|
The Regular Meeting of the Doylestown Township
Board of Supervisors was held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October
6, 2009 at the Doylestown Township Municipal Building, 425 Wells
Road, Doylestown, PA. Members of the Board of Supervisors in
attendance included Chairman: Barbara N. Lyons, Vice Chairman:
E. Thomas Scarborough, Jr., Supervisors: Barbara Eisenhardt,
Cynthia Philo and Jeffrey Bennett. Others in attendance
included Township Engineer: Mario Canales; Township Solicitor;
Jeffery P. Garton; Director of Operations: Richard E. John;
Township Manager: Stephanie J. Mason.
Absent: Chief of Police: Stephen J. White. In
Chief White‘s absence, Lieutenant Dean Logan attended.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mrs. Lyons began the meeting by informing the
public, two supervisors, along with Mr. Richard E. Johns, Ms.
Stephanie J. Mason and Mr. Mario Canales participated in the
annual road inspection tour this afternoon.
PUBLIC COMMMENTS:
Resident; Mary Compass of Furlong wanted to
praise the police department for assisting in the capture and
arrest of a delivery man who had stolen a large amount of money
from her residence.
ANNOUCEMENTS:
The next meeting of the Board of Supervisors will
be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.
The Doylestown Township Administrative Offices
will be closed on Monday, October 12, 2009 in observance of
Columbus Day.
The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for on
Tuesday, October 13, 2009 has been changed from 5:00 p.m. to
7:00 p.m.
Doylestown Township Ways and Means Committee
meeting will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.
The Doylestown Township Shred Event will be held
on Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at
the Township’s Administrative Building and is free to township
and borough residences.
Howl-O-Ween will be held on Saturday, October 24,
2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Central Park.
Turk Park Playground Dedication will be held on
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
The PECO Green Region Wetlands Trail Dedication
will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
MINUTES APPROVAL:
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to approve minutes
of September 15, 2009 seconded by Ms. Philo.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
CORRESPONDENCE:
None
TOWNSHIP SOLICITOR:
No Report
POLICE CHIEF:
No Report
TOWNSHIP ENGINEER:
No Report
TOWNSHIP MANAGER:
Delaware Valley College Composting Site.
Ms. Mason informed the Board of a request from
the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) to continue the Leaf
and Yard Waste drop off program located on Delaware Valley
College’s campus through the 2010 budget year. The program will
cost $3,600.00 in staff overtime with revenues funded from the
2008 Recycling Performance Grant.
Ms. Philo made a MOTION to approve the EAC’s
request to continue the Leaf and Yard Waste Drop off through the
2010 budget year, seconded by Mr. Scarborough.
Ms. Philo asked Ms. Mason if the $3,600.00
covered the entire cost for all Doylestown residence’s leaf and
yard recycling. Ms. Mason answered by stating the cost will
cover the overtime for the program.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
SUPERVISORS:
Mrs. Lyons
Proclamation Supporting Emergency Preparedness
At the advice of Chief White, Mrs. Lyons requests
the Board to support a proclamation supporting emergency
preparedness as accepted by the County Public Safety Committee.
In order to approve the proclamation the Board would authorize
the County Board of Commissioners to submit an application for
Gaming Funds for additional funds used to provide a state of the
art public safety communications system.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION authorizing the
Chairman to send a letter to the County Board of Commissioners
to submit an application for the Gaming Funds, seconded by Mr.
Bennett.
Ms. Philo asked Lieutenant Logan if other funds
were considered for the proclamation for emergency
preparedness. Lt. Logan answered by stating Homeland Security
and Municipality funding was considered, but the Gaming Funds is
most viable. Ms. Philo then asked Lt. Logan if the portable
radios are the most pressing purchase. Lt. Logan answered by
stating by year 2013 the FCC is requiring the purchases of the
radios and utilizing the Gaming Funds will offset tax payer’s
monies. Ms. Philo’s final question if the request of
$200,000.00 sufficient to cover all cost for the emergency
preparation. Lt. Logan indicated that he feels the request is
sufficient, and cost may be covered through capital purchases if
the Gaming Fund is not available.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Speed Reduction - Rogers Road
As per the Board of Supervisors Special meeting
on September 30, 2009, Mrs. Lyons asked the Board to submit a
request to Police Chief White and Township Traffic Engineer to
reduce the speed limited on Rogers Road from 35 to 25 miles per
hour in order to assist in the traffic concerns by residents.
Ms. Philo made a MOTION to have Doylestown Police
Chief and Traffic Engineer begin the process to lower the speed
limit from 35 to 25 miles per hour on Rogers Road, seconded by
Mr. Bennett.
Mrs. Eisenhardt asked if the Board can place the
request for speed reduction in residential areas, as done in the
past. Mr. Garton answered the question by stating the
Doylestown Traffic Commission needs to submit a special
criterion when the speed limited is lowered from 35 to 25 miles.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Joe Grasso
Mrs. Lyons informed the public that she received
a phone call on Friday, October 9, 2009 from Joe Grasso of
Grasso Construction regarding litigation with a Grasso
development. Mr. Grasso requested a private meeting with Mrs.
Lyons and she informed him that such a meeting would not take
place. She said she advised him to have his attorney contact the
Township Building with any proposals and he would share them
with the entire Board.
SUPERVISORS:
Mrs. Eisenhardt
Mrs. Eisenhardt suggested that in future
informational meetings, such as the September 30, 2009 special
meeting conducted for the Route 313/263 project, a hand out be
provided to residents. She felt that hand outs would assist in
better understanding of these meetings by providing a brochure
or flyers for residents to bring home and review.
Ms. Eisenhart further suggested that a copy of
these presentations be provided for the Board of Supervisors’
review to further answer any questions regarding the
presentations.
Township Budget
Mrs. Eisenhardt then asked if township budget
meetings were scheduled in the future. Mrs. Lyons answered the
question by stating, the budget meetings will be scheduled later
this evening. Mrs. Eisenhardt further asked if a draft of the
budget were available for review. Ms. Mason answered her
question by stating the Ways and Means Committee is currently
reviewing the budget material. Mr. Bennett further informed
Mrs. Eisenhardt the Ways and Means Committee would like to
schedule a joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors on
Thursday, October 22, 2009. Prior to this scheduled meeting
the Ways and Means Committee will have a meeting on Thursday,
October 15, 2009 to review the budget. Ms. Eisenhardt
questioned Mr. Bennett by asking if the Ways and Means Committee
will be creating the budget. Mr. Bennett answered her question
by stating they would only be reviewing the budget and gathering
other information in preparation of the joint meeting on October
22, 2009.
Mr. Scarborough
Mr. Scarborough informed the Board that Allied
Waste scheduled a leaf collection for their clients on Saturday,
November 24, 2009 and Saturday, December 19, 2009. Mr.
Scarborough suggested bagged leaves be brought out the night
before these scheduled dates and to place them in biodegradable
brown bags.
Resident: Mr. Bigler asked if only two leaf
collection dates were scheduled. Mr. Scarborough answered by
stating only if inclement weather occurs, there would only be
two scheduled leaf collections.
Special Projects Manager, Ms. Sandra B. Zadell
added a monthly drop off site for leaf collection is located on
Delaware Valley College’s campus.
Ms. Philo
Ms. Philo asked the Board to consider requesting
Mr. Bennett temporally step down as the Liaison for the Ways and
Means Committees due to recent civil suit against Mr. Bennett
and his law firm. Ms. Philo stated the Board prides themselves
on the transparency in their government and this situation may
cause improprieties towards the Board. Ms. Philo clarified the
request for Mr. Bennett to step down is on a temporary basis,
until the civil matter is resolved.
Mr. Bennett immediately responded by stating he
will not step down from his position as liaison to the Ways and
Means Committee. Mr. Bennett then invited Ms. Philo to attend
the Ways and Means public meetings, where all matters are
discussed in an open forum. Mr. Bennett explained he would not
comment on the newspaper article and the criminal matter has
been ongoing. Mr. Bennett further added in the two years as a
liaison, no Board of Supervisor member attended these
meetings. Mr. Bennett informed Ms. Philo that she is capable
of attending and participating in these meetings at any time.
Annoyed, shocked and concerned Mr. Bennett questioned the timing
of Ms. Philo’s motion at a public meeting and voiced his dismay
on items of concerns that are “dropped” at public meetings to
receive more ‘bang for their buck”. Mr. Bennett suggested Ms.
Philo privately contact him so he can address her concerns. Mr.
Bennett concluded that her behavior was unprofessional and he
was offended.
In her respond, Ms. Philo voiced her concerns by
stating she felt the Intelligencer’s Sunday article was
‘dropped” and Mr. Bennett should have brought this pending
investigation to the attention of the Board at an Executive
meeting. She proved her statement by asking other Board members
if they were informed of the investigation prior to the
newspaper article. Mrs. Lyons stated she was informed upon
reading the same article. Mrs. Philo reiterated the request to
step down is temporary and will not interfere with Mr. Bennett’s
position as Supervisor. Ms. Philo concluded by reminding Mr.
Bennett that his position as liaison was appointed by the Board
of Supervisors and may reflect on the reputation of the Board
and have the responsibility to ask Mr. Bennett to step down.
Mrs. Lyons stated the Board of Supervisors cannot
force any member to step down their position of a committee and
requested the meeting continue.
Mr. Scarborough commented by stating Mr. Bennett
is innocent until proven guilty and should not have to step
down.
PRESENTATION:
Thompson Organization Preliminary Land
Development Project
Mr. Garton introduced Thompson Organization’s
attorney, Mr. John A. VanLuvanee and explained the Thompson
Organization is requesting the Board’s approval for a
preliminary/final land development plan for the re-configuration
of the existing Thompson Organization facilities located in the
Cross Keys section of Doylestown. The plans were completed by
Bohler Engineering and dated August 8, 2008, revised August 3,
2009.
Mr. VanLuvanne began his presentation with a
short history of the ongoing Thompson reorganization development
Project. Mr. VanLuvanne then explained the several components
regarding the most recent plan to…
·
Expansion of Lexus Sales
and Service Centers
·
Update of all storm water
management facilities to current township criteria
·
Expansion of BMW Sales and
Service Centers
·
Adding properties on Route
313
The goal of these plans is to upgrade the
facilities in order to modernize while meeting Doylestown
Township’s current ordinance standards and franchise
requirements. Mr. VanLuvanne further explained the preliminary
plans also addressed traffic concerns of the Planning
Commission, by including pedestrian pathways in front of the
dealership along Routes 313 and 611.
Mr. VanLuvanne concluded by stating he believes
the Thompson Organization has a good preliminary expansion plan
that meets the needs of all parties concerned.
Mr. Garton added that Thompson Organization’s
pathway design insures pedestrians can easily walk from one
dealership to another without stepping onto a public street.
Mrs. Lyons added that the Thompson Organization have worked hard
to accommodate with most of the Planning Commission’s requests
without incident.
Mrs. Philo asked Mr. VanLuvanne if the Thompson
Organization addressed individual resident’s concerns who reside
near the expansion site. Mr. VanLuvanne answered Ms. Philo’s
question by stating most issues were regarding buffering
requirements were met to his knowledge.
Resident; Mr. Bigler questioned the status of the
Route 313 exits, due to his concerns with accidents. Mr.
VanLuvanne answered by stating he believes the numbers of
accidents were reduced by consolidating individual entrances for
three nearby business into one. Mr. Bigler then asked if
possible, eliminating the left turn lane on Route 313 is an
option. Mr. VanLuvanne stated an application was entered to
PennDot and it’s up to them, but the left hand turn is needed as
an additional access point.
Mr. Garton recommended the Board to accept the
dedication of the additional right-of-way along Route 313 if
PennDot chooses not to accept it. Mr. Garton believes these
will able improvements to be added in the future in order to
make the roads safer.
If the Board approves the application, the
Thompson Organization must agree to put in place the following
provisions:
1. Compliance with the Boucher & James
letter dated August 19, 2009 with the understanding that the
lighting issues will be resolved between the Township and the
Applicant between now and the execution of mylars.
2. Compliance with the
Pickering, Corts & Summerson report dated August 17, 2009 with
the understanding that as to the waiver requested concerning
showing features within 400 feet, that the applicant shall
provide a location of the existing septic systems and wells
within 150 feet to the Township Engineer.
3. Applicant has requested and the Board
will need to be determined if the following waivers should be
granted:
A. From the provisions of Section
153-20.C.(10) which requires the location of existing water
courses, wells, on-site septic systems, stormwater management
facilities and similar features within 400 feet of the plan to
be shown on the plan;
B. From the provisions of Section
153-25.A.(2) which requires sidewalks on public streets located
within the curb and the right-of-way with a seven foot wide
planting isle between the sidewalk and curb;
C. From the provisions of Section
153-34.B.(3)(a) which requires the planting of street trees at
intervals of not more than 40 feet;
D. From the provisions of Section
153-34.B.(3)(b) which requires street trees to be planted within
five (5) feet of the right-of-way;
E. From the provisions of Section
153-39.D.(1) which states that no excavation or fill shall be
made with a face or surface slope steeper than 4 to 1 unless a
retaining wall constructed in accordance with Township standards
and approved by the Township Engineer is provided. Applicant
is proposing to construct a 4 foot high berm adjacent to Tax
Parcels 9-11-32 and 9-11-33 utilizing a 3 to 1 vertical slope.
4. The Board of Supervisors needs to
determine if it will accept the dedication of an additional
right-of-way along Route 313 if PennDot chooses not to accept
said dedication
5. The sidewalk in the front
of the LAM Kohl portion of the Thompson holdings shall be
improved with upscale lights and one or two additional trees
will be planted based upon the ability of the applicant to
install said trees effectively.
6. A sidewalk and/or bike
path will be installed at the intersection of 313 and 611 which
shall not be installed in the PennDot right-of-way and will be
located within an easement to be granted to the Township. The
sidewalk and/or bike path shall be five (5’) feet in width and
shall be constructed of macadam.
7. Compliance with the
Pennoni & Associates letter dated August 19, 2009, except that a
trip generation study shall be substituted for a traffic study.
8. Receipt of all permits and
approval from agencies having jurisdiction over the matter
including, but not limited to, the Pennsylvania Department of
Transportation, Bucks County Conservation District, Doylestown
Township Municipal Authority and the Bucks County Water & Sewer
Authority.
9. Compliance with the
Environmental Advisory Council letter dated April 22, 2009.
10. Compliance with the
decision rendered by the Doylestown Zoning Hearing Board.
11. Portions of Baxter Road
shall be vacated by subsequent action of the Board of
Supervisors at applicant’s expense.
12. Compliance with the Police
Memorandum dated August 19, 2009.
13. Funding and execution of
financial security agreements in the form satisfactory to the
Township Solicitor with the understanding that the applicant
shall reimburse the Township for all expenses incurred with
respect to the application including, but not limited to,
engineering, legal and other professional fees.
Mr. VanLuvanne stated he review the provisions
with the Thompson Organization and agreed to comply with the
Township’s requests.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to approve the
Preliminary / Final Land Development of the Thompson
Organization with the conditions set forth by the Township’s
Solicitor, Mr. Garton, seconded by Mr. Bennett.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Approval of Planning Modules
Mrs. Lyons informed the Board of Sewage
Facilities Planning Modules that needed to be approved for the
Thompson Organization. Mrs. Lyons explained the planning
modules are for adding public sewer.
Ms. Philo made a MOTION to forward the Sewage
Facilities Planning Modules plans to the Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP) for review, seconded by Mr.
Scarborough.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
PUBLIC HEARING:
Brush, Grass and Weed Ordinance
As per the authorization of the Board of
Supervisors, Mr. Garton, along with Township Planner, Judy Stern
Goldstein prepared a proposed ordinance for adoption. The
Brush, Grass and Weed Ordinance are an amendment to Chapter 62
regarding the regulations control of brush, grass and weeds, by
deleting the current provisions and adding a list of noxious
weeds. Mr. Garton informed the Board the provided list is
different from the one advertised. Two of the items provided
are duplication.
Ms. Philo requested clarification on whether a
property has to be abandoned in order to remove a grape vine.
Mr. Garton answered the question by stating if the grape vine is
not attended to, it will be abandoned and considered a noxious
weed.
Resident; Mr. Bigler questioned section 62.6;
Restricted Vegetation, by asking why the ordinance states
uncultivated herbaceous vegetation will be allowed to grow or
remain at a property in excess of 12 inches within 25 feet. Mr.
Garton could not answer the question. He stated the portion of
the ordinance was a recommendation at a public meeting. Mr.
Bigler then asked why buffer yards were not mentioned. Mr.
Garton answered the question by stating buffer yards will be
discussed with a Zoning Ordinance amendment at a meeting in
November. Mr. Bigler then asked why both ordinances are not
approved at the same time. Mr. Garton stated the Zoning
Ordinances are incorporated with Brush, Grass and Weed ordinance
and would have to be re-advertised. Mr. Garton suggested that
an amendment can be added to include within a required buffer
yard. Mr. Bigler provided pictures to illustrate and support
his claim in including a buffer yard to the ordinance.
Ms. Philo suggested the issue with buffer yards
be address at the Zoning Ordinance meeting scheduled for
November. Mr. Garton stated the Zoning Ordinance does prohibit
the same noxious weeds within a buffer yard, which varies. Mr.
Garton then suggested tabling the authorization of the Brush,
Grass and Weed ordinance, until he can provide the Zoning
Ordinance which mentions the buffer yards.
Mrs. Eisenhardt made a MOTION to table the
approval of the Brush, Grass and Weed ordinance, until the
Zoning Ordinance mentions buffer yards can be provided, seconded
by Mr. Scarborough.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Resident; Neil Samuel mentioned would bamboo need
to be cut down if part of a landscape. Mr. Garton agreed with
Mr. Samuel as it violates State law. Ms. Mason added that
depending on the size of the property the noxious weeds is
located and if greater than 10 acres it would be exempt.
OLD BUSINESS:
Ambulance Service
As per the request of Mrs. Eisenhartd, Mr. Garton
presented the Board with his letter dated, September 18, 2009,
where he provides a detailed breakdown of the ambulance corps
servicing the community. Upon reviewing the letter, Mr.
Garton’s feels the economic consequences are insignificant.
Mrs. Eisenhardt voiced her concerns that
Doylestown Township currently receives three ambulance squad
services. She further stated that one ambulance squad is not
in service 100% of time. She suggested the following amendments
be made to the ambulance tax paid by the Doylestown residence.
·
A contract which states
minimum amount of service for each ambulance squad.
·
Mandate for an audit of
every ambulance squad, and funds allocated after date sensitive
monies are received
·
Penalty for each ambulance
squad that does not perform 100% of their services
Mrs. Eisenhardt also noted that she received an
inquiry from Warrington Township regarding their ambulance tax
allocation, when Central Bucks received their money some time
ago. Mrs. Eisenhart’s final suggestion was to have Mr. Garton
prepare a contract which includes certain level of service for
each squad. If the squads do not meet the level of service,
then they would not receive their allocated ambulance tax money.
Mr. Garton informed Mrs. Eisenhardt that each
county makes the determination of ambulance service based upon
response time, but he can provide an agreement that would
reflect level of service and audit requirements as a condition.
Mrs. Eisenhardt realizes that not all ambulance
service is running at 100%, but she is concerned with the low
performance some squads provides. Mrs. Eisenhardt concluded
by stating she feels although the economic consequences are not
substantial the lives of the residences are.
Mr. Bennett added that at previous discussions,
his impression was that the township has 100% ambulance coverage
and his impression of Mr. Garton’s letter was only a financial
breakdown of residence’s tax dollars. Mr. Bennett made the
Board aware, that after the Township’s Solicitor and Police
Chief spent their time researching the ambulance audits, the
service rate totaled $63.00.
Mrs. Eisenhardt respectfully disagreed with Mr.
Bennett by stating when certain calls come into the offices, at
times these calls have to be rerouted, which waste time. This
is significant when residences are in serious condition. She
believes it’s the responsibility of the Board to provide 100% of
ambulance service at all time to Doylestown residences.
Mr. Garton suggested the Board of Supervisors
create a resolution, which states in order for ambulance squads
to receive tax money, they would need to provide a certain
threshold of coverage in form of an audit.
Ms. Philo questioned Mr. Garton if the Board is
receiving audits from other ambulance squad, other than Central
Buck. Mr. Garton could not answer her question. Finance
Officer, Mr. Wightman added that his department has not
requested audits from other townships.
NEW BUSINESS:
Doylestown Hospital Expansion of Medical Office
Building
Mr. Garton requested to table a decision
regarding the proposed Development Agreement for Doylestown
Hospital expansion of medical offices, until the next Board of
Supervisors meeting or when signed agreements are delivered.
Board agreed to table.
Bucks County Sewer Waiver Request for Land
Development Plan
Bucks County Water and Sewer Architect, George
Donovan and his partner Joe Phillips, presented the Board with
their designs for the new entrance.
Mr. Phillips provided a blue print graphic and
stated the plans are to include adding a lobby and vestibule to
the existing concrete walkway. The Water and Sewer Authority’s
building was originally built in the 1970s. The current plans
are to add 927 feet through the entrance and patio in order to
create an ADA entrance.
Ms. Mason explained to the Board that initially
building permit plans were submitted as an addition. Due to the
large amount of square footage, as per the Municipality Planning
code the expansion is considered a land development. Ms. Mason
further explained the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority are
requesting a waiver due to the limited area and impact. Mr.
Canales agrees the addition plans are small to be considered a
land development and recommends a grading permit as part of the
building permit process.
Mrs. Lyons asked Mr. Canales to clarify his
waiver recommendation. Mr. Canales clarified his recommendation
by stating the Board approve a waiver of land development in way
of the applicant be required to apply for a Township E&S Grading
permit.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to approve a waiver
of land development upon the Bucks County Water and Sewer
Authority apply for a Township E&S Grading permit, as outlined
by Township’s Engineer, Mr. Mario Canales, seconded by Ms. Philo
as per a discussion.
Ms. Philo questioned Mr. Canales on how the back
of the Buck County Water and Sewer Authority building is defined
as part of the grading permit. Mr. Canales answered by stating
the back of the building is flat and would not require much
grading, but the waiver allows the Township’s inspectors to
review and oversee the addition of the patio. Ms. Philo then
asked Mr. Phillips if an existing ADA walkway is present. Mr.
Phillips answered the question by stating the current front
entrance is.
Mrs. Eisenhardt asked how elaborate is the
current porch. Mr. Phillips stated the current porch is between
seven and eight feet covered porch with the roof extending out.
Mr. Canales informed Mrs. Eisenhardt the Bucks County Sewer
Authority did submit building permit plans for all component of
the building.
MOTION was ADOPTED 4-0-1, with Mr. Bennett
abstaining due to his association with the Bucks County Water
and Sewer Board.
Internet Bid Posting
Ms. Mason was excited to inform the Board the
Township has the ability to post service product or material
provider bids online in order to receive better service bidding
results. As per a meeting with Ms. Mason, Richard John and
PennBid System were able to secure a system to help with online
bidding. Ms. Mason stated there is no cost to the Township for
the bidding system and would like to participant. Ms. Lyons
believes the system sounds more efficient and will eliminate the
use of paper. Ms. Philo asked if the contract can be temporary
in lieu of the system if not able to be efficient. Ms. Mason
informed Ms. Philo, the contractors who are interested in
placing bids pay for the service on a monthly basis.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to approve the use
of the PennBid online service bidding system, seconded by Mr.
Bennett.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Backflow & Cross Connection Ordinance
Mr. Richard John presented the Board with his
memo dated September 29, 2009, requesting to establish a
Backflow and Cross connection control program. This will allow
the DTMA authority to inspect the backflow preventer under Code,
Title 25, and Chapter 109.79(A) (1) of the Pennsylvania Safe
Drinking Water regulations. The program is a large one and will
consider several programs prior to making a decision of a
certified firm. The new ordinance will create a program to
maintain and over see existing backflow lines.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to authorize the
advertisement of an ordinance to establish a Backflow and Cross
Connection control program, seconded by Ms. Eisenhardt.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
The Pennsylvania Adult Children Insurance
Coverage Extension Act.
Mrs. Lyons referenced a memo dated September 1,
2009 from General Counsel, Geoffrey L. Beauchamp indicting under
the Adult Children’s Insurance Coverage Extension Act,
Pennsylvania is now allowing children to remain covered by their
parent’s health insurance policy until they reach the age of 30
years old. Mrs. Lyons then stated that if the Township adopted
the act, it will cost a substantial amount of money in addition
to what is currently paid. Ms. Mason added the coverage is
optional to Township employees.
Mrs. Lyons recommends the Board pass on the
option to allow Township employees to allow their children to be
covered until 30 years of age.
Mrs. Eisenhardt asked if it would be possible to
give the employees the decision to receive the extended
insurance for their children. Ms. Mason felt it best to offer
to all employees at their costs. Mr. Wightman added the
experience rates will raise, costing additional money for the
Township. A discussion ensued among the Board regarding whether
or not to approve the Adult Children Insurance Coverage
Extension and the costs.
The consensus of the Board was to pass on the
Adult Children Insurance Coverage Extension Act and not offer
it.
Township Audit
Finance Officer, Bill Wightman request approval
from the Board to extend the audit contract of the financial
statements of the Township of Doylestown for an additional year
at the cost of $7,750.00. Mr. Wightman noted an increase of
$250.00 due to risk assessment standards mandated by the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Mr. Wightman
added the current Township auditor’s fees are lower in the past
six years than other firms. Mr. Wightman is requesting the
extension in order to have a smooth transition when a new
auditing firm is selected. Previously Mr. Wightman met with the
Municipal Authority and found they have approved the present
firm.
Mr. Scarborough asked Mr. Wightman to clarify
that the currently accounting firm contract to extend is Major
and Mastro, LLC. Mr. Wightman confirmed that Major and Mastro,
LLC are the current auditors for the Township.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to extend the audit
contract of Major and Mastro, LLC into the 2010 year, seconded
by Mrs. Eisenhardt for the purpose of discussion.
Mrs. Eisenhardt asked two questions. What is the
difference in audit services between the Township’s accountants
and firms who charge more? Have RFPs been issued to solicit
other accounting firms and can they be provided? Mr. Wightman
answered both questions by stating due to overhead costs, the
Township has kept the current accounting firms and the larger
firms don’t audit governmental entities. Mr. Wightman confirmed
that he can provide the Board with previous RFPs.
A discussion ensued between the Board regarding
choices of the current accounting firm services, their costs and
if the Board should solicit other firms. Mrs. Eisenhardt stated
she would reserve her vote until Mr. Wightman can provide a list
of services from other accounting firms for the Doylestown
Township Municipal Authority.
Resident; Mr. Neil Samuel questioned what
Township department did the accounting provide their services
to. Mr. Wightman answered the question by stating Majors and
Mastro, LLC provide their accounting services for the Doylestown
Township Municipal Authority.
MOTION CARRIED 4 to 1, with Mrs. Eisenhardt
voting nay.
Architectural Treatment of Barrier
The Board was provided pictures of several types
of custom rock architectural form liners to select for the Lower
State Road Bridge over Neshaminy Creek replacement project. The
project is essentially an in-kind replacement with the addition
of shoulders across the structure for safety, schedule for a
2010/1011 construction. The pattern was limited to a ¾ inch
depth on both faces is desired and 1 ½ inch if treating only one
face.
Discussions ensued between the Board members
regarding the selection of form liners. Mrs. Lyons stated she
favors a model named Minnehaha Blend. The Board decided to have
Ms. Philo contact the residences of Lower State Road and have
them decide on the custom rock form liners.
Mr. Bennett made a MOTION to hold the decision of
the custom rock architectural form liners for the Lower State
Road Bridge project, until Ms. Philo contacts residences of
Lower State Road to provide their selection, seconded by Ms.
Philo
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Zoning Hearing Board of Doylestown Township
The Board members recommended the request of
variance from Rob and Jessica Todd of Bucks Run Drive be
forwarded to Zoning Hearing Board.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 to 0.
Credit Cards use for Township Services
Mr. Wightman informed the Board of a company that
will offer a web-based, credit card system that will enable
residents to pay for Township fees and services with a credit
card. Mr. Wightman further informed the Board this company will
charge 2.45% convenience fee with a minimum $1.50 transaction.
Mr. Bennett asked if the residences are able to
sign up for Parks and Recreation programs online. Mr. Wightman
answered the question by stating currently they need to contact
the Township by phone, but is hopeful in the future, the
residence will be able to utilize this system.
Mr. Garton informed the Board of a convenient
credit card program currently in used in Newtown Township.
Mr. Bennett asked if the Township can utilize a
credit card program in lieu of a more convenient system in the
future. Mr. Wightman answered the question by stating at any
time the contract can be discontinued. Mr. Garton recommended
contacting Newtown Township to inquiry of the company currently
used.
Mr. Scarborough made a MOTION to authorize the
use of the on-line credit card payments system for Doylestown
residences, seconded by Mr. Bennett.
MOTION was ADOPTED 5 -0
ANNOUCEMENTS:
The next meeting of the Board of Supervisors is
scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00p.m.
The Doylestown Township Administrative Offices
will be closed on Monday, October 12, 2009 in observance of
Columbus Day.
Doylestown Township Planning Commission meeting
scheduled for Tuesday, October 13, 2009 has been changed from
5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m.
Doylestown Township Ways and Means Committee will
be holding a meeting on, Thursday October 15, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.
Doylestown Township Shred Event is scheduled for
Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at
Township Building in Doylestown
Peco Region Green Wetland Trail dedication will
be held on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
Turk Park Playground Dedication will be held on,
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
Doylestown Township Budget Session is scheduled
for Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.
Howl-O-Ween will be held on Saturday, October 24,
2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Central Park in Doylestown
ADJOURNMENT:
8:37 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by
Stephanie J. Mason
Secretary
|
Authored by Development Solutions