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Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes - May 14, 2026

5/14/2026

 
Caln Township 
Chester County, Pennsylvania  
Board of Commissioners  
May 14, 2026 
Board Workshop Meeting Minutes 
1. Call to Order 
Commissioner Young called the meeting to order at 7:37pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited. 
Commissioners Present: Josh Young – President; Mark Evans – Vice President; Jane Kennedy – Commissioner; Paul Mullin – Commissioner; Adam Thomas – Commissioner 
Township staff Present: Don Vymazal – Township Manager; Abbey Swan – Assistant Township Manager; Lisa Swan – Finance Director; Kristin Camp – Solicitor 
Commissioner Young notified the public that there was an Executive Meeting held prior to tonight’s meeting to discuss legal and personnel matters.  
2. Citizens to be Heard 
No citizens requested to be heard. 
3. Presentation: Celebrating 41 years of the Thorndale Inn 
Commissioner Young explained that this Proclamation is celebrating Sam as the owner of the Thorndale Inn and thanking him for his service to the community over these 41 years. Commission Thomas also thanked Sam for being an institution and hopes that the new owners have the same commitment and longevity in our Town. Commissioner Evans commended Sam on his hospitality toward groups and his friendship and support throughout the years. He also thanked Sam for making him feel welcome. Commissioner Mullin reflected on how his family had his daughter’s baptism at the Thorndale Inn and continued to go to the restaurant to hear Sam’s stories about the Township.  
Sam expressed his gratitude and love for the Township and everyone who works here. 
4. Township Solicitor 
4.1 Conditional Use Order – Sheetz (Discussion / Action Item) 
Solicitor Camp announced the proposed decision for the Sheetz Incorporated conditional use application. They filed an application on December 5th, 2025, seeking to demolish the existing Rite Aid building, develop it with a 6,139 square foot convenience store with two drive-through windows, 6 gasoline pumps under a canopy, and 43 off-street parking spaces. They needed conditional use approval under Section 155-26(C)(5) for the convenience store and Section 155-26(C)(9). The proposed order has been circulated to the board, and the 14 conditions were summarized by Solicitor Camp.  
Commissioner Evans noted that there was just a major accident at the intersection where the Sheetz is proposing to build and a fatality earlier this year. He also mentioned that Vision Zero is coming and is about making Lincoln Highway safe for pedestrians and cyclists and safety at this intersection was an important part of that project. 
Commissioner Young recognized resident Rick Milne in the audience who noted that there were other uses for the property if the township wanted to use eminent domain. He noted an auxilary firehouse would be nice and that it would be expensive.  
Commissioner Thomas noted that this is just conditional use and they need to come back for land development. 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the Conditional Use Order as laid out by Solicitor Camp. 
Moved: Commissioner Mullin 
Seconded: Commissioner Thomas 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
5. Township Manager 
5.1 2026 Caln Township Street Sweeping (Discussion) 
Mr. Vymazal presented the second lowest bid for the street sweeping contract for the Township. As noted in the last business meeting, the street sweeper provided by the first company had many technical issues so the Township received a full refund and gave the equipment back. The second lowest bidder was Bortek Industries at $11,350. Mr. Vymazal noted that in the past the Township used to hire companies to sweep the streets but realized that it was cheaper to rent the equipment and have Township staff who are certified operate them. He also noted that they need to sweep before they do the line striping so the Board could consider this tonight. 
Commissioner Thomas asked if in the future they could approve back up options ahead of time. 
Commissioner Young mentioned that would not be possible since we are signing a contract. 
Commissioner Evans wanted to confirm that the Township was refunded from the first contract and Mr. Vymazal answered affirmatively. 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to rent the street sweeper from Bortek Industries in the amount not to exceed $11,350. 
Moved: Commissioner Evans 
Seconded: Commissioner Thomas 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
5.2 Hazelwood Ave. Guiderail Project (Discussion) 
Mr. Vymazal introduced a project to repair the guiderail on the eastern side of Hazelwood Avenue. There was a failure in the stormwater inlet that discharged into a gully near the Amtrak line threatening the shoulder of the roadway. The proposal would include replacement of the stormwater infrastructure, the inlet, restoring and stabilizing the wall at the edge of the road and the shoulder, repaving and installing a new guardrail. Total cost would be $55,017 for that full work to be completed.  
Commissioner Evans asked if we have this in our Capital Improvements fund. 
Mr. Vymazal said it is. 
Commissioner Mullins asked if the road will be torn up 
Mr. Vymazal said there may be one lane closure while work is done and then repaved. 
5.3 Engenius Phase II Website Contract (Discussion) 
Ms. A. Swan presented the phase two contract for the redesign of the Township website. She summarized some suggestions from the company including an FAQ page, a page attracting business owners, and a better calendar. 
Commissioner Thomas asked about searching E-codes or GIS directly. 
Ms A. Swan replied that it is something they could consider. 
Commissioner Mullin asked about thoughts on Phase II. 
Ms. A. Swan said they were all shocked at how quickly it came together and that our recommendation is reviewing budget considerations prior to starting Phase II.  She mentioned that it would be a very quick turnaround once it starts and would coordinate with Engenius for the best start time for this project. 
5.4 Vision Zero Update (Discussion) 
Mr. Vymazal said there was a site walk through two weeks ago and they are going to memorialize concerns in their report. He also reminded everyone that there are still 2 more days to take the survey. TMAC did an active transportation plan and the Vision Zero project adds to that. In the end we are hoping for funding to implement the recommendations. The first public meeting will be Monday, June 15.  
Commissioner Evans mentioned that Caln was the first suburb to be chosen and they’re used to getting lots of participants in their surveys. He encouraged everyone to take the survey. 
Commissioner Young recognized resident Marc Fox who asked whether the survey covered 500 feet on the sides of the Highway since we really need sidewalks between GO Carlson and Lincoln Highway on Bondsville Road.  
Mr. Vymazal responded that the survey focuses on the highway but they take into consideration traffic onto the Highway. Later connectivity with the incoming trails will need to be considered in the design. But that will be the next phase. 
5.5 Caln Meetinghouse Licenses Agreement (Discussion) 
Mr. Vymazal was happy to report we are close to an agreement. After speaking with Solicitor Camp, the Township will move to a license agreement with the Meetinghouse instead of lease to make it easier for ownership to transfer. The Township is just waiting for word from Chester County Courts that it’s been approved. 
Commissioner Evans noted that it would be great to have this approved by the next meeting for the upcoming events. 
5.6 Vehicle Transfer Request – T2 Ingleside (Discussion / Action) 
Mr. Vymazal noted that the Board voted to list 3 vehicles on MuniciBids in April. After this meeting it came to the Township attention that Ingleside could use one of the vehicles to help plow out the golf course property instead of waiting for public works to get to them. Although there aren’t usually golfers when it snows, the proshop is open so having accessible roadways is needed.  
Commissioner Evans asked where the vehicle would be parked. 
Mr. Vymazal said he would confirm with Ms. Shannon but thinks it would be by the maintenance barn. Mr. Vymazal also noted he would ask them to also plow out 300 N. Bailey.  
Commissioner Evans noted that the truck is very old and may need maintenance. He asked if maintenance for the truck is in the budget. 
Mr. Vymazal concurred and said they would be spending less than if it was out on township roads but he didn’t have those numbers at the moment. 
Commissioner Evans mentioned he would feel better having those estimated costs and knowing where the vehicle would be kept. 
Commissioner Kennedy asked if the golf course has a certified driver for the truck. 
Mr. Vymazal said that Ms. Shannon and Mr. Fragale have experience. 
Commissioner Mullin confirmed it would be good to transfer it over to help maintain 300 N. Bailey. If it starts giving problems we can put it back on MuniciBid. 
Commissioner Young said we would get the information and consider it at the next meeting. 
Commissioner Thomas wanted to confirm that they would only be taking the large truck on the roads and not on the fairways. 
Mr. Vymazal confirmed. 
Commissioner Thomas asked about which roads would be the Township responsibility and which would be the Fairways. 
Commissioner Young mentioned that a sizable number of the roads are our responsibility.  
Commissioner Mullin asked if it was up on MuniciBid yet. 
Mr. Vymazal said that once this was brought up he wanted to bring it in front of the Board so they didn’t list it yet. 
Commissioner Young recognized resident Rick Milne who asked if the truck would be used for anything other than plowing. 
Mr Vymazal said there are other projects it could be used for around the golf course that require dirt hauling. 
6. Resolutions 
6.1 Resolution 2026-18 – EMS Week (Action Item) 
Commissioner Young explained that this resolution recognizes EMS Week and celebrate our emergency medical services. 
Commissioner Evans noted that it’s a good week to send in your donations. 
Commissioner Mullin recognized Minquas Assistant Chief Sarro who thanked the Board for recognizing EMS Week. 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-18 recognizing EMS Week. 
Moved: Commissioner Mullin 
Seconded: Commissioner Evans 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
6.2 Resolution 2026-19 – National Police Week (Action Item) 
Commissioner Evans noted that our police rescued a swan that flew into someone’s home this evening.  
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-19 recognizing National Police Week. 
Moved: Commissioner Evans 
Seconded: Commissioner Thomas 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
Chief Elias noted that since they started keeping track in 1786 we’ve lost over 24,500 officers. He thanked the Board for recognizing this week. 
7. Board Minutes 
7.1 April 9, 2026 (Action Item) 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the April 9, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting minutes. 
Moved: Commissioner Evans 
Seconded: Commissioner Kennedy 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
7.2 April 30, 2026 (Action Item) 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the April 30, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting minutes. 
Moved: Commissioner Mullin 
Seconded: Commissioner Kennedy 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
8. Finance Department 
8.1 Financial Report 1st Quarter Update (Discussion) 
Ms. L. Swan reported that Budget revenue is currently at 22% retention rate for the first quarter. Our general fund tax as of the first quarter was at 34%. Last year, we were only at 19%. To date, we are at a 91% retention in collecting the real estate tax. Expenditures for the first quarter 2026 are at 42% of the approved budget. Last year, we were at 23%. Last year, capital purchases didn't come in until August or September. This year, they were ready February, March. We did implement the full-time firefighters and they've come on board. Our three to five year plan has been implemented. Ingleside staffing is up. The first quarter for the total township has 68 full-timers and 32 part-timers. Last year, we were at 60 full-timers and 29 part-time and seasonal help. Health costs had a 5% increase so on target there. Our capital equipment capital planning is on track for the first quarter. Stormwater dynamics, our five-year plan has started. We should be ready for anything that pops up from our annual maintenance from our public works crew. Grants, we continue to knock that out of the park. We've been awarded upwards of $2.8 million. Our fund balance is still hanging on between 25 and 30% rate, which leaves us in really good position for the balance of the year. 
Commissioner Thomas asked what the state minimum for fund balance is. 
Ms. L. Swan replied they like it to be at least 10%. 
Commissioner Young recognize resident Rick Milne who asked about the funding for the 2500 Chevy pick up truck that Public Works recently purchased. Ms. L. Swan explained that the funding for that came from either the capital replacement plan or the liquid fuels. Mr. Milne asked why it had the upfit included and Ms. L. Swan explained that the Township gets a discount through CoStars so it evened out. 
8.2 Check List (Action Item) 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve checks numbered 55779 to 55831. 
Moved: Commissioner Mullin 
Seconded: Commissioner Thomas 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
9. Summary by applicable Board liaison 
9.1 Parks and Recreation Board 
Commissioner Kennedy reported that the Fishing Rodeo gave a presentation on their program and are interested in doing it at Lloyd Park. It is an opportunity to teach children how to fish. They are still collecting information on the program and whether it would be possible in the Township. The Parks and Rec board attended the Caln Spring Fair and is looking into fishing signage for Lloyd Park. The first Summer Series event will be July 18 showing National Treasure. Texas Roadhouse is interested in having a booth at Township events. The Board also discussed accommodations for blind visitors to the Township parks. She also highlighted the 250 anniversary picnic and Art in the Park events. The Washington DC bus trip sold out and the Board is reviewing the Kings Highway Park grant application. 
9.2 COG 
Commissioner Kennedy reported that they awarded their student scholarship. There was also discussion of whether Caln Township has any data centers being proposed. Mr. Vymazal reported that COG also discussed the UCC appeal board if someone has an appeal for a building decision and there's an option for a regional appeal board and potentially serving as the regional board. The challenge is you need specific certifications in order to serve on that board, an architect, a, you know, contractor, engineer. So if we do it regionally, we have a much wider pool in case there's an appeal. 
9.3 Municipal Authority/DARA  
Commissioner Mulllin reported that the Municipal Authority chairman was approved to sign the sewer capacity reallocation agreement for the old Burger King property. Were able to reallocate 3 EDUs back to the township since the new bank only needs one. The bid documents for the Kings Grant Pump Station went live in April. Future expansion final design is almost complete for DARA. Expect it to be ready in June for fall bidding. 
9.4 Fire Board  
Did not meet this month. 
9.5 Historical Commission  
Commissioner Evans reported that the Historical Commission is focused on their upcoming 250 events. Thursday June 18 Town Tours and the June 20th Spackman Davis Farm picnic. Historic preservation ordinance is moving forward and we should be ready for a special commissioners meeting to be scheduled for late June. Commissioner Evans also noted the passing of Commission member Leah Jennings.  
Commissioner Kennedy asked if people can bring their own picnic baskets to the picnic. Commissioner Evans replied that it is permitted but advised that people be thoughtful about what they bring. He also reminded everyone that it is being catered and you can purchase tickets online now.  
9.6 Lincoln Highway 
Commissioner Thomas reported that now that Zoning is done they are moving on to SLDO. They will also hold a public meeting on June 15th to discuss the Lincon Highway corridor and safety issues.  
10. Additional Business 
No additional business. 
11. Public Comment 
No public comment. 
12. Adjournment 
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to adjourn the meeting. 
Moved: Commissioner Evans 
Seconded: Commissioner Thomas 
Vote: 5-0 (unanimous) 
Meeting adjourned at 9:11pm.

Respectfully submitted,

JoEllen McBride 
Office and Sustainability Coordinator 

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