Caln Township Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners March 13, 2025
7:30 PM Hybrid Workshop Meeting Minutes
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President (Absent), Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Don Vymazal Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant (via Zoom), Ray Stackhouse Director of Building and Life Safety, Abbey Swan Director of Community Enhancement, Johnnie Huggins Director of Public Works, Lisa Swan Treasurer and Director of Finance, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: N/A
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (BOC) March 13, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township building on March 11, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting. The 2025 Township BOC meetings were published in the Daily Local Newspaper, on December 18, 2024.
Call to Order and Salute to the Flag – Commissioner Mullin called the March 13, 2025, Board meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Commissioner Mullin called for citizens to be heard – There were none.
1.1 Holiday Lighting on Lincoln Highway – Mr. Vymazal explained that during the February 27, 2025, meeting a motion was made to approve the purchase of holiday lighting; however, a formal vote was not called for after it was moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for a vote. The vote passed 4-0.
1.1 CASH Service Agreement – Chief Elias explained that the Coatesville Area School District signed the police security agreement after Ms. Camp’s recommended changes. Chief Elias opened a discussion of this agreement, which will be offered for Board consideration at the March 27, 2025, BOC meeting.
1.3 C.C. Preservation and Parks Partnership Grant Program Grant – Mr. Vymazal explained that the county changed their policy to have Municipalities sign their grant contracts before their grant submittal to expedite processing and awarding of the grants. Mr. Vymazal also explained that if awarded, the BOC has the right to reject receiving grant funding even though the contract was signed.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if the Township would receive the full grant amount requested. Mr. Vymazal replied that he believes that the Township will be successful for the full funding.
Commissioner Mullin asked when the amount and terms will be filled out. Mr. Vymazal replied that the county will fill in the amount if the grant is awarded.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Board to sign the Municipal Park and Trail Improvement Grant for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5 Project. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
1.4 Public Works Salt Shed – Mr. Vymazal explained that there are structural concerns with the current salt shed. A new salt shed would comply with the MS4 requirement to store salt properly.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is protection for the front of the shed. Mr. Huggins replied that salt sheds are open in the front, so they cover the salt with a tarp. Also, DEP requires that salt be stored inside the structure. Commissioner Kennedy also asked how much salt the shed holds. Mr. Huggins replied, “800 tons”.
Commissioner Mullin asked if they will be able to see the extent of the damage of the current shed when the salt is removed. Mr. Huggins replied that you can see the damage with the salt in the shed.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if the damaged shed will be demolished after the purchase of a new one. Mr. Huggins replied that it will be used to store equipment until it has been replaced.
1.5 Public Works Line Striping – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion for the public works department line striping.
Noel Bernard would like to see the list of roads to be striped. Ms. Swan shared her screen showing the roads names.
Adam Thomas of 310 Carlyn Court asked if Public Works will be striping roads that will be under construction soon after. Mr. Huggins replied “no.”
1.6 Solid Waste Program Cart Purchase – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion on the proposed purchase of 290-65 gallon recycle carts and 49-95 gallon recycle carts at a cost of $20,803.50. The PADEP Share Grant will fund approximately $20,500.00 utilizing funds that were awarded through the 902 Municipal Recycling Grant Program. The improved recycling carts will increase the collection of recyclables. The Municipal Authority department also would like to purchase 290-65-gallon trash carts along with spare parts, at a cost of $20,116.60.
1.7 Street Parking/Large Vehicles – Mr. Vymazal opened a discussion on the draft code definition for parking of commercial and construction related vehicles and equipment.
Commissioner Evans stated that Aqua had utility trucks parked on Ayerwood Drive when they were working on Lloyd Avenue. There were holes in the road when the trucks left after a year.
Mr. Stackhouse stated that his department would phase in the new code by knocking on residents’ doors, door hangers, or sending letters for a period of time for those who are in violation.
Commissioner Mullin asked if the calls that the township receives on this issue are regarding taking up too much space or safety issues. Mr. Stackhouse replied that both are a concern; however, the safety concern from site obstruction is the main concern.
The Board consensus was for Mr. Stackhouse to proceed by working with Township Solicitor Ms. Camp to draft a code ordinance for the definition of parking of commercial and construction related vehicles, and equipment.
1.8 Drone Workshop – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion on a drone workshop proposal.
Mr. Stackhouse explained that five Thorndale career firefighters and ten others from around Chester County will be attending a Delaware State Fire School Pilot NPFA 2400 Pro Board Certification class here in Caln, tentatively scheduled for May 17, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The classroom portion will be held at the Thorndale Fire Company, and they are proposing to hold the practical portion at the Spackman-Davis Farm because they need a large open area.
Commissioner Evans asked if the drones have an automatic GPS collision response. Mr. Stackhouse replied that it does. It is hard to find a drone without a full technical package.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if this program continues after this class. Mr. Stackhouse replied that the class will continue under their task force.
The Board consensus was to use the Spackman-Davis Farm for the drone certification class.
1.9 Parks Maintenance/Tree Work – Mr. Vymazal explained that more work could be done if there was a dedicated fund associated with tree maintenance and if we pay an hourly rate instead of a per tree cost. Ms. A. Swan stated that all the tree companies’ quotes said that approximately four hemlock trees can be saved.
Commissioner Evans asked if the beech tree could be saved. Ms. A. Swan replied that one trunk of the tree fell in 2024, and the other two can be cabled together.
Commissioner Mullin asked if there is a code where you removed one tree and plant three. Ms. A. Swan replied that the proposals received do not remove any trees behind the house only the “stand alone” trees in front of the Spackman-Davis Farm property along the road.
1.10 CCIU – Chief Elias stated that this school year the police are approaching three hundred service calls to the CCIU. The Sheriff’s office is in discussions with the CCIU to explore a potential partnership regarding a School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. Under Act 67, the police at the Pennsylvania Sheriff’s office are included as potential candidates for the program.
Commissioner Mullin asked if the school has its own Board meetings and if so, could a Board or staff member attend. Mr. Vymazal replied that he believes this is a public entity; however, he will confirm.
Commissioner Kennedy stated that the CCIU is turning into a behavioral type setting.
Mark DeYoung of Beaver Run Road asked if the CCIU is located on Boot Road. Commissioner Mullin replied that there is a CCIU on Boot Road; however, the one that is discussed at the Board meetings is located near Coatesville High School. Chief Elias stated that the Coatesville CCIU is the only school in Chester County having these issues. Chief Elias also stated that the students are from a young age to early twenties.
Commissioner Tindaro asked Chief Elias if he would get other police departments involved with the CCIU. Chief Elias replied that if a student does not live in Caln Township, threatens to shoot a student or staff member or cause violence then he will contact the police department where the student resides. Their police department will determine if there is a potential for that student to carry out the threat. The CCIU will determine if the student can return to school. Chief Elias also stated that Caln police department is the agency of record for incidents that occur in the Township.
Commissioner Mullin asked to have “Coatesville” added to CCIU on the agenda so there is no confusion on which location the meetings are discussing.
2. Resolutions
2.1 Resolution 2025-09 First Responder Wellness Week – Mr. Stackhouse stated that the public sector faces some of the most challenging and stressful work environments for first responders such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, 911 dispatchers, correctional officers, and members of other organizations in the public safety sector. Mr. Stackhouse stated that First Responder Wellness Week is recognized March 24, 2025, through March 28, 2025.
Commissioner Evans read Resolution 2025-09 for the public record.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-09 proclaiming March 24, 2025, to March 28, 2025, as First Responder Wellness Week in Caln Township. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
3. Board Minutes to Approve
3.1 February 27, 2025 - Commissioner Mullin stated that Commissioner Young stated that it looks like the G.O. Carlson curb, at the bridge, is sinking. Mr. Huggins replied that he checked it after the last rainstorm and the water was flowing to the grate.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the February 27, 2025, BOC minutes. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
4. Finance Department
4.1 Check Approval
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 53647 to 53721. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
5. Summary by Applicable Board Liaison
5.1 Parks and Recreation – Ms. A. Swan reviewed the 2025 Parks and Recreation event schedule.
Adam Thomas of 310 Carlyn Court asked the date of Pride Day. Ms. A. Swan replied that it was rebranded to Caln Cleanup Day.
Commissioner Evans asked the date of Community Day. Ms. A. Swan replied “September 6, 2025.”
Commissioner Evans stated that the Spackman-Davis barn is the largest in Chester County.
Commissioner Kennedy asked about the new playground equipment. Ms. A. Swan replied that there will be a saucer swing, merry-go-round, and a new swing set installed in Municipal Park. Commissioner Kennedy also asked if a bus trip to Washington D.C. was scheduled. Ms. A. Swan replied that it is more expensive to go to Washington D.C. and the buses are limited. On May 31, 2025, a bus trip to New York is scheduled and there will be another trip to New York in December 2025.
5.2 COG – Commissioner Kennedy reported that discussions were held on PECO’s 10% rate increase, Delaware Valley Regional Lending Program for Municipalities, and walking across America250.
5.3 Municipal Authority – Commissioner Mullin reported that the Chapter 94 2024 annual report was authorized to forward to DARA and PAWC. Gilmore was authorized to proceed with the preparation of the Dogwood/Scott Grant application Phase 2 Extension Project.
5.4 DARA – Commissioner Mullin reported that DARA stated that Entech continues with their project design.
5.5 Fire Board – Commissioner Mullin reported that Marlene Taylor was nominated as Chairperson. The Township agreement needs to be updated.
5.6 Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans reported that the Old Caln Historical Society historical exhibit is in the Township lobby and is changed to a new exhibit, every few months. Commissioner Evans also reported that they are waiting for the snow cleats for the Spackman-Davis Farmhouse roof. They had discussions on planning for their June 28, 2025, picnic, and grant program for America250 programs. Ms. A. Swan was nominated as their recording secretary. Commissioner Evans stated that they had visitors who purchased the Irwin-Moore house.
5.7 Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Evans reported that they discussed using data to show the reality of Caln Township.
5.8 Ingleside Golf Course – Commissioner Tindaro reported on the golf course discounts and improvements.
6. Additional Business – There was none.
7. Public Comment – There were none.
8. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the March 13, 2025, BOC meeting at 9:02 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Miller,
Assis. Twp. Secretary
Board of Commissioners March 13, 2025
7:30 PM Hybrid Workshop Meeting Minutes
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President (Absent), Jane Kennedy-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Don Vymazal Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant (via Zoom), Ray Stackhouse Director of Building and Life Safety, Abbey Swan Director of Community Enhancement, Johnnie Huggins Director of Public Works, Lisa Swan Treasurer and Director of Finance, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: N/A
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ (BOC) March 13, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township building on March 11, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting. The 2025 Township BOC meetings were published in the Daily Local Newspaper, on December 18, 2024.
Call to Order and Salute to the Flag – Commissioner Mullin called the March 13, 2025, Board meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Commissioner Mullin called for citizens to be heard – There were none.
1.1 Holiday Lighting on Lincoln Highway – Mr. Vymazal explained that during the February 27, 2025, meeting a motion was made to approve the purchase of holiday lighting; however, a formal vote was not called for after it was moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Mullin called for a vote. The vote passed 4-0.
1.1 CASH Service Agreement – Chief Elias explained that the Coatesville Area School District signed the police security agreement after Ms. Camp’s recommended changes. Chief Elias opened a discussion of this agreement, which will be offered for Board consideration at the March 27, 2025, BOC meeting.
1.3 C.C. Preservation and Parks Partnership Grant Program Grant – Mr. Vymazal explained that the county changed their policy to have Municipalities sign their grant contracts before their grant submittal to expedite processing and awarding of the grants. Mr. Vymazal also explained that if awarded, the BOC has the right to reject receiving grant funding even though the contract was signed.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if the Township would receive the full grant amount requested. Mr. Vymazal replied that he believes that the Township will be successful for the full funding.
Commissioner Mullin asked when the amount and terms will be filled out. Mr. Vymazal replied that the county will fill in the amount if the grant is awarded.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Board to sign the Municipal Park and Trail Improvement Grant for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5 Project. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
1.4 Public Works Salt Shed – Mr. Vymazal explained that there are structural concerns with the current salt shed. A new salt shed would comply with the MS4 requirement to store salt properly.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is protection for the front of the shed. Mr. Huggins replied that salt sheds are open in the front, so they cover the salt with a tarp. Also, DEP requires that salt be stored inside the structure. Commissioner Kennedy also asked how much salt the shed holds. Mr. Huggins replied, “800 tons”.
Commissioner Mullin asked if they will be able to see the extent of the damage of the current shed when the salt is removed. Mr. Huggins replied that you can see the damage with the salt in the shed.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if the damaged shed will be demolished after the purchase of a new one. Mr. Huggins replied that it will be used to store equipment until it has been replaced.
1.5 Public Works Line Striping – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion for the public works department line striping.
Noel Bernard would like to see the list of roads to be striped. Ms. Swan shared her screen showing the roads names.
Adam Thomas of 310 Carlyn Court asked if Public Works will be striping roads that will be under construction soon after. Mr. Huggins replied “no.”
1.6 Solid Waste Program Cart Purchase – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion on the proposed purchase of 290-65 gallon recycle carts and 49-95 gallon recycle carts at a cost of $20,803.50. The PADEP Share Grant will fund approximately $20,500.00 utilizing funds that were awarded through the 902 Municipal Recycling Grant Program. The improved recycling carts will increase the collection of recyclables. The Municipal Authority department also would like to purchase 290-65-gallon trash carts along with spare parts, at a cost of $20,116.60.
1.7 Street Parking/Large Vehicles – Mr. Vymazal opened a discussion on the draft code definition for parking of commercial and construction related vehicles and equipment.
Commissioner Evans stated that Aqua had utility trucks parked on Ayerwood Drive when they were working on Lloyd Avenue. There were holes in the road when the trucks left after a year.
Mr. Stackhouse stated that his department would phase in the new code by knocking on residents’ doors, door hangers, or sending letters for a period of time for those who are in violation.
Commissioner Mullin asked if the calls that the township receives on this issue are regarding taking up too much space or safety issues. Mr. Stackhouse replied that both are a concern; however, the safety concern from site obstruction is the main concern.
The Board consensus was for Mr. Stackhouse to proceed by working with Township Solicitor Ms. Camp to draft a code ordinance for the definition of parking of commercial and construction related vehicles, and equipment.
1.8 Drone Workshop – Mr. Vymazal opened discussion on a drone workshop proposal.
Mr. Stackhouse explained that five Thorndale career firefighters and ten others from around Chester County will be attending a Delaware State Fire School Pilot NPFA 2400 Pro Board Certification class here in Caln, tentatively scheduled for May 17, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The classroom portion will be held at the Thorndale Fire Company, and they are proposing to hold the practical portion at the Spackman-Davis Farm because they need a large open area.
Commissioner Evans asked if the drones have an automatic GPS collision response. Mr. Stackhouse replied that it does. It is hard to find a drone without a full technical package.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if this program continues after this class. Mr. Stackhouse replied that the class will continue under their task force.
The Board consensus was to use the Spackman-Davis Farm for the drone certification class.
1.9 Parks Maintenance/Tree Work – Mr. Vymazal explained that more work could be done if there was a dedicated fund associated with tree maintenance and if we pay an hourly rate instead of a per tree cost. Ms. A. Swan stated that all the tree companies’ quotes said that approximately four hemlock trees can be saved.
Commissioner Evans asked if the beech tree could be saved. Ms. A. Swan replied that one trunk of the tree fell in 2024, and the other two can be cabled together.
Commissioner Mullin asked if there is a code where you removed one tree and plant three. Ms. A. Swan replied that the proposals received do not remove any trees behind the house only the “stand alone” trees in front of the Spackman-Davis Farm property along the road.
1.10 CCIU – Chief Elias stated that this school year the police are approaching three hundred service calls to the CCIU. The Sheriff’s office is in discussions with the CCIU to explore a potential partnership regarding a School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. Under Act 67, the police at the Pennsylvania Sheriff’s office are included as potential candidates for the program.
Commissioner Mullin asked if the school has its own Board meetings and if so, could a Board or staff member attend. Mr. Vymazal replied that he believes this is a public entity; however, he will confirm.
Commissioner Kennedy stated that the CCIU is turning into a behavioral type setting.
Mark DeYoung of Beaver Run Road asked if the CCIU is located on Boot Road. Commissioner Mullin replied that there is a CCIU on Boot Road; however, the one that is discussed at the Board meetings is located near Coatesville High School. Chief Elias stated that the Coatesville CCIU is the only school in Chester County having these issues. Chief Elias also stated that the students are from a young age to early twenties.
Commissioner Tindaro asked Chief Elias if he would get other police departments involved with the CCIU. Chief Elias replied that if a student does not live in Caln Township, threatens to shoot a student or staff member or cause violence then he will contact the police department where the student resides. Their police department will determine if there is a potential for that student to carry out the threat. The CCIU will determine if the student can return to school. Chief Elias also stated that Caln police department is the agency of record for incidents that occur in the Township.
Commissioner Mullin asked to have “Coatesville” added to CCIU on the agenda so there is no confusion on which location the meetings are discussing.
2. Resolutions
2.1 Resolution 2025-09 First Responder Wellness Week – Mr. Stackhouse stated that the public sector faces some of the most challenging and stressful work environments for first responders such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, 911 dispatchers, correctional officers, and members of other organizations in the public safety sector. Mr. Stackhouse stated that First Responder Wellness Week is recognized March 24, 2025, through March 28, 2025.
Commissioner Evans read Resolution 2025-09 for the public record.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-09 proclaiming March 24, 2025, to March 28, 2025, as First Responder Wellness Week in Caln Township. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
3. Board Minutes to Approve
3.1 February 27, 2025 - Commissioner Mullin stated that Commissioner Young stated that it looks like the G.O. Carlson curb, at the bridge, is sinking. Mr. Huggins replied that he checked it after the last rainstorm and the water was flowing to the grate.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the February 27, 2025, BOC minutes. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
4. Finance Department
4.1 Check Approval
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 53647 to 53721. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
5. Summary by Applicable Board Liaison
5.1 Parks and Recreation – Ms. A. Swan reviewed the 2025 Parks and Recreation event schedule.
Adam Thomas of 310 Carlyn Court asked the date of Pride Day. Ms. A. Swan replied that it was rebranded to Caln Cleanup Day.
Commissioner Evans asked the date of Community Day. Ms. A. Swan replied “September 6, 2025.”
Commissioner Evans stated that the Spackman-Davis barn is the largest in Chester County.
Commissioner Kennedy asked about the new playground equipment. Ms. A. Swan replied that there will be a saucer swing, merry-go-round, and a new swing set installed in Municipal Park. Commissioner Kennedy also asked if a bus trip to Washington D.C. was scheduled. Ms. A. Swan replied that it is more expensive to go to Washington D.C. and the buses are limited. On May 31, 2025, a bus trip to New York is scheduled and there will be another trip to New York in December 2025.
5.2 COG – Commissioner Kennedy reported that discussions were held on PECO’s 10% rate increase, Delaware Valley Regional Lending Program for Municipalities, and walking across America250.
5.3 Municipal Authority – Commissioner Mullin reported that the Chapter 94 2024 annual report was authorized to forward to DARA and PAWC. Gilmore was authorized to proceed with the preparation of the Dogwood/Scott Grant application Phase 2 Extension Project.
5.4 DARA – Commissioner Mullin reported that DARA stated that Entech continues with their project design.
5.5 Fire Board – Commissioner Mullin reported that Marlene Taylor was nominated as Chairperson. The Township agreement needs to be updated.
5.6 Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans reported that the Old Caln Historical Society historical exhibit is in the Township lobby and is changed to a new exhibit, every few months. Commissioner Evans also reported that they are waiting for the snow cleats for the Spackman-Davis Farmhouse roof. They had discussions on planning for their June 28, 2025, picnic, and grant program for America250 programs. Ms. A. Swan was nominated as their recording secretary. Commissioner Evans stated that they had visitors who purchased the Irwin-Moore house.
5.7 Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Evans reported that they discussed using data to show the reality of Caln Township.
5.8 Ingleside Golf Course – Commissioner Tindaro reported on the golf course discounts and improvements.
6. Additional Business – There was none.
7. Public Comment – There were none.
8. Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the March 13, 2025, BOC meeting at 9:02 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. The vote passed 4-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Miller,
Assis. Twp. Secretary
