Caln Township
Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners Minutes
March 26, 2026, 7:30 PM
Caln Municipal Building & Microsoft Teams (Hybrid Meeting)
Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners Minutes
March 26, 2026, 7:30 PM
Caln Municipal Building & Microsoft Teams (Hybrid Meeting)
Call to Order, Salute to the Flag, and Moment of Silence
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by Commissioner Mark Evans. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The Board observed a moment of silence in memory of Tom Fluck, a longtime community member and volunteer, whose recent passing was noted.
Commissioners present (in person or remotely):
Citizens to Be Heard (Agenda Items Only)
No residents came forward or requested to speak on agenda items.
1. Solicitor’s Report
1.1 Ordinance 2026-05 – Amending Chapter 33 (Fire & Emergency Services)
Solicitor Kristen Camp presented Ordinance 2026-05, which repeals and replaces Chapter 33 of the Township Code to modernize and clarify fire, EMS, and emergency management services. The ordinance had been properly advertised.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to adopt ordinance 2026-05 amending chapter 33 of the Count Township Fire and Emergency Services.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
1.2 4103 Edges Mill Road – Minor Subdivision Plan
The Board considered approval of a minor subdivision plan for property located at 4103 Edges Mill Road (John and Ruth McLucas). The proposal subdivides an 11.5-acre parcel into two lots and includes three requested waivers (flag lot, curbing, sidewalks). The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions.
Sidewalk waiver justification due to safety conditions along Edges Mill Road was noted for the record.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the minor subdivision plan with waivers and conditions as outlined, including sidewalk waiver due to safety constraints.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
2. Director Reports
2.1 Minquas EMS
No in-person report; written report provided.
2.2 Fire Department
The Fire Chief reported service milestones for members, receipt of a State Fire Commissioner grant (~$15,500), and progress toward delivery of a new fire engine following inspection in Florida. Maintenance issues with the current engine and interim plans were discussed.
Commissioner Evans asked when the truck will be delivered and the Chief deferred to Mr. Stackhouse’s report.
2.3 Building & Life Safety
Mr. Stackhouse reported on new townhome construction beginning by DR Horton, review of resubmitted building plans for Farmhouse redevelopment, completion of civil service testing for emergency services staffing, the new truck should be delivered in the next two weeks, current truck needs maintenance so will need to borrow a truck from another township, EMS system study progress updates, and staff training efforts.
Commissioner Evans asked if additional time was required to add signage and equipment to truck.
Mr. Stackhouse replied that they will need additional weeks to mount equipment.
2.4 Public Works
Mr. Riley reported on 5 additional calls for winter storm responses, equipment repairs, roadside maintenance, sign replacements, delivery of a new plow, and completion of Christmas tree recycling.
Commissioner Kennedy asked about the damaged sign when entering the Township from Coatesville.
Mr. Riley replied that they have the sign in their shop but they need to find someone to rebuild the sign.
2.5 Ingleside Golf Course
Ms. Nicole reported February activity was limited due to weather. Planning continued for events, camps, and maintenance preparation for the upcoming golf season.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is space on the golf course for families to put-put or other activities.
Ms. Nicole replied she would keep it in mind for the future.
2.6 Community Enhancement
Assistant Township Manager Abby Swan highlighted the success of the Carver Court exhibit, EAC winter seed sowing event and sustainability initiatives, newsletter, social media, and website analytics, and upcoming cleanups and “Art in the Park” programming.
Commissioner Thomas asked if welcome postcards are sent monthly to new residents.
Ms. A. Swan replied affirmatively.
2.7 Police Department
Police Chief Elias reported on officer service milestones, increased call volume and proactive patrol activity, launch of the Blue Envelope Program supporting drivers with autism, and upcoming “Coffee with the Cop and Firefighters” event (April 7, 2026).
3. Finance Department
3.1 Financial Report
Finance Director Lisa Swan reported favorable year-to-date revenue and expenditure trends. Township fund balance remains strong. Tax billing and discount period reminders were provided.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose (resident) who expressed thanks to all the township first responders and asked about the reserve fund balance. Ms. L. Swan replied that it remains strong at $3.5 million. Mr. Rose asked if that is after the purchase of the Lounge and Ms. L. Swan replied affirmatively. Mr. Rose asked what the policy is for the reserve fund as a percentage of budget. Ms. L. Swan replied we like to see 10-15% and we are at 27-30%. Mr. Rose asked where the additional money came from over the last two years. Ms. L. Swan replied that the township had 98% of taxes collected.
3.2 Check List
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve checks #55567 through #55645.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4. Township Manager
Commissioner Evans asked if there are any updates about the updated zoning ordinance. Mr. Vymazal replied that the county had completed is full 247 review for an updated zoning ordinance and it met the Vision Partnership Program requirements and Landscapes 3 (County’s comprehensive plan). They are ready to move forward with adopting the ordinance updates that took 5 years to complete.
4.1 2026 Lawn Maintenance Program
Bids were reviewed. Yellowstone Landscape submitted the lowest responsible bid.
Commissioner Evans asked what is known about Yellowstone.
Mr. Vymazal replied that they are not headquartered here and would need to learn the township properties.
Commissioner Kennedy asked for Director Huggins thoughts on the bids.
Mr. Huggins recommends going with the lowest bid.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose who asked about reduction in scope.
Mr. Vymazal responded that the Amtrak properties were not included in the scope this year and township employees will maintain that property.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize the board vice-president to sign a contract with Yellowstone Landscape as the lowest responsible bidder for 28 cuttings in the amount of $2,422.17 each with an annual cost of $67,820.76 for the municipal property maintenance 2026 season.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.2 Township Website Provider
Staff recommended Eugenius for website strategy and planning.
Commissioner Thomas noted that he asked Ms. A. Swan about how Eugenius compared with the web manager the other county websites use and integrating with emergency alerts.
Ms. A. Swan responded that the alerts are a separate service and can likely be integrated into the new website.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the assistant township manager to sign a contract with Eugenius for $9,964.00 for website strategy and planning.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.3 Street Sweeping Program
Recommendation to rent a street sweeper and perform sweeping in-house. Quotes were similar to last year and Steuart Amos Equipment Company came in cheapest.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose who thanked the crews for their work at keeping the streets cleaned.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the township manager to sign the street sweeping program contract with Steuart Amos Equipment Company in the amount of $9,945 for 30 days.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.4 DARA Intermunicipal Agreement – Seventh Amendment
The amendment relates to wastewater capacity transfers among member municipalities.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize the board president to sign the Seventh Amendment to the DARA Intermunicipal Agreement of December 27, 1985.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.5 Liquid Fuels Independent Bank Account
Recommendation from the Commonwealth that evolved to a strong recommendation to establish a separate liquid fuels account for funds received from the state for audit and tracking purposes.
Commissioner Evans asked if investing funds is encouraged by the state.
Ms. Swan answered affirmatively.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize Finance Director L. Swan to open a separate liquid fuels independent bank account.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).5. Minutes
5. Minutes
5.1 February 26, 2026
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to table minutes for revision.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
5.2 March 12, 2026
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to approve minutes of March 12, 2026.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
6. Planning Commission Minutes
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to acknowledge receipt of Planning Commission minutes dated February 17, 2026.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
7. Additional Business
No additional business was brought before the Board.
8. Public Comment
Resident comments were received as summarized below.
9. Adjournment
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to adjourn meeting.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:53 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
JoEllen McBride
Office & Sustainability Coordinator
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by Commissioner Mark Evans. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The Board observed a moment of silence in memory of Tom Fluck, a longtime community member and volunteer, whose recent passing was noted.
Commissioners present (in person or remotely):
- Adam Thomas, Commissioner
- Jane Kennedy, Commissioner
- Mark Evans, Vice-President
- Township Manager - Don Vymazal
- Assistant Township Manager - Abby Swan
- Finance Director - Lisa Swan
- Township Solicitor - Kristen Camp
- Department Directors and staff
- Ray Stackhouse, Life & Safety
- Nicole Shannon, Ingleside
- Ray Stackhouse, Life & Safety
Citizens to Be Heard (Agenda Items Only)
No residents came forward or requested to speak on agenda items.
1. Solicitor’s Report
1.1 Ordinance 2026-05 – Amending Chapter 33 (Fire & Emergency Services)
Solicitor Kristen Camp presented Ordinance 2026-05, which repeals and replaces Chapter 33 of the Township Code to modernize and clarify fire, EMS, and emergency management services. The ordinance had been properly advertised.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to adopt ordinance 2026-05 amending chapter 33 of the Count Township Fire and Emergency Services.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
1.2 4103 Edges Mill Road – Minor Subdivision Plan
The Board considered approval of a minor subdivision plan for property located at 4103 Edges Mill Road (John and Ruth McLucas). The proposal subdivides an 11.5-acre parcel into two lots and includes three requested waivers (flag lot, curbing, sidewalks). The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions.
Sidewalk waiver justification due to safety conditions along Edges Mill Road was noted for the record.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the minor subdivision plan with waivers and conditions as outlined, including sidewalk waiver due to safety constraints.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
2. Director Reports
2.1 Minquas EMS
No in-person report; written report provided.
2.2 Fire Department
The Fire Chief reported service milestones for members, receipt of a State Fire Commissioner grant (~$15,500), and progress toward delivery of a new fire engine following inspection in Florida. Maintenance issues with the current engine and interim plans were discussed.
Commissioner Evans asked when the truck will be delivered and the Chief deferred to Mr. Stackhouse’s report.
2.3 Building & Life Safety
Mr. Stackhouse reported on new townhome construction beginning by DR Horton, review of resubmitted building plans for Farmhouse redevelopment, completion of civil service testing for emergency services staffing, the new truck should be delivered in the next two weeks, current truck needs maintenance so will need to borrow a truck from another township, EMS system study progress updates, and staff training efforts.
Commissioner Evans asked if additional time was required to add signage and equipment to truck.
Mr. Stackhouse replied that they will need additional weeks to mount equipment.
2.4 Public Works
Mr. Riley reported on 5 additional calls for winter storm responses, equipment repairs, roadside maintenance, sign replacements, delivery of a new plow, and completion of Christmas tree recycling.
Commissioner Kennedy asked about the damaged sign when entering the Township from Coatesville.
Mr. Riley replied that they have the sign in their shop but they need to find someone to rebuild the sign.
2.5 Ingleside Golf Course
Ms. Nicole reported February activity was limited due to weather. Planning continued for events, camps, and maintenance preparation for the upcoming golf season.
Commissioner Kennedy asked if there is space on the golf course for families to put-put or other activities.
Ms. Nicole replied she would keep it in mind for the future.
2.6 Community Enhancement
Assistant Township Manager Abby Swan highlighted the success of the Carver Court exhibit, EAC winter seed sowing event and sustainability initiatives, newsletter, social media, and website analytics, and upcoming cleanups and “Art in the Park” programming.
Commissioner Thomas asked if welcome postcards are sent monthly to new residents.
Ms. A. Swan replied affirmatively.
2.7 Police Department
Police Chief Elias reported on officer service milestones, increased call volume and proactive patrol activity, launch of the Blue Envelope Program supporting drivers with autism, and upcoming “Coffee with the Cop and Firefighters” event (April 7, 2026).
3. Finance Department
3.1 Financial Report
Finance Director Lisa Swan reported favorable year-to-date revenue and expenditure trends. Township fund balance remains strong. Tax billing and discount period reminders were provided.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose (resident) who expressed thanks to all the township first responders and asked about the reserve fund balance. Ms. L. Swan replied that it remains strong at $3.5 million. Mr. Rose asked if that is after the purchase of the Lounge and Ms. L. Swan replied affirmatively. Mr. Rose asked what the policy is for the reserve fund as a percentage of budget. Ms. L. Swan replied we like to see 10-15% and we are at 27-30%. Mr. Rose asked where the additional money came from over the last two years. Ms. L. Swan replied that the township had 98% of taxes collected.
3.2 Check List
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve checks #55567 through #55645.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4. Township Manager
Commissioner Evans asked if there are any updates about the updated zoning ordinance. Mr. Vymazal replied that the county had completed is full 247 review for an updated zoning ordinance and it met the Vision Partnership Program requirements and Landscapes 3 (County’s comprehensive plan). They are ready to move forward with adopting the ordinance updates that took 5 years to complete.
4.1 2026 Lawn Maintenance Program
Bids were reviewed. Yellowstone Landscape submitted the lowest responsible bid.
Commissioner Evans asked what is known about Yellowstone.
Mr. Vymazal replied that they are not headquartered here and would need to learn the township properties.
Commissioner Kennedy asked for Director Huggins thoughts on the bids.
Mr. Huggins recommends going with the lowest bid.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose who asked about reduction in scope.
Mr. Vymazal responded that the Amtrak properties were not included in the scope this year and township employees will maintain that property.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize the board vice-president to sign a contract with Yellowstone Landscape as the lowest responsible bidder for 28 cuttings in the amount of $2,422.17 each with an annual cost of $67,820.76 for the municipal property maintenance 2026 season.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.2 Township Website Provider
Staff recommended Eugenius for website strategy and planning.
Commissioner Thomas noted that he asked Ms. A. Swan about how Eugenius compared with the web manager the other county websites use and integrating with emergency alerts.
Ms. A. Swan responded that the alerts are a separate service and can likely be integrated into the new website.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the assistant township manager to sign a contract with Eugenius for $9,964.00 for website strategy and planning.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.3 Street Sweeping Program
Recommendation to rent a street sweeper and perform sweeping in-house. Quotes were similar to last year and Steuart Amos Equipment Company came in cheapest.
Commissioner Evans recognized Mr. Vince Rose who thanked the crews for their work at keeping the streets cleaned.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to approve the township manager to sign the street sweeping program contract with Steuart Amos Equipment Company in the amount of $9,945 for 30 days.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.4 DARA Intermunicipal Agreement – Seventh Amendment
The amendment relates to wastewater capacity transfers among member municipalities.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize the board president to sign the Seventh Amendment to the DARA Intermunicipal Agreement of December 27, 1985.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
4.5 Liquid Fuels Independent Bank Account
Recommendation from the Commonwealth that evolved to a strong recommendation to establish a separate liquid fuels account for funds received from the state for audit and tracking purposes.
Commissioner Evans asked if investing funds is encouraged by the state.
Ms. Swan answered affirmatively.
Motion: Commissioner Evans entertained a motion to authorize Finance Director L. Swan to open a separate liquid fuels independent bank account.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).5. Minutes
5. Minutes
5.1 February 26, 2026
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to table minutes for revision.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
5.2 March 12, 2026
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to approve minutes of March 12, 2026.
Moved: Jane Kennedy
Seconded: Adam Thomas
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
6. Planning Commission Minutes
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to acknowledge receipt of Planning Commission minutes dated February 17, 2026.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
7. Additional Business
No additional business was brought before the Board.
8. Public Comment
Resident comments were received as summarized below.
- Public Safety Inquiry: Mr. Vince Rose asked whether a suspect connected to a recent shooting at a local lounge had been apprehended. The Police Chief stated that the matter remains an active investigation and that no additional details could be released at this time.
- Former Lounge / Golf Course Property Purchase: Longtime resident Mr. Vince Rose expressed concerns regarding the Township’s recent purchase of the former restaurant/property adjacent to the golf course. Mr. Rose cited the approximately $1 million cost, the reduction in the Township’s reserve fund, and the absence of a publicly presented business plan or return-on-investment analysis prior to purchase. Concerns regarding transparency, timing, and public involvement were raised. The Board Vice-President and Township Manager responded that the acquisition was time-sensitive, intended to protect Township and golf course interests, and that a discussion on potential uses and long-term plans for the property once the former owner completes removal of personal property.
- Property Transition Clarification: Ms. Noel asked additional questions were raised regarding the ownership status of the property, timelines for vacating the premises, and what furnishings or equipment would remain. The Township Manager clarified that settlement had occurred, the Township now owns the property, and that restaurant equipment and fixtures would remain, with the former owner given 30–60 days to remove personal items. Staff noted the goal of maintaining the building as a turnkey facility.
- Investment and Township Growth Perspectives: Ms. Licia Carini spoke in support of forward-thinking investment by the Township, emphasizing economic development, amenities, and quality-of-life improvements as necessary to attract and retain residents. Comparisons were made between municipal taxes and school district taxes, noting that school taxes constitute the largest portion of the overall tax burden. Ms. Carini encouraged community focus on long-term growth, zoning updates, and reinvestment in the Township’s core assets.
- Zoning Updates: Ms. Alicia Carini made positive comment regarding recent progress toward adoption of the updated zoning ordinance, with appreciation expressed for the multi-year effort to balance growth, preservation, and planning objectives.
9. Adjournment
Motion: Commissioner Evans motioned to adjourn meeting.
Moved: Adam Thomas
Seconded: Jane Kennedy
Vote: Unanimous – Motion carried (3–0).
Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:53 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
JoEllen McBride
Office & Sustainability Coordinator
