Meeting Minutes for Caln Township
Board of Commissioners
November 17, 2022
7:30 PM
Hybrid Meeting
Call to Order: Commissioner Kennedy called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President (Absent), Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Kristen Denne-Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary, Lisa Swan-Township Treasurer.
Professionals Present: Kristin Camp Township Solicitor, Karl Schmit representing ARRO.
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners November 17, 2022 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building, on November 16, 2022. Agendas were made available for the public at the meeting.
The 2022 Township Board of Commissioners meetings were published in the Daily Local News, on December 28, 2021.
Commissioner Evans Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. Our meetings are “Neutral Ground”, a place to hear and be heard. The Board of Commissioner’s (BOC) are here to represent everyone in Caln Township (Caln), and we strive to be sure our decisions address the needs of all. 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.
SPACKMAN FARM PREVIEW EVENT: We’re all set for the big day this Saturday November 19, 2022 at 3:30 PM to celebrate the new barn roof and driveway at historic Spackman Farm, to create awareness of what still needs to be done, and to peek into what the future could look like at Spackman Farm. There will be speakers, refreshments, and a whole lot of love in the air. It’s open to the public, but RSVPs are requested so we can have enough chairs, parking, and refreshments. Please RSVP to [email protected]. The Historical Commission and the Parks and Recreation Board have done a bang-up job getting ready for this. Please join us if you can.
APPROACHING THE FINISH LINE: LERTA is almost a done deal. Of the various entities we needed approval from, the one we expected to go the most smoothly has had the most bumps along the way. But no fear, on Thursday December 15, 2022 Commissioner Young and I will present the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance (LERTA) to the County Commissioners, after which we should be good to go!
CALN TOWNSHIP IS “OPEN FOR BUSINESS”: Getting (LERTA) passed is just the beginning of stepping into the light. We need to immediately start marketing the possibilities LERTA provides for small businesses if we ever plan to take Caln to a new level. I know, I have a list of small businesses to recruit to Caln once LERTA is in place. We’d love to hear your suggestions, hopes, and wild dreams for new businesses along Lincoln Highway. Nothing is ever perfect, but It’s our Township, our community, our home. We can all be a part of the solution by eagerly spreading the good news about where we live. #lookoutforcaln
THESE TROUBLING TIMES: I’m happy to say that in recent weeks there have been no new threats made against Coatesville Area Senior High (CASH). I’m also happy to report that for the most part our elections here in Caln were carried out in a civil, respectful, neighborly way. There were only a couple of instances of incivility and disruption, mostly at the Caln 3 precinct. Some of the adults in the room chose to behave like adolescents, a troubling problem I’ve been addressing at almost every meeting. It’s time to stop feeding the incubator of hate. It’s time to be kind to each other, to be positive powers of example for each other, and for our children. It’s time to give peace and love a chance.
CLEAN UP TIME: It’s a shame social media groups can distort and twist something good into something nefarious. The Spackman event is open to all. We requested RSVPs to ensure we had enough refreshments, chairs, and parking. Somehow social media turned a request for RSVPs into “doesn’t sound very inviting”. Anyone who’s been up there knows the drive has a tight, steep slope. We’ve marked out a parking area on the grass at the top of the drive, but there’s limited space. And no, you can’t just park anywhere on the lawn – there’s gopher holes, a few sink holes, and farmland to protect. You’re not a part of the solution if you’re always looking for something to be wrong…
Commissioner Kennedy noted that there was a 6:00 PM Conditional Use Hearing before tonight’s Board meeting for the applicant 4102 Associates for All-Fill 4060 Edges Mill Road.
Citizens to be Heard
Commissioner Kennedy called for Citizens to be Heard. There were none.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
N/A
Township Engineer
Request for Consideration of Final Payment Application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., In the Amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered final payment application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., in the amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal upgrades.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve final payment application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., in the amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments.
Commissioner Evans thanked everyone who was involved in this project.
The vote passed 4-0.
Request for Consideration of Final Payment Application #2 to Long’s Asphalt Inc., In the Amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered final payment application #2 in the amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve final payment application #2 to Long’s Asphalt Inc., in the amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote 4-0.
Request for Consideration to Advertise the Bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered consideration to advertise the bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to authorize the bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Township Manager – Ms. Denne
Request for Letter of Support for PA Small Water Grant for CTMA – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a letter of support for the PA Small Water Grant on behalf of the Caln Township Municipal Authority.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to authorize a letter of Support from the Board of Commissioners to the Caln Township Municipal Authority for the PA Small Water Grant for Granger Lane and Caln Meeting House Road. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Griffith Farm Extension Contract Review – 3401 Kings Highway – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a 2023 contract extension for Griffith Farm.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to extend the contract for the Griffith Farm for 2023. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment.
Commissioner Evans noted that he is hopeful that future agricultural plans continue. Commissioner Evans also noted that he is in favor of the contract extension.
Cheryl Spaulding of 406 Lloyd Avenue asked if language could be added to the contract stating that the lessee would have to give the Township access if they asked. Ms. Denne replied that this extension is on a year-to-year basis. Commissioner Evans replied that the language in the contract is that the lessor has access.
The vote passed 4-0.
Professional Service Agreement with Gilmore & Associates for Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5 – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a professional Service agreement with Gilmore & Associates for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5. Ms. Denne noted that this expenditure will not be expended until 2023.
Ms. Denne noted that their grants do not cover engineering. Therefore, they must pay for the engineering up front and then apply to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for construction grants.
Ms. Denne asked Commissioner Young if he would like to take the expenditure out of the open space or sidewalk fund. Commissioner Young asked what the engineering cost is. Ms. Denne replied that it is $70,000. Commissioner Young noted that he would have to first see the total of the sidewalk fund. Ms. Denne noted that they can further discuss this at the November 30, 2022 meeting.
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked if this is the trail where there is no parking. Ms. Denne replied that there is parking on Lloyd Avenue, the Municipal Building, and at the Ingleside Golf Course. She also replied that the trail will start at Lloyd Avenue and end at the golf course.
Commissioner Young noted that on behalf of former Commissioner Kruse who started this trail, he entertained a motion to approve the Professional Service Agreement with Gilmore & Associates for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5, seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for further Board or public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
After the vote was taken, Mr. DiSario asked what the total cost of the trail project is. Ms. Denne replied that it is a little over $8 million. Mr. DiSario asked where the $8 million will come from. Ms. Denne replied that the Township will apply for DCNR grants for construction, which will pay for 50% of the trail. Mr. DiSario asked if a trail was being put at Spackman Farm. Ms. Denne replied that if it is an amenity that the Township residents want, then that is what the Township will do.
Commissioner Evans asked Mr. DiSario if he knew how many townships are not taking this initiative. Mr. DiSario replied that he does not. Commissioner Evans noted that this would generate income in a lot of ways. Mr. DiSario asked what kind of income. Commissioner Evans noted that income will come from people walking the trails and using the businesses in Caln. Mr. DiSario asked if taxes will be raised. Commissioner Evans replied “no”. Commissioner Kennedy noted that this trail will connect throughout the whole county. Ms. Denne noted that studies show that the #1 increase in property value is access to trails. Ms. Denne also noted that throughout the day and night people are walking on the G.O. Carlson trail.
Licia Carini of 103 Ayerwood Drive noted that she has to leave the Township several times a week to walk on a trail. Ms. Carini also noted that Caln must invest in trails for everyone’s quality of life.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that $4.1 million is a lot of money for a trail. Commissioner Evans noted that the discussion tonight is regarding engineering.
Cheryl Spaulding of 406 Lloyd Avenue noted that Caln is behind the times in trails.
Ordinances and Resolutions
Request to Consider Resolution 2022-33 Authorizing the Township President and Secretary to Sign All Documents Necessary to Complete a Contract for Installation Services with Armour and Sons Electric, Inc. for LED Services in Collaboration with the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Light Upgrade Program (Tabled 09/29/2022) – Ms. Denne noted that this resolution will continue to be tabled for a later date. Commissioner Young asked Ms. Denne if this will be completed by the end of the year. Ms. Denne noted that the Township is waiting on parts and materials.
Request to Consider Resolution 2022-35 Authorizing the Township Manager/Secretary to Sign All Documents Necessary with Gilmore and Associates Inc. To Conduct General Engineering Services for the Beaver Creek Trail – Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2022-35 authorizing the Township Manager/Secretary to sign all documents necessary with Gilmore and Associates Inc. to conduct general engineering services for the Beaver Creek Trail. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
Minutes to Approve and Acknowledge
Request to Consider Approval of the October 27, 2022 Board of Commissioners Minutes – Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve the October 27, 2022 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Finance Department – Lisa Swan
Financial Report – Ms. Swan noted that the finance department is starting to gather information for the Township 2022 audit, which will be completed in April 2023. She also noted that the liquid fuels audit will be for the years 2021 and 2022.
Motion to Approve General Checks 49128 to 49221 – Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve general checks 49128 to 49221. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
Board and Commission Updates
Park and Recreation – Commissioner Kennedy noted a Christmas tree lighting and Santa arrival on December 3 at 5:00 PM, the police department will be collecting “Toys for Tots” until December 6, and a resident holiday decorating contest on December 21.
COG – N/A
Municipal Authority – N/A
DARA – N/A
Fire Board – N/A
Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans
Commissioner Evans noted that the Historical Commission met three times since his last update. They had their regularly scheduled meetings on Wednesday October 19, 2022 and Wednesday November 16, 2022, plus a special meeting on Wednesday November 2, 2022. We had a quorum of members as well as a few guests both in-person and on zoom.
Commissioner Evans noted that on October 19, 2022, representatives from All-Fill came back to address further comments from the September meeting. Local Historian and Author Catherine Quillman also joined us to talk about Caln and the Underground Railroad. The special meeting on November 2, 2022 focused on this Saturday’s Spackman Farm event, as did last night’s meeting.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Historical Commission welcomed new member Donna DiPrinzio. Commissioner Evans also noted that they have two candidates awaiting interviews. If you’re looking for a fun-working group to align with, we might be just the right fit for you!
Commissioner Evans noted that their next scheduled meeting will be Wednesday December 21, 2022. Commissioner Evans also noted that their meetings are hybrid, so you can join us right here live, or from home on Zoom. And remember… we’re doing big things and accomplishing big things need lots of help. Consider joining the Historical Commission to make our past a real part of our future.
Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Young noted that there are residents interested in starting the Lincoln Highway Group again.
Additional Business
Commissioner Tindaro noted that there are several projects that the Golf Committee is working on. Commissioner Tindaro also noted that the golf course is in the “black”.
Commissioner Kennedy noted that several Commissioners attended Chester County Association of Township Officials (CCATO). They discussed SEPTA moving west among several other discussions.
Commissioner Evans noted that he spoke with the state representative regarding grant money. Commissioner Evans also noted that the money is out there, and why not have Caln get it.
Public Comments
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked when the Municipal Drive Bridge will be completed. Ms. Denne replied that the bid award will be on the December 22, 2022 agenda.
Ms. Denne asked Commissioner Young how long the Osborne Bridge took to bid on. Commissioner Young replied that it was designed in seven and a half years and built in ninety days. Ms. Denne noted that this puts things in perspective. Ms. Denne also noted that there are a lot of permits needed when you have a stream crossing as well as other permits and documents.
Commissioner Kennedy noted that the Napa building was newly painted, and the Dairy Queen is being remodeled and will remain the Dairy Queen with new owners.
A resident of Williams Way noted that he has a membership with Minquas Fire Company “Minquas” however, Washington Hose answered their call. He also noted that Washington Hose Company (Washington Hose) told him that they do not recognize Minquas membership or any other fire company membership. Therefore, he received a $400.00 invoice; however, he has insurance, and they paid the bill.
Commissioner Young noted that when Washington Hose attended a previous Township meeting, they said that they do accept other fire company memberships. Commissioner Young also noted that he wants the Washing Hose Chief at the next Township meeting.
Ms. Denne noted that she heard a rumor that Washington Hose signed an agreement last week with Chief Andrew Stewart. Mr. Stewart replied that Washington Hose signed a joint agreement with them meaning that they can now invoice them for the ALS component of the BLS transport that they do for them. The way the federal laws are written eans that both ambulances cannot be invoiced. Ms. Denne asked if there is still no interoperability. Mr. Steward replied that they did not sign anything in that regard. Commissioner Evans noted that there must be reciprocity between ambulance services, or they are not playing fair.
Adjournment
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to adjourn the November 17, 2022 Board of Commissioners Meeting at 8:45 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
Board of Commissioners
November 17, 2022
7:30 PM
Hybrid Meeting
Call to Order: Commissioner Kennedy called the Board of Commissioners meeting to order at 7:30 PM. Commissioner Mullin then called for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Board Members Present: Paul Mullin-President (Absent), Jane Kennedy-Vice President, Joshua Young-Commissioner, Lorraine Tindaro-Commissioner, and Mark Evans-Commissioner.
Staff Members Present: Kristen Denne-Township Manager/Secretary, Denise Miller-Assistant Township Secretary, Lisa Swan-Township Treasurer.
Professionals Present: Kristin Camp Township Solicitor, Karl Schmit representing ARRO.
Special Guest: N/A
The Board of Commissioners November 17, 2022 agenda was posted on the Township website, and at the Township building, on November 16, 2022. Agendas were made available for the public at the meeting.
The 2022 Township Board of Commissioners meetings were published in the Daily Local News, on December 28, 2021.
Commissioner Evans Township Update
Welcome everyone, thank you for joining us. Our meetings are “Neutral Ground”, a place to hear and be heard. The Board of Commissioner’s (BOC) are here to represent everyone in Caln Township (Caln), and we strive to be sure our decisions address the needs of all. 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.
SPACKMAN FARM PREVIEW EVENT: We’re all set for the big day this Saturday November 19, 2022 at 3:30 PM to celebrate the new barn roof and driveway at historic Spackman Farm, to create awareness of what still needs to be done, and to peek into what the future could look like at Spackman Farm. There will be speakers, refreshments, and a whole lot of love in the air. It’s open to the public, but RSVPs are requested so we can have enough chairs, parking, and refreshments. Please RSVP to [email protected]. The Historical Commission and the Parks and Recreation Board have done a bang-up job getting ready for this. Please join us if you can.
APPROACHING THE FINISH LINE: LERTA is almost a done deal. Of the various entities we needed approval from, the one we expected to go the most smoothly has had the most bumps along the way. But no fear, on Thursday December 15, 2022 Commissioner Young and I will present the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance (LERTA) to the County Commissioners, after which we should be good to go!
CALN TOWNSHIP IS “OPEN FOR BUSINESS”: Getting (LERTA) passed is just the beginning of stepping into the light. We need to immediately start marketing the possibilities LERTA provides for small businesses if we ever plan to take Caln to a new level. I know, I have a list of small businesses to recruit to Caln once LERTA is in place. We’d love to hear your suggestions, hopes, and wild dreams for new businesses along Lincoln Highway. Nothing is ever perfect, but It’s our Township, our community, our home. We can all be a part of the solution by eagerly spreading the good news about where we live. #lookoutforcaln
THESE TROUBLING TIMES: I’m happy to say that in recent weeks there have been no new threats made against Coatesville Area Senior High (CASH). I’m also happy to report that for the most part our elections here in Caln were carried out in a civil, respectful, neighborly way. There were only a couple of instances of incivility and disruption, mostly at the Caln 3 precinct. Some of the adults in the room chose to behave like adolescents, a troubling problem I’ve been addressing at almost every meeting. It’s time to stop feeding the incubator of hate. It’s time to be kind to each other, to be positive powers of example for each other, and for our children. It’s time to give peace and love a chance.
CLEAN UP TIME: It’s a shame social media groups can distort and twist something good into something nefarious. The Spackman event is open to all. We requested RSVPs to ensure we had enough refreshments, chairs, and parking. Somehow social media turned a request for RSVPs into “doesn’t sound very inviting”. Anyone who’s been up there knows the drive has a tight, steep slope. We’ve marked out a parking area on the grass at the top of the drive, but there’s limited space. And no, you can’t just park anywhere on the lawn – there’s gopher holes, a few sink holes, and farmland to protect. You’re not a part of the solution if you’re always looking for something to be wrong…
Commissioner Kennedy noted that there was a 6:00 PM Conditional Use Hearing before tonight’s Board meeting for the applicant 4102 Associates for All-Fill 4060 Edges Mill Road.
Citizens to be Heard
Commissioner Kennedy called for Citizens to be Heard. There were none.
Township Solicitor – Ms. Camp
N/A
Township Engineer
Request for Consideration of Final Payment Application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., In the Amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered final payment application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., in the amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal upgrades.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve final payment application #3 to Charles Higgins & Sons Inc., in the amount of $13,456.00 for the Lloyd Avenue Bridge Traffic Signal. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comments.
Commissioner Evans thanked everyone who was involved in this project.
The vote passed 4-0.
Request for Consideration of Final Payment Application #2 to Long’s Asphalt Inc., In the Amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered final payment application #2 in the amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve final payment application #2 to Long’s Asphalt Inc., in the amount of $18,986.72 for the 2022 Road Program. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote 4-0.
Request for Consideration to Advertise the Bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition – For Board consideration, Mr. Schmit offered consideration to advertise the bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to authorize the bid for the Golf Course Pump House Demolition. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Township Manager – Ms. Denne
Request for Letter of Support for PA Small Water Grant for CTMA – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a letter of support for the PA Small Water Grant on behalf of the Caln Township Municipal Authority.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to authorize a letter of Support from the Board of Commissioners to the Caln Township Municipal Authority for the PA Small Water Grant for Granger Lane and Caln Meeting House Road. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Griffith Farm Extension Contract Review – 3401 Kings Highway – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a 2023 contract extension for Griffith Farm.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to extend the contract for the Griffith Farm for 2023. Moved by Commissioner Tindaro and seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment.
Commissioner Evans noted that he is hopeful that future agricultural plans continue. Commissioner Evans also noted that he is in favor of the contract extension.
Cheryl Spaulding of 406 Lloyd Avenue asked if language could be added to the contract stating that the lessee would have to give the Township access if they asked. Ms. Denne replied that this extension is on a year-to-year basis. Commissioner Evans replied that the language in the contract is that the lessor has access.
The vote passed 4-0.
Professional Service Agreement with Gilmore & Associates for Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5 – For Board consideration, Ms. Denne offered a professional Service agreement with Gilmore & Associates for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5. Ms. Denne noted that this expenditure will not be expended until 2023.
Ms. Denne noted that their grants do not cover engineering. Therefore, they must pay for the engineering up front and then apply to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for construction grants.
Ms. Denne asked Commissioner Young if he would like to take the expenditure out of the open space or sidewalk fund. Commissioner Young asked what the engineering cost is. Ms. Denne replied that it is $70,000. Commissioner Young noted that he would have to first see the total of the sidewalk fund. Ms. Denne noted that they can further discuss this at the November 30, 2022 meeting.
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked if this is the trail where there is no parking. Ms. Denne replied that there is parking on Lloyd Avenue, the Municipal Building, and at the Ingleside Golf Course. She also replied that the trail will start at Lloyd Avenue and end at the golf course.
Commissioner Young noted that on behalf of former Commissioner Kruse who started this trail, he entertained a motion to approve the Professional Service Agreement with Gilmore & Associates for the Beaver Creek Trail Segment 5, seconded by Commissioner Evans.
Commissioner Kennedy called for further Board or public comment. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
After the vote was taken, Mr. DiSario asked what the total cost of the trail project is. Ms. Denne replied that it is a little over $8 million. Mr. DiSario asked where the $8 million will come from. Ms. Denne replied that the Township will apply for DCNR grants for construction, which will pay for 50% of the trail. Mr. DiSario asked if a trail was being put at Spackman Farm. Ms. Denne replied that if it is an amenity that the Township residents want, then that is what the Township will do.
Commissioner Evans asked Mr. DiSario if he knew how many townships are not taking this initiative. Mr. DiSario replied that he does not. Commissioner Evans noted that this would generate income in a lot of ways. Mr. DiSario asked what kind of income. Commissioner Evans noted that income will come from people walking the trails and using the businesses in Caln. Mr. DiSario asked if taxes will be raised. Commissioner Evans replied “no”. Commissioner Kennedy noted that this trail will connect throughout the whole county. Ms. Denne noted that studies show that the #1 increase in property value is access to trails. Ms. Denne also noted that throughout the day and night people are walking on the G.O. Carlson trail.
Licia Carini of 103 Ayerwood Drive noted that she has to leave the Township several times a week to walk on a trail. Ms. Carini also noted that Caln must invest in trails for everyone’s quality of life.
Mark DeYoung of 20 Beaver Run Road noted that $4.1 million is a lot of money for a trail. Commissioner Evans noted that the discussion tonight is regarding engineering.
Cheryl Spaulding of 406 Lloyd Avenue noted that Caln is behind the times in trails.
Ordinances and Resolutions
Request to Consider Resolution 2022-33 Authorizing the Township President and Secretary to Sign All Documents Necessary to Complete a Contract for Installation Services with Armour and Sons Electric, Inc. for LED Services in Collaboration with the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission LED Light Upgrade Program (Tabled 09/29/2022) – Ms. Denne noted that this resolution will continue to be tabled for a later date. Commissioner Young asked Ms. Denne if this will be completed by the end of the year. Ms. Denne noted that the Township is waiting on parts and materials.
Request to Consider Resolution 2022-35 Authorizing the Township Manager/Secretary to Sign All Documents Necessary with Gilmore and Associates Inc. To Conduct General Engineering Services for the Beaver Creek Trail – Commissioner Kennedy called for Board and public comment. There were none.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2022-35 authorizing the Township Manager/Secretary to sign all documents necessary with Gilmore and Associates Inc. to conduct general engineering services for the Beaver Creek Trail. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
Minutes to Approve and Acknowledge
Request to Consider Approval of the October 27, 2022 Board of Commissioners Minutes – Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve the October 27, 2022 Board of Commissioners minutes. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
The vote passed 4-0.
Finance Department – Lisa Swan
Financial Report – Ms. Swan noted that the finance department is starting to gather information for the Township 2022 audit, which will be completed in April 2023. She also noted that the liquid fuels audit will be for the years 2021 and 2022.
Motion to Approve General Checks 49128 to 49221 – Commissioner Kennedy called for Board comments. There were none.
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to approve general checks 49128 to 49221. Moved by Commissioner Young and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
Board and Commission Updates
Park and Recreation – Commissioner Kennedy noted a Christmas tree lighting and Santa arrival on December 3 at 5:00 PM, the police department will be collecting “Toys for Tots” until December 6, and a resident holiday decorating contest on December 21.
COG – N/A
Municipal Authority – N/A
DARA – N/A
Fire Board – N/A
Historical Commission – Commissioner Evans
Commissioner Evans noted that the Historical Commission met three times since his last update. They had their regularly scheduled meetings on Wednesday October 19, 2022 and Wednesday November 16, 2022, plus a special meeting on Wednesday November 2, 2022. We had a quorum of members as well as a few guests both in-person and on zoom.
Commissioner Evans noted that on October 19, 2022, representatives from All-Fill came back to address further comments from the September meeting. Local Historian and Author Catherine Quillman also joined us to talk about Caln and the Underground Railroad. The special meeting on November 2, 2022 focused on this Saturday’s Spackman Farm event, as did last night’s meeting.
Commissioner Evans noted that the Historical Commission welcomed new member Donna DiPrinzio. Commissioner Evans also noted that they have two candidates awaiting interviews. If you’re looking for a fun-working group to align with, we might be just the right fit for you!
Commissioner Evans noted that their next scheduled meeting will be Wednesday December 21, 2022. Commissioner Evans also noted that their meetings are hybrid, so you can join us right here live, or from home on Zoom. And remember… we’re doing big things and accomplishing big things need lots of help. Consider joining the Historical Commission to make our past a real part of our future.
Lincoln Highway – Commissioner Young noted that there are residents interested in starting the Lincoln Highway Group again.
Additional Business
Commissioner Tindaro noted that there are several projects that the Golf Committee is working on. Commissioner Tindaro also noted that the golf course is in the “black”.
Commissioner Kennedy noted that several Commissioners attended Chester County Association of Township Officials (CCATO). They discussed SEPTA moving west among several other discussions.
Commissioner Evans noted that he spoke with the state representative regarding grant money. Commissioner Evans also noted that the money is out there, and why not have Caln get it.
Public Comments
Tony DiSario of 251 Loomis Avenue asked when the Municipal Drive Bridge will be completed. Ms. Denne replied that the bid award will be on the December 22, 2022 agenda.
Ms. Denne asked Commissioner Young how long the Osborne Bridge took to bid on. Commissioner Young replied that it was designed in seven and a half years and built in ninety days. Ms. Denne noted that this puts things in perspective. Ms. Denne also noted that there are a lot of permits needed when you have a stream crossing as well as other permits and documents.
Commissioner Kennedy noted that the Napa building was newly painted, and the Dairy Queen is being remodeled and will remain the Dairy Queen with new owners.
A resident of Williams Way noted that he has a membership with Minquas Fire Company “Minquas” however, Washington Hose answered their call. He also noted that Washington Hose Company (Washington Hose) told him that they do not recognize Minquas membership or any other fire company membership. Therefore, he received a $400.00 invoice; however, he has insurance, and they paid the bill.
Commissioner Young noted that when Washington Hose attended a previous Township meeting, they said that they do accept other fire company memberships. Commissioner Young also noted that he wants the Washing Hose Chief at the next Township meeting.
Ms. Denne noted that she heard a rumor that Washington Hose signed an agreement last week with Chief Andrew Stewart. Mr. Stewart replied that Washington Hose signed a joint agreement with them meaning that they can now invoice them for the ALS component of the BLS transport that they do for them. The way the federal laws are written eans that both ambulances cannot be invoiced. Ms. Denne asked if there is still no interoperability. Mr. Steward replied that they did not sign anything in that regard. Commissioner Evans noted that there must be reciprocity between ambulance services, or they are not playing fair.
Adjournment
Commissioner Kennedy entertained a motion to adjourn the November 17, 2022 Board of Commissioners Meeting at 8:45 PM. Moved by Commissioner Evans and seconded by Commissioner Tindaro.
The vote passed 4-0.
| commissioners_minutes_11.30.2022.pdf |
