Caln Township
Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners
June 11, 2026
Board Workshop Meeting Minutes
Chester County, Pennsylvania
Board of Commissioners
June 11, 2026
Board Workshop Meeting Minutes
1. Call to Order
Commissioner Young called the meeting to order at 7:30pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited.
Commissioners present: Josh Young – President; Mark Evans – Vice President; Adam Thomas – Commissioner; Paul Mullin – Commissioner; Jane Kennedy – Commissioner (virtual)
Township Staff present: Don Vymazal – Manager; Abbey Swan – Assistant Manager; Joe Elias – Police Chief; Ryan Lewis – Assistant Fire Marshall; Lisa Swan – Finance Director
Guests: Larry Leavens – Sneaker Den; Roman Jastrzebski – Gilmore & Associates
The Board of Commissioners’ June 11, 2026 agenda was posted on the Township website and at the Township Building prior to the meeting. The 2026 Township meeting schedule was advertised in the Daily Local Newspaper on 12/18/2025.
Commissioner Young noted that an executive meeting was held to discuss legal matters before the workshop meeting.
2. Citizens to be Heard
No citizens to be heard.
3. Presentation – Proclamation for Sneaker Den
Commissioners recognized Sneaker Den for 41 years of outstanding service.
Mr. Leavens remarked that they really enjoyed working here and serving the community. He thanked everyone and his former staff for everything. He explained that the manufacturers would rather sell online than in stores.
Commissioner Young mentioned that the Board would like to recognize more businesses in the township so if residents have any suggestions they can send them to the Township Manager or Assistant Township Manager.
4. Township Solicitor
No Township solicitor business.
5. Township Manager
5.1. Barley Sheaf Road Bridge Emergency Repair (Discussion / Action Item)
Mr. Vymazal explained that the Barley Sheaf Road Bridge needs to be closed for repairs. During a routine inspection, scouring was found that undermined the structural integrity of the bridge. After our engineers take a look and determine the cause we will have a better idea of the time frame.
Commissioner Thomas asked if we have any idea how many other bridges in our Township may have issues like this.
Mr. Vymazal replied that there is a bridge inspection schedule so they stay on top of them.
Mr. Jastrzebski (engineer) explained that they inspected the bridge in May and put up a reduced load sign on the bridge. After an additional inspection at the end of May they decided to close the bridge for safety reasons.
Resident Tony DiSario commented that people who are avoiding the bridge are skipping the stop sign.
Chief Elias commented that municipalities that receive liquid fuel funds have to follow federal guidelines. To change an existing intersection has to meet 5 crashes in a certain period or the volume has to change. He recognizes the concern and has the traffic unit out to monitor the intersection.
Mr. DiSario asked what caused the damage to the bridge.
Mr. Vymazal responded that it was scouring under the foundation but they will do further investigation to verify.
Mr. DiSario asked if the bridge had been replaced before.
Mr. Jastrezebski replied that they would look into the history of the bridge as part of the investigation.
Commissioner Thomas had heard from neighbors at the same intersection (GO Carlson and Miller) and asked if a sign could be put up reminding people that it’s a two-way stop.
Mr. Vymazal responded that they could look into posting a sign.
Commissioner Mullin asked where the detour is.
Mr. Vymazal responded that the detour is N. Bailey heading east and signs are on the way indicating which way the detour is.
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-22 for the Emergency Repair of the Barley Sheaf Road Bridge.
Moved: Commissioner Thomas
Second: Commissioner Evans
Vote: unanimous (4-0) [Commissioner Kennedy had not joined yet.]
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the PSA of emergency repairs for the Barley Sheaf Road bridge.
Moved: Commissioner Mullin
Second: Commissioner Evans
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
5.2. Ingleside Golf Club Meadow Proposal (Discussion)
Ms A. Swan explained that this was part of a grant applied for on our half by the Chester County Conservation District who put together a proposal for DCNR for other municipalities doing meadow conversion projects. While they were doing that we also received a grant from PECO for the same property. The Conservation District said we could transfer the grant to the golf course and Ms. Shannon agreed. Converting 5 acres of rough into meadow and the Conservation District will handle bidding and installation. They need an agreement from the Township that we will maintain the meadow. The National Audubon Society has a golf course certification they can apply for after they install habitat stuff.
Commissioner Young asked if the agreement has anything in it about moving the meadow in case a reparing needs to be made on the golf course.
Mr. Vymazal replied that open space programs are usually open to relocation but they will check.
Commissioner Thomas asked if there are other areas of the golf course in the northern part that could be replicated.
Ms. A Swan replied that is where they are looking.
Commissioner Thomas asked about the 0.8 acres that could be done.
Ms. A. Swan replied that we could do any portion of the golf course but this is the bare minimum we could do with 5 acre of seed.
Mr. Vymazal mentioned that Ms. Shannon has the location flagged.
5.3. Fisherville Road Reprofiling (Discussion)
Mr. Vymazal described an update from Public Works. One area of Fisherville Road (westbound approaching Bailey) was pitched very steeply. This is a concern for the paving program and would add a substantial cost if added. So Public Works would like to reprofile and add temporary pavement ahead of the paving. They will do this alongside the stormwater improvements already slated for the area. We are seeing a huge cost savings with the expertise we have on staff. There will be some road closures or limited access that we will advertise to residents ahead of time.
Commissioner Young asked if this was the project Darryl Flings towing helped on.
Mr. Vymazal replied that is was and thanked Darryl Flings for all their help.
5.4. CCIU Update MOU (Discussion)
Chief Elias explained that pursuant to PA Department of Ed Safe Schools the police department signs an MOU every two years with any school districts in the township.
Commissioner Young asked if it is the Boards or Chiefs signature.
Chief Elias replied that it is his. And the MOU outlines the report and requirements needed to submit each year.
Commissioner Thomas asked how the relationship with CCIU has been lately.
Chief Elias replied that it has been night and day since they partnered with the Sheriff’s Department.
Commissioner Thomas asked if the Chief is concerned about the reporting of incidents.
Chief Elias replied that the MOU defines which incidents are mandatory and which are not mandatory. There may be times that there is discrepancy between how they view incidents but they have a fantastic relationship with the staff in the schools and reconcile incidents as they come up so there aren’t discrepancies in the reporting.
Commissioner Thomas asked how Mr. Stackhouse would view the incident reports.
Mr. Vymazal responded that they could check with him.
Mr. Lewis responded that there hasn’t been an influx of calls since the last report.
6. Resolutions
6.1. 2026-20 Recognizing Pride Month in Caln Township (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-20 recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month in Caln Township.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
6.2. 2026-21 Recognizing Juneteenth in Caln Township (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-21 recognizing June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth in Caln Township.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Kennedy
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
Commissioner Young mentioned that we are working on a way to display the signed resolutions.
6.3. 2026-22 Barley Sheaf Road Bridge Emergency Declaration (Action Item)
7. Board Minutes
7.1. May 28, 2026 (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the May 28, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting minutes.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (4-0), Commissioner Mullin abstained.
8. Finance Department
8.1. Financial Report (Discussion)
No Finance updates
8.2. Check List (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve checks 55879-55941 and manual check 328.
Moved Commissioner Mullin
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
9. Summary by applicable Board liaison
9.1. Parks and Recreation Board
Commissioner Kennedy discussed the Bus Trip to DC and Art in the Park events that occurred.
Ms. A. Swan discussed the Urban Sketching at Lloyd Park.
Commissioner Kennedy shared that Bishop Shannon High School will use the volleyball courts in Lloyd Park. She also mentioned the upcoming Summer Series events in July. The Parks & Rec has been discussing accessibility features in the parks as well as Community Day planning. There is also a Clean Up event in July.
9.2. COG
No updates.
9.3. Municipal Authority/DARA
Commissioner Mullin discussed a municipal authority pre-construction meeting held with sewer service for Wedgewood developments and rejection of the bids for the Kings Grant electric upgrade project. For DARA final design of the future expansion plan modernization project is nearly complete. Dara is applying for financial assistance from FEMA and PEMA for a $2 million grant. The project bidding and awards are still expected in fall of 2026.
Commissioner Young asked about the estimated cost.
Commissioner Mullin replied that our portion is $3 million.
9.4. Fire Board
No updates.
9.5. Historical Commission
Commissioner Evans discussed the Lloyd Pump House renovations that Downingtown Borough owns but is on Caln Township property. He also mentioned the 250th events: Meetinghouse Tour and picnic. Leaders from Calne, England will be in attendance. The preservation ordinance is moving forward.
Commissioner Kennedy mentioned that people should make sure to get the merchandise for the 250th from our website.
9.6. Lincoln Highway
Commissioner Thomas mentioned that Monday, June 15 7-8:30pm there will be a public discussion with TMACC on design ideas for Lincoln Highway. Discussed SLDO updates at the last meeting and design guidelines.
Commissioner Evans recognized Tom Parr for bringing in $2500 in sponsorships and building a chicken coop for the picnic.
10. Additional Business
Commissioner Evans commended the Township for recognizing Pride Month and Juneteenth.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Tom Parr who asked the Chief about solicitors in the area trying to sell solar panels and the recommendations. The Chief replied that residents should call 911 since the Township has an ordinance that peddlers and solicitors have to obtain a permit. Calls go to dispatch center who can investigate.
Mr. Parr asked if a speed trailer could be placed on Lloyd Ave again.
The Chief replied that they will be tied up next week but will add it to the list.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Pete DiMaio who also confirmed that the solicitors aren’t showing identification and thanked everyone for the support of the Coatesville library.
Commissioner Young recognized Mr. DiSario who asked if the liquor license came with the N. Bailey property. Commissioner Evans replied that it was not because there is one with the golf course.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Helen Eckel-Wiener who wanted to point out that the 250th events continue throughout the year. There will be another trolley and walking tour in September.
Commissioner Evans asked if there is a fee.
Ms. Eckel-Wiener said there is a small fee.
11. Public Comment
No public comment.
12. Adjournment
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to adjourn.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Mullin
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
The meeting adjourned at 8:48pm.
Respectfully submitted,
JoEllen McBride
Office and Sustainability Coordinator
Commissioner Young called the meeting to order at 7:30pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited.
Commissioners present: Josh Young – President; Mark Evans – Vice President; Adam Thomas – Commissioner; Paul Mullin – Commissioner; Jane Kennedy – Commissioner (virtual)
Township Staff present: Don Vymazal – Manager; Abbey Swan – Assistant Manager; Joe Elias – Police Chief; Ryan Lewis – Assistant Fire Marshall; Lisa Swan – Finance Director
Guests: Larry Leavens – Sneaker Den; Roman Jastrzebski – Gilmore & Associates
The Board of Commissioners’ June 11, 2026 agenda was posted on the Township website and at the Township Building prior to the meeting. The 2026 Township meeting schedule was advertised in the Daily Local Newspaper on 12/18/2025.
Commissioner Young noted that an executive meeting was held to discuss legal matters before the workshop meeting.
2. Citizens to be Heard
No citizens to be heard.
3. Presentation – Proclamation for Sneaker Den
Commissioners recognized Sneaker Den for 41 years of outstanding service.
Mr. Leavens remarked that they really enjoyed working here and serving the community. He thanked everyone and his former staff for everything. He explained that the manufacturers would rather sell online than in stores.
Commissioner Young mentioned that the Board would like to recognize more businesses in the township so if residents have any suggestions they can send them to the Township Manager or Assistant Township Manager.
4. Township Solicitor
No Township solicitor business.
5. Township Manager
5.1. Barley Sheaf Road Bridge Emergency Repair (Discussion / Action Item)
Mr. Vymazal explained that the Barley Sheaf Road Bridge needs to be closed for repairs. During a routine inspection, scouring was found that undermined the structural integrity of the bridge. After our engineers take a look and determine the cause we will have a better idea of the time frame.
Commissioner Thomas asked if we have any idea how many other bridges in our Township may have issues like this.
Mr. Vymazal replied that there is a bridge inspection schedule so they stay on top of them.
Mr. Jastrzebski (engineer) explained that they inspected the bridge in May and put up a reduced load sign on the bridge. After an additional inspection at the end of May they decided to close the bridge for safety reasons.
Resident Tony DiSario commented that people who are avoiding the bridge are skipping the stop sign.
Chief Elias commented that municipalities that receive liquid fuel funds have to follow federal guidelines. To change an existing intersection has to meet 5 crashes in a certain period or the volume has to change. He recognizes the concern and has the traffic unit out to monitor the intersection.
Mr. DiSario asked what caused the damage to the bridge.
Mr. Vymazal responded that it was scouring under the foundation but they will do further investigation to verify.
Mr. DiSario asked if the bridge had been replaced before.
Mr. Jastrezebski replied that they would look into the history of the bridge as part of the investigation.
Commissioner Thomas had heard from neighbors at the same intersection (GO Carlson and Miller) and asked if a sign could be put up reminding people that it’s a two-way stop.
Mr. Vymazal responded that they could look into posting a sign.
Commissioner Mullin asked where the detour is.
Mr. Vymazal responded that the detour is N. Bailey heading east and signs are on the way indicating which way the detour is.
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-22 for the Emergency Repair of the Barley Sheaf Road Bridge.
Moved: Commissioner Thomas
Second: Commissioner Evans
Vote: unanimous (4-0) [Commissioner Kennedy had not joined yet.]
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the PSA of emergency repairs for the Barley Sheaf Road bridge.
Moved: Commissioner Mullin
Second: Commissioner Evans
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
5.2. Ingleside Golf Club Meadow Proposal (Discussion)
Ms A. Swan explained that this was part of a grant applied for on our half by the Chester County Conservation District who put together a proposal for DCNR for other municipalities doing meadow conversion projects. While they were doing that we also received a grant from PECO for the same property. The Conservation District said we could transfer the grant to the golf course and Ms. Shannon agreed. Converting 5 acres of rough into meadow and the Conservation District will handle bidding and installation. They need an agreement from the Township that we will maintain the meadow. The National Audubon Society has a golf course certification they can apply for after they install habitat stuff.
Commissioner Young asked if the agreement has anything in it about moving the meadow in case a reparing needs to be made on the golf course.
Mr. Vymazal replied that open space programs are usually open to relocation but they will check.
Commissioner Thomas asked if there are other areas of the golf course in the northern part that could be replicated.
Ms. A Swan replied that is where they are looking.
Commissioner Thomas asked about the 0.8 acres that could be done.
Ms. A. Swan replied that we could do any portion of the golf course but this is the bare minimum we could do with 5 acre of seed.
Mr. Vymazal mentioned that Ms. Shannon has the location flagged.
5.3. Fisherville Road Reprofiling (Discussion)
Mr. Vymazal described an update from Public Works. One area of Fisherville Road (westbound approaching Bailey) was pitched very steeply. This is a concern for the paving program and would add a substantial cost if added. So Public Works would like to reprofile and add temporary pavement ahead of the paving. They will do this alongside the stormwater improvements already slated for the area. We are seeing a huge cost savings with the expertise we have on staff. There will be some road closures or limited access that we will advertise to residents ahead of time.
Commissioner Young asked if this was the project Darryl Flings towing helped on.
Mr. Vymazal replied that is was and thanked Darryl Flings for all their help.
5.4. CCIU Update MOU (Discussion)
Chief Elias explained that pursuant to PA Department of Ed Safe Schools the police department signs an MOU every two years with any school districts in the township.
Commissioner Young asked if it is the Boards or Chiefs signature.
Chief Elias replied that it is his. And the MOU outlines the report and requirements needed to submit each year.
Commissioner Thomas asked how the relationship with CCIU has been lately.
Chief Elias replied that it has been night and day since they partnered with the Sheriff’s Department.
Commissioner Thomas asked if the Chief is concerned about the reporting of incidents.
Chief Elias replied that the MOU defines which incidents are mandatory and which are not mandatory. There may be times that there is discrepancy between how they view incidents but they have a fantastic relationship with the staff in the schools and reconcile incidents as they come up so there aren’t discrepancies in the reporting.
Commissioner Thomas asked how Mr. Stackhouse would view the incident reports.
Mr. Vymazal responded that they could check with him.
Mr. Lewis responded that there hasn’t been an influx of calls since the last report.
6. Resolutions
6.1. 2026-20 Recognizing Pride Month in Caln Township (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-20 recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month in Caln Township.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
6.2. 2026-21 Recognizing Juneteenth in Caln Township (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve Resolution 2026-21 recognizing June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth in Caln Township.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Kennedy
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
Commissioner Young mentioned that we are working on a way to display the signed resolutions.
6.3. 2026-22 Barley Sheaf Road Bridge Emergency Declaration (Action Item)
7. Board Minutes
7.1. May 28, 2026 (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve the May 28, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting minutes.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (4-0), Commissioner Mullin abstained.
8. Finance Department
8.1. Financial Report (Discussion)
No Finance updates
8.2. Check List (Action Item)
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to approve checks 55879-55941 and manual check 328.
Moved Commissioner Mullin
Second Commissioner Thomas
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
9. Summary by applicable Board liaison
9.1. Parks and Recreation Board
Commissioner Kennedy discussed the Bus Trip to DC and Art in the Park events that occurred.
Ms. A. Swan discussed the Urban Sketching at Lloyd Park.
Commissioner Kennedy shared that Bishop Shannon High School will use the volleyball courts in Lloyd Park. She also mentioned the upcoming Summer Series events in July. The Parks & Rec has been discussing accessibility features in the parks as well as Community Day planning. There is also a Clean Up event in July.
9.2. COG
No updates.
9.3. Municipal Authority/DARA
Commissioner Mullin discussed a municipal authority pre-construction meeting held with sewer service for Wedgewood developments and rejection of the bids for the Kings Grant electric upgrade project. For DARA final design of the future expansion plan modernization project is nearly complete. Dara is applying for financial assistance from FEMA and PEMA for a $2 million grant. The project bidding and awards are still expected in fall of 2026.
Commissioner Young asked about the estimated cost.
Commissioner Mullin replied that our portion is $3 million.
9.4. Fire Board
No updates.
9.5. Historical Commission
Commissioner Evans discussed the Lloyd Pump House renovations that Downingtown Borough owns but is on Caln Township property. He also mentioned the 250th events: Meetinghouse Tour and picnic. Leaders from Calne, England will be in attendance. The preservation ordinance is moving forward.
Commissioner Kennedy mentioned that people should make sure to get the merchandise for the 250th from our website.
9.6. Lincoln Highway
Commissioner Thomas mentioned that Monday, June 15 7-8:30pm there will be a public discussion with TMACC on design ideas for Lincoln Highway. Discussed SLDO updates at the last meeting and design guidelines.
Commissioner Evans recognized Tom Parr for bringing in $2500 in sponsorships and building a chicken coop for the picnic.
10. Additional Business
Commissioner Evans commended the Township for recognizing Pride Month and Juneteenth.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Tom Parr who asked the Chief about solicitors in the area trying to sell solar panels and the recommendations. The Chief replied that residents should call 911 since the Township has an ordinance that peddlers and solicitors have to obtain a permit. Calls go to dispatch center who can investigate.
Mr. Parr asked if a speed trailer could be placed on Lloyd Ave again.
The Chief replied that they will be tied up next week but will add it to the list.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Pete DiMaio who also confirmed that the solicitors aren’t showing identification and thanked everyone for the support of the Coatesville library.
Commissioner Young recognized Mr. DiSario who asked if the liquor license came with the N. Bailey property. Commissioner Evans replied that it was not because there is one with the golf course.
Commissioner Young recognized resident Helen Eckel-Wiener who wanted to point out that the 250th events continue throughout the year. There will be another trolley and walking tour in September.
Commissioner Evans asked if there is a fee.
Ms. Eckel-Wiener said there is a small fee.
11. Public Comment
No public comment.
12. Adjournment
Commissioner Young entertained a motion to adjourn.
Moved Commissioner Evans
Second Commissioner Mullin
Vote: unanimous (5-0)
The meeting adjourned at 8:48pm.
Respectfully submitted,
JoEllen McBride
Office and Sustainability Coordinator
