Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of March 28, 2018 BOS Meeting
You May not have the time to download and read the entire minutes from the biweekly meetings of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS), or the approved minutes may not yet be available on the Township website (here), so I created this summary from the March 28, 2018, meeting. I also included some links to related information including video clips from meetings. I'll do the same for future meetings. This is not a complete list of items discussed.
Committees
Finance Committee: Resolution 2018-R-12 passed 5-0: The Finance Committee is created to serve as an advisory committee to the Supervisors with a dual emphasis on budget analysis and revenue generating opportunities or any tasks or responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Supervisors, and to advise on economic development. Members of the Finance Committee with terms ending December 31, 2018 are: Mark Boada, Stuart Caplan, Richard Weaver, Hank Schrandt, Margaret Dissinger, Jack Brod and George Skladany
Technology Committee: Mr. Mack, Technology Committee Liaison. The Committee met last night and re-appointed the chairperson and co-chairperson. There was discussion about how to better communicate with the Board and vice versa. Mr. Mack informed the Committee that the Board would like to hear suggestions and suggested that the chairperson make a report to the Board at a work session or Supervisors meeting. Mr. Calabro suggested the Committee report at a televised meeting as is done with other committees. Mr. Mack made a motion to approve Resolution 2018-R-11 establishing the Newtown Township Technology Committee and setting forth its mission, structure and composition. The motion passed 5-0.
Finance Committee: Resolution 2018-R-13: passed 5-0: Committee members will have a one year term ending 2018. Mr. Ferguson stated he would be able to approve funding to a certain amount but if the Committee would create an action plan and specific projects/events, that it could be a line item in the 2019 budget Members of the Veterans Committee with terms ending December 31, 2018 are: Jay Schnitzer, Ed Valenti, Rhett Baxter, Jim Casey, Charles Resch, Jim Gieseke and John D'Aprile.
Environment
Gas & Oil Drilling/Fracking: The Township received a sample resolution [from the Delaware Riverkeeper Network] opposing fracking detailing facts and figures from scientific studies regarding the adverse impact of fracking. Mr. Mack commented that during the March 19th Work Session, the issue of the massive amount of trucks was mentioned that would be coming through if there was fracking done north of Newtown. It would be detrimental to the road infrastructure and the well-being of the community. Mr. Calabro called the vote. The motion passed 4-1, Mr. Davis voting nay. [Read "Newtown Township Supports a Complete & Permanent Ban on Fracking and Related Activities"]
Comments made at the meeting by Sharon Furlong, Lower Southampton Township resident, is a spokesperson for the Bucks Environmental Action Group and Bucks County Sierra Club.
Good Government
Minutes of BOS meetings: Mr. Mack made a note that minutes are accessible to the public once they are approved. However, there is a delay on posting them on the website until Board member signatures are acquired or corrections need to be made. Mr. Ferguson said if there are no changes, the minutes can be signed and posted the following day. If corrections need to be made, the Township administrative assistant will post a temporary copy of the minutes which would then be replaced with the corrected copy.
Social Media Guidelines: Mr. Sander spoke on a proposed social media policy for the Township. He recommended that the Board authorize his office to draft a policy to bind all non-union employees and elected officials. The policy would be used as a negotiation point in 2018 union negotiations with CWA non-uniform and CWA fire, and police. Motion Discussion: Mr. Mack asked for an estimate of the cost and that it wouldn't infringe on a person's 1st Amendment rights. Mr. Sander replied that the policy would include reference to the 1st Amendment, and that the policy would take approximately 3 hours to draft. The motion passed 5-0. [See John Mack's Social Media and Online Ethics Resource Kit.]
Parks and Recreation
Trails: In regards to a DCNR grant, the Bucks County Planning Commission has asked the municipalities for their support in a recreational trail connecting Newtown Borough to Washington Crossing and Yardley Borough. The feasibility study assists the BCPC to seek grants. The motion passed 5-0.
Public Health
Opioid Crisis: Mr. Mack attended an Addiction and Opioid Awareness education event hosted by the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission at St. Andrews School. Attendees were trained on and were given Narcan and received two doses of Narcan as a handout. There was also a "medicine locker" for prescription drugs that can be used to keep children away from the drugs. There is a National Drug Takeback Day on April 28, 2018 from 10AM to 2PM at the Newtown Municipal Building and at the Newtown Athletic Club (NAC) which will also hold an informative drug symposium from Noon to 4PM. [Read "Report from the Together We Can Convention"]
Public Works
Roadway Improvement: W. Jeffrey Nagorny, Township Engineer, stated that the road program was re-bid last week. There will be a pre-bid meeting on Tuesday, April 10, 2018 and the opening of bids will be done on Thursday, April 19, 2018 at 10AM. [Read "Faulty Bids Cause Delay in 2018 Road Improvement Program"]
Traffic
Frost Lane: The traffic results have been about 10 MPH over the limit in the school zone. Speed enforcement will be done within the school zone and other areas soon. A blinking speed limit sign will be installed. This has been successful in having drivers reduce their speed. The speed signs around the school seem to be sufficient and some will be replaced this summer. Mr. Mack commented that Mr. Ferguson's report was very well done and that residents of Frost Lane appreciated the information that was shared. [Read "Frost Lane Traffic Study"]
Read More...Posted on 12 Apr 2018, 11:55 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of March 14, 2018 BOS Meeting
You May not have the time to download and read the entire minutes from the biweekly meetings of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS), or the approved minutes may not yet be available on the Township website (here), so I created this summary from the March 14, 2018, meeting. I also included some links to related information including video clips from meetings. I'll do the same for future meetings. This is not a complete list of items discussed.
Crime
Crime Statistics: Chief Pasqualini reviewed the police report for February 2018: There were 1,187 calls - 204 of which were handled in Wrightstown. Included in the report there were 72 traffic citations, 1 sex offense, 9 DUIs, 3 domestic relations, 6 narcotics - 1 using Narcan, 104 medical emergencies, 25 property damage and 32 accidents. Chief asked the community to call 215-598-7121 with nonemergency situations and added that the anonymous tip line is 215-504-2201. Mr. Mack questioned the February use of Narcan and mentioned that he has read that Narcan is being blamed for overdosing and deaths. Chief stated that Narcan is a tool that saves lives and that he isn’t aware of any incidents where users feel confident that if they overdose Narcan will quickly be available, but it could happen. View this video: "Newtown Police Chief Pasqualini Supports Narcan Use".
Environment
Underground Storage Tanks: Mr. Ferguson added that authorization to advertise for bids for the removal of two underground storage tanks, the pump island, all piping, and contamination testing per the Pa-DEP. The cost is included in the 2018 budget. Mrs. Dix made a motion to approve the underground storage tanks removal project. Ms. Bobrin seconded.
Motion Discussion: Mrs. Dix noted that this was one of the items cut from the budget that Mr. Couch noted earlier. Having this project completed under the request of the DEP and will save the Township from attaining penalties and fines from deferring the project any longer. Mr. Davis stated that it was believed that the project could have waited until the Township had the money rather than raise taxes, but it was overruled this year and was included in the 2018 budget. The motion passed 5-0.
Good Government
National Sunshine Week: Mr. Mack stated that it was National Sunshine Week regarding the Sunshine Act and the right to know about public document access. He held an online quiz regarding this topic and with 55 people responding, the average score was 50% (see more results here). An example question asked if you could record a public meeting with your cell phone. The answer was that you have the right to record the meeting with your cell. Some public meetings that are not televised can also be recorded (i.e. a zoning board hearing). The Right-To-Know Law allows a person to receive a transcript or recording of a meeting within five days of the request. Requests can be made using a form available on the Township website and submitted to Mr. Lewis, Open Records Officer.
Public Health
Oil & Gas Drilling/Fracking: Mrs. Dix commented that the Jointure [Newtown, Wrightstown, Upper Makefield] had a meeting on March 1 regarding the gas and drilling ordinance options which was attended by Mr. Mack, Ms. Bobrin and herself. Special counsel Jordan Yeager, Esq., reviewed options and Mrs. Davis asked that the topic be included on the next Board of Supervisor’s Work Session on March 19, 2018 (listen to this podcast: "Newtown Supervisors Discuss Possible Ant-Fracking Ordinance")
Public Works
Roadway Improvement: The bids for the road program were received and analyzed by the Township Engineer. Due to deficiencies with the bids, and it was recommended to reject all bids and re-bid the 2018 Road Program. Mrs. Dix made the motion to advertise the ordinance. Ms. Bobrin seconded.
Motion Discussion: Mr. Mack asked about delays in paving. Mr. Ferguson stated that it would move paving from the spring to the fall. (See this blog post and video: "Faulty Bids Cause Delay in 2018 Road Improvement Program"). The motion passed 5-0.
Traffic
Frost Lane: Mr. Ferguson stated there have been residents reporting cut-through traffic and speeding. The “Stealth Stat” will be used to counts cars, and determine average and highest speed, etc. It concludes that traffic speed needs to be enforced. For example: Linton Hill Road the Stealth Stat was done and the speed averaged 10 MPH higher than the posted speed. A blinking speed estimator sign was put out and about 6-8 months after the blinking speed sign was removed, the Stealth Stat stated that the average speed was a couple MPH under the posted speed limit. This exercise will be completed on Frost Lane in the future (read "Frost Lane Traffic Study")
Read More...Posted on 29 Mar 2018, 13:43 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of February 28, 2018 BOS Meeting
You May not have the time to download and read the entire minutes from the biweekly meetings of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS), or the approved minutes may not yet be available on the Township website (here), so I created this summary from the February 28, 2018, meeting. I also included some links to related information including video clips from meetings. I'll do the same for future meetings.
Development
At the previous Board of Supervisor meeting, the Board approved the conditional use application of Nina’s Waffles and Ice Cream, 2905 S. Eagle Road, with conditions. The Board is requested to approve the conditions. Mrs. Dix moved to approve the conditions. Ms. Bobrin seconded and the motion was passed 5-0.
Pickering Manor: Proposed is an 18,000+ sq. ft. addition to the main property, expanding parking area, and underground water seepage bed. The applicant will comply with the Township engineer review letter issues, however, waivers were reviewed at the Planning Commission meeting. Concerns of the residents were storm water runoff, truck deliveries, and overall operating noise and traffic. It was recommended that the times for food supply deliveries be made in a smaller truck and be moved to a more appropriate time. The executive director of Pickering Manor urged neighbors to contact her to discuss any issues they may have.
Villas of Newtown: Authorization is sought to sign the Release of Claims regarding the unauthorized removal of a birch tree by the developer of The Villas at Newtown. Mrs. Dix made a motion to approve. Ms. Bobrin seconded, and the motion passed 5-0. Read "McGrath, Developer of Villa at Newtown, To Pay Newtown Twp $25K For Surreptitiously and Illegally Cutting Down Valuable Beech Tree".
Public Safety
Police Dept Reorganization: Authorization is sought to advertise an Ordinance amending the Newtown Administrative Code of 2000, as amended, to provide for two Lieutenants within the Newtown Police Department. No new personnel are proposed. Mrs. Dix made a motion to approve. Ms. Bobrin seconded, and the motion passed 5-0.
Active Shooter Plan: Mr. Ferguson reported on the Township’s emergency operation plan for facilities. The first training of staff was directed by Sgt. Lupinetti and a second training session is being planned. Mr. Ferguson stated that plans are being developed for off-hours when training classes and Township meetings are being held.
Parks and Recreation: Mr. Calabro requested the Solicitor to review the ordinance regarding people to carry weapons in the Township parks; it was mandated by the State legislature. He believes the Townships can reverse this. Mr. Calabro went on to state that the Township has seven schools and a few colleges. It is the intent of the Township to keep everyone safe, and not intending to impinge of the Second Amendment, but to ban anyone carrying a concealed weapon in the parks. Ms. Geiser will research if it can be done.
Permits
Irish Festival: Cherie Peters of Newtown Borough asked if the Board had made a decision regarding the length of the Irish Festival. Mr. Calabro stated that a 2-day permit would be issued for the outdoor festivities with the setup of tents on Thursday and take down on Sunday. There will be a 5K run on Saturday morning; participants will park at Veterans Park and a shuttle will provide transportation to the event. View video: "Green Parrot Irish Festival 2018 Pro and Con Debate"
Parks and Recreation
Trails: Mr. Lewis reported on the DCNR application. Two more grants became available and it will be decided what is the best way for the Township to go. These grants will be for the Lower Dolington Trail. The two new grants are from the Department of Economic Development.
Read More...Posted on 19 Mar 2018, 01:47 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of February 14, 2018 BOS Meeting
You May not have the time to download and read the entire minutes from the biweekly meetings of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS), so I created this summary from the February 14, 2018, meeting. I also included some links to related information including video clips from meetings. I'll do the same for future meetings.
Crime
Crime Statistics: There were 1,330 calls during January, 222 of which were in Wrightstown. Some of the highlights are 3 burglaries, 5 DUIs, 1 death, 4 domestic, 3 drug investigations 5 frauds, 9 thefts, 19 property damages, 5 hit/run, 59 suspicious activity and 145 medical emergencies. More...
Development
Nina's Waffles & Ice Cream: This building is the Toll House and is a part of the conditionally approved Brixmor development. Items outlined in the Planning Engineer’s response letter were discussed, such as, hours of operation, ADA compliance, landscape buffer fronting Durham Road, maximum employees during a shift, and deliveries. Proposed improvements to the exterior of the building is proposed seating areas. The Commission approved the conditional use. Motion for approval passed 4-0. Read "Nina's Waffles Coming to Newtown", view the video.
Pickering Manor: A plan was submitted proposing an approximate 18,200 sq. ft. two-story building addition to the main building and additions to three of the five existing cottage buildings. Expanded parking and driveway facilities and an underground seepage bed for storm water management is also proposed.
Fiscal Responsibility
2018 Budget: Mr. Calabro commented on what he read by a former Board of Supervisor member regarding the misrepresentation the former supervisor made to the budget which was passed on February 7, 2018. The person stated that taxes were raised one million dollars, increasing taxes by $168 per year. 1 mil is not one million dollars. 1 mil equates to approximately $340,000 which is roughly a $40.00 per year increase. It made it appear that taxes were being raised exorbitantly.
Permits
Irish Festival: Newtown Borough Resident Cherie Peters spoke on behalf of her neighbors on Edge, State, Sycamore, Congress, Frost, etc., some local business people, some Borough council members, church, etc., located near the Green Parrot regarding the upcoming Irish Festival. Bob Lutz, co-partner of the Green Parrot, said he was surprised that the days of the Festival were reduced from four days to two days when they have operated the Festival for eight years this way without incident. Other comments made by residents. Read "The Green Parrot Irish Festival Spurs Debate", view the video.
Public Health
Water Quality: Mr. Mack referred to a news item that cyanide had been poured down a storm drain. He spoke to Dan Angrove, Assistant General Manager of Newtown Artesian Water Company, and was assured there was never a threat to the water supply. Other municipalities also performed testing and no toxicity was found. If there is an emergency, the water company would put a reverse 911 system into effect to notify people or would have door hangers placed. More...
Read More...Posted on 01 Mar 2018, 15:35 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
25 May 2022 BOS Meeting Summary
25 May 2022 BOS Meeting Summary
EDC reviews LI/OLI district overlay plan, Lower Dolington Rd trail delay, LED streetlight planning update, Chick-fil-A settlement, ARPA fund purchases, 5G wireless JMZO ordinance, More...
This is my personal summary of the May 25, 2022, meeting of Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS). This is not a complete nor an official summary.
See my Meeting Notes (PDF) for a more complete summary and view the official video of the meeting on Youtube for more details.
Access the 2022 BOS Voting Record (UNOFFICIAL).
EDC Reviews LI/OLI District Overlay Plan
On May 19, 2022, Jeremy Stoff, Planner at Bucks County Planning Commission (BCPC), met Newtown Economic Development Committee (EDC) members via Zoom to present an outline of BCPC's plan for a LI/OLI Overlay District. Some members of the EDC didn't see much use of public transportation or need for high-density housing and were more interested in business amenities. Listen to the discussion:
Engineer’s Report on Lower Dolington Road Trail
Newtown Engineer Leanna Colubriale requested that the BOS approve a change order delay of 60 days for the completion of the Lower Dolington Road Mult-use Trail. The change order was required because of “unforeseen utility conflicts.” Ms. Colubriale answered questions from supervisors regarding specifics and the relocation of fencing. Listen…
Solicitor's Report: Chick-fil-A Settlement
Manager's Report: ARPA Purchases
The Township has received $2,049,842 pursuant to the American Rescue Plan/Act (ARP/ARPA). The BOS approved using ARPA funds to purchase an additional 3 new police cars for $211,497.15 and one new dump truck for $188,524.00. The following chart summarizes approved uses of ARPA funds to date.
5G Wireless Amendment to JMZO
There was a lively debate regarding whether or not to send the 5G wireless JMZO amendment back to the Joint Zoning Council (JZC) with the changes, corrections, additions suggested by the CKS, the Township Planner. There was a disagreement as to whether and WHEN other changes such as those suggested by Mr. Andrew Campanelli, ESQ. should be passed on to the JZC.
In the end, the supervisors agreed by a 4-1 vote to table the motion until further discussion about other changes can be had. Jerry Schenkman, JZC Solicitor, agreed to work with supervisors to hammer out suggested changes to bring before the BOS at its next public meeting. Listen to the debate…
Read More...Posted on 30 May 2022, 5:26 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
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