Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of December 11, 2019, Newtown Township BOS Public Meeting
The following is a brief summary of the December 11, 2019, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS Definition) meeting based upon the official minutes of that meeting, which you can find here. In attendance and voting were Supervisors: Chairman Phillip Calabro, Vice Chairman Linda Bobrin, Secretary John Mack, and member Dennis Fisher. Also in attendance were: Township Manager Micah Lewis and Township Solicitor David Sander. Member Kyle Davis was absent.
Development
Conditional Use Hearing - Toll Pa. XVIII: Mr. Sander explained when the conditional use application was received it was advertised for public hearing this evening. Subsequently a letter was received from the applicant's attorney to extend the time which the BOS must hear matter until 1/31/20.
Ms. Bobrin moved to continue the Hearing for Toll Pa, XVIII until January 22, 2020 at 7:00 PM in the Township meeting room.
Mr. Calabro asked what will happen on January 22. Mr. Sander said we will have a conditional use hearing. He said there will be no further advertisements in newspapers or other notices mailed which is why we are opening the hearing formally and continuing...Mr. Lewis will investigate what notices were or were not sent out and ensures the residents will be notified either by Toll or the Township.
The motion passed 5-0.
Finances
Consideration to Adopt the 2020 Final Budget: Mr. Lewis reported all YTD numbers have been updated in the budget; the projected total estimated revenue is $14,413,898.00, projected total expenditures are $13,081,611.00 and the estimated net fund balance is $1,332,287.00, which equates to 10.18% of total expenditures.
Discussion of motion: Mr. Mack had previously requested to get a line item in the budget for the Savvy Citizen app and he reported they have come back with a lower cost and are offering to have sponsors cover some of the cost. He said the new estimate is $2,841 for the year including set up and marketing fee down from the original $3,600. Mr. Mack explained the benefits of Savvy Citizen and asked the Board to consider adding this as a line item to the Budget. Mr. Calabro said we already have moved to approve budget as outlined. A discussion ensued on budget amendments and the time frame. Mr. Mack said he will distribute materials and review with local businesses to determine interest in sponsorships. He will also speak with Mr. Lewis about personnel requirements prior to moving forward.
The motion passed 5-0.
Zoning
Consideration of Declaration of Municipal Curative Amendment: Mr. Sander explained according to Pennsylvania law the use of property as a convenience store and gas station as a combined use is to be provided for by law and the use contained in a zoning ordinance. He said the Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance doesn't have such a use and are in the process of drafting an ordinance; in the meantime there is a procedure that allows municipalities to examine their zoning ordinances and if an invalidity is found, they have an opportunity to declare that invalidity and announce they will cure the invalidity.
Mr. Calabro asked Mr. Sander to explain how this protects the Township against the gas station/convenience store property use. Mr. Sander said from the date of declaration for period of nine months, nobody can file an application for land development that deals with gas station/convenience store use, nor can they file a challenge. When questioned by Supervisor Mack, Mr. Sander stated that this action does not apply to the substantive legal challenge to the joint municipal zoning ordinance previously filed by Provco.
The Motion passed 5-0.
UPDATE
On January 8, 2020, the BOS voted 3-0 (Mack was absent) to pass Resolution No. 2020-R-5 with the following Specific Findings Setting Forth the Declared Invalidity of the JMZO Ordinance:- The Ordinance contains provisions providing for and governing both a convenience store use (Section 803.E‐1) and a gas station use (Section 803.E‐10) but does not contain provisions providing for and governing a single use consisting of a combination of a convenience store use and a gas station use.
- Recent decisions issued by the Courts of Common Pleas of Bucks County and Montgomery County have determined that municipal zoning ordinances that do not provide for a combination convenience store/gas station use may be unconstitutional.
- The Municipal Curative Amendment declared by Newtown Township on December 11, 2019 is specifically declared to determine whether the Ordinance is unconstitutional, and if so, to enact an ordinance to cure the invalidity by providing for a combination convenience store/gas station use in the Newtown Area Jointure, with provisions defining and providing for such use in the Jointure, and regulations governing such use.
Public Safety
Police Report: Chief Hearn reported the department responded to 1,771 calls for service during November including 6 arrests, 89 traffic accidents, 41 of which were deer related and 220 citations. The Chief thanked the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades who donated painting of police building and garage at no cost to township. He reminded all to have neighbors help retrieve packages when delivered and not to leave them on front steps or driveways. Mr. Mack asked about catalytic converter theft. The Chief said we have not yet had incident of this in Newtown. Read details of the report here.
Supervisor Reports
Comprehensive Plan: Mr. Calabro reported he attended the Jointure (JZC) Definition meeting which reviewed how to proceed on the Comprehensive Plan Definition. They discussed contacting other committees such as Park and Rec, Finance, etc. and have a representative from each committee meet with those who are forming the Comprehensive Plan.
Bobrin Announces Plan to Leave Board: Ms. Bobrin shared that this will be her last public meeting as she is leaving the Board of Supervisors to become the Register of Wills for Bucks County.
Votes on Motions
Not all motions are included.
Posted on 12 Jan 2020, 12:04 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Excerpts from 2019 BOS Meeting Minutes
This document is a collection of selected excerpts of approved minutes from the official 2019 public meetings of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS). Not included are minutes from the last meeting of the year (December 11, 2019). For the complete official minutes of meetings, please go to the Newtown Township website.
The excerpts are arranged by category in chronological order. Access the PDF version here.
For definitions of technical terms, please visit the “Newtown Area Municipal Glossary”.
Also access excerpts of minutes going back to 2014 according to specific issues under the following headings:
Read More...
DevelopmentPosted on 18 Dec 2019, 01:10 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of November 26, 2019, Newtown Township BOS Public Meeting
The following is a brief summary of the November 26, 2019, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS Definition) meeting based upon the official minutes of that meeting, which you can find here. In attendance and voting were Supervisors: Chairman Phillip Calabro, Vice Chairman Linda Bobrin, Secretary John Mack, and member Dennis Fisher. Also in attendance were: Township Manager Micah Lewis and Township Solicitor David Sander. Member Kyle Davis was absent.
Development
Durham Partners Group LLC, 413 Durham Road: The applicant is seeking zoning relief in connection with the proposed development of a five-acre lot with one existing single-family home into a 27 -lot town home community. The application was previously presented to the BOS who opposed the project. The Commission has concerns with the density issues and wetness of the area. There was discussion of other options for the area including a 24,000 square foot medical office building. The Commission opposed this application.
Mr. Mack stated he attended the PC meeting and heard some comments from PC that reflected the BOS feelings about the Durham Road application. He suggested, since all oppose this application, to motion withdrawing the ZHB application. Mr. Calabro said it was a good suggestion, however it is up to the applicant to withdraw. Mr. Calabro added he is still in favor of sending the solicitor to the meeting to oppose the application.
Finances
Five-Year Financial Plan: Jack Brod reported on behalf of the Finance Committee that Newtown Township was awarded a matching grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to hire a consultant to perform financial analysis and develop a five-year plan to help improve the Township's fiscal position. An RFP was developed, advertised and sent directly to a list of recommended consultants. The response was less than anticipated due to timing factors and other RFP's in progress, however one proposal was received from Econsult Solutions, a firm in Philadelphia with experience in developing five-year plans for municipalities. Mr. Brod shared additional information about the company and said their proposal was in line with the requirements and within the allocated budget. He said the recommendation of the Finance Committee is to select a date between now and year end to interview consultants from Econsult Solutions.
Mr. Calabro asked Mr. Brod for his input on the budget. Mr. Brod offered his observation that the current budget reflects why the Finance Committee and the BOS are moving forward to look for a long-term plan, as the budget continues to be challenging. He said revenue continues to be less than expenses resulting in the need to tap into the dwindling general fund.
[Also view this 3-minute video: "Thoughts on Newtown Township's Deficit Spending".]
Litigation
Ratification of Opt-Out of Opioid Litigation Class Settlement: Mr. Sander explained the ratification of the Township opting out of a class action litigation settlement based on the opioid epidemic. The Federal Class was certified out of the northern district of Ohio and every municipality in the country was sent a notice to become a member of the class. The recommendation from the Township's outside counsel is to opt out of the federal class so the Township may pursue their own suit.
Mr. Mack asked if this means we gave up on pursing companies in court ourselves and Mr. Sander said quite the contrary, this decision enables the Township to pursue the companies on our own. Mr. Mack cited a Wall Street Journal article and generated some discussion on this topic and Mr. Sander confirmed that this was not related to the Township's case.
[From Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting: WSJ Reports That Federal Prosecutors Open Criminal Probe of Opioid Makers and Distributors, many of whom are part of this lawsuit. What impact does this have on our case if we ratify this opt-out of the federal class action case? “Companies including Teva, McKesson, Mallinckrodt, AmerisourceBergen, Johnson & Johnson and Amneal Pharmaceuticals have received subpoenas, the Journal reported. More subpoenas for the probe, which is still in its early stages, are expected to come. If the investigation turns into criminal charges, it could be the largest prosecution of drug companies said to have been part of the opioid crisis, the Wall Street Journal reported.”]
Parks and Recreation
Newtown Pedestrian Bridge and Resolution: Mike Sellers, member of the Newtown Creek Coalition (NCC) gave a slide presentation proposing the concept of building a footbridge over Newtown Creek at the location of the historic trolley bridge between Frost Lane and Durham Road. This would require a partnership between the NCC, Newtown Township and Newtown Borough.
In response to Mr. Mack's questions, Mr. Sellers said the NCC envisions the bridge for the use of all, including bicycles and strollers, and will be ADA compliant. Further Reading: "Newtown Creek Bridge Proposal ‐ Discussion at the October 23, 2019, BOS meeting" and "Newtown Creek Bridge Proposal Questionnaire Summary," a copy of which was submitted to all supervisors.
[From Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting: At the Work Session last week it was suggested that grants could be sought to cover some of the costs and the Township could seek “in-kind” services from professionals such as engineers, etc. Of course, most grants will not cover the total costs involved and as we know there is a lot of competition for grants money. With regard to “in-kind” services from professionals, I believe that would be very problematic as it could be viewed as a conflict of interest or even a form of “Pay-to-Play.” Costs associated with authorization for “staff and professionals of Newtown Township to participate in the exploration of the requirements for such a project, including available funding sources” are not specified. In addition, the structure of this “participation” is not specified. I assume this will be an “exploratory committee?” I would like the resolution to specify the composition of such a committee to include representatives from the Township BOS, Borough Council, Newtown Creek Coalition, plus staff and professionals from both the Township and the Borough.]
Public Safety
ESD Report: Chief Forsyth reported the department responded to 137 calls for service during October including six building fires, five dwelling fires, one vehicle fire and 76 EMS calls.
Mr. Mack asked for feedback from the meeting with Representative Fitzpatrick regarding the dire need for volunteer firefighters. Chief Forsyth reported that several chiefs attended a meeting with Representative Fitzpatrick and other state reps to try to come up with a plan to recruit volunteers. The Chief said we are in crisis mode for volunteers and he emphasized the seriousness of the situation.
Supervisor Reports
Heritage Festival: Mr. Mack reported he attended a school heritage festival at Newtown Elementary school hosted by the Newtown Elementary Equity and Inclusion Committee. He said the Newtown Human Relations Commission was present and provided cards on discrimination.
Newtown Fire Association: [From Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting:2020 FUND DRIVE: was launched on November 5, 2019. Residents should have received the letter. I urge you to make a donation, which will help pay for necessary equipment and training, which reduces insurance premiums. I can tell you that the NFA is doing all it can to raise money from various sources, including applying for multiple grants. The NFA is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, so your donation of $35, $45, $55, or other amount is 100% tax-deductible.]
Posted on 14 Dec 2019, 12:04 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of November 13, 2019, Newtown Township BOS Public Meeting
The following is a brief summary of the November 13, 2019, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS Definition) meeting based upon the official minutes of that meeting, which you can find here. In attendance and voting were Supervisors: Chairman Phillip Calabro, Vice Chairman Linda Bobrin, Secretary John Mack, member Kyle Davis and member Dennis Fisher. Also in attendance were: Township Manager Micah Lewis and Township Solicitor David Sander.
Communications
Savvy Citizen: Mr. Mack inquired about adding Savvy Citizen to the budget as he believes it is a useful tool that would not require much maintenance. Mr. Sander confirmed Board consensus is required at this time to add or subtract from the budget.
Mr. Lewis said there is no staff to maintain it. Mr. Mack believes there is not much maintenance required. A discussion ensued on the Savvy Citizen app including the cost, upkeep, staffing and benefits to the community.
Mr. Mack moved for the Board to consider revising the budget to purchase the Savvy Citizen App. Mr. Fisher seconded. The motion failed 2‐3 with Mr. Calabro, Ms. Bobrin and Mr. Davis voting nay.
[Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting: I request that the 2020 budget include $3,600 to implement the Savvy Citizen mobile-based notification system that was reviewed by the BOS at the September 16, 2019, Work Session. That would cover the monthly payments of $249 for 12 months plus the one-time marketing and setup fee of $600.
Keep in mind, Newtown has the option to “Test Drive” Savvy for an unlimited number of months via the monthly payment option. Then, at any time, Newtown could take advantage of a two-month discount by paying for a year. That would bring the total cost down to $3,090. In addition, if we decide to do this by 10/31, Savvy Citizen will give Newtown the calendar plug-in at no charge for the first year. This is a savings of $600.
About 87% of respondents to my online survey (N=151) said they would opt-in to a notification service such as Savvy Citizen. Keep in mind that any resident of neighboring townships – including Wrightstown, Upper Makefield, Middletown, Richboro, North Hampton, Lower Makefield, etc. – will be able to see notifications from Newtown via the free iPhone app. This could benefit Newtown’s Parks and Recreation Department, whose activities are often used by non-residents. The Parks & Rec Committee reviewed the Savvy Citizen app and it thought it would be very useful.
Further Reading: "Savvy Citizen Presentation" and "My BIG Idea: Openness, Transparency & Better Communications"].
Development
413 Durham Road ZHB Appeal: Nate Fox presented the application on behalf of Durham Road Partners Group, LLC. He stated they filed a use variance to be heard by ZHB on 12/5/19 and the Planning Commission next week for 27 townhouses on a cul‐de‐sac on the property at 413 Durham Road which will also require dimensional variances as the property is zoned for professional office.
Resident Michael Horbal questioned the BOS role in this process. Mr. Sander responded the BOS can decide to take no action, they can authorize Mr. Sander to write a letter to the ZHB stating concerns and agree to certain decisions or they can authorize Mr. Sander to take a position for or against.
[Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting:
- This is a classic example of “overdevelopment” or “land grab.” This use is not permitted as a use by right, a conditional use, OR a special exception in the PS-2 district.
- You say in your letter, “It does appear that this area at some point was singled out from surrounding land from which it is indistinguishable.” What do you think was the reason for that? Traffic?
- If the client is so concerned about traffic, then the developer should submit the type of residential development that meets the single family zoning that is allowed on this piece of land.
- Your client is asking for 7 major variances. These include substantially increasing the max impervious surface ratio from 8% to more than 36%. Such a quite a big ratio would IMHO have a negative impact on stormwater management. The Township has a pollution reduction plan and this proposed would not not be in compliance with the spirit of that plan.
- What about the impact on the school system? Parents have told me that there already are delays in busing due to more and more families moving into the school district].
Mr. Mack moved to authorize Mr. Sander to attend the Zoning Hearing Board meeting and oppose the application of Durham Road Partners Group, LLC. Mr. Fisher seconded and the motion passed 4‐1 with Mr. Davis voting nay.
[For details, read "Newtown Supervisors Oppose Plan To Build 27 Townhouses" and "It's Strike Two for 27 Townhomes on Durham Road!"]
Finances
2020 Budget: Mr. Lewis updated the Board on changes to the Budget since it was presented [read "Newtown Township Begins 2020 Budget Review Process"]. He updated the YTD information, adjusted some year‐end projection numbers as well as the 2020 budget estimates in the general fund. The adjustments resulted in an increase of the projected 2019 year‐end fund balance of over $100K for a total fund balance forward estimate for 2020 of $2,372,000. The total expenditures for the 2020 budget are $13,081,611 with estimated fund balance forward of $1,321,804 equating to 10.1% of total expenditures. Regarding revenue, due to the non‐resident EIT not coming in as predicted, the estimate was downgraded to $2,000,000 from $2,078,500 and the 2020 budget estimate was decreased to $2,050,000 from $2,125,000. The delinquent EIT collection in October was better than expected so the year end estimate increased to $285K from $225K that was presented. Remaining revenues remained unchanged and there is no tax increase proposed to support the general fund.
[Also view this 3-minute video: "Thoughts on Newtown Township's Deficit Spending".]
Public Safety
Newtown Ambulance Squad: Chief Evan Resnikoff of the Newtown Ambulance Squad (NAS) presented citations to several members of the NAS, St. Mary’s EMS and Newtown Fire Association. He said that Bucks County automatically dispatches two paramedic ambulances whenever a cardiac arrest is reported and in the third quarter of this year 39% of all cardiac arrests were resuscitated by the time they arrived at the hospital. Chief Resnikoff said these positive outcomes would not be possible without County, Municipal, and residential support and he emphasized the importance of knowing CPR.
Regarding residential support, Mr. Resnikoff reported the annual subscription drive will be mailed out in approximately two weeks. He explained the program helps the organization financially and saves co‐pays and deductibles for subscribers. In response to Mr. Mack’s questions, Chief Resnikoff confirmed all family members, even those visiting your home from out of town, would be covered by the household subscription. He also said the annual report would be published on the website, but he would be happy to review for the Board in January.
[Mack's Notes prepared prior to meeting: In a January, 2018, report, Mr. Resnikoff said that the squad’s response to opioid-related calls was up 58% in the first 8 months of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. This adds a significant cost to the healthcare system including EMS because greater than 80% of these patients have no insurance and cannot pay the fees.
The BOS hasn’t had an update on this and other activities of the NAS since January, 2018. I requested that Mr. Resnikoff give the Board and the public an update such as an annual report for 2018 so that we can evaluate if any further assistance from the Township is warranted, especially with regard to the opioid epidemic. I would note that the Twp is currently pursuing a case AGAINST MAJOR OPIOID MANUFACTURERS. As I have stated in the past (read "Newtown Township Joins Suit Against Opioid Manufacturers and Distributors"), it is my hope that If the Township were to get some money out of this, small as it might be, that the funds are used to support opioid anti-addiction programs and implement educational programs for the general public and help emergency services defer the costs involved in responding to drug overdoses.]
Police Report: Chief Hearn reported the department responded to 1,803 calls for service during October including 14 arrests, 83 traffic collisions and 215 traffic citations and the department continues to focus on aggressive driving [see details here]. The Chief said one arrest was for theft from vehicles, and he reminded all to keep vehicles locked as there have been several sprees of theft from unlocked vehicles.
Mr. Mack asked about ACT 79 noncompliance. The Chief explained the new law implemented in April where anyone who gets a protection of abuse order and owns a firearm will be required to relinquish their firearm.
Supervisor Reports
Roberts Ridge Park: Mr. Mack reported there was a tree planting in Roberts Ridge Park on Saturday, and he thanked the residents and specifically Elen Snyder for taking this project on with the help from the Neshaminy Creek Watershed Association. Mr. Mack also thanked Mr. Lewis and the Park and Rec department for overseeing the project, which was totally funded by residents.
Environmental Action Council (EAC): Mr. Fisher reported the EAC had a joint meeting with the Borough EAC to share ideas and there was a discussion about how to promote reducing single use plastics.
Access the 2019 (UNOFFICIAL) BOS Voting Record to date here.
Read More...Posted on 29 Nov 2019, 11:13 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
Summary of October 23, 2019, Newtown Township BOS Public Meeting
The following is a brief summary of the October 23, 2019, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS Definition) meeting based upon the official minutes of that meeting, which you can find here. In attendance and voting were Supervisors: Chairman Phillip Calabro, Vice Chairman Linda Bobrin, Secretary John Mack, member Kyle Davis and member Dennis Fisher. Also in attendance were: Township Manager Micah Lewis, Township Engineer Leanna Colubriale and Township Solicitor David Sander.
Development
Joint Comprehensive Plan Proposal: Lisa Wolff and Jeremy Stoff of the Bucks County Planning Commission (BCPC) reviewed the Joint Comprehensive Plan (JCP) Proposal. Mr. Stoff began stating in February 2019, the Newtown Area Joint Zoning Council (JZC Definition) raised the issue of updating the JCP and asked the BCPC to provide a cost estimate for the update. It is recommended under the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) the Plan be reviewed every 10 years and the last JCP was adopted in 2009. Mr. Stoff said the JCP is one of the most important tools used by municipalities for land use planning and local governance; it also states future goals and provides a formal vision for the Planning Commission, elected officials, residents and organizations. The MPC recommends including plans for land use, present and future housing needs, transportation plans, community facilities plan, and plans to preserve natural and historic resources as well as how the plans will be implemented. Mr. Stoff concluded by saying the JCP also provides the framework for zoning, subdivision, infrastructure, capital budgeting and decision making.
Ms. Wolff proceeded to discuss funding of the JCP stating the primary funding would be via the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP Definition) administered by the State Department of Community and Economic Development. She explained this grant has a rolling deadline and it would fund up to 50% of the project. Ms. Wolff added working jointly with Upper Makefield and Wrightstown is beneficial, however the outcome of being awarded the grant is still unknown.
In response to Mr. Mack’s questions regarding cost, Ms. Wolff confirmed the cost at $50,880 and said Newtown Township is responsible for 47.59% based on allocations using total population, land area and taxable assessment. Mr. Mack also inquired about the probability on obtaining the grant to which Ms. Wolff was unable to answer due to unknown factors such as how many other applications will be received throughout the state. However, she did say that the State looks favorably on municipalities working jointly. Mr. Mack asked if the BCPC assists in the application of the grant and if the cost is part of the grant. Ms. Wolff said the BCPC will process the grant at no cost to the Township.
Resident Michael Horbal expressed his support of a comprehensive plan and made suggestions to the BOS including considering the level of participation of Newtown Township in the JMZO with focus on promoting smart growth and having Upper Makefield and Wrightstown share more responsibility in future development.
Mr. Mack moved to adopt a resolution authorizing the Bucks County Planning Commission to undertake the Joint Comprehensive Plan Update. The motion passed 5-0.
[For details, see a video of the presentation: "Supervisors Approve Proposal for Revising Comprehensive Plan".]
Conditional Use ‐ Thrive, An Acton Academy Inc.: Attorney Richard Martin represented the applicant and Anna Steinberg of Thrive was sworn in. Mr. Martin presented the application for use C‐2 school use at 116 Pheasant Run within the existing facility of the Newtown Athletic Club Baseball Academy building in the Light Industrial district. Ms. Bobrin moved to grant approval. The motion passed 5-0.
Village of Newtown Shopping Center: Based on concerns from residents regarding issues at the Village of Newtown Shopping Center, Mr. Mack reached out to a Brixmor representative to see if they would come before the Board to provide details on the progress of the shopping center. Brixmor said they would, however, would prefer to wait until near the end of the project. Mr. Calabro asked what Mr. Mack would want to hear from them and suggested we wait until they are ready to come in. Mr. Mack is hoping they will discuss minor traffic improvements and mentioned the agreements with Brixmor include a post traffic study where Brixmor agrees to take BOS suggestions into consideration. Mr. Lewis confirmed they will be doing a post development traffic study. Mr. Lewis will contact Brixmor and determine when they will be available to come before the BOS.
Parks and Recreation
Newtown Creek Bridge Proposal ‐ Discussion: Mr. Davis reviewed the proposal and thinks it is a great idea for both the Borough and the Township. Ms. Bobrin agreed stating it was a very impressive undertaking. Mr. Mack received comments both for and against and brought up cost concerns with the Township expected to pay for most of the project. Mr. Fisher is very interested in the concept and would like to go forward with it. He mentioned taking advantage of the Newtown Creek Coalition’s nonprofit status to get in kind support and Mr. Calabro agreed that many entities could be interested in supporting this. Mr. Calabro also said there should be a formal presentation to the public and the next step would be to have the NCC come back and give a presentation. Mr. Davis added that he too has concerns over the cost, however reminded all that this is still in the idea stage and there is no commitment other than to move forward and see if this is a viable plan. The discussion continued on the resolution and Mr. Calabro polled the Board for interest in moving forward. The consensus was to move forward and ask Mr. Sellers from the NCC to return and give a presentation at an open meeting and proceed from there.
[For background, read "Newtown Creek Coalition Proposes a Pedestrian Bridge".]
[From my notes for the meeting:
I have received over 30 comments – both for and against this bridge – from residents in both Newtown Township and Newtown Borough. Just to mention a few:
Some residents liked the idea but wanted a sidewalk along Frost Lane from Goodnoe Elementary – where the Newtown Trail ends – to the proposed bridge.
Some noted that the bridge would benefit businesses along N. Sycamore Street as well as residents. Comment: “Auto traffic in town has increased significantly over the years, and we need a safe way for pedestrians and kids on bikes to access all the wonderful restaurants and shops in town.”
Some residents suggested repairing the wooden bridge where Edgeboro Road meets North State Street. In fact, I was invited to look into this with members [Nicole Rodowicz, Marv Cohen] of the Borough Council. It is entirely on private properties, both of which are in Newtown Township. The owners could not be contacted and that effort failed.
Several residents thought the cost would not be justified considering its limited use and suggested the money could be better used to provide pedestrian walkways in other areas of the township such as from Tyler Walk to the shopping center. “In that remote, corner location, nobody's going to be using this thing,” said a Newtown Crossing resident. “Waste of $$$$$”
Regarding the Costs
In his presentation, Mr. Sellers noted that PennDOT has a warehouse full of old disassembled bridges that can be purchased for as little as $1. However, there are real costs associated with transporting and reassembly of the bridge. Etc.
Some residents with whom I have communicated have some ideas for reducing these costs. One suggested treating it like a ‘barn raising.’ “For example, someone here may know someone with access to a flatbed tractor trailer. Try to get local businesses to fund hiring people to load and unload the bridge parts.”
At the Work Session last week it was suggested that grants could be sought to cover some of the costs and the Township could seek “in-kind” services from professionals such as engineers, etc. Of course, most grants will not cover the total costs involved and as we know there is a lot of competition for grants money.
With regard to “in-kind” services from professionals, I believe that would be very problematic as it could be viewed as a conflict of interest or even a form of “Pay-to-Play.”]
Public Safety
ESD Report: Chief Forsyth reported the department responded 106 calls for service during September including four building fires, three dwelling fires and 57 EMS calls. The Township had 51 fire safety inspections and there were 33 in the Borough. September training encompassed 168 hours for the ESD and 82 hours for the Fire Association.
Mr. Mack thanked Chief Forsyth for attending a meeting with the Newtown Walk HOA regarding the fire on Jenks Aly.
Mr. Mack also expressed concern over the fire pit being installed near Harvest. The Chief said it was approved through land development and Mr. Lewis concurred adding the engineer inspects it as well the building inspector. Chief Forsyth said it will be part of the annual safety inspection.
Reports of Committees, Boards and Commissions
Planning Commission: Chairman Allen Fidler reported at the October 15, 2019 meeting the members reviewed three items of business. The first was a Zoning Board application for Melissa Hunt at 449 Merion Drive. The applicant is seeking a variance and special exception to install a 10’ x 16’ shed on stones in the rear of a non‐conforming lot. The Commission recommended the Supervisors not oppose this application.
The second was a conditional use C‐6 for Excell Fitness LLC (F45 Training) at 2833 South Eagle Road in Village of Newtown Shopping Center. The Commission recommended the Supervisors not oppose this application.
Last was the proposed Kownurko/Rambo Subdivision at 217 and 223 Eagle road in the CM Zoning district. The applicants propose to subdivide the combined properties into six single family lots including the two existing residences. All the lots will be served by a proposed private, shared access driveway. The Commission agreed not to make a recommendation until the attorneys clarify the details and put the specifics in writing for review at the next meeting on November 19.
Supervisor Reports
Tour of Police Station: Mr. Mack reported he toured the police station with Chief Hearn. He also reminded all National Drug Take Back day is this Saturday, October 25 and residents can safely dispose of prescription drugs in the receptacle provided in the Township building between 10AM and 2PM.
[At the November 13, 2019, BOS meeting, Chief Hearn reported that between June and October, the Police Dept collected a total of 233 lbs of unwanted drugs in the lobby bin for proper disposal. On National Drug Take Back day (10-26-2019), 45 visitors deposited an additional 88 lbs of unwanted drugs for proper disposal.]
Posted on 14 Nov 2019, 14:32 - Category: Board of Supervisors Minutes
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