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Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes - May 29, 2025

5/29/2025

 
Caln Township Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners May 29, 2025
7:30 PM Hybrid Business Meeting Minutes
 
Caln Township Board Members: Paul Mullin-President, Joshua B. Young-Vice President, Jane Kennedy-Commissioner (Zoom), Mark Evans-Commissioner, and Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner.
 
Staff Members Present: Don Vymazal-Township Manager and Township Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant, Abbey Swan-Director of Community Enhancement, Johnnie Huggins-Director of Public Works Department, Nicole Shannon Manager and Superintendent-Ingleside Golf Course, John Grant-Ingleside Golf Course-Operations Manager, Ray Stackhouse-Director of Building and Life Safety, Lisa Swan-Director of Finance and Township Treasurer, and Police Chief Elias.
 
Professionals Present: Chief Taylor-Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company, Dereck Dry-Minquas, Ross Bickhart-Gilmore & Associates.
 
Special Guest: N/A
 
The Board of Commissioners’ (BOC) May 29, 2025, agenda was posted on the Township website, at the Township building on May 27, 2025, and agendas were made available for the public, at the meeting. The 2025 Township meeting schedule was published in the Daily Local Newspaper, on December 18, 2024.
 
Call to Order and Salute to the Flag – Commissioner Mullin called the May 29, 2025, meeting to order at 7:40 PM. He then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
 
  Citizens to be Heard – There were none.
 
Presentation: Duane Riley Public Works Promotion – Mr. Huggins introduced 2-year employee Duane Riley. Mr. Riley has been promoted to Foreman in the Public Works Department. The BOC congratulated Mr. Riley on his promotion.

  1. Engineering
1.1 Thorndale Fire Company Access Drive PSA – Mr. Bickhart explained that the fire company is experiencing pavement damage at the entrance to their building where the heavy equipment enters and exits. There is also pavement deterioration from poor drainage and the paved driveway is difficult to plow. Mr. Bickhart further explained that a topographic survey of the property and preparing the cost estimate is also included in the project.
 
Commissioner Mullin commented on the map showing the second portion in front of the firehall. Mr. Bickhart shared his screen of the drawing and explained the locations where the work will be done.
 
For Board consideration, Mr. Bickhart offered a PSA at a “not-to-exceed” cost of $9,600.00.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve a PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Thorndale Fire Company Paving and Drainage Improvements for the “not to exceed” cost of $9,600.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
1.2 MS4 Public Presentation – Mr. Bickhart explained that the MS4 program originates from the EPA and the PADEP is in charge for the state and Municipalities have a lot of responsibilities to comply with the MS4 requirements. The goal is to be aware that stormwater can be a source of pollutants that get into waterways. There are minimum control measures that are part of the townships MS4 plan. Mr. Bickhart further explained the different programs to those in attendance.
 
Commissioner Young asked Mr. Bickhart to clarify that this permit is not optional for Municipalities. Mr. Bickhart explained that the MS4 program is mandatory and permit requirements on an annual basis that must be met.
 
Commissioner Kennedy stated that this presentation information will help maintain the quality in the environment, waterways, drainage systems, and pollutants.
 
Commissioner Mullin asked if this presentation is on the Township website. Mr. Bickhart replied that it is not; however, he will send it to Ms. A. Swan to post it.
 
1.3 Caln Meetinghouse Road Bridge Temporary Construction PSA – Mr. Bickhart explained that the Township received concerns about the bridge on Caln Meetinghouse Road south of the intersection with Fisherville Road. Gilmores’ structural team inspected the bridge on May 2nd and found that the abutments of the bridge are severely undermined by erosion and scour. Gilmore’s recommended the closure to vehicles and pedestrian traffic. Since this bridge is viewed as an emergency condition, a full public bidding is not required. Mr. Bickhart requested approval of Gilmore’s presented PSA in the “not-to-exceed” amount of $66,000.00. Mr. Bickhart also requested authorization to send the bid package out to three contractors for their rapid pricing.
 
Commissioner Evans asked the cost of the construction project. Mr. Bickhart replied that it could cost $100,000.00 to $200,000.00.
 
Commissioner Young asked when the bridge will be completed. Mr. Bickhart replied that the project is estimated to be completed in late August for the emergency repairs to get the bridge stabilized and reopened to traffic. A separate future phase is for the replacement of the bridge.
 
Commissioner Evans asked how long the bridge stabilization will last. Mr. Bickhart replied that it could last several years.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve a Temporary Construction PSA with Gilmore & Associates for the Caln Meetinghouse Road Bridge Emergency Repairs for the “not to exceed” cost of $66,000.00. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to release the bid package to the three contractors for pricing. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.

2. Resolutions
2.1 Resolution 2024-14 Caln Township Meetinghouse Bridge – Mr. Vymazal explained that this resolution is required to advance under the emergency conditions that allow the Township to move quickly. This resolution also declares that Caln Meetinghouse Bridge is an emergency.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2024-14 declaring an emergency condition which necessitates the closure of the bridge on Caln Meetinghouse Road and authorizing the award of a contract without a public bid process. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
2.2 Resolution 2025-15 Municipal Fire Department Capital Grant Program – Mr. Vymazal explained that with the recent involvement of the Township in supporting the Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company (TDVFC) directly from a career staff standpoint. The TDVFC qualifies as a combination fire department under the legislation that passed in 2022 in Harrisburg. They are applying for fire protection gear for $36,127.80, updated lifeline rope and equipment for emergency situations in the amount of $20, 941.82, and 10 portable AEDs for all emergency response vehicles in the amount of $27,850.51.
 
Commissioner Evans asked if there is a Township match for this grant. Mr. Vymazal replied that there is not a match.
 
Commissioner Mullin asked when the Township know if we are eligible. Mr. Vymazal replied that it will depend on the outcome of the Harrisburg June-July budget discussion but most likely in the fall.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2025-15 requesting $84,920.13 in funding through the Office of the State Fire Commission Municipal Fire Department Capital Grant Program to support the purchase of vital lifesaving emergency response equipment for the Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
3.    Director Reports
3.1 Fire Company – From his April 2025 report, Chief Taylor reported that FEMA denied two rounds of grants for 23 SCBAs, so they had to pay $220,000.00 to purchase them.
 
3.2 Minquas EMS – From his April 2025 report, Mr. Dry reported that one of their trucks is at the auto shop, so they are using a yellow and blue ambulance.
 
3.3 Ingleside Golf Course – From her April 2025 report, Ms. Shannon reported 2,500 golfers, 1,000 users of the driving range, and $80,00.00 in revenue.
 
Mr. Grant stated that the golf course hired 12-18 employees and a Teaching Golf Professional. He also reviewed the summer programs they are having.
 
3.4 Public Works – From his April 2025 report, Mr. Huggins reported that the three pieces of playground equipment has been installed at the Municipal Park.
 
Commissioner Evans stated that the work public works did and continuing to do at the Spackman-Davis Farm has made the location prestige.
 
Commissioner Mullin asked about the ducklings that were in a storm drain. Mr. Stackhouse replied that there were two different incidents, and they were all rescued.
 
3.5 Building & Life Safety – From his April 2025 report, Mr. Stackhouse reported his department is actively working with businesses and residents on overgrown grass. Due to the weather, it has been difficult to mow the grass. Mr. Stackhouse also reported four additional part-time firefighters were hired.
 
3.6 Police Department – From his April 2025 report, Chief Elias reported 18 years of service for Staff Sergeant Nathan Miller. Since the beginning of the year, they had 3,904 calls from 3,707 at the same time in 2024.
 
3.7 Community Enhancement – From her April 2025, report Ms. A. Swan reported that they provided residents with a “backstage tour” of township facilities; 5 videos highlighted the Wastewater, Police, Parks, Public Works, and the Fire Departments.

4. Finance Department
4.1 Financial Report – From her April 2025 report, Ms. L. Swan reported the general fund is collectively at approximately 50% collected with 90% from the tax bills.
4.2 Check List  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve checks 54005-54104 and manual check 315. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.

5. Township Manager
Commissioner Mullin stated EAC Applicant Debra Town was interviewed prior to tonight’s meeting and will be on the June 12th agenda as an action item. He also stated that the majority of applicants were on the Sustainability Task Force and involved with the Township.
 
5.1 Lindsey Beacher EAC Appointment Term 2025-2027  
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to appoint Lindsey Beacher to the EAC for the 2025-2027 term. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.

5.2 Ann Duzan EAC Appointment Term 2025-2028  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to appoint Ann Duzan to the EAC for the 2025-2028 term. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans. The vote passed 5-0.

5.3 Mike Irwin EAC Appointment Term 2025-2028  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to appoint Mike Irwin to the EAC for the 2025-2028 term. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.

5.4 JoEllen McBride EAC Appointment Term 2025-2028 Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to appoint JoEllen McBride to the EAC for the 2025-2028 term. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.

5.5 Cheryl Spaulding EAC Appointment Term 2025-2027  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to appoint Cheryl Spaulding to the EAC for the 2025-2027 term. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.

5.6 Debra Town EAC Appointment Term 2025-2026 – Commissioner Mullin stated that Ms. Town was interviewed before tonight’s meeting and will be on the June 12th meeting.  
 
5.7 Spackman-Davis Farm Art in the Park-August 16, 2025 – Ms. A. Swan requested permission to use the Spackman-Davis Farm for “Art in the Park” featuring adult and photography, journaling, and drawing of the park on August 16th.
 
Commission Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the Parks and Recreation Board use of the Spackman-Davis Farm for their Art in the Park class on August 16, 2025. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
5.8 Spackman-Davis Farm Picnic Alcohol Beverage Use Request-June 28, 2025 – Mr. Vymazal explained that under the current Township ordinance alcohol is prohibited in Township parks, except with the approval from the Board.
 
Commissioner Evans explained that if a winery is not available, Cedar Creek Catering, who is providing food for the picnic, will provide a qualified bartender. Friends of Spackman-Davis Farm paid $10.00 above the cost of tickets.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to authorize the use of alcohol beverages at the June 28, 2025, picnic. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans. The vote passed 4-1 with Commissioner Mullin voting nae.                                    
 
5.9 C.C. Chiefs Association Mutual Aid Plan – Chief Elias explained that this plan creates a highly trained rapid response team of members from 25 different police departments or 25 different police agencies in Chester County.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adopt the Chester County Police Chiefs Association Mutual Aid Plan. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
5.10 Civil Service Commission Police Official Eligibility List & Certification of Police Applicants Approval – Commissioner Mullin stated that prior to the start of tonight’s meeting they met in Executive Session for personnel, legal reasons, and to review the Civil Service Commission official eligibility list of police applicants for hiring consideration.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the Civil Service Commission Police Official Eligibility List & Certification of police applicants. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans. The vote passed 5-0.

5.11 Civil Service Commission Police Conditional Hiring Offers Approval  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the Civil Service Commission police conditional hiring offers for Derek Weicikosky, Ethan Farkas, and Christopher Ware. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
5.12 Firefighters Conditional Offer Approval – Mr. Stackhouse explained that the Board previously approved conditional offers to seven individuals. One of those individuals did not accept the offer. In accordance with the Civil Service Commission rules, they took the next three names on the list. Mr. Stackhouse stated that they would like to move forward with a conditional offer to Devin O’Keefe.
 
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve a firefighter conditional offer to Devin O’Keefe. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
 
5.13 CCIU – As of last week, Chief Elias explained that there were 386 calls from the CCIU, as of last week. Of those service calls, 60 were elopements.
Commissioner Young stated that the police could not respond to an incident on business 30 because they were at the CCIU. Chief Elias replied that Caln police has relied on neighboring departments to respond to incidents in the Township before. During this incident, the police were at the CCIU. Chief Elias clarified that it was not Coatesville Area School. Commissioner Young asked the number of calls received from Coatesville area School. Chief Elias replied approximately 30 calls. Chief Elias also replied that the CCIU has tentatively agreed to a school research partnership with the Sheriff’s Office for the next school year.
 
Commissioner Mullin asked when the last CCIU meeting was. Mr. Vymazal replied that their last meeting was some time ago when they discussed possible County involvement. Mr. Vymazal stated that he will schedule a meeting for an update on the situation. Commissioner Mullin asked if the CCIU is open for the summer. Chief Elias replied that they are open and have a small student population in attendance.
 
Ron Ruth asked why Caln is responding to the CCIU when it a Chester County facility. Mr. Vymazal replied that they are in Caln, so the police have to respond to their calls.
 
Adam Thomas asked what the estimated cost of a patrol hour. Chief Elias replied that he would be remis if he just said a number.
 
Commissioner Young asked how much the school district charges per hour for police service. Chief Elias replied that they are charged $100.00 per hour, which is to police their events.

6. Board Minutes to Approve
6.1 May 8, 2025 – Commissioner Mullin stated that May 8, 2025, minutes are not ready to be approved tonight; therefore, they will be on the June 12th agenda.

7. Additional Business – There were none.  

8. Public Comment – A resident commented on the potholes on the bridge over Humpton Road. Mr. Vymazal replied that the Township has received several calls regarding this, and staff responds by calling PennDOT. He also replied that the Township is working with PennDOT and our Representatives to resolve this concern.

9. Adjournment  
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn May 29, 2025, Board meeting at 9:07 PM. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Evans. The vote passed 5-0.
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Denise Miller,
Assistant Township Secretary
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