Caln Township
Board of Commissioners
September 14, 2023 Minutes
7:30 PM Hybrid Meeting
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Abbey (A.) Swan - Township Secretary and Community Outreach Specialist, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant, Lisa (L.) Swan-Director of Finance and Treasurer, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: N/A
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ September 14, 2023 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building on September 13, 2023 and agendas were made available for the public at the meeting. The 2023 Township Board of Commissioners meetings were published in the Daily Local News, on December 27, 2022.
Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance: Commissioner Mullin called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Commissioner Mullin noted that there were Executive Sessions held on September 6, 7, 11, and 12 for township manager interviews.
Commissioner Evans Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. We’re all in this together. Just a reminder, only questions or statements regarding an agenda item will be entertained under “Citizens to be Heard” at the top of the meeting. All other matters will be recognized during “Public Comment” at the end of the meeting.
If you missed our 15th Annual Caln Community Day last Saturday, you missed a world of fun! Luckily for you, we have fun events year-round, so you don’t need to wait until next September for another chance. We had a great turnout, and all five Commissioners attended, not to mention our friends from Harrisburg, State Senator Katie Muth, State House Representatives Danielle Friel-Otten, and Dan Williams. But the most anticipated guest came near the end - a drenching rainstorm that claimed to only be passing through but stuck around a little too long. But even that didn’t stop the fireworks! Once again, we thank Ms. A. Swan for making it happen, all the volunteers that helped with the set up and breakdown, our public works department, and the many visitors who made it an extra special day.
In their efforts to keep Caln Beautiful year-round, this Saturday Ms. A. Swan and her fearless Clean Up Crew will be focused on Municipal Park starting at 9:00 AM. They need all the help they can get. Come if you can, and please wear long pants/sleeves, and bring gloves and water.
The revitalization of Lincoln Highway takes another step forward Tuesday September 19, 2023 when Jefferis Family Farm Market presents to the Planning Commission at their new time beginning at 6:30 PM.
The final Hexagonal Schoolhouse and Caln Meetinghouse tours will be held on Sunday October 8, 2023 between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Our September tours drew 25 visitors through the Schoolhouse and another 15 at the Meetinghouse.
Thank you, Yoda. And thank you to all the law enforcement officers who risked their lives to protect all of ours in the pursuit of escaped convicted killer Daniello Cavalcante. Officers crawled through the mud, climbed through the thickets, and never gave up until they had him back in custody. Because of their selfless determination, we can all sleep easier now. If you’re wondering who Yoda is, he’s the canine officer who put the “bite” on the fugitive.
Speaking of sleeping peacefully, at our last meeting we heard from a couple of residents who’ve been losing sleep over noise generated by early morning dumpster pickups and rowdy crowds gathering in the parking lot of a business along Lincoln Highway. We heard you, and efforts are being taken to make your nights more restful. Stay tuned.
Our managerial search is coming along very nicely. We’ve met with some exciting candidates, most of whom see Caln as we do, full of opportunity, ready to become among the most desirable townships in Chester County. We’ve whittled the list down and are in agreement on who will be invited back for second interviews. More to come…
When we all work together, there’s nothing we can’t do. Spread kindness everyone. Anger, grudges, and resentments are not worth our time or energy. Compassion, Empathy, Peace, and Love – these are what make the world go round.
Citizens to be Heard
Commissioner Mullin called for citizens to be heard. There were none.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
N/A
Township Engineer
N/A
Ordinances and Resolutions
Request for Board Consideration to Adopt Resolution 2023-15 Establishing Guidelines for the Use and Operation of Mobile Food Facilities Within the Township (Tabled 06/08/2023) – The Board tabled adoption until they can review the submitted proposed changes and have Ms. Camp and Mr. Stackhouse in attendance of the meeting.
Request for Board Consideration to Adopt Resolution 2023-16 to Add a Fee for Food Truck Permits (Tabled 06/08/2023) – The Board tabled adoption until Resolution 2023-15 is adopted.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve Resolution 2023-22 Acknowledging the Receipt of the 2024 Minimum Municipal Obligation Worksheet for Inclusion of Said Obligation for the Non-Uniform Pension Plan in the 2024 Calendar Year Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. L. Swan offered the 2024 non-union pension plan. Ms. L. Swan noted that this is approximately $19,000.00 higher than last year.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2023-22 acknowledging the receipt of the 2024 minimum municipal obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the non-uniform pension plan in the 2024 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve Resolution 2023-23 Acknowledging the Receipt of the 2024 Minimum Municipal Obligation Worksheet for Inclusion of Said Obligation for the Police Pension Plan in the 2024 Calendar Year Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. L. Swan offered the police pension plan. Ms. L. Swan noted that the reason there is an approximate $158,000.00 decrease is because the 2021 valuation report was the basis for the 2023 MMO calculation, which resulted in $1.25 million experience gain and at that point it was exceeding their actuarial liability.
Commissioner Young noted that the $400,000.00 decrease is market driven, pension changes and officer resignations.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2023-23 acknowledging the receipt of the 2024 minimum municipal obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the police pension plan in the 2024 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Minutes to Approve
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the August 10, 2023 Board of Commissioners Minutes– Commissioner Mullin called for Board corrections to the minutes. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the August 10, 2023 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the August 31, 2023 Board of Commissioners Minutes- Commissioner Mullin called for Board corrections to the minutes. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the August 31, 2023 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. With Commissioner Young abstaining because he was not in attendance of the meeting, the vote passed 4-0.
Finance Department – Ms. Swan
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the Accounts Payable Bill List for Checks 50728 to 50794 – Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments.
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked what check 50744 is for. Ms. L. Swan and the Board replied that it is for repairs to an old golf cart.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the accounts payable bill list for checks 50728 to 50794. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Boards and Commissions Updates – Summary by Applicable Board Liaison
Parks and Recreation – Commissioner Kennedy noted that the September 9, 2023 Community Day event was a big success, there is a new pickleball court on the tennis court, and Clean Up Day at Municipal Park will be held on September 18, 2023.
COG – Commissioner Kennedy noted that the COG is looking for volunteers to help with their proposed multi-municipal animal shelter project. Commissioner Kennedy also noted that an attorney was secured, so they can move forward with the scholarship program.
Municipal Authority – Commissioner Mullin noted that staff were authorized to forward their 2024 proposed budget to the Board of Commissioners, to include it in the township budget. The contractor for the 2023 grouting project began work on September 5, 2023 on Phase 5 cleaning and televising the main line.
DARA – Commissioner Mullin noted that the DARA Board is continuing to review different options related to the treatment plant expansion, which will be necessary to properly provide for the one million gallons of treatment capacity currently sought out by the five Municipalities.
Fire Board – Commissioner Mullin noted that they did not hold a meeting in August. Commissioner Mullin also noted that their budget has been forwarded to Ms. L. Swan.
Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans
The Historical Commission met on August 16, 2023 and we had ten of eleven members present, along with four guests. We’re very excited to announce a new secretary – Lisa Shields. Ms. Shields cowrote the scripts for the tour. She is a wonderful writer, and one of our newest members.
All subcommittees reported updates; we dug into our budgetary needs for 2024, discussed the need for a low-cost option to extend an electric line from the existing conduit, so power can safely be made available, and the potential of four events in 2024 that could occur annually to continue the promise of providing residents and others the chance to enjoy Spackman-Davis Farm. We have been looking into forming a 501c3 to raise funds for much-needed repairs. Lastly, we planned our exhibition for Caln Community Day.
Our September meeting will be held on Wednesday September 20, 2023, at 7:00 PM. You can join us right here live, or from home via Zoom. We’re a fun group who like getting things done – please consider attending our meetings, and please consider joining the Parks and Recreation Board on the first Monday of each month. Without their help, our historic events would not be possible.
Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Young noted that their September 13 meeting will be rescheduled due to an Executive Session to interview township manager prospects. Commissioner Kennedy noted that The Willows at Valley Run Apartments is having an open house on September 19, 2023. Commissioner Young noted that their rental applications are online.
Ingleside Golf Course – Commissioner Tindaro noted that their next meeting will be held at 5:45 PM at the golf course.
Additional Business
Commissioner Mullin called for additional business. There was none.
Public Comment
Commissioner Mullin called for public comment. There were none.
Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the September 14, 2023 Board of Commissioners meeting at 7:50 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
Denise Miller,
Assistant Township Secretary
Board of Commissioners
September 14, 2023 Minutes
7:30 PM Hybrid Meeting
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President, Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Abbey (A.) Swan - Township Secretary and Community Outreach Specialist, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary and Administrative Assistant, Lisa (L.) Swan-Director of Finance and Treasurer, and Police Chief Elias.
Professionals Present: N/A
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners’ September 14, 2023 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building on September 13, 2023 and agendas were made available for the public at the meeting. The 2023 Township Board of Commissioners meetings were published in the Daily Local News, on December 27, 2022.
Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance: Commissioner Mullin called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Commissioner Mullin noted that there were Executive Sessions held on September 6, 7, 11, and 12 for township manager interviews.
Commissioner Evans Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. We’re all in this together. Just a reminder, only questions or statements regarding an agenda item will be entertained under “Citizens to be Heard” at the top of the meeting. All other matters will be recognized during “Public Comment” at the end of the meeting.
If you missed our 15th Annual Caln Community Day last Saturday, you missed a world of fun! Luckily for you, we have fun events year-round, so you don’t need to wait until next September for another chance. We had a great turnout, and all five Commissioners attended, not to mention our friends from Harrisburg, State Senator Katie Muth, State House Representatives Danielle Friel-Otten, and Dan Williams. But the most anticipated guest came near the end - a drenching rainstorm that claimed to only be passing through but stuck around a little too long. But even that didn’t stop the fireworks! Once again, we thank Ms. A. Swan for making it happen, all the volunteers that helped with the set up and breakdown, our public works department, and the many visitors who made it an extra special day.
In their efforts to keep Caln Beautiful year-round, this Saturday Ms. A. Swan and her fearless Clean Up Crew will be focused on Municipal Park starting at 9:00 AM. They need all the help they can get. Come if you can, and please wear long pants/sleeves, and bring gloves and water.
The revitalization of Lincoln Highway takes another step forward Tuesday September 19, 2023 when Jefferis Family Farm Market presents to the Planning Commission at their new time beginning at 6:30 PM.
The final Hexagonal Schoolhouse and Caln Meetinghouse tours will be held on Sunday October 8, 2023 between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Our September tours drew 25 visitors through the Schoolhouse and another 15 at the Meetinghouse.
Thank you, Yoda. And thank you to all the law enforcement officers who risked their lives to protect all of ours in the pursuit of escaped convicted killer Daniello Cavalcante. Officers crawled through the mud, climbed through the thickets, and never gave up until they had him back in custody. Because of their selfless determination, we can all sleep easier now. If you’re wondering who Yoda is, he’s the canine officer who put the “bite” on the fugitive.
Speaking of sleeping peacefully, at our last meeting we heard from a couple of residents who’ve been losing sleep over noise generated by early morning dumpster pickups and rowdy crowds gathering in the parking lot of a business along Lincoln Highway. We heard you, and efforts are being taken to make your nights more restful. Stay tuned.
Our managerial search is coming along very nicely. We’ve met with some exciting candidates, most of whom see Caln as we do, full of opportunity, ready to become among the most desirable townships in Chester County. We’ve whittled the list down and are in agreement on who will be invited back for second interviews. More to come…
When we all work together, there’s nothing we can’t do. Spread kindness everyone. Anger, grudges, and resentments are not worth our time or energy. Compassion, Empathy, Peace, and Love – these are what make the world go round.
Citizens to be Heard
Commissioner Mullin called for citizens to be heard. There were none.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
N/A
Township Engineer
N/A
Ordinances and Resolutions
Request for Board Consideration to Adopt Resolution 2023-15 Establishing Guidelines for the Use and Operation of Mobile Food Facilities Within the Township (Tabled 06/08/2023) – The Board tabled adoption until they can review the submitted proposed changes and have Ms. Camp and Mr. Stackhouse in attendance of the meeting.
Request for Board Consideration to Adopt Resolution 2023-16 to Add a Fee for Food Truck Permits (Tabled 06/08/2023) – The Board tabled adoption until Resolution 2023-15 is adopted.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve Resolution 2023-22 Acknowledging the Receipt of the 2024 Minimum Municipal Obligation Worksheet for Inclusion of Said Obligation for the Non-Uniform Pension Plan in the 2024 Calendar Year Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. L. Swan offered the 2024 non-union pension plan. Ms. L. Swan noted that this is approximately $19,000.00 higher than last year.
Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2023-22 acknowledging the receipt of the 2024 minimum municipal obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the non-uniform pension plan in the 2024 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve Resolution 2023-23 Acknowledging the Receipt of the 2024 Minimum Municipal Obligation Worksheet for Inclusion of Said Obligation for the Police Pension Plan in the 2024 Calendar Year Budget – For Board consideration, Ms. L. Swan offered the police pension plan. Ms. L. Swan noted that the reason there is an approximate $158,000.00 decrease is because the 2021 valuation report was the basis for the 2023 MMO calculation, which resulted in $1.25 million experience gain and at that point it was exceeding their actuarial liability.
Commissioner Young noted that the $400,000.00 decrease is market driven, pension changes and officer resignations.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2023-23 acknowledging the receipt of the 2024 minimum municipal obligation worksheet for inclusion of said obligation for the police pension plan in the 2024 calendar year budget. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Minutes to Approve
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the August 10, 2023 Board of Commissioners Minutes– Commissioner Mullin called for Board corrections to the minutes. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the August 10, 2023 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the August 31, 2023 Board of Commissioners Minutes- Commissioner Mullin called for Board corrections to the minutes. There were none.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the August 31, 2023 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy. With Commissioner Young abstaining because he was not in attendance of the meeting, the vote passed 4-0.
Finance Department – Ms. Swan
Request for Board Consideration to Approve the Accounts Payable Bill List for Checks 50728 to 50794 – Commissioner Mullin called for Board and public comments.
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked what check 50744 is for. Ms. L. Swan and the Board replied that it is for repairs to an old golf cart.
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to approve the accounts payable bill list for checks 50728 to 50794. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Young. The vote passed 5-0.
Boards and Commissions Updates – Summary by Applicable Board Liaison
Parks and Recreation – Commissioner Kennedy noted that the September 9, 2023 Community Day event was a big success, there is a new pickleball court on the tennis court, and Clean Up Day at Municipal Park will be held on September 18, 2023.
COG – Commissioner Kennedy noted that the COG is looking for volunteers to help with their proposed multi-municipal animal shelter project. Commissioner Kennedy also noted that an attorney was secured, so they can move forward with the scholarship program.
Municipal Authority – Commissioner Mullin noted that staff were authorized to forward their 2024 proposed budget to the Board of Commissioners, to include it in the township budget. The contractor for the 2023 grouting project began work on September 5, 2023 on Phase 5 cleaning and televising the main line.
DARA – Commissioner Mullin noted that the DARA Board is continuing to review different options related to the treatment plant expansion, which will be necessary to properly provide for the one million gallons of treatment capacity currently sought out by the five Municipalities.
Fire Board – Commissioner Mullin noted that they did not hold a meeting in August. Commissioner Mullin also noted that their budget has been forwarded to Ms. L. Swan.
Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans
The Historical Commission met on August 16, 2023 and we had ten of eleven members present, along with four guests. We’re very excited to announce a new secretary – Lisa Shields. Ms. Shields cowrote the scripts for the tour. She is a wonderful writer, and one of our newest members.
All subcommittees reported updates; we dug into our budgetary needs for 2024, discussed the need for a low-cost option to extend an electric line from the existing conduit, so power can safely be made available, and the potential of four events in 2024 that could occur annually to continue the promise of providing residents and others the chance to enjoy Spackman-Davis Farm. We have been looking into forming a 501c3 to raise funds for much-needed repairs. Lastly, we planned our exhibition for Caln Community Day.
Our September meeting will be held on Wednesday September 20, 2023, at 7:00 PM. You can join us right here live, or from home via Zoom. We’re a fun group who like getting things done – please consider attending our meetings, and please consider joining the Parks and Recreation Board on the first Monday of each month. Without their help, our historic events would not be possible.
Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Young noted that their September 13 meeting will be rescheduled due to an Executive Session to interview township manager prospects. Commissioner Kennedy noted that The Willows at Valley Run Apartments is having an open house on September 19, 2023. Commissioner Young noted that their rental applications are online.
Ingleside Golf Course – Commissioner Tindaro noted that their next meeting will be held at 5:45 PM at the golf course.
Additional Business
Commissioner Mullin called for additional business. There was none.
Public Comment
Commissioner Mullin called for public comment. There were none.
Adjournment
Commissioner Mullin entertained a motion to adjourn the September 14, 2023 Board of Commissioners meeting at 7:50 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro. The vote passed 5-0.
Denise Miller,
Assistant Township Secretary
| commissioners_minutes_09.14.2023.pdf |
