Board of Commissioners
April 28, 2022, 7:30 PM
Call to Order: Commissioner Kennedy called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Kennedy then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President (Absent), 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 (Absent), Lisa Swan-Township Treasurer, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building and Life Safety and Interim Public Works Director, Police Chief Elias, Chris Ward-Thorndale Golf Course Manager, Patrick Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company Chief, and Scot Gill-Director of the Municipal Authority.
Professionals Present: Al Vennettilli P.E. and Mark Harman representing ARRO.
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners April 28, 2022, agenda has been posted on the Township website, and at the Township building on April 27, 2022. Agendas were made available at the meeting for the public.
The 2022 Township Board of Commissioners meetings were published in the Daily Local News, on December 28, 2021.
Commissioner Evans Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. Our meetings are “Neutral Ground,” a place to hear and be heard. The Board of Commissioners are here to represent everyone in Caln Township, and we strive to be sure our decisions address the needs of all. We are all in
- Just a reminder, any questions or statements regarding an agenda item will be recognized under “Citizens to be Heard” at the top of the meeting agenda. All other matters will be recognized during “Public Comment” at the end of the meeting agenda.
- A big thank you to Vice President Jane Kennedy for filling in for Commissioner Mullin tonight.
- Sometimes there is a lot happening. Other times things are brewing, and it seems as if we are all just waiting for the coffee to be poured. By our next meeting I hope to be able to share some cool things that has been percolating for a while.
- Infrastructure anyone? If you have not been to calntownship.org recently, check it out. There is a new section dedicated to infrastructure projects.
- I received an email from a resident suggesting that Caln Township consider a plastic bag ban. It could be an interesting idea to explore, once our plates are not as full as they are right now. Thank you for that suggestion.
- PLAY BALL!!! Caln Township Little League will celebrate opening day this Saturday morning at 10:00 AM.
- SIGN EM UP! Tonight, we interviewed another awesome neighbor who wants to devote their time, talents, and energy to one of our Commissions. That reminds me…the Historical Commission needs a few more dedicated members. We are wading into some pretty deep waters and could use all the help we can get. Visit calntownship.org to find out more about joining.
- BUMMER ALERT – The Downingtown-Thorndale Chamber of Commerce recently voted to drop Thorndale from their name. That is surprising considering how many of our businesses are members. Just my opinion, but if I owned a business in Thorndale/Caln I would be asking myself why I am supporting a Chamber of Commerce that does not want to recognize the town my business is located in.
- CLEAN UP TIME – At our last meeting there was discussion of the currently bare walls in our meeting room, and there may have been some confusion afterward. Everything has been removed when the Zoom Room installation started. The install is not yet complete, we are still waiting for some equipment. Once all of that has been completed, we will consider how to reimagine and best decorate the meeting room. Our treasured artifacts are not disappearing forever.
- CALN TOWNSHIP IS “OPEN FOR BUSINESS” – Nothing is ever perfect, but it is our township, our community, our home. We can all be a part of the solution by eagerly spreading the good news about where we live.
Citizens to be Heard
Commissioner Kennedy called for citizens to be heard. There were none.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
N/A
Township Engineer
Township Hurricane Ida Project Updates
North Barley Sheaf Drainage Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed, and the design phase is underway.
The Barley Sheaf Swale Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed and the design phase is underway.
North Bailey Road Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed and the design phase is underway.
Fisherville Road Stream Embankment Project – Mr. Harman noted that the project is underway, and ARRO is currently working with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). He also noted an estimated completion date of May 6, 2022.
South Lloyd Avenue Stream Embankment – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed and ARRO has submitted the general permit to DEP. He also noted an estimate completion date of November 2022.
Moore Road Project – Mr. Harman noted that the project design is underway, and ARRO is working with DEP to complete the final design by mid May 2022.
Municipal Drive Bridge Project – Mr. Harman noted that the project is currently being worked on with the expected final design by mid May 2022.
Municipal Drive Stream Embankment Project – Mr. Harman noted that the bids have been received and the project has been awarded. He also noted that construction will commence April 2022.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
Non-Ida Projects
2022 Road Paving Project – Mr. Harman noted that the bids are expected to be presented at the May 12 Board meeting.
Reed Street Stormwater Project – Mr. Harman noted that additional survey is currently being done, and presentation of the project scope will be updated at the May 26 Board meeting.
East Fisherville Road Demolition Project – Mr. Harman noted that the project is currently out to bid. He also noted that ARRO expects DEP to issue their review letter shortly.
Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project – Mr. Harman noted Higgins Electric is waiting on a new signal pole, which has been delayed due to a supply chain issue.
258 Horseshoe Drive Demolition Project – Mr. Harman noted that the underground storage tank has been removed.
Spackman Farm Driveway Paving – Mr. Harman noted that this has been included in the 2022 road program.
Caln Park Bioswale Project – Mr. Harman noted that the bid has been approved and the notice to award has been sent to the Contractor. He also noted that the project will start on May 2, 2022, and anticipates completion by September 2022.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments.
Commissioner Young asked Mr. Harman to clarify what is the 258 Horseshoe Drive Project. Mr. Harman noted that this is the demolition of the house at 258 Horseshoe Drive. He also noted that there were issues last month relative to removing additional contamination, which is currently moving forward.
Ms. Denne asked Mr. Harman what the projected completion date of the project is and when the asbestos remediations will be completed. Mr. Harman noted that the project is on going and he will come back to the Board with an update.
Stormwater Projects
G.O. Culvert Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed and the intent is to obtain an emergency permit, which has been submitted to the DEP to do the cleaning in early May 2022. He also noted that the design is underway.
Humpton Road Culvert Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed and the design is underway.
Lynn Boulevard Culvert #1 – Mr. Harman noted that the cost estimate has been completed. He also noted that ARRO is currently working on the plans and the design is underway.
Lynn Boulevard Culvert #2 – Mr. Harman noted that the cost estimate has been completed and the design is underway.
Park Drive Stormwater Project – Mr. Harman noted that the survey has been completed. He also noted that the final project design is anticipated to be 90% completed by May 2022.
Williams Way Culvert Project – Mr. Harman noted that the cost estimate has been completed and the project is underway.
Bondsville Road Culvert Project – Mr. Harman noted that the project is currently under Township review. He also noted an additional culvert project has been added to the Humpton Farms Project as this is a choke point for the creek.
Commissioner Evans asked for an update on the Lloyd Park Flooding in the middle of the park back at the dog run. Ms. Denne noted that a survey has not been performed yet, however, it has been started internally with Staff, Commissioner Mullin, and the Stormwater Planning Group. The Township will then rank all their stormwater issues and formalize a stormwater plan.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road asked if Mr. Harman can present the project costs or estimates with his report. Mr. Harman noted that he would have to coordinate this with the Township Staff.
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked if the Township is paving the Spackman Farm driveway. Commissioner Kennedy noted that it is part of the 2022 Road Program. Mr. DiSario asked why the Township is wasting taxpayers’ money for two empty buildings. Commissioner Young noted that this paving project has been added to the 2022 Road Program as an alternate, this would allow access to the passive park. Commissioner Young also noted that most of the facility will be farmed.
Mr. DiSario asked if there has ever been an investor interested in the properties. Commissioner Evans noted that the Township Historical Commission is currently working on this.
Licia Carini of 103 Ayerwood Drive noted that she respects all resident opinions and would like to say that she would like to put her tax dollars into anything that would help rehabilitate Spackman Farm for future use.
Municipal Drive Stream Restoration Project – Ms. Denne presented pictures of the finished product along the Municipal Bridge side that was falling into the stream.
Fisherville Road Stream Restoration Project – Mr. Harman noted that the entire hillside almost fell into the stream.
Melissa Drive Line Installation Project – Ms. Denne noted that this road has been closed since November 2021 due to a sink hole. She recognized the Public Works Department staff for digging the entire line, installing a new line, and connecting it in. She noted that this saved the Township a lot of money.
Ms. Denne noted that the road closure impacted residents and they have been wonderfully patient during this time. She also noted that the Township will allow a year of settlement before a final paving is done.
Bid Results for East Fisherville Road Bridge Demolition – Low Bidder for this Project is Lycoming Supply, Inc in the amount of $71,888.00 – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered bid results for the East Fisherville Road Bridge Demolition Project to Lycoming Supply, Inc., in the amount of $71,888.00. She noted that this has been publicly bid and checked by Township Engineers.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to award the bid for East Fisherville Road Bridge Demolition to Lycoming Supply, Inc., in the amount of $71,888.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 4-0.
Payment Request for Payment #1 to Charles Higgins and Sons, Inc. in the amount of $19,394.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered payment #1 to Charles Higgins and Sons, Inc. in the amount of $119,394.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve payment #1 to Charles Higgins and Sons, Inc. in the amount of $19,394.00, for the Lloyd Avenue Signalization Project. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 4-0.
Payment Request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving in the Amount of $55,093.50 for Stream Restoration Work on Municipal Drive Bridge – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered payment request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving in the amount of $55,093.50 for stream restoration work on Municipal Drive Bridge.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve payment request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving, in the amount of $55,093.50 for stream restoration work on the Municipal Drive Bridge. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Vote passed 4-0.
Payment Request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving in the Amount of $73,916.96 for Stream Restoration Work on Fisherville Road – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered payment request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving, in the amount of $73,916.96 for stream restoration work on Fisherville Road.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve payment request #1 to James R. Kenney Excavating and Paving, in the amount of $73,916.96 for the stream restoration work on Fisherville Road. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Vote passed 4-0.
Township Manager – Ms. Denne
N/A
t Sweeping Bid Results –
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Resolution 2022-04 A Resolution Designating the 2022 Response Territories for Emergency Service in Caln Township (Tabled 01/13/2022) – N/A
Minutes to Approve
Motion to Approve the April 28, 2022, Board of Commissioners Minutes – Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve the April 28, 2022, Board of Commissioners Minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
Vote passed 4-0.
Finance Department – Ms. Swan
Financial Report – Ms. Swan noted that she is currently working on the Township Audit.
Commissioner Young asked when the bill discount ends. Ms. Swan noted that they need postmarked by April 30. She also noted that there is a week lead way for delivery to the Township Building, and banks can receive them until May 6.
Motion to Approve General Checks 48101 to 48164 and Manual Checks 253 to 258 – Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve general checks 48101 to 48164 and manual checks 253 to 258. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments.
Marc Fox of 256 Thornridge Drive asked if the Township has received any records from FEMA. Ms. Denne noted “not at this time.”
Vote passed 4-0.
Directors Reports
Police Chief Elias – Chief Elias noted a few highlights from his department’s March 2022 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
Chief Elias noted that the Chester County Assistance office was evacuated on May 2, due to a phoned in bomb threat. Three days later they identified and arrested Keith Bowers of Coatesville.
Chief Elias noted a community camera program, which is a new safety initiative that was launched this week. This will allow residents and business owners to register their security cameras free and voluntary. Chief Elias also noted that the police will not have remote access to the cameras.
Chief Elias noted that they began to advertise the entry level police officer exam with Civil Service on May 15, 2022. He also noted a status presentation at the May 26 meeting.
Tom Parr of 582 Lloyd Avenue thanked the police for putting the speed trailer in his yard.
Fire Department Chief Taylor – Chief Taylor noted a few highlights from his department’s March 2022 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
Chief Taylor noted that they continue to utilize the Chester County Training Facility located in South Coatesville.
Commissioner Young asked Chief Taylor if they are looking for volunteers for the Strawberry Festival. Chief Taylor noted that they are looking for cashiers and parking attendants. They are also always looking for volunteers at the Fire House.
Ingleside Golf Manager Mr. Ward – Mr. Ward noted a few highlights from his departments March 2022 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
Rounds 2022 2021
March 1,422 1,801
Revenue 2022 2021 Average Percentage
March $39,578 $46,401 $25,388 -18%
YTD $68,069 $78,0700 $42,779 -15%
Request for Consideration of Approval of Capital Items – For Board consideration, Mr. Ward offered a John Deere 2400 Precision Cut Triplex Mower in the amount of $40,880.34, a LASTEC WZ600 80-inch Zero Turn Rotary Mower in the amount of $51,775.00, and two 2023 Yamaha Drive AFI golf carts-55 golf carts, in the amount not to exceed $213,850.00.
Commissioner Evans asked if there are unofficial April numbers from the golf course price increases. Mr. Ward noted that the golf course is currently negative $10,000.00.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if Mr. Ward has looked at a five-year plan. Mr. Ward noted that he is currently working on that.
Commissioner Young asked Mr. Ward what will he do with the old mowers. Mr. Ward noted that they will keep them for spares.
Commissioner Evans noted that he would be more comfortable voting on these three motions until after the May 31 golf meeting. Mr. Ward noted a possibility of waiting is that the prices may increase.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road stated that the old golf cart windshields are in bad shape, and he would like to persuade the Board to move forward on the golf carts.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to revisit these motions at the June 9 Board meeting. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Vote passed 4-0.
Director of Building & Life Safety/Interim Public Works Director Mr. Stackhouse – Mr. Stackhouse noted a few highlights from his departments March 2022 report, which was previously provided to the Board.
Mr. Stackhouse updated the Board on his department’s current projects. He also noted that they continue to work on the Township Zoning Ordinance.
Mr. Stackhouse noted that FEMA provided a new category “Z” document tracking hours for management of everything that staff has been doing going back to the first day of the event and will continue until all these projects are closed.
Mr. Stackhouse noted that the Public Work Staff will start to focus on Spring stormwater cleanup along G.O. Carlson Boulevard and some other key areas.
Additional Business
Consideration of Two (2) Days Suspension of Officer Sandeep Klair as a Result of a Disciplinary Investigation –
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to accept the report under the direction of Chief Elias for the two (2) days suspension of Officer Sandeep Klair as a result of a disciplinary investigation. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 4-0.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to appoint Marc Fox as an honorary member of the Zoning Hearing Board. Commissioner Evans added to the motion the appointment of Mr. Fox as an official member of the Zoning Hearing Board. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 4-0.
Public Comments
Mike Bedrick of 1701 Olive Street noted that there are a lot of signs along G.O. Carlson Boulevard. Mr. Stackhouse noted that signs cannot be on Township property or the Rights of Ways, however, the Township cannot control signs that are on private property. Mr. Stackhouse also noted that he will remove any signs that are there.
Commissioner Kennedy encouraged families to take advantage of the children events taking place at the Coatesville Library. She also noted an event “All about Kites” on May 7 at 2:00 PM.
On behalf of the Board, Commissioner Evans thanked Commissioner Kennedy for leading the meeting.
Adjournment
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to adjourn the April 28, 2022, Board of Commissioners minutes at 9:10 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Vote passed 4-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
Denise Miller
Assistant Township Secretary
commissioners_minutes_04.28.2022.pdf |