Caln Township Board of Commissioners
253 Municipal Drive Thorndale, PA 19372
Chester County, Pennsylvania
December 9, 2021 Minutes
Virtual Meeting
Call to Order: Commissioner Mullin called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:36 PM. He then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Kristen Denne-Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary, Lisa Swan-Township Treasurer, Mike Fragale, Public Works Director, Ray Stackhouse-Building and Life Safety Director, Abbey Swan, Community Outreach Specialist, Chief Elias-Police Chief.
Professionals Present: Bryan Kulakowsky-Township Engineer, Kristin Camp-Township Solicitor.
Special Guest: Michael Fuller representing Keystone Lighting Solutions, and Tim Townes representing Southdown Homes/Thorndale Woods.
The Board of Commissioners December 9, 2021 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building, on December 8, 2021.
The 2021 Township yearly meetings were published in the Daily Local News on December 28, 2020, as posted at the Township Municipal Building.
Commissioner Evans’ Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. Our meetings are “Neutral Ground”, a place to hear and be heard. We are all in this together.
Commissioner Evans noted that COVID-19 (COVID) cases are on the rise again, nationwide and in Pennsylvania. Our state just tallied the highest daily number of COVID hospitalizations since last January. If you have been fully vaccinated, please get the booster.
Commissioner Evans noted that the deal that Tower Health was working on to sell Brandywine Hospital/Tower Health fell through, and will close on January 31, 2022. Commissioner Evans also noted that this is a huge loss in many ways. Residents who relied on Brandywine Hospital/Tower Health will have to go elsewhere, ambulances will have to travel farther to reach an emergency room, the loss of the only inpatient psychiatric division in Chester County, and hundreds of employees will lose their jobs. We will be reaching out to Representative Williams, and our County Commissioners to explore options.
Commissioner Evans noted that the aftermath of Hurricane Ida (Ida) is still being felt, and it will be for years to come. Bridges and roads were lost, and some of our neighbors lost everything.
Commissioner Evans noted that he went door-to-door after the storm with Commissioner Mullin delivering care packages. They were taught a lesson in integrity and humility: almost everyone they met were more worried about their neighbors than themselves. Caln Township (Caln) is resilient and will repair the damage to our infrastructure, and do it right, so that maybe we will not have a repeat of storms from last summer.
Commissioner Evans noted that Caln Township’s damages are over $8 million, and they will be lucky if they receive 25% of that back from FEMA. This would leave the Township to pay a small fortune. He also noted that Township taxes will need to be increased in order to make for a better tomorrow.
Citizens to be Heard
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road commented on the last meeting being in person. He asked the Board to take their time and consider raising taxes and if they have to raise them at lower percentage. He noted his concern with the tax increase impacting residents on a fixed income.
Commissioner Evans noted that he believes that a year before he moved into the Township that there was a large tax increase. Commissioner Evans asked Commissioner Young if the percentage was higher or lower than this increase. Commissioner Young noted that the Township did two consecutive tax increases. One for .6 mill, one for .5 mill for the Fire Tax and .1 mill for the General Fund. The following year the Township did .5 mill for the General Fund, and .1 mill for the Fire Tax.
Ms. Denne noted that she is attending weekly to bi-weekly Wednesday meetings with FEMA and they said that you have eighteen months from when the Township starts the process or you will lose the FEMA funding. FEMA also said to not stop your process for them, and do whatever you’re going to do. FEMA relayed that they are a reimbursement only agency, they have their own schedule, and they do not do reimbursements according to bid prices. Ms. Denne also noted that the Township is applying for every penny that they can get, however, there are no guarantees with FEMA/PEMA funding.
Commissioner Young noted that the Budget Committee considered residents on a fixed income when making this decision, and did everything that they could to make the increase as small as possible.
Ms. Denne noted that the eighteen months will come up very quickly and you would end up with no reimbursement if the Township took their time to reconsider the tax increases.
Chuck Kramer of 2704 Kings Highway noted that he has concern with the tax increase impacting residents on a fixed income. Mr. Kramer also noted that the tax increase really does not impact his life style, however, he questioned if the bridge is worth raising taxes this much.
Commissioner Young noted that contractual raises will cost the Township $60,000-$70,000 a year. They will have two compounding years because taxes were not raised last year, which will make it $120,000 to $140,000 in compounding income increases for staff, $220,000 is to begin a Stormwater Program, and $75,000 is to open a Kings Highway Park.
Mr. Kramer asked where the Kings Highway Park would be located. Commissioner Young noted that it would be at the Griffith Farm/Spackman Farm.
Commissioner Young noted that the Osborne Road Bridge repair was a Federal Bridge Program where they paid 80%, PennDot paid 15%, and the Township shared the 5% match with East Brandywine Township. The Municipal Road Bridge, Moore Road Bridge, and the removal of the East Fisherville Road Bridge is all on the Township.
Commissioner Young noted that the Township probably needed to raise taxes a little last year, however, they did not because of the COVID pandemic, and they tightened funds as much as they could. Commissioner Young also noted that without Hurricane Ida (Ida), the Township would be talking about a very small tax increase, if any.
Mr. Kramer asked Commissioner Young how much of the tax increase is based on the Ida related issues, union salaries, bridges, and other issues.
Commissioner Young noted that the Township is going to take the $1.4 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) and put $1 million towards Ida related damages so that brings the cost down to $7 million. The Township is taking the current debt that they have, not including the golf course because their debt is in the golf course fund. The Township will move their current debt into a Debt Fund tax, which will be .44 mill, and that will allow the Township to then take new bonds approximately $330,000 to pay the Ida related damages with adding the $200,000 for stormwater related items, $60,000 to $70,000 contractual raises, $75,000 for the Griffith Farm reopening, and $50,000 is budgeted for the police contractual negotiations. Commissioner Young also noted that there is also an increase in fuel costs, and health care.
Commissioner Young noted that there are more items for equipment in the budget. There is a backhoe in the budget because the big one is too big for cleaning the streams so they want to purchase a small backhoe so they can clean out the streams more often. They want to put brine equipment in so they can brine the roads and make them safe for people in the winter.
Commissioner Young offered to meet with Mr. Kramer to review the budget.
Presentations
Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Street Light Retrofit Program – Mr. Michael Fuller representing Keystone Lighting Solutions (Keystone) shared his presentation on screen for the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Street Light Retrofit Program, which will update the Township’s old technology to the new technology, and will generate net savings for the Township. Mr. Fuller also reviewed the Feasibility Study that Keystone developed for the Township.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comments.
Commissioner Young noted that one of the biggest complaints that the residents who pay the street light bills make is that they are not bright enough, they do not illuminate, and they feel that they are being charged for an inadequate service. Commissioner Young also noted that this is the best plan that was found.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Township is not losing any money since this will be paid over three years and makes this a “wash”.
Commissioner Mullin called for public comment.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that there are some street poles that are not perpendicular, and questioned the longevity of the lights.
Mr. Fuller noted that when they do their audits, they identify the pole conditions and work with Municipalities to see if there are a small number of poles that could be replaced, and included in the project. He also noted that he put in over a 10% contingency into the project. Mr. Fuller also noted that a manufacturer would not offer a ten year warranty unless they thought it would last over twenty years.
Community Citation for the Stream Restoration Project to Abbey Swan – Ms. Denne presented a Community Appreciation Citation to Community Outreach Specialist, Abbey Swan. On her own time, Ms. Swan became certified as a Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward by training for fifty hours and forty hours of volunteer work in which she created a program for the Lloyd Park to plant 300 donated trees to stop the stream from eroding. Ms. Denne noted that these trees are especially for restoring the Beaver Creek Stream and keeping the park intact.
The Board thanked Ms. Swan for all her work on this project.
Ms. Denne noted that Ms. Swan and her husband also spent time revamping the Memorial Garden, and she has plans to create a Meadow Garden, behind the Township building.
Ms. Denne asked Mr. Fragale how much three-hundred trees would cost. Mr. Fragale noted that seven trees could be up to $7,000, however it depends on the type and size of the tree.
2022 Budget Hearing for the Proposed Municipal Budget, and Ordinances – Ms. Denne presented highlights from the proposed Municipal Budget.
· General Fund budget increase of .63 mill totaling 4.088 mills
· Proposal of a Debt Fund of .44 mill for the General Fund, service only. This fund will be used exclusively to pay existing debt in the Township.
· $1.50 per month flat rate sewer increase for residential, and commercial
· $5.00 per month refuse increase – There will be a $400,000 increase per year, in the trash hauler’s costs due to fuel costs, and labor shortages.
· There will be no increase in the commercial monthly consumption for sewer.
Ms. Denne noted that the current debt service, pension costs, employee count, health care costs, storm sewer damage, and the future of stormwater maintenance and improvements is leading the budgetary expenditures.
Ms. Denne shared a General Fund summary and pie chart on how the funds are distributed. She also noted that the police service is a twenty four hours a day for seven days a week entity therefore they are the biggest part of the pie chart at 41%. The Public Works Department is 18%, Building and Life Safety 12%, Retirement 8%, Contributions 1%, Parks and Recreation 2%, and Debt Service at 5%.
Ms. Denne noted that the Debt Fund will allow for $317,000 to be put back in the budget to fund the stormwater improvements and future stormwater maintenance program. It will also be used to pay for financing to cover $8.1 million on estimated damage from Ida.
Ms. Denne noted that $1 million will be used from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA). $40,000 for new stormwater maintenance on a yearly basis, $50,000 for design and mapping for infrastructure that needs to be replaced, and $50,000 for inspection and enforcement for operation and maintenance agreements that are currently outstanding.
Ms. Denne noted that the Township has received half of the $1.4 million that they will receive over the next two years from ARPA. $1 million will be dedicated to Ida damage, $60,000 was used for the installation of the “Zoom Room”, $3,000 was used for technology upgrades to allow for server upgrades, and employees to work remotely, $323,000 will be used for the Reed Street stormwater improvements, and $108,000 will be used to update the Township ventilation system for better circulation of air and to take out any possible viruses that may be in the system.
Ms. Denne noted that 100% of taxes paid per year of a house in Caln Township assessed at roughly $150,000 is roughly $7,405 with approximately $6,000 of that towards school tax, and $682 towards the county, which is roughly 9%.
Ms. Denne noted that the new Debt Fund and the fire tax make up an additional 2%. 8% goes to the General Fund, which is $613. With the new tax rate, a house assessed at $150,000 residents currently pay for a fire tax and General Fund pay $608.00, and with the new Debt Fund and the increase in the General Fund, residents will now pay $769.
Ms. Denne reviewed the surrounding Chester County neighboring communities.
Caln Township – 4.088% Downingtown – 7.65% Coatesville – 13.759%
West Chester – 7.4% Parkesburg – 10.25% South Coatesville – 7.6%
West Whiteland – .71% Oxford – 12% Phoenixville – 7.2%
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Marc Fox of 256 Thornridge Drive asked what employees pay for their health care. Ms. Denne noted that the Union pays 6% of the premium and the police department pays $1,500 per year.
Mr. Fox reviewed his research on the surrounding township’s tax rates, and found they all have lower rates than Caln. Commissioner Young noted that other than Valley Township and West Caln, those Township’s do not have a police department. If Caln dissolved their police department then there would be no property tax. Mr. Fox asked if that was an option for Caln. Commissioner Young noted that if they dissolved that police department then residents would have to rely on the state police, and could have limited response time.
Mr. Fox asked the Board how the Township paid $714,000 for the golf course. Commissioner noted that in the last two years the golf course has made more than it has expended, and that fund is now approximately under negative $200,000.
Licia Carini of 103 Ayerwood Drive noted that she supports the Board in this time where the taxes have to be raised. She also noted that most of the Township taxes go to the school district, and she wondered if there was anything that the Township could do.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road commented on the school district tax increases. He also noted that the Township tax is a nuisance tax to him but not to the senior citizens, Covid victims, and lower income residents.
Commissioner Evans noted that the school district is not controlled by the Township. Commissioner Evans also noted that Pennsylvania is the 49th in the nation for the lowest percentage amount of funding to support public schools. There is a law suit currently in Harrisburg to try and get this changed. Commissioner Evans further noted that he will put more information about his on his website.
Chuck Kramer of 2704 Kings Highway asked the Board to look at the budget and make sure that things are being “tightened” as much as possible.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
Extension Period for the Board’s Final Decision on the Thorndale Woods Subdivision and Land Development Plan Application through March 31, 2022 – For Board consideration, Ms. Camp recommended an extension period for the Board’s final decision for the Thorndale Woods Subdivision and Land Development Plan application, through March 31, 2022.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to extend the Board’s final decision on the Thorndale Woods’s Subdivision and Land Development Plan application, through March 31, 2022. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Township Engineer – Mr. Kulakowsky
Planning Commission Update – Mr. Kulakowsky noted that the December 14, 2021 Planning Commission meet has been cancelled.
Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project Change Order #1 – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered a Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project change order #1 in the amount of $8,332 bringing the contract value to $137,757. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that the grant award for the project was $225,205
and this change order is to change the poles from the standard galvanized metal poles to black painted
poles.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve change order #1 in the amount of $8,332 for the Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 5-0
ARRO Payment Recommendation #1 for the 2021 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered ARRO’s payment recommendation #1, in the amount $285,250.10. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that this is for the portion of the project that was Liquid Fuels reimbursement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving ARRO’s payment recommendation #1 in the amount of $285,250.10. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comment.
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Kulakowsky what the $22,750 change order was for. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that it was for the rotted pipe on Miller and Seltzer Avenue.
Vote passed 5-0.
ARRO Payment Recommendation #2 for the 2021 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered payment recommendation #2 in the amount of $32,966. This will close out the 2021 Road Program. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that this is for the $22,750 work and the additional work that was done.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving ARRO’s payment recommendation #2 in the amount of $22,750 for the 2021 road program. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Vote passed 5-0.
Mr. Kulakowsky shared pictures of the Spackman Farm new roof.
Township Manager – Ms. Denne
Motion to Advertise 2022 Public Meeting Schedule – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered the 2022 public meeting schedule for advertisement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to advertise the 2022 public meeting schedule, as presented. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin asked for Board comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Upcoming Vacancies for Boards and Commissions 2022 – Ms. Denne noted that there are open positions on the Historical Commission, Parks and Recreation Board, and the Zoning Hearing Board. Ms. Denne also noted to contact the Township or fill out an application, if you are interested.
Motion to Ratify the Transfer of Police Ford Explorer from Municibid Auction – Ms. Denne offered a motion to ratify the transfer of a Police Ford SUV Explorer Interceptor with 81,000 thousand miles on it, and was starting to get high maintenance costs on it. She noted that this vehicle was sold for $15,000 on Municibid to North Middleton Township.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to ratify the transfer of the police ford explorer from the Municibid Auction. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Motion to Accept Police Department Civil Service Promotions – Ms. Denne noted that the police department has not filled their vacant positions in 2021 in an effort to save money. They now need to fill those positions and reinstate some of the special services divisions. Ms. Denne also noted that Chief Elias would also like to offer police department promotions.
Chief Elias noted that Officer Samantha DeFrancesco has started with the police department and Travis Fisher will start at the beginning of January 2022.
Chief Elias noted that he would like to reinstate the Community and Special Services Division where officers focus on public safety issues throughout the Township. Chief Elias also noted that he would like to promote Corporal Whisler to Sergeant and have him oversee this program. He would also like to replace him with Officer Schiller as Corporal, effective the first pay check in January.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to promote Corporal Whisler to Sergeant and Officer Schiller to Corporal as per the existing Civil Service promotional exam. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Motion to Ratify the Award for Emergency Engineering Rates from Fidelis Engineering for Sink Hole on Melissa Drive – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a motion to ratify the award for emergency engineering rates from Fidelis Engineering (Fidelis) for a sink hole on Melissa Drive. Ms. Denne noted that the Township received three quotes and Fidelis was the closest, lowest, and they were also immediately available.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to ratify the award for emergency engineering rates from Fidelis Engineering for the sink hole on Melissa Drive. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Griffith Farm Extension – 3401 Kings Highway – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a one year contract renewal for the Griffith Farm to Leonard Smoker, for wheat planting. Ms. Denne noted that the contract renewal will remain the same at $402 per acre. Ms. Denne also noted that $15,678 shall be due at commencement of the lease, and the second payment of $15,678 is due on or before July 1, 2022.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the Griffith Farm extension until December 31, 2022. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Ordinance 2021-07 An Ordinance amending Chapter 149 of the Caln Township Code, Titled, “Vehicles and Traffic” to amend Section 149-11 Titled “Turns at Intersections” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Turns at Intersections are Prohibited and Section 149-25 Titled “Parking Prohibited at all Times” by Add Additional Streets and Locations where Parking is Prohibited – For Board consideration Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-07 regarding prohibited parking and turns at intersections for Brooks Lane and Foundry Street. Ms. Denne also noted that this Ordinance was properly posted and advertised.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-07 amending Chapter 149 of the Caln Township Code, Titled, “Vehicles and Traffic” to amend Section 149-11 Titled “Turns at Intersections” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Turns at Intersections are Prohibited and Section 149-25 Titled “Parking Prohibited at all Times” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Parking is Prohibited. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin asked when this ordinance will take effect. Ms. Denne noted that it will take about one week after the signs are installed.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-08 An Ordinance Imposing an Annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 Mill – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-08 imposing an annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 mill.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-08 imposing an annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 mills. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that this rate is the same as 2021.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-09 An Ordinance Setting the Real Estate Tax Rate for 2022 at 4.088 Mills – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-09 setting the Real Estate Tax rate for 2022 at 4.088 mills.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-09 setting the real estate tax rate for 2022 at 4.088 mills. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that this is a .63 mill increase.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-10 An Ordinance Imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 Mill – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-10 imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 Mill.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-10 imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 mill. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Young noted that this Debt Service Tax can only be used for Township debt. Commissioner Young also noted that this tax will go away once the debt has been paid unless new debt arises.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-11 An Ordinance Adopting Lighting Assessments for Township Light Districts – For Board consideration. Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-11 adopting the lighting assessments for Township light districts.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-11 adopting lighting assessments for township light district. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that there are no increases in the lighting district assessment.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-12 An Ordinance Adopting the Final 2022 Municipal Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne presented Ordinance 2021-1 adopting the final 2022 Municipal Budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-12 adopting the final 2022 Municipal budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that he is against passing of this budget.
Commissioner Mullin noted that the Township has thought hard about this and considered everything before raising the tax. Commissioner Mullin also noted that taxes have not been raised in quite some time.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Board did not want to raise taxes, however, with the two past storms, it has to be done in order to fix the damages.
Tom Parr 582 Lloyd Avenue asked why Beaver Run Development has the highest lighting assessment. Commissioner Young noted that once the LED lights are installed the assessment should go down.
Mr. Parr also noted that he knows that the houses in the front pay for the lighting, however, he would like the fee included among the 72 homes behind him. Commissioner Young noted that he will ask staff to find the ordinance, which enacted the “frontage fee”. Commissioner Young also noted that the ordinance would have to be revised possibly in 2022.
Vote passed 5-0.
Resolution 2021-32 A Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania Authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Regional Street Light Program Administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Resolution 2021-32 authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Regional Streetlight Program administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Phase 2 Regional Street Light Program, administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 5-0.
Resolution 2021-03 A Resolution Designating the 2021 Response Territories for Emergency Service in Can Township (TABLED 01/28/2021) – Commissioner Mullin noted that Resolution 2021-03 will continue to be tabled.
Minutes to Approve
November 11, 2021 Board of Commissioners Minutes – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the November 11, 2021 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
November 17, 2021 Special Meeting – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the November 17, 2021 special meeting minutes. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Finance Department – Ms. Swan
Financial Report – N/A
General Checks 47372 to 47502, and Manual Checks 230 to 234 – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving general checks 47372 to 47502, and manual checks 230 to 234. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Additional Business
Each individual Board Members thanked all the Township Department Employees for their hard work over the past years. They all also wished everyone a Happy Holiday and New Year.
Public Comments
Commissioner Mullin called for public comments. There were none.
Adjournment – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the December 9, 2021 meeting at 10:17 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young.
Vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully Submitted by,
Denise Miller
Assistant Township Secretary
253 Municipal Drive Thorndale, PA 19372
Chester County, Pennsylvania
December 9, 2021 Minutes
Virtual Meeting
Call to Order: Commissioner Mullin called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:36 PM. He then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Kristen Denne-Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary, Lisa Swan-Township Treasurer, Mike Fragale, Public Works Director, Ray Stackhouse-Building and Life Safety Director, Abbey Swan, Community Outreach Specialist, Chief Elias-Police Chief.
Professionals Present: Bryan Kulakowsky-Township Engineer, Kristin Camp-Township Solicitor.
Special Guest: Michael Fuller representing Keystone Lighting Solutions, and Tim Townes representing Southdown Homes/Thorndale Woods.
The Board of Commissioners December 9, 2021 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building, on December 8, 2021.
The 2021 Township yearly meetings were published in the Daily Local News on December 28, 2020, as posted at the Township Municipal Building.
Commissioner Evans’ Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. Our meetings are “Neutral Ground”, a place to hear and be heard. We are all in this together.
Commissioner Evans noted that COVID-19 (COVID) cases are on the rise again, nationwide and in Pennsylvania. Our state just tallied the highest daily number of COVID hospitalizations since last January. If you have been fully vaccinated, please get the booster.
Commissioner Evans noted that the deal that Tower Health was working on to sell Brandywine Hospital/Tower Health fell through, and will close on January 31, 2022. Commissioner Evans also noted that this is a huge loss in many ways. Residents who relied on Brandywine Hospital/Tower Health will have to go elsewhere, ambulances will have to travel farther to reach an emergency room, the loss of the only inpatient psychiatric division in Chester County, and hundreds of employees will lose their jobs. We will be reaching out to Representative Williams, and our County Commissioners to explore options.
Commissioner Evans noted that the aftermath of Hurricane Ida (Ida) is still being felt, and it will be for years to come. Bridges and roads were lost, and some of our neighbors lost everything.
Commissioner Evans noted that he went door-to-door after the storm with Commissioner Mullin delivering care packages. They were taught a lesson in integrity and humility: almost everyone they met were more worried about their neighbors than themselves. Caln Township (Caln) is resilient and will repair the damage to our infrastructure, and do it right, so that maybe we will not have a repeat of storms from last summer.
Commissioner Evans noted that Caln Township’s damages are over $8 million, and they will be lucky if they receive 25% of that back from FEMA. This would leave the Township to pay a small fortune. He also noted that Township taxes will need to be increased in order to make for a better tomorrow.
Citizens to be Heard
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road commented on the last meeting being in person. He asked the Board to take their time and consider raising taxes and if they have to raise them at lower percentage. He noted his concern with the tax increase impacting residents on a fixed income.
Commissioner Evans noted that he believes that a year before he moved into the Township that there was a large tax increase. Commissioner Evans asked Commissioner Young if the percentage was higher or lower than this increase. Commissioner Young noted that the Township did two consecutive tax increases. One for .6 mill, one for .5 mill for the Fire Tax and .1 mill for the General Fund. The following year the Township did .5 mill for the General Fund, and .1 mill for the Fire Tax.
Ms. Denne noted that she is attending weekly to bi-weekly Wednesday meetings with FEMA and they said that you have eighteen months from when the Township starts the process or you will lose the FEMA funding. FEMA also said to not stop your process for them, and do whatever you’re going to do. FEMA relayed that they are a reimbursement only agency, they have their own schedule, and they do not do reimbursements according to bid prices. Ms. Denne also noted that the Township is applying for every penny that they can get, however, there are no guarantees with FEMA/PEMA funding.
Commissioner Young noted that the Budget Committee considered residents on a fixed income when making this decision, and did everything that they could to make the increase as small as possible.
Ms. Denne noted that the eighteen months will come up very quickly and you would end up with no reimbursement if the Township took their time to reconsider the tax increases.
Chuck Kramer of 2704 Kings Highway noted that he has concern with the tax increase impacting residents on a fixed income. Mr. Kramer also noted that the tax increase really does not impact his life style, however, he questioned if the bridge is worth raising taxes this much.
Commissioner Young noted that contractual raises will cost the Township $60,000-$70,000 a year. They will have two compounding years because taxes were not raised last year, which will make it $120,000 to $140,000 in compounding income increases for staff, $220,000 is to begin a Stormwater Program, and $75,000 is to open a Kings Highway Park.
Mr. Kramer asked where the Kings Highway Park would be located. Commissioner Young noted that it would be at the Griffith Farm/Spackman Farm.
Commissioner Young noted that the Osborne Road Bridge repair was a Federal Bridge Program where they paid 80%, PennDot paid 15%, and the Township shared the 5% match with East Brandywine Township. The Municipal Road Bridge, Moore Road Bridge, and the removal of the East Fisherville Road Bridge is all on the Township.
Commissioner Young noted that the Township probably needed to raise taxes a little last year, however, they did not because of the COVID pandemic, and they tightened funds as much as they could. Commissioner Young also noted that without Hurricane Ida (Ida), the Township would be talking about a very small tax increase, if any.
Mr. Kramer asked Commissioner Young how much of the tax increase is based on the Ida related issues, union salaries, bridges, and other issues.
Commissioner Young noted that the Township is going to take the $1.4 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) and put $1 million towards Ida related damages so that brings the cost down to $7 million. The Township is taking the current debt that they have, not including the golf course because their debt is in the golf course fund. The Township will move their current debt into a Debt Fund tax, which will be .44 mill, and that will allow the Township to then take new bonds approximately $330,000 to pay the Ida related damages with adding the $200,000 for stormwater related items, $60,000 to $70,000 contractual raises, $75,000 for the Griffith Farm reopening, and $50,000 is budgeted for the police contractual negotiations. Commissioner Young also noted that there is also an increase in fuel costs, and health care.
Commissioner Young noted that there are more items for equipment in the budget. There is a backhoe in the budget because the big one is too big for cleaning the streams so they want to purchase a small backhoe so they can clean out the streams more often. They want to put brine equipment in so they can brine the roads and make them safe for people in the winter.
Commissioner Young offered to meet with Mr. Kramer to review the budget.
Presentations
Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Street Light Retrofit Program – Mr. Michael Fuller representing Keystone Lighting Solutions (Keystone) shared his presentation on screen for the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Street Light Retrofit Program, which will update the Township’s old technology to the new technology, and will generate net savings for the Township. Mr. Fuller also reviewed the Feasibility Study that Keystone developed for the Township.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comments.
Commissioner Young noted that one of the biggest complaints that the residents who pay the street light bills make is that they are not bright enough, they do not illuminate, and they feel that they are being charged for an inadequate service. Commissioner Young also noted that this is the best plan that was found.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Township is not losing any money since this will be paid over three years and makes this a “wash”.
Commissioner Mullin called for public comment.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that there are some street poles that are not perpendicular, and questioned the longevity of the lights.
Mr. Fuller noted that when they do their audits, they identify the pole conditions and work with Municipalities to see if there are a small number of poles that could be replaced, and included in the project. He also noted that he put in over a 10% contingency into the project. Mr. Fuller also noted that a manufacturer would not offer a ten year warranty unless they thought it would last over twenty years.
Community Citation for the Stream Restoration Project to Abbey Swan – Ms. Denne presented a Community Appreciation Citation to Community Outreach Specialist, Abbey Swan. On her own time, Ms. Swan became certified as a Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward by training for fifty hours and forty hours of volunteer work in which she created a program for the Lloyd Park to plant 300 donated trees to stop the stream from eroding. Ms. Denne noted that these trees are especially for restoring the Beaver Creek Stream and keeping the park intact.
The Board thanked Ms. Swan for all her work on this project.
Ms. Denne noted that Ms. Swan and her husband also spent time revamping the Memorial Garden, and she has plans to create a Meadow Garden, behind the Township building.
Ms. Denne asked Mr. Fragale how much three-hundred trees would cost. Mr. Fragale noted that seven trees could be up to $7,000, however it depends on the type and size of the tree.
2022 Budget Hearing for the Proposed Municipal Budget, and Ordinances – Ms. Denne presented highlights from the proposed Municipal Budget.
· General Fund budget increase of .63 mill totaling 4.088 mills
· Proposal of a Debt Fund of .44 mill for the General Fund, service only. This fund will be used exclusively to pay existing debt in the Township.
· $1.50 per month flat rate sewer increase for residential, and commercial
· $5.00 per month refuse increase – There will be a $400,000 increase per year, in the trash hauler’s costs due to fuel costs, and labor shortages.
· There will be no increase in the commercial monthly consumption for sewer.
Ms. Denne noted that the current debt service, pension costs, employee count, health care costs, storm sewer damage, and the future of stormwater maintenance and improvements is leading the budgetary expenditures.
Ms. Denne shared a General Fund summary and pie chart on how the funds are distributed. She also noted that the police service is a twenty four hours a day for seven days a week entity therefore they are the biggest part of the pie chart at 41%. The Public Works Department is 18%, Building and Life Safety 12%, Retirement 8%, Contributions 1%, Parks and Recreation 2%, and Debt Service at 5%.
Ms. Denne noted that the Debt Fund will allow for $317,000 to be put back in the budget to fund the stormwater improvements and future stormwater maintenance program. It will also be used to pay for financing to cover $8.1 million on estimated damage from Ida.
Ms. Denne noted that $1 million will be used from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA). $40,000 for new stormwater maintenance on a yearly basis, $50,000 for design and mapping for infrastructure that needs to be replaced, and $50,000 for inspection and enforcement for operation and maintenance agreements that are currently outstanding.
Ms. Denne noted that the Township has received half of the $1.4 million that they will receive over the next two years from ARPA. $1 million will be dedicated to Ida damage, $60,000 was used for the installation of the “Zoom Room”, $3,000 was used for technology upgrades to allow for server upgrades, and employees to work remotely, $323,000 will be used for the Reed Street stormwater improvements, and $108,000 will be used to update the Township ventilation system for better circulation of air and to take out any possible viruses that may be in the system.
Ms. Denne noted that 100% of taxes paid per year of a house in Caln Township assessed at roughly $150,000 is roughly $7,405 with approximately $6,000 of that towards school tax, and $682 towards the county, which is roughly 9%.
Ms. Denne noted that the new Debt Fund and the fire tax make up an additional 2%. 8% goes to the General Fund, which is $613. With the new tax rate, a house assessed at $150,000 residents currently pay for a fire tax and General Fund pay $608.00, and with the new Debt Fund and the increase in the General Fund, residents will now pay $769.
Ms. Denne reviewed the surrounding Chester County neighboring communities.
Caln Township – 4.088% Downingtown – 7.65% Coatesville – 13.759%
West Chester – 7.4% Parkesburg – 10.25% South Coatesville – 7.6%
West Whiteland – .71% Oxford – 12% Phoenixville – 7.2%
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Marc Fox of 256 Thornridge Drive asked what employees pay for their health care. Ms. Denne noted that the Union pays 6% of the premium and the police department pays $1,500 per year.
Mr. Fox reviewed his research on the surrounding township’s tax rates, and found they all have lower rates than Caln. Commissioner Young noted that other than Valley Township and West Caln, those Township’s do not have a police department. If Caln dissolved their police department then there would be no property tax. Mr. Fox asked if that was an option for Caln. Commissioner Young noted that if they dissolved that police department then residents would have to rely on the state police, and could have limited response time.
Mr. Fox asked the Board how the Township paid $714,000 for the golf course. Commissioner noted that in the last two years the golf course has made more than it has expended, and that fund is now approximately under negative $200,000.
Licia Carini of 103 Ayerwood Drive noted that she supports the Board in this time where the taxes have to be raised. She also noted that most of the Township taxes go to the school district, and she wondered if there was anything that the Township could do.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road commented on the school district tax increases. He also noted that the Township tax is a nuisance tax to him but not to the senior citizens, Covid victims, and lower income residents.
Commissioner Evans noted that the school district is not controlled by the Township. Commissioner Evans also noted that Pennsylvania is the 49th in the nation for the lowest percentage amount of funding to support public schools. There is a law suit currently in Harrisburg to try and get this changed. Commissioner Evans further noted that he will put more information about his on his website.
Chuck Kramer of 2704 Kings Highway asked the Board to look at the budget and make sure that things are being “tightened” as much as possible.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
Extension Period for the Board’s Final Decision on the Thorndale Woods Subdivision and Land Development Plan Application through March 31, 2022 – For Board consideration, Ms. Camp recommended an extension period for the Board’s final decision for the Thorndale Woods Subdivision and Land Development Plan application, through March 31, 2022.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to extend the Board’s final decision on the Thorndale Woods’s Subdivision and Land Development Plan application, through March 31, 2022. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Township Engineer – Mr. Kulakowsky
Planning Commission Update – Mr. Kulakowsky noted that the December 14, 2021 Planning Commission meet has been cancelled.
Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project Change Order #1 – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered a Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project change order #1 in the amount of $8,332 bringing the contract value to $137,757. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that the grant award for the project was $225,205
and this change order is to change the poles from the standard galvanized metal poles to black painted
poles.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve change order #1 in the amount of $8,332 for the Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 5-0
ARRO Payment Recommendation #1 for the 2021 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered ARRO’s payment recommendation #1, in the amount $285,250.10. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that this is for the portion of the project that was Liquid Fuels reimbursement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving ARRO’s payment recommendation #1 in the amount of $285,250.10. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comment.
Commissioner Mullin asked Mr. Kulakowsky what the $22,750 change order was for. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that it was for the rotted pipe on Miller and Seltzer Avenue.
Vote passed 5-0.
ARRO Payment Recommendation #2 for the 2021 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Kulakowsky offered payment recommendation #2 in the amount of $32,966. This will close out the 2021 Road Program. Mr. Kulakowsky noted that this is for the $22,750 work and the additional work that was done.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving ARRO’s payment recommendation #2 in the amount of $22,750 for the 2021 road program. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Vote passed 5-0.
Mr. Kulakowsky shared pictures of the Spackman Farm new roof.
Township Manager – Ms. Denne
Motion to Advertise 2022 Public Meeting Schedule – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered the 2022 public meeting schedule for advertisement.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to advertise the 2022 public meeting schedule, as presented. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin asked for Board comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Upcoming Vacancies for Boards and Commissions 2022 – Ms. Denne noted that there are open positions on the Historical Commission, Parks and Recreation Board, and the Zoning Hearing Board. Ms. Denne also noted to contact the Township or fill out an application, if you are interested.
Motion to Ratify the Transfer of Police Ford Explorer from Municibid Auction – Ms. Denne offered a motion to ratify the transfer of a Police Ford SUV Explorer Interceptor with 81,000 thousand miles on it, and was starting to get high maintenance costs on it. She noted that this vehicle was sold for $15,000 on Municibid to North Middleton Township.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to ratify the transfer of the police ford explorer from the Municibid Auction. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Motion to Accept Police Department Civil Service Promotions – Ms. Denne noted that the police department has not filled their vacant positions in 2021 in an effort to save money. They now need to fill those positions and reinstate some of the special services divisions. Ms. Denne also noted that Chief Elias would also like to offer police department promotions.
Chief Elias noted that Officer Samantha DeFrancesco has started with the police department and Travis Fisher will start at the beginning of January 2022.
Chief Elias noted that he would like to reinstate the Community and Special Services Division where officers focus on public safety issues throughout the Township. Chief Elias also noted that he would like to promote Corporal Whisler to Sergeant and have him oversee this program. He would also like to replace him with Officer Schiller as Corporal, effective the first pay check in January.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to promote Corporal Whisler to Sergeant and Officer Schiller to Corporal as per the existing Civil Service promotional exam. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Motion to Ratify the Award for Emergency Engineering Rates from Fidelis Engineering for Sink Hole on Melissa Drive – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a motion to ratify the award for emergency engineering rates from Fidelis Engineering (Fidelis) for a sink hole on Melissa Drive. Ms. Denne noted that the Township received three quotes and Fidelis was the closest, lowest, and they were also immediately available.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to ratify the award for emergency engineering rates from Fidelis Engineering for the sink hole on Melissa Drive. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Griffith Farm Extension – 3401 Kings Highway – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a one year contract renewal for the Griffith Farm to Leonard Smoker, for wheat planting. Ms. Denne noted that the contract renewal will remain the same at $402 per acre. Ms. Denne also noted that $15,678 shall be due at commencement of the lease, and the second payment of $15,678 is due on or before July 1, 2022.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the Griffith Farm extension until December 31, 2022. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Ordinance 2021-07 An Ordinance amending Chapter 149 of the Caln Township Code, Titled, “Vehicles and Traffic” to amend Section 149-11 Titled “Turns at Intersections” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Turns at Intersections are Prohibited and Section 149-25 Titled “Parking Prohibited at all Times” by Add Additional Streets and Locations where Parking is Prohibited – For Board consideration Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-07 regarding prohibited parking and turns at intersections for Brooks Lane and Foundry Street. Ms. Denne also noted that this Ordinance was properly posted and advertised.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-07 amending Chapter 149 of the Caln Township Code, Titled, “Vehicles and Traffic” to amend Section 149-11 Titled “Turns at Intersections” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Turns at Intersections are Prohibited and Section 149-25 Titled “Parking Prohibited at all Times” by adding Additional Streets and Locations where Parking is Prohibited. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin asked when this ordinance will take effect. Ms. Denne noted that it will take about one week after the signs are installed.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-08 An Ordinance Imposing an Annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 Mill – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-08 imposing an annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 mill.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-08 imposing an annual Fire Protection Tax of 0.6 mills. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that this rate is the same as 2021.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-09 An Ordinance Setting the Real Estate Tax Rate for 2022 at 4.088 Mills – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-09 setting the Real Estate Tax rate for 2022 at 4.088 mills.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-09 setting the real estate tax rate for 2022 at 4.088 mills. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that this is a .63 mill increase.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-10 An Ordinance Imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 Mill – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-10 imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 Mill.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-10 imposing a Debt Service Tax of 0.44 mill. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Young noted that this Debt Service Tax can only be used for Township debt. Commissioner Young also noted that this tax will go away once the debt has been paid unless new debt arises.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-11 An Ordinance Adopting Lighting Assessments for Township Light Districts – For Board consideration. Ms. Denne offered Ordinance 2021-11 adopting the lighting assessments for Township light districts.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-11 adopting lighting assessments for township light district. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Commissioner Mullin noted that there are no increases in the lighting district assessment.
Vote passed 5-0.
Ordinance 2021-12 An Ordinance Adopting the Final 2022 Municipal Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne presented Ordinance 2021-1 adopting the final 2022 Municipal Budget.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion adopting Ordinance 2021-12 adopting the final 2022 Municipal budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and resident comments.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that he is against passing of this budget.
Commissioner Mullin noted that the Township has thought hard about this and considered everything before raising the tax. Commissioner Mullin also noted that taxes have not been raised in quite some time.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Board did not want to raise taxes, however, with the two past storms, it has to be done in order to fix the damages.
Tom Parr 582 Lloyd Avenue asked why Beaver Run Development has the highest lighting assessment. Commissioner Young noted that once the LED lights are installed the assessment should go down.
Mr. Parr also noted that he knows that the houses in the front pay for the lighting, however, he would like the fee included among the 72 homes behind him. Commissioner Young noted that he will ask staff to find the ordinance, which enacted the “frontage fee”. Commissioner Young also noted that the ordinance would have to be revised possibly in 2022.
Vote passed 5-0.
Resolution 2021-32 A Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania Authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Regional Street Light Program Administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered Resolution 2021-32 authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Regional Streetlight Program administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion authorizing a Cooperative Purchasing and Participation in the Phase 2 Regional Street Light Program, administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 5-0.
Resolution 2021-03 A Resolution Designating the 2021 Response Territories for Emergency Service in Can Township (TABLED 01/28/2021) – Commissioner Mullin noted that Resolution 2021-03 will continue to be tabled.
Minutes to Approve
November 11, 2021 Board of Commissioners Minutes – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the November 11, 2021 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
November 17, 2021 Special Meeting – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the November 17, 2021 special meeting minutes. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board comment. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Finance Department – Ms. Swan
Financial Report – N/A
General Checks 47372 to 47502, and Manual Checks 230 to 234 – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion approving general checks 47372 to 47502, and manual checks 230 to 234. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 5-0.
Additional Business
Each individual Board Members thanked all the Township Department Employees for their hard work over the past years. They all also wished everyone a Happy Holiday and New Year.
Public Comments
Commissioner Mullin called for public comments. There were none.
Adjournment – Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the December 9, 2021 meeting at 10:17 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young.
Vote passed 5-0.
Respectfully Submitted by,
Denise Miller
Assistant Township Secretary
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