Caln Township Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners August 28, 2025
7:30 PM Hybrid Business Meeting Minutes
Staff Members Present Caln Township Board Members: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President, Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner, and Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, Don Vymazal-Township Manager and Township Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant, Abbey Swan-Director of Community Enhancement, Johnnie Huggins-Director of Public Works, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building, and Life Safety, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: Chief Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company, Dereck Dry-Minquas, Ross Bickhart Gilmore & Associates P.E. Senior Project Manager-Gilmore & Associates, and Kristin Camp-Township Solicitor.
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (BOCs) August 28, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township building on August 27, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting, Township website, Facebook, and Instagram. The 2025 Township meeting schedule was published in the Daily Local Newspaper, on December 18, 2024.
Call to Order and Salute to the Flag – Commissioner Mullin called the August 28, 2025, meeting to order at 7:34 PM. He then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Commissioner Mullin stated that there was an Executive Session prior to tonight’s meeting for legal reasons.
Citizens to be Heard – There were none.
Resident Presentation – Ms. Fritsch presented the BOCs with a framed letter thanking all those who were involved in fixing
the stormwater pipe on her property at 250 Seltzer Avenue.
1. Solicitor
1.1 Hearing – Ordinance 2025-03 Adding a Definition for Building – For Board consideration, Ms. Camp presented Ordinance 2025-03 advertised on August 20, 2025, in the Daily Local Newspaper, a copy was sent to the Law Library and to the Township. Ms. Camp explained that this proposed ordinance explains that each individual building tenant space, however owned, in a commercial building must be registered.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Ordinance 2025-03 Amending the CT Code of Ordinances, Chapter 120 Titled “Property Maintenance” Chapter 11 Titled “Registration of Vacant Buildings”, Section 1102 Titled “Definitions” to add a definition for building. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
1.2 Old Caln Meetinghouse Dedication Agreement – Discussed at the August 14 Board workshop meeting, Ms. Camp presented a Dedication Agreement between the Old Caln Meetinghouse (OCM) and Caln Township. Ms. Camp explained that the OCM is going to file a petition to dissolve their 501c3 corporation under which they have operated. Assuming that the Court of Common Pleas approves the plan to dissolve, they are intending to dedicate 3 parcels on Caln Meetinghouse Road.
Dawn Coughlan 1419 Edges Mill Road and current President of the Old Town Historical Society, thanked everyone involved with the Dedication Agreement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Board President to sign the Dedication Agreement between Caln Township and the Old Caln Meetinghouse. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2. Engineering
2.1 Caln Meetinghouse Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a Culvert Option PSA – Discussed at the August 14 BOCs workshop meeting, Mr. Bickhart presented a Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a Culvert Option PSA for the Caln Meetinghouse Road Bridge in the amount of $10,600.00.
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Bickhart if his design includes a sidewalk on part of the box culvert or bridge. Mr. Bickhart replied if the Township is interested, they can account for one as they prepare the concept plan.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Township Manager to sign a PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Caln Meetinghouse Road Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a culvert option in the not-to-exceed amount of $10,600.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2.2 Ingleside Golf Course Spillway Survey PSA – Mr. Bickhart offered a PSA in the amount of $1,200.00 for the Golf Course.
Commissioner Evans stated that the first hole on the golf course and G.O. Carlson Boulevard also flood.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Township Manager to sign a PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Ingleside Golf Course Spillway Survey in the “not-to-exceed” amount of $1,200.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
3. Director Reports
3.1 Fire Company – Chief Taylor highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Chief Taylor stated that they were notified by the State Fire Commissioners Office of PA that between Thorndale Fire Company and Caln Township Firefighters they were recognized as a participating department under 75%.
3.2 Minquas EMS – Mr. Dry highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Dry stated that Ambulance 46-3 will be driven to Pittsburgh for the National EMS Bike Event. Commissioner Mullin stated that he saw their sign. Mr. Dry replied that the sign was put up on the recommendation of the Township Manager.
3.3 Ingleside Golf Course – Mr. Vymazal stated that Ms. Shannon was not able to attend tonights meeting; however, her July 2025 monthly department report is in the Julys Directors packet.
3.4 Public Works – Mr. Huggins highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Huggins stated that his department has been working throughout the Township.
3.5 Building & Life Safety – Mr. Stackhouse highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Stackhouse stated that there is a special exception zoning hearing board meeting on September 4, 2025, for the Cohen Development for encroachment in the wetlands and a zoning variance for 4109 Reeceville Road for more than one principle use on a parcel.
3.6 Police Department – Chief Elias highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Chief Elias reviewed employee years of service milestones and reviewed service calls.
3.7 Community Enhancement – Ms. A. Swan highlighted items from her departments July 2025 monthly report. Ms. A. Swan stated that there was a ribbon cutting event at Meadow Park. She also stated that the Township sold three benches for the parks.
4. Finance Department
4.1 Financial Report – Mr. Vymazal stated that Ms. L. Swan was not able to attend tonight’s meeting; however, her financials and the check run is in the board packet.
4.2 Checks
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 54536 to 54608 and manual check 318. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
5. Township Manager
5.1 Ratification of Recommendation to Purchase a 2026 Glick Pierce Enforcer Engine – Mr. Vymazal and Mr. Stackhouse explained that more information and negotiating is needed before this can be brought back to the Board for consideration.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to table this agenda item until further information is received by Staff. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.2 Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm Fund Drive Request – Mr. Vymazal explained that the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm are requesting to initiate a fund drive for improvements at the Spackman-Davis Farm property, specific to the wall along the front of the barn, the retaining wall towards the east entrance to the farmhouse, and the steps on the side of the farm house property. Commissioner Evans stated that the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm will have pictures of these items at their Community Day table.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm to hold a fund drive specifically dedicated to the Spackman-Davis Farm improvements as stated by Mr. Vymazal. Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
5.3 Ingleside Golf Course Fairway Mower Purchase – For Board consideration, Mr. Vymazal presented a Fairway Mower purchase in the amount of $74,068.61 for Ingleside Golf Course. Mr. Vymazal stated that the mower will arrive in the Spring of 2026.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the purchase of a Toro Reelmaster 3555 mower from Turf Equipment and Supply Company in the amount of $74,068.61, for Ingleside Golf Course. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.4 CCIU – Chief Elias explained that the last 2 school years collectively, the police department responded to 900 service calls. This has impacted on their resources as well as the Fire Department and the EMS Departments. The intermediate unit signed a contract with the Chester County Sheriff’s Office to provide a School Resource Officer(s).
4. Board Minutes
4.1 July 31, 2025
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve July 31, 2025, Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
4.2 August 14, 2025 – Commissioner Evans stated that 5.2 should read Historical Commission instead of BOCs.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve August 14, 2025, Commissioners’ minutes with the change stated by Commissioners Evans. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5. Public Comment
Resident George March asked if arrangements were made for deliveries when Caln Meeting House Road is closed. Mr. Huggins replied that school buses, trash trucks, emergency vehicles, residents etc. will have road access. Mr. Vymazal explained that the Township tries to accommodate residents’ ability to access properties and conduct their daily business.
Resident David James representing himself, the community, and the Youth Initiative stated that the Youth Initiative used the golf course to play football, which is kicking a ball into a hula hoop. Mr. James stated that Ms. Shannon, Mr. Grant, and the Staff worked very well with them.
6. Additional Business
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Vymazal the status of the PECO electric outages. Mr. Vymazal explained that he heard from PECOs Government Affairs, and they are looking into the reliability of the network and have identified a potential concern that may have caused power outages over the past years. Mr. Vymazal stated that State Representative and State Senator Katie Muth are also involved in discussion.
Commissioner Kennedy asked what PECO is doing under 11th Avenue Bridge. Mr. Stackhouse replied that Pennsylvania American Water is doing a Main Project. Mr. Stackhouse also replied that the PECO project is underneath the underpass for the watermain and stormwater replacement.
7. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the August 28, 2025, Commissioners’ minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
Denise Miller
Assistant Twp. Secretary
Board of Commissioners August 28, 2025
7:30 PM Hybrid Business Meeting Minutes
Staff Members Present Caln Township Board Members: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President, Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner, and Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, Don Vymazal-Township Manager and Township Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant, Abbey Swan-Director of Community Enhancement, Johnnie Huggins-Director of Public Works, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building, and Life Safety, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: Chief Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company, Dereck Dry-Minquas, Ross Bickhart Gilmore & Associates P.E. Senior Project Manager-Gilmore & Associates, and Kristin Camp-Township Solicitor.
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (BOCs) August 28, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township building on August 27, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting, Township website, Facebook, and Instagram. The 2025 Township meeting schedule was published in the Daily Local Newspaper, on December 18, 2024.
Call to Order and Salute to the Flag – Commissioner Mullin called the August 28, 2025, meeting to order at 7:34 PM. He then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Commissioner Mullin stated that there was an Executive Session prior to tonight’s meeting for legal reasons.
Citizens to be Heard – There were none.
Resident Presentation – Ms. Fritsch presented the BOCs with a framed letter thanking all those who were involved in fixing
the stormwater pipe on her property at 250 Seltzer Avenue.
1. Solicitor
1.1 Hearing – Ordinance 2025-03 Adding a Definition for Building – For Board consideration, Ms. Camp presented Ordinance 2025-03 advertised on August 20, 2025, in the Daily Local Newspaper, a copy was sent to the Law Library and to the Township. Ms. Camp explained that this proposed ordinance explains that each individual building tenant space, however owned, in a commercial building must be registered.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Ordinance 2025-03 Amending the CT Code of Ordinances, Chapter 120 Titled “Property Maintenance” Chapter 11 Titled “Registration of Vacant Buildings”, Section 1102 Titled “Definitions” to add a definition for building. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
1.2 Old Caln Meetinghouse Dedication Agreement – Discussed at the August 14 Board workshop meeting, Ms. Camp presented a Dedication Agreement between the Old Caln Meetinghouse (OCM) and Caln Township. Ms. Camp explained that the OCM is going to file a petition to dissolve their 501c3 corporation under which they have operated. Assuming that the Court of Common Pleas approves the plan to dissolve, they are intending to dedicate 3 parcels on Caln Meetinghouse Road.
Dawn Coughlan 1419 Edges Mill Road and current President of the Old Town Historical Society, thanked everyone involved with the Dedication Agreement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Board President to sign the Dedication Agreement between Caln Township and the Old Caln Meetinghouse. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2. Engineering
2.1 Caln Meetinghouse Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a Culvert Option PSA – Discussed at the August 14 BOCs workshop meeting, Mr. Bickhart presented a Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a Culvert Option PSA for the Caln Meetinghouse Road Bridge in the amount of $10,600.00.
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Bickhart if his design includes a sidewalk on part of the box culvert or bridge. Mr. Bickhart replied if the Township is interested, they can account for one as they prepare the concept plan.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Township Manager to sign a PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Caln Meetinghouse Road Preliminary Hydraulic Study for a culvert option in the not-to-exceed amount of $10,600.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2.2 Ingleside Golf Course Spillway Survey PSA – Mr. Bickhart offered a PSA in the amount of $1,200.00 for the Golf Course.
Commissioner Evans stated that the first hole on the golf course and G.O. Carlson Boulevard also flood.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Township Manager to sign a PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Ingleside Golf Course Spillway Survey in the “not-to-exceed” amount of $1,200.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
3. Director Reports
3.1 Fire Company – Chief Taylor highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Chief Taylor stated that they were notified by the State Fire Commissioners Office of PA that between Thorndale Fire Company and Caln Township Firefighters they were recognized as a participating department under 75%.
3.2 Minquas EMS – Mr. Dry highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Dry stated that Ambulance 46-3 will be driven to Pittsburgh for the National EMS Bike Event. Commissioner Mullin stated that he saw their sign. Mr. Dry replied that the sign was put up on the recommendation of the Township Manager.
3.3 Ingleside Golf Course – Mr. Vymazal stated that Ms. Shannon was not able to attend tonights meeting; however, her July 2025 monthly department report is in the Julys Directors packet.
3.4 Public Works – Mr. Huggins highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Huggins stated that his department has been working throughout the Township.
3.5 Building & Life Safety – Mr. Stackhouse highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Mr. Stackhouse stated that there is a special exception zoning hearing board meeting on September 4, 2025, for the Cohen Development for encroachment in the wetlands and a zoning variance for 4109 Reeceville Road for more than one principle use on a parcel.
3.6 Police Department – Chief Elias highlighted items from his departments July 2025 monthly report, which was previously provided to the BOCs. Chief Elias reviewed employee years of service milestones and reviewed service calls.
3.7 Community Enhancement – Ms. A. Swan highlighted items from her departments July 2025 monthly report. Ms. A. Swan stated that there was a ribbon cutting event at Meadow Park. She also stated that the Township sold three benches for the parks.
4. Finance Department
4.1 Financial Report – Mr. Vymazal stated that Ms. L. Swan was not able to attend tonight’s meeting; however, her financials and the check run is in the board packet.
4.2 Checks
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 54536 to 54608 and manual check 318. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
5. Township Manager
5.1 Ratification of Recommendation to Purchase a 2026 Glick Pierce Enforcer Engine – Mr. Vymazal and Mr. Stackhouse explained that more information and negotiating is needed before this can be brought back to the Board for consideration.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to table this agenda item until further information is received by Staff. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.2 Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm Fund Drive Request – Mr. Vymazal explained that the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm are requesting to initiate a fund drive for improvements at the Spackman-Davis Farm property, specific to the wall along the front of the barn, the retaining wall towards the east entrance to the farmhouse, and the steps on the side of the farm house property. Commissioner Evans stated that the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm will have pictures of these items at their Community Day table.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm to hold a fund drive specifically dedicated to the Spackman-Davis Farm improvements as stated by Mr. Vymazal. Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
5.3 Ingleside Golf Course Fairway Mower Purchase – For Board consideration, Mr. Vymazal presented a Fairway Mower purchase in the amount of $74,068.61 for Ingleside Golf Course. Mr. Vymazal stated that the mower will arrive in the Spring of 2026.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the purchase of a Toro Reelmaster 3555 mower from Turf Equipment and Supply Company in the amount of $74,068.61, for Ingleside Golf Course. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.4 CCIU – Chief Elias explained that the last 2 school years collectively, the police department responded to 900 service calls. This has impacted on their resources as well as the Fire Department and the EMS Departments. The intermediate unit signed a contract with the Chester County Sheriff’s Office to provide a School Resource Officer(s).
4. Board Minutes
4.1 July 31, 2025
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve July 31, 2025, Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
4.2 August 14, 2025 – Commissioner Evans stated that 5.2 should read Historical Commission instead of BOCs.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve August 14, 2025, Commissioners’ minutes with the change stated by Commissioners Evans. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5. Public Comment
Resident George March asked if arrangements were made for deliveries when Caln Meeting House Road is closed. Mr. Huggins replied that school buses, trash trucks, emergency vehicles, residents etc. will have road access. Mr. Vymazal explained that the Township tries to accommodate residents’ ability to access properties and conduct their daily business.
Resident David James representing himself, the community, and the Youth Initiative stated that the Youth Initiative used the golf course to play football, which is kicking a ball into a hula hoop. Mr. James stated that Ms. Shannon, Mr. Grant, and the Staff worked very well with them.
6. Additional Business
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Vymazal the status of the PECO electric outages. Mr. Vymazal explained that he heard from PECOs Government Affairs, and they are looking into the reliability of the network and have identified a potential concern that may have caused power outages over the past years. Mr. Vymazal stated that State Representative and State Senator Katie Muth are also involved in discussion.
Commissioner Kennedy asked what PECO is doing under 11th Avenue Bridge. Mr. Stackhouse replied that Pennsylvania American Water is doing a Main Project. Mr. Stackhouse also replied that the PECO project is underneath the underpass for the watermain and stormwater replacement.
7. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the August 28, 2025, Commissioners’ minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
Denise Miller
Assistant Twp. Secretary
