that what he meant was “are there any conditions (other than Covid-19) that could prove dangerous to the public being in the Schoolhouse. Dawn C confirmed that the current condition of the roof does not present any danger to the public. Vote called by Mark E.
Motion passed 4-0
 
 
Approval of 2/26/20 MinutesMark E stated that at the 5/20 meeting the Commission had failed to approve the 2/26 minutes.
Mark E for a motion for approval of the minutes of the 2/26/20 Meeting. Motion moved by Lorraine T, seconded by Tony W.
Vote called by Mark E.
 
Motion passed 4-0
 
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDANCE
   1. Mark E stated that one of our prospective new members had put her application on hold after reading disparaging commentary regarding the Caln Historical Commission, Board of Commissioners, and Township that was being posted on the Caln Watch Facebook Page. She is reconsidering whether or not she wants to get involved with any Township Commission, and will let us know what she decides.
   2. The BOC will attempt to interview Mike Bedrick before the July meeting of the Historical Commission.
   3. Mark E had questions about members still listed as active who do not attend meetings. Dawn C replied that Patty DeFroscia is the wife of a former long-time Commission Chair who had grown disillusioned with the Commission, but would probably be very interested in being part of the Commission based on the new energy and solid plans for progress; and added that she would be a great resource to the Historical Commission. Lorriane T. concurred, as did Mike B. Both Lorraine T. and Dawn C offered to reach out to her with hopes that she’ll rejoin us at the July meeting. Since Dawn is a close friend of Patty’s, she will make contact.​
2. SPACKMAN FARM UPDATE
   1. Mark E stated that the Township has agreed to have to Arro work with Paul Stephens on preparing a bid to replace the Barn Roof. They had attempted to have a Zoom meeting between all parties, but suffered a communication issue with the group email not reaching Mr. Stephens, resulting in a delay. Mr. Kulikowski does have Paul’s specs, and with these issues resolved, a meeting will be scheduled for next week. Mark E asked for a Motion to request that Township prepare cost estimates for:
      1. The Purchase and Installation of “Landscape Lighting” around the Spackman Farm House and Barn, to make it harder for vandals to get close without detection
      2. The running of a power line to the exterior of the Spackman house, and installation of an outdoor switchbox to provide power for the lighting
      3. The Purchase and Installation of security cameras around the Spackman Farm House and Barn​​
   2. Discussion followed. Guest Paul M was asked if making such a request would be reasonable. He believed so, especially since this could be a low-cost project. He questioned the stability of the house’s wiring to handle electric. Mark E responded that the intention was not to run power into the house, only to an outdoor switchbox. Paul M stated that he had been around the back of the house and it was obvious where the kids were partying, drinking beer, and throwing rocks from. Lighting could be a very beneficial deterrent. Mike B asked about security cameras. Paul M said there is one focused on a shed where supplies are kept. Dawn questioned if the use of solar powered lighting was off the table. Mark responded no, but at the 5/20 meeting Mr. Stephens had said that in most cases, solar power requires an electric back-up. The group decided to include solar options and security cameras to the motion to request a cost estimate.
   3. Mark E asked for an amended Motion to request that Township prepare cost estimates for:
      1. The Purchase and Installation of “Landscape Lighting” around the Spackman Farm House and Barn
      2. The running of a power line to the exterior of the Spackman house, and installation of an outdoor switchbox to provide power for the lighting
      3. A Solar Powered option for the lighting
      4. The Purchase and Installation of security cameras around the Spackman Farm House and Barn
         1. Motion moved by Lorraine T, seconded by Dawn C. Vote called by Mark E. Motion passed 4-0
   4. Mark E noted that at the 5/20 meeting Cathy C. said she would reach out to Township Manager Denne, who had offered to coordinate with Mr. Fragile to help Cathy “stage” the porch with furniture and plants so that the Farmhouse would appear to be “occupied”. Mark E asked if Cathy C had been successful in staging the porch. Paul M stated that it could be too dangerous for any resident to be on the porch. Dawn C concurred, and added that it did not appear as if anything had yet been staged. Mark E suggested they table this option for now. No vote needed, all members agreed to table the staging.
   5. Mark E reported that a formal request for the Farmer’s rent money to be re- directed for repairs and improvements at the House and Barn has been prepared and is ready to be sent to both the Finance Committee and the BOC.  
3. SCHOOLHOUSE UPDATE
   1. Mark E announced that at their 6/11/20 meeting, the BOC approved G.P. Martini’s bid of $4,750.00 to replace the schoolhouse roof. Although the Township doesn’t have a timeline on when work will begin, it should be very soon.
4. MEETING WITH THE OLD CALN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
   1. Dawn C reported that President Joan Ciarlone is not set up for Zoom Meetings. Lois Demchak and Old Caln are eager to meet with Paul Stephens and Mark E, but due to Covid-19 concerns, we should play it by ear. Lorraine T asked if it would be possible for Joan to dial in by phone. Dawn C responded that Joan has reception problems so that may be too difficult. Dawn C said that she is in touch with them once a week, and will continue to keep them assured that we’re ready when they are.
5. WEBSITE
   1. Tony W reported that he had gone back-and-forth with Abbey at the Township, and that we are not permitted to manage our own subpage. It is unfortunate, but we can work with it. He and Abbey got a couple of updates done: Changed the Meeting Time, added that Schoolhouse Tours are not being offered due to Covid. He was still waiting for Historical Site Listings to be added to the page, will follow up with Abbey, and also address the orphaned page. Other updates are still a little ways out.
6. 30-60-90-DAY PRIORITIES
   1. Mark E. asked that this topic be moved to later in the meeting. Consensus agreed. No vote necessary.

 
 
NEW BUSINESS:

1. Mark E proposed formation of 3 sub-committees: Spackman Farm, Historical Preservation, and Friends of Lloyd Farm Exploratory. Mike B suggested a Marketing Sub-Committee. Tony W expressed interest in serving on a Marketing subcommittee.
   1. Mark E asked for a motion to create 4 Sub-Committees:
      1. ​Spackman Farm Sub-Committee
      2. Historic Preservation District Sub-Committee
      3. Friends of Lloyd Farm Exploratory Sub-Committee
      4. Marketing Sub-Committee
   2. Motion Moved by Lorraine T, second by Dawn C.
   3. Tony W asked if a Commission with only 8 active members could fill 4 sub- committees. Dawn C inquired about the Historical Preservation District Sub- Committee. Mark E stated that the Township Zoning Update is about to be undertaken, and that the Historical Commission could have a hand in how it is changed, including getting the existing Historical District Overlay written into the actual zoning. Paul M suggested consolidating to 2 Sub-Committees. Tony W suggested prioritizing Sub-Committees to comply with 30-60-90 day plans. Mike B concurred. Mark E suggested 3 Sub-Committees by folding Spackman and Lloyd Farm into 1 Sub-Committee, and keeping the Historical Preservation District Sub-Committee and Marketing Sub-Committee as already discussed.
   4. Mike B suggested committees within sub-committees. Mark E suggested a poll be taken on preference. Tony W said he could go either way, and that since each Sub-Committee should have 3 people, and we have limited membership, we can form additional Sub-Committees as needed in order of priority. Dawn C stated that she likes Sub-Committees with specific achievable goals within manageable timeframes. She likes the idea of grassroots outreach. Offered to serve on the Spackman Farm Sub-Committee. She also suggested Paul Stephens (if he agrees) would be great for that Sub-Committee. Dawn C also suggested that with her passion, Cathy C could spearhead Historic Preservation District, and that Leah J could be great for that Sub-Committee as well. She thought Tony W would be perfect for a Promotional Sub-Committee, and that we have the venues to get the word out – FB, Instagram, etc. that could be used to attract outsiders to get involved. Licia C suggested workstream approach rather than Sub-Committees and agreed with Dawn C’s preference for actionable projects with timelines that show results. Lorraine T stated her interest in the Marketing end of things. Mark E commented that everyone’s comments were very helpful, and explained his reasoning for “formalizing” sub-committees - that if things aren’t in stone, they disappear. Mike B suggested that Sub-Committees can cross-pollinate over time.
   5. Mark E withdrew his earlier motion and asked for a motion to form 3 Sub-Committees:
      1. Spackman/Lloyd Farm
      2. Historic Preservation District
      3. Marketing
   6. Motion moved by Lorraine T, second by Tony W.
   7. Licia C asked to confirm that Sub-Committees can bring in outside resources to help build out their plans. Mark E confirmed, and stated that the group had grown from 4 to 8 active members in 6 months, and that if we continue to take action and accomplish things, we will continue to grow to fill those Sub- Committees. Paul M reminded us that we are allowed to have up to 15 members. Dawn C responded that this is in the Township Ordinance and that the Historical Commission should be operating by. Paul M recommended everyone download the Ordinance. Licia C encouraged everyone to recruit for membership.
   8. Vote called by Mark E. Vote passed 4-0
2. Impending Demolition of vacant house at Golf Course (not Buchanan House)
   1. Mark E noted that there is a grant available to demolish the structure, and thought it would be a good idea to check with The Old Caln Historical Society regarding any historical significance the house may have.
   2. Dawn C offered to ask The Old Caln Historical Society.
   3. Tony D mentioned that is was the old Zinn House, and didn’t think it was historically significant. Discussion followed about Zinn Diner and their wonderful Strawberry Pie.
3. Mark E asked the members if we should hold off on discussing 30-60-90 Day Priorities until he completes the spreadsheet. Lorraine T suggested that we table it. Consensus agreed. No vote necessary.

 
 
OTHER BUSINESS: 

1. Dawn C asked for confirmation that the Schoolhouse and Open Houses are completely on hold until all Covid restrictions have been lifted. Mark E confirmed. Dawn C stated that is was the same case at the Old Caln Meeting House, all tours and visits have been cancelled. Mark E shared Chester County’s up-to-date Covid numbers and hoped that things would improve so we can find our new normal. Dawn C shared that Covid is one of the reasons she really likes Tony W’s idea of starting to work the promotional aspects digitally. Mike B and Lorraine T reiterated importance of promoting safe social practices.
2. Mark E said that he would send out a list of the Sub-Committees and member’s preferred assignments.  
3. Paul M asked to be kept informed of Spackman Farm Sub-Committee Meetings.
4. Mike B suggested adding 6 month and 1 year goals to 30-60-90 Day plans. Mark E responded that the goals themselves will grow into 6 month and 1 year goals. He feared that if a one year goal is targeted, one year later you will have never started working on it. But if you keep it at manageable chunks, you get there. Mike B agreed with objectives vs goals and that 30-60-90 constantly keeps things moving forward.
5. Dawn C asked to go on record for the minutes in thanking Mark E for the progress that’s being made at Spackman Farm.  

Mark E asked for a motion to adjourn. Moved by Tony W, second by Dawn C. Mark E called the vote.
Motion passed 4-0.
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM.

Meeting held via Zoom

Historical Commission Member Attendees: (7 – Quorum)

• Catherine Callahan, Chair
• Lorraine Tindaro, Vice-Chair
• Mark Evans, Secretary
• Dawn Coughlan
• Leah Jennings
• Paul Stephens
• Tony Wagner

Historical Commission Member Non-attendees (2):

• Patty DeFroscia (Not Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (8):

• Paul Mullin
• Kristen Denne
• Mike Bedrick
• Cheryl Spaulding
• Mark DeYoung
• Tony Disario
• Licia Carini

 
OPENING:
​The meeting was called to order by Chair Cathy Callahan at 7:05PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, Members Roll Call, and Introduction New Member and Introduction of Guests
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.      MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDENCE Discussed rescheduling BOC interviews for prospective members via Zoom. Mike Bedrick and Dr. Judy Freed are prospective members.
 
2.      GRIFFITH / SPACKMAN FARM UPDATE

1. There was extensive discussion of crucial need for the Barn Roof to be replaced. It was agreed that Mr. Stephens and Township Engineer Bryan Kulikowski meet via Zoom to work together to get the roof repaired for as little cost as possible. Mr. Stephens agreed, Mr. Evans offered to set the up meeting and to send Paul’s specs to Brian.
2. There was extensive discussion of recent acts of vandalism at the Farm, and how to make the location less desirable for vandals.
   1. Ms. Denne stated 72 total panes needed to be replaced. Mr. Evans suggested “Landscape Lighting” be installed at the Farm to illuminate the house and its surrounding area to make it harder for vandals to get close to it without detection. Adding that it would be necessary to install a switchbox and reroute the house’s incoming power line directly to it. Mr. Mullin asked if solar lighting might be a good option if there is no electric. Mr. Stephens liked the idea, but added that with solar you still need to have electric backup. Ms. Spaulding suggested boarding the house up to keep the windows from being broken until such time as “real preservation” work is to be done. Mr. Stephens stated that in his experience, if kids want to get in, boards won’t stop them. Mr. Bedrick suggested adding some potted plants to the porch to give the impression that someone is actually living there. Ms. Callaghan offered to take plants and a rocking chair to the porch for staging. Ms. Denne commented that the police have been keeping an eye on things when possible. Ms. Spaulding commented that the house used to look good, but since the exterior was allowed to be overgrown, it is obviously vacant. Mr. Evans asked Ms. Denne to confirm that the exterior of all Farm buildings had been cleared of growth, and she confirmed. Ms. Callaghan wondered why this is happening now, Licia Carini commented that kids are out of school due to Covid-19, and have more time to act out. Ms. Callaghan said she will drive by every night. Ms. Denne expressed concern that someone could get hurt going up to the house due to poor condition of driveway. Mr. Bedrick offered to help Ms. Callaghan get material up to the porch. Ms. Denne said to let her know when and she will have Mike Fragale open up the drive.
      1. It was agreed that within one week, Ms. Callaghan would contact Ms. Denne to coordinate getting items to the porch, and that it will be completed within one week (5/27). No vote needed. 
      2. In response to a question by Mark DeYoung, the conversation returned to Barn Roof replacement. Mr. DeYoung asked how the township would pay the $70-$80K estimated for the project, especially considering the new financial reality presented by Covid-19. He wants it to be done. Mr. Evans noted that was the next item on the agenda, and asked Ms. Denne if insurance would cover the repairs. She replied that it would not, and would most probably need to be financed. Ms. Spaulding stressed the importance of fixing the roof. Mr. Evans stated that we would find the money to fix the roof, other things like rewiring the house will most probably not happen this year, possibly not next year. Mr. Stephens noted that electric could be run to an outside switchbox inexpensively and that we did not need to do wood shingles yet, that cheaper fiberglass or barn tin would work for now while we budget for later. Suggested coming up with a plan to “protect” the building without breaking the bank. Cathy reiterated that this has been going on for a long time. Mr. Evans reiterated that this is a new start, not to look back at the past, and keep moving forward. Mr. Mullin recommended to prioritize what needs to be done first.
3. Mr. Evans suggested a sub-committee to explore the creation of a non-profit “Friends of Griffith Farm” to raise funds and promote awareness. Asked attendees if there was anyone with non-profit and grant experience who would volunteer to spearhead the sub-committee. There were no volunteers. Mr. Stephens said there were Keystone grants available, and will get the contact information and an application form. Cathy will call Karen Marshall.  
4. Discussion of need to make an official decision on whether to call it Griffith Farm or Spackman Farm, as using two different names is too confusing for residents who are not part of the Hx Com. Leah said Spackman, Mr. Stephens and Cheryl Spaulding said it was only Griffith Farm for a short time. Mike Bedrick suggested we add “of Caln Township” to the name. That idea was tabled for now so as not to limit field of potential donors.
   1. Motion by Mr. Evans to use “Spackman Farm” as the official name moving forward, seconded by Dawn, vote called by Ms. Callahan. Vote passed 7-0. 
5. There was a discussion of how to direct funds from the Farmer’s monthly rent for exclusive use by HX COM for needed preservation projects, and the proper process to achieve that. Ms. Denne said the $ are currently added to the Recreation Fund and that Hx Com could access it. Cathy asked how much $, Ms. Denne said it’s more than $10K/year.
   1. A motion was proposed and rescinded to you improper procedure, as Mr. Stephens questions if we have the authority to spend money. Ms. Denne suggested the proper way to go about this is to approach the Finance Committee and request they ask the BOC to re-direct those funds to the HX Com.
   2. An amended motion was proposed for Hx Com (working within Township finance rules) to approach the Finance Committee and request for them to ask the BOC to re-direct any incoming funds from farmer at Spackman Farm for the HX Com to use for repairs as needed.Mr. Disario asked if the Barn could handle the weight of a new roof. Mr. Stephens confirmed, and that there would also be a contingency plan. Mr. Disario asked if all Grants need to be matched. Mr. Stephens stated that in-kind labor could sometimes be used as a match. Cathy expressed frustration that we can’t use volunteered professional labor, but that she understood Township legal concerns. Ms. Spaulding brought up old plan for major park at location. Mr. Stephens said we could send out RFPs to prospective investors now, just to get an idea of what options are out there, that we need to sit down and plot out a viable business solution, and if we lose the roof we lose those options. Dawn C said that she likes what she’s hearing. Ms. Denne said we need to start a “Foundation” or “Friends of” society, with a fundraising arm. Discussion expanded to condition of Spackman Farm House and Barn, and what funds were needed to return it to original grandeur. The group agreed that kind of money would not be available any time soon, if ever, due to financial fallout from Covid-19. Mr. Disario asked how much it would cost. Mr. Stephens suggested that over time, approximately $3-400K to do everything, but that the Township should not be spending the money, rather obtain funds through an investor/$0 lease. Mr. Stephens led a spirited discussion of how Valley Forge had gotten an outside investor to make the investment and turn an historical property into an Event/Wedding space. In return for their investment, they were given a 20 year/low rent lease. He said there are many ways a deal like that could be done. Licia Carini asked how other surrounding Chester County Townships are doing this because they have it together. Mr. Stephens responded that the sub-committees are the key.
   3. The Motion was repeated “amended motion by Mr. Evans for Hx (working within Township finance rules) to approach the Finance Committee and request for them to ask the BOC to re-direct any incoming funds from farmer at Spackman Farm for the HX Com to use for repairs as needed”. Motion by Mr. Evans, seconded by Cathy, vote called by Ms. Callahan. Vote passed 7-0. 

3. SCHOOLHOUSE UPDATE

1. The Schoolhouse has been painted, and the Township has received one quote for the School House Roof for $4750. Working on two more quotes.

 
4.      30-60-90-DAY PRIORITIES

1. Only 3 members had delivered their wish lists for 30-60-90-Day Priorities. They were presented and discussed. Asked that anyone else who wants to submit priorities to do so.

5. MEETING WITH THE OLDE CALN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

1. Discussed if it feasible that OCHS could meet via Zoom? Dawn offered to reach out to Olde Caln to see if they wanted to meet via Zoom as previously scheduled joint meeting was cancelled due to Covid-19.

6. WEBSITE

1. Mr. Wagner presented his initial findings for Website needs. Asked if it would be possible for us to manage our own sections of the Caln Website. Dawn said Abbey is who he should talk to. Tony spoke to cleaning out the layout of agendas, correct meeting time, page that lays out all Hx sites in Caln, URL does not seem to be linked on our page, fixing links, reformat of OCHS initial page to be more user friendly (all link go to PDF) and maybe show thumbnail of property and a blurb by the link. Dawn loved the ideas. Mark said he would connect Tony and Abbey the following week due to National Holiday.

 
NEW BUSINESS:

1. PROPOSED FORMATION OF SUB-COMMITTEES
   1. FRIENDS OF SPACKMAN FARM
   2. FRIENDS OF LLOYD FARM
      1. Mark threw out the idea that with the economy down the developer might sell 3-4 adjacent lots to create a Lloyd Farm Hx District. for $750K each, asked that everyone think about how to come up with the money.
2. POLICY STATEMENT
   1. Update needed? Mark suggested that he work with Dawn to update the policy statement.
3. ZONING TASKFORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
   1. Mark asked that members think about what they would like to be seen in the Historic Ordinance as part of the upcoming Township Zoning Update. Dawn mentioned that the East Brandywine Ordinance is a good foundation.
4. OTHER BUSINESS
   1. Cathy brought up Edge’s Mill Hx District and that there was one final hurdle to cross that would require $5K Township expenditure, and importance of getting it done. Mark reiterated the importance of getting the roof done first. Cheryl Spaulding asked if it was legally possible to have 2 Historic Districts in theTownship, that if Edge’s Mill is completed, will we legally be able to create an Overall Hx District across the Township? Asked that we investigate it. Paul S did not think it would be a problem, but that it was worth asking. Mark said he would ask Karen Marshall. Cathy asked what the downside would be. Cheryl said that if it were true, then we would only have Edge’s Mill His District.

 
Everyone expressed their pleasure with the meeting. Jim Spaulding was thanked by the group for all of his work in 2019. Mike Bedrick suggested a bullet point action plan to be distributed before the next meeting. Mark said he would get one out. Cathy said maybe we would meet in person next time. Mike B said June 4th was yellow phase. Mark E explained case count and that we are a long way off.
 
Paul S made a motion to adjourn meeting, and that everyone stay safe. Lorraine T seconded. Vote called by Cathy C. Vote passed 7-0. The meeting was adjourned by Chair Cathy Callahan at 8:42 PM.