Caln Township Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners September 25, 2025
7:30 PM Business Meeting Minutes
Caln Township Board Members: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President, Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner, and Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Don Vymazal-Township Manager/Township Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary/Admin. Assistant, Abbey Swan-Director of Community Enhancement, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building and Life Safety, Lisa Swan-Director of Finance/Township Treasurer, Nicole Shannon-Ingleside Golf Course Superintendent, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: Derek Dry-Minquas, Patrick Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company, and Ross Bickhart-Gilmore & Associates (Gilmore).
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (Board) September 25, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township Building on September 24, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting. 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 Young called the September 25, 2025, meeting to order at 7:36 PM. Commissioner Young then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Citizens to be Heard – None.
1. Engineer
1.1 Kings Highway Park Task Force – For Board consideration, Mr. Bickhart offered a concept plan and preliminary cost estimate PSA for the Kings Highway Park Project #2501016.
Resident Tony DiSario asked the park acreage. Mr. Vymazal replied that it is approximately 130 areas.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve a PSA from Gilmore for a concept plan and preliminary cost estimate for Kings Highway Park Project #2501016, for a “Not-to-Exceed” amount of $25,000. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2. Director Reports
2.1 Fire Company – Chief Taylor highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Chief Taylor reported that there will be an open house at the fire house on October 15th. He also reported a fire in the Barley Sheaf Farm development on September 24th. There was a pet rescued and no civilian injuries.
2.2 Minquas EMS – Mr. Dry highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Mr. Dry reported that they are in the process of hiring 3 full-time employees in order to get closer to full capacity. Also, A3 is fully loaded and will be inspected on September 29th.
2.3 Ingleside Golf Course – Ms. Shannon highlighted items from her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Ms. Shannon reported $148,000 in revenue and 4,000 golfers for August. Collegium Charter School and Church Farm School are conducting golf practices and matches. Also, there is an offer to receive a free golf membership for the rest of 2025 if you purchase a membership for 2026.
2.4 Public Works – Mr. Vymazal explained that Mr. Huggins was not able to attend tonight's meeting; however, his report was in the Director's Packet, which was provided to the Board.
2.5 Building & Life Safety – Mr. Stackhouse highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Mr. Stackhouse reported that Cohen received special exceptions for their project, the former Brandywine Hospital received a zoning variance to allow more than one use on their property, and the proposed Sheetz project submitted their sketch plan and attended the Planning Commission meeting for discussion. Also, Hurricane Ida reimbursements are being received.
2.6 Police Department – Chief Elias highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Chief Elias reported 7,778 service calls through the end of August and 100 more than the same time last year. Also, 2 Caln police officers represented the department at the funerals of the 3 police officers who were ambushed in York County.
2.7 Community Enhancement – Ms. A. Swan highlighted items from her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Ms. A. Swan reported that she mapped the responses received regarding the latest power surge around Kings Highway, so you could see the area affected more clearly. Also, the first Jahaco memorial bench was installed in the park. Commissioner Young asked if the benches have plaques on them. Ms. A. Swan replied that they do.
3. Finance Department
3.1 Financial Report – Ms. L. Swan presented her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
3.2 Check List
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 54688-54774 and manual check 319. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
4. Township Manager
4.1 TMACC DVRPC Multimodal Transportation Study – Mr. Vymazal explained that this study with DVRPC, TMACC and Toole Design is concerning pedestrian safety and improvements along Lincoln Highway between the City of Coatesville and Downingtown Borough. There were preliminary discussions with the design team about scheduling stakeholders and public participation meetings. Mr. Vymazal informed the Board and public that this is a big project that will be completed in June 2026.
4.2 PW Salt Shed – Mr. Vymazal recommended that this motion be tabled until all the quotes have been received.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to table this agenda item until more quotes are submitted. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
4.3 Building Lighting Improvements – Mr. Vymazal explained that Chief Elias recommends installing additional lighting in the parking area between the administrative building and the police station. Chief Elias stated that there have been identification issues in the past because of lack of lighting. Commissioner Mullin asked if the existing light pole would be used. Chief Elias replied that it will be the same pole. Commissioner Kennedy stated that it is also dark in front of the administrative building. Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Vymazal to check on Commissioner Kennedy’s concern.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to remove existing 50-watt 2000K roadway light and install one 6300 lumen 4000K roadway light photocell controlled for dusk to dawn operation, and to install one 80-watt LED floodlight on existing steel pole with Z mounting bracket, 2” slipfitter, photocell controlled, in the amount of $4,970.00. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
4.4 B&LS Conditional Offer of Employment – Mr. Stackhouse explained that the Board approved the Firefighter Eligibility List at their April 24, 2025, meeting and the Civil Service Board adopted it on April 9, 2025. To meet the needs of the department, Mr. Stackhouse requested authorization to hire Firefighter David Jones as an additional part-time firefighter from the established eligibility list. Firefighter Jones would start contingent on a physical, drug test and signing the job description.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Director of Building and Lift Safety to extend a conditional offer of employment to firefighter applicant David Jones. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
4.5 CCIU – Mr. Vymazal explained that the CCIU will continue to be on the business meeting agenda to allow for updates regarding conditions at the facility. Chief Elias explained that in the first 4 weeks of the school year, the police had 33 service calls with 16 of them elopements off school ground. Chief Elias asked the Sheriff’s office to provide him with a report of the situations they managed, so he can keep an accurate count. Mr. Stackhouse explained that 3 times last week a child pulled the fire alarm pull station, which is a malicious activation. Mr. Stackhouse explained that he and Chief Elias met with the CCIU stating that they would not tolerate this action. They also addressed ways they were managing the evacuation of the kids, and they were cooperative. Mr. Stackhouse explained that the Township allows him to site businesses or organizations for false activations after the 4th time and continuously within a 12-month period. Mr. Stackhouse stated that he discussed with the Township Solicitor the best way to legally address these citations and who to bill.
Commissioner Young asked about the citation fee. Mr. Stackhouse replied that it starts at $50 and increases to $1,000. Mr. Stackhouse explained that depending on the ordinance violation severity, they typically increase $100 each time. Chief Elias stated that criminally, this would be a misdemeanor of the First degree, which is a low-grade felony. Chief Elias explained that in addition to what Mr. Stackhouse’s office is doing, they are trying to determine from the Sherrif’s office whether this student was charged and if not, possibly being charged by his department. The report stated that this is the same student, who is from Reading.
Commissioner Mullin asked what time of day were these fire alarm pulls made. Mr. Stackhouse replied that they were made at different times. Two were made at dismissal time, which compounds the issue because all 5 CCIU buildings are dismissed at the same time. Commissioner Evans asked if the fines could be increased. Mr. Stackhouse replied that upon the Solicitor’s advice they could charge $1,000 each time. The Board agreed. Commissioner Mullin asked if that means you have to charge the same to everyone. Mr. Stackhouse replied that fines are based on severity.
5. Resolutions
5.1 Resolution 2025-19 Non-Uniform MMO – Ms. L. Swan explained that this is a calculation for the Board to review and acknowledge receipt of. Ms. L. Swan stated that this MMO is an obligation in the 2026 budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-19 acknowledging the receipt of the 2026 Minimum Municipal Obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the Non-Uniform Pension Plan in the 2026 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.2 Resolution 2025-20 Police MMO – Ms. L. Swan explained that this is a calculation for the Board to review and acknowledge receipt of. Ms. L. Swan stated that this MMO is an obligation in the 2026 budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-20 acknowledging the receipt of the 2026 Minimum Municipal Obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the Police Pension Plan in the 2026 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
6.1 Minutes to Approve
6.2 September 11, 2025
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the September 11, 2025, Board minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
7. Acknowledge Receipt of Planning Commission Minutes
7.1 2025 March 18, June 17, and August 19
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to acknowledge receipt of the 2025 March 18th, June 17th, and August 19th Planning Commission minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
8. Additional Business – Commissioner Kennedy asked Chief Elias if Vape Shops in Chester County are being raided looking for illegal contraband. Chief Elias replied that the State Police served 18 search warrants in the county, with 1 in Caln Township, which is still under investigation. The state police removed 3–50-foot trailers filled with contraband from several vape shops.
9. Public Comment – Resident Tony DiSario is concerned about E-bikes and asked the Board to pass an ordinance requiring lights and helmets. Chief Elias replied that they already require lights. Chief Elias explained that motor scooters are defined by the code as motor driven cycles. To comply with equipment standards and inspection requirements, they have to have certain equipment such as lights, turn signals, and mirrors. If they do, they need to be titled and registered and can be driven on a highway. Vehicles that do not meet the inspection requirements can only be driven on private property and cannot be driven on sidewalks. Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is anything in the Township code to defer to. Mr. Vymazal replied that the Township would refer to the code as far as what requirements are in place. They can also look into the Borough of Downingtown’s ordinance.
10. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the September 25, 2025, Board minutes at 8:40 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Miller,
Assist. Township Secretary
Board of Commissioners September 25, 2025
7:30 PM Business Meeting Minutes
Caln Township Board Members: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President, Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner, and Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Don Vymazal-Township Manager/Township Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary/Admin. Assistant, Abbey Swan-Director of Community Enhancement, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building and Life Safety, Lisa Swan-Director of Finance/Township Treasurer, Nicole Shannon-Ingleside Golf Course Superintendent, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: Derek Dry-Minquas, Patrick Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company, and Ross Bickhart-Gilmore & Associates (Gilmore).
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (Board) September 25, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township Building on September 24, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting. 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 Young called the September 25, 2025, meeting to order at 7:36 PM. Commissioner Young then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Citizens to be Heard – None.
1. Engineer
1.1 Kings Highway Park Task Force – For Board consideration, Mr. Bickhart offered a concept plan and preliminary cost estimate PSA for the Kings Highway Park Project #2501016.
Resident Tony DiSario asked the park acreage. Mr. Vymazal replied that it is approximately 130 areas.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve a PSA from Gilmore for a concept plan and preliminary cost estimate for Kings Highway Park Project #2501016, for a “Not-to-Exceed” amount of $25,000. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
2. Director Reports
2.1 Fire Company – Chief Taylor highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Chief Taylor reported that there will be an open house at the fire house on October 15th. He also reported a fire in the Barley Sheaf Farm development on September 24th. There was a pet rescued and no civilian injuries.
2.2 Minquas EMS – Mr. Dry highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Mr. Dry reported that they are in the process of hiring 3 full-time employees in order to get closer to full capacity. Also, A3 is fully loaded and will be inspected on September 29th.
2.3 Ingleside Golf Course – Ms. Shannon highlighted items from her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Ms. Shannon reported $148,000 in revenue and 4,000 golfers for August. Collegium Charter School and Church Farm School are conducting golf practices and matches. Also, there is an offer to receive a free golf membership for the rest of 2025 if you purchase a membership for 2026.
2.4 Public Works – Mr. Vymazal explained that Mr. Huggins was not able to attend tonight's meeting; however, his report was in the Director's Packet, which was provided to the Board.
2.5 Building & Life Safety – Mr. Stackhouse highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Mr. Stackhouse reported that Cohen received special exceptions for their project, the former Brandywine Hospital received a zoning variance to allow more than one use on their property, and the proposed Sheetz project submitted their sketch plan and attended the Planning Commission meeting for discussion. Also, Hurricane Ida reimbursements are being received.
2.6 Police Department – Chief Elias highlighted items from his department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Chief Elias reported 7,778 service calls through the end of August and 100 more than the same time last year. Also, 2 Caln police officers represented the department at the funerals of the 3 police officers who were ambushed in York County.
2.7 Community Enhancement – Ms. A. Swan highlighted items from her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board. Ms. A. Swan reported that she mapped the responses received regarding the latest power surge around Kings Highway, so you could see the area affected more clearly. Also, the first Jahaco memorial bench was installed in the park. Commissioner Young asked if the benches have plaques on them. Ms. A. Swan replied that they do.
3. Finance Department
3.1 Financial Report – Ms. L. Swan presented her department’s August 2025 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
3.2 Check List
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 54688-54774 and manual check 319. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
4. Township Manager
4.1 TMACC DVRPC Multimodal Transportation Study – Mr. Vymazal explained that this study with DVRPC, TMACC and Toole Design is concerning pedestrian safety and improvements along Lincoln Highway between the City of Coatesville and Downingtown Borough. There were preliminary discussions with the design team about scheduling stakeholders and public participation meetings. Mr. Vymazal informed the Board and public that this is a big project that will be completed in June 2026.
4.2 PW Salt Shed – Mr. Vymazal recommended that this motion be tabled until all the quotes have been received.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to table this agenda item until more quotes are submitted. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
4.3 Building Lighting Improvements – Mr. Vymazal explained that Chief Elias recommends installing additional lighting in the parking area between the administrative building and the police station. Chief Elias stated that there have been identification issues in the past because of lack of lighting. Commissioner Mullin asked if the existing light pole would be used. Chief Elias replied that it will be the same pole. Commissioner Kennedy stated that it is also dark in front of the administrative building. Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Vymazal to check on Commissioner Kennedy’s concern.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to remove existing 50-watt 2000K roadway light and install one 6300 lumen 4000K roadway light photocell controlled for dusk to dawn operation, and to install one 80-watt LED floodlight on existing steel pole with Z mounting bracket, 2” slipfitter, photocell controlled, in the amount of $4,970.00. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
4.4 B&LS Conditional Offer of Employment – Mr. Stackhouse explained that the Board approved the Firefighter Eligibility List at their April 24, 2025, meeting and the Civil Service Board adopted it on April 9, 2025. To meet the needs of the department, Mr. Stackhouse requested authorization to hire Firefighter David Jones as an additional part-time firefighter from the established eligibility list. Firefighter Jones would start contingent on a physical, drug test and signing the job description.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Director of Building and Lift Safety to extend a conditional offer of employment to firefighter applicant David Jones. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
4.5 CCIU – Mr. Vymazal explained that the CCIU will continue to be on the business meeting agenda to allow for updates regarding conditions at the facility. Chief Elias explained that in the first 4 weeks of the school year, the police had 33 service calls with 16 of them elopements off school ground. Chief Elias asked the Sheriff’s office to provide him with a report of the situations they managed, so he can keep an accurate count. Mr. Stackhouse explained that 3 times last week a child pulled the fire alarm pull station, which is a malicious activation. Mr. Stackhouse explained that he and Chief Elias met with the CCIU stating that they would not tolerate this action. They also addressed ways they were managing the evacuation of the kids, and they were cooperative. Mr. Stackhouse explained that the Township allows him to site businesses or organizations for false activations after the 4th time and continuously within a 12-month period. Mr. Stackhouse stated that he discussed with the Township Solicitor the best way to legally address these citations and who to bill.
Commissioner Young asked about the citation fee. Mr. Stackhouse replied that it starts at $50 and increases to $1,000. Mr. Stackhouse explained that depending on the ordinance violation severity, they typically increase $100 each time. Chief Elias stated that criminally, this would be a misdemeanor of the First degree, which is a low-grade felony. Chief Elias explained that in addition to what Mr. Stackhouse’s office is doing, they are trying to determine from the Sherrif’s office whether this student was charged and if not, possibly being charged by his department. The report stated that this is the same student, who is from Reading.
Commissioner Mullin asked what time of day were these fire alarm pulls made. Mr. Stackhouse replied that they were made at different times. Two were made at dismissal time, which compounds the issue because all 5 CCIU buildings are dismissed at the same time. Commissioner Evans asked if the fines could be increased. Mr. Stackhouse replied that upon the Solicitor’s advice they could charge $1,000 each time. The Board agreed. Commissioner Mullin asked if that means you have to charge the same to everyone. Mr. Stackhouse replied that fines are based on severity.
5. Resolutions
5.1 Resolution 2025-19 Non-Uniform MMO – Ms. L. Swan explained that this is a calculation for the Board to review and acknowledge receipt of. Ms. L. Swan stated that this MMO is an obligation in the 2026 budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-19 acknowledging the receipt of the 2026 Minimum Municipal Obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the Non-Uniform Pension Plan in the 2026 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 5-0.
5.2 Resolution 2025-20 Police MMO – Ms. L. Swan explained that this is a calculation for the Board to review and acknowledge receipt of. Ms. L. Swan stated that this MMO is an obligation in the 2026 budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-20 acknowledging the receipt of the 2026 Minimum Municipal Obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the Police Pension Plan in the 2026 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
6.1 Minutes to Approve
6.2 September 11, 2025
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the September 11, 2025, Board minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
7. Acknowledge Receipt of Planning Commission Minutes
7.1 2025 March 18, June 17, and August 19
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to acknowledge receipt of the 2025 March 18th, June 17th, and August 19th Planning Commission minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
8. Additional Business – Commissioner Kennedy asked Chief Elias if Vape Shops in Chester County are being raided looking for illegal contraband. Chief Elias replied that the State Police served 18 search warrants in the county, with 1 in Caln Township, which is still under investigation. The state police removed 3–50-foot trailers filled with contraband from several vape shops.
9. Public Comment – Resident Tony DiSario is concerned about E-bikes and asked the Board to pass an ordinance requiring lights and helmets. Chief Elias replied that they already require lights. Chief Elias explained that motor scooters are defined by the code as motor driven cycles. To comply with equipment standards and inspection requirements, they have to have certain equipment such as lights, turn signals, and mirrors. If they do, they need to be titled and registered and can be driven on a highway. Vehicles that do not meet the inspection requirements can only be driven on private property and cannot be driven on sidewalks. Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is anything in the Township code to defer to. Mr. Vymazal replied that the Township would refer to the code as far as what requirements are in place. They can also look into the Borough of Downingtown’s ordinance.
10. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the September 25, 2025, Board minutes at 8:40 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Miller,
Assist. Township Secretary
