A beautiful part of southeastern Pennsylvania

Jan. 7, 2008(Reorg)   Jan. 7, 2008   Jan. 16, 2008   Jan. 22, 2008   CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REORGANIZATION MEETING January 7, 2008 The Reorganization Meeting was held at the Great Valley Middle School Cafeteria. Kevin Kuhn, Chairman, Michael Rodgers, Vice Chairman, Hugh Willig, Charlie Philips, Linda Csete, Township Administrator, Open Space Director Aliena Gerhard, and Public Works Superintendent Fred Alston were present, along with those on the attached list. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. Citizen's Forum/Non-Agenda Items There were no Citizens' Forum/Non-Agenda items discussed. Nominations Chairman, Board of Supervisors Mr. Kuhn opened the floor to nominations. Mr. Willig nominated Mr. Kuhn for the position of Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Vice Chairman, Board of Supervisors Mr. Kuhn opened the floor to nominations. Mr. Rodgers nominated Mr. Philips for Vice Chairman of the Board of Supervisors and Mr. Kuhn seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Appointments for 2008 Annual Appointments The following appointments/re-appointments were made: Township Administrator - Linda M. Csete Township Secretary/Treasurer - Linda M. Csete Pension Plan Administrator - Linda M. Csete Planning Commission Secretary - Linda M. Csete Assistant Township Secretary - Jan C. Bird Open Space Director - Aliena J. Gerhard Legal Counsel - Firm - Lamb, McErlane, P.C. Lead Counsel- James E. McErlane, Esq. Special Counsel - Gary Bender, Esq. Township Engineer - Surender S. Kohli of Kohli & Associates Zoning Officer - Surender S. Kohli of Kohli & Associates Building Inspector - Surender S. Kohli of Kohli & Associates Fire Marshal - Frederick C. Alston Public Works Superintendent - Frederick C. Alston Public Works Assistant - Mark Cabot Auditor - Todd & Sons, CPA - Emory Todd Land Planner - Thomas J. Comitta Associates Historical Architectural Consultant - Dale Frens of Frens & Frens LLC Brightside Farm Manager - Alix Coleman Collector of Real Estate and Local Enabling Act Taxes - Central Tax Agency Animal Control Officer - Mark Cabot Mr. Philips moved to appoint the above-mentioned parties, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Appointments to Boards, Commissions and Committees Planning Commission Mr. Rodgers moved to re-appoint Andy Motel and Mike Allen to the Planning Commission for four year terms to expire 12/31/11, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion and then the vote. All were in favor. Historical Commission/H.A.R.B. Appointments were tabled until recommendations from the Historical Commission are received. Parks & Recreation Board Appointments were tabled until recommendations from the Parks & Recreation Board are received. Vacancy Board Mr. Philips moved to re-appoint Russ Hanscom to the Vacancy Board, term to expire 12/31/08, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Zoning Hearing Board Mr. Rodgers moved to appoint Bob Wert to the Zoning Hearing Board for a three year term to expire 12/31/10. There was no second. There was a brief discussion on general qualifications for the position. Mr. Kuhn moved to re-appoint Michael Bowell to the Zoning Hearing Board, for a three year term to expire 12/31/10, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Uniform Construction Code Hearing Board Mr. Kuhn moved to re-appoint Fred Alston to the UCC Hearing Board, for a five year term to expire 12/31/12, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Open Space Commission Mr. Kuhn moved to re-appoint Rosemary Philips to the Open Space Commission, for a five year term to expire 12/31/12, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. A second appointment to an at-large term ending 12/31/10 was tabled to allow time to receive a recommendation from the Open Space Commission. Establish Rates of Pay for 2008 Mr. Willig moved to establish the rates of pay for 2008 per the draft schedule, and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Establish Mileage Rate for 2008 Mr. Philips moved to establish $0.505 as the mileage rate for 2008 and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Establish Employee/Employer Match for Employee Benefits Mr. Kuhn moved to approve the 0/100% employee/employer match for the employee pension plan, and 100%/0% for all remaining benefits including health insurance. Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Establish Holiday Schedule for 2008 Mr. Kuhn read the dates for the proposed holiday schedule for 2008. Mr. Philips moved to approve the draft 2008 Holiday Schedule, which includes 11 paid holidays, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Certify Delegates to the Annual PSATS Convention and One Voting Delegate Mr. Kuhn moved to certify all members of the Board, the Roadmaster and the Township Secretary as delegates to the annual PSATS convention, and to certify Mr. Rodgers as the voting delegate. Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Annual Resolutions Mr. Rodgers moved to approve Resolution #692-2008 to set depositories for the Township accounts, and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Mr. Willig moved to approve Resolution #693-2008 specifying that the earned income taxes received during 2008 will be deposited in the Open Space Fund to be expended on Open Space acquisitions and improvements only. Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Mr. Philips moved to approve Resolution #694-2008 for the credit card authorizations, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Mr. Philips moved to approve Resolution #695-2008, naming the providers for Fire Protection, Ambulance and Police services, and Mr. Kuhn seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Scheduling Mr. Kuhn proposed scheduling one meeting per month rather than two. Mr. Willig moved to approve the scheduling of the 2008 Board of Supervisors meetings to take place at 7:30 P.M. on the first Monday of the month, in Room 154 of the Great Valley Middle School, with the following exceptions due to holidays or previously scheduled hearings: January 22, 2008 instead of January 21, 2008 (Martin Luther King Day) February 19, 2008 instead of February 18, 2008 (President's Day) September 2, 2008 instead of September 1, 2008 (Labor Day) Mr. Philips seconded the motion. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Adjournment Mr. Philips moved to adjourn the Reorganization Meeting, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 7:51 P.M. Respectfully Submitted, Linda Csete Township Secretary     CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULAR MEETING January 7, 2008 The first business meeting for January was held January 7, 2008 at the Great Valley Middle School Cafeteria. Kevin Kuhn, Chairman, Charlie Philips, Vice Chairman, Hugh Willig, Michael Rodgers, Mark Thompson, Esq. (arrived later), Surender Kohli, P.E., Aliena Gerhard, Linda Csete, Township Administrator, and those on the attached list were present. Mr. Kuhn called the meeting to order at 7:51 P.M. Announcements - none Citizens' Forum for Non-Agenda Items - No matters were brought forward. Approvals Minutes of December 17, 2007 Meeting Mr. Philips moved to approve the minutes of the December 17, 2007 meeting, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Treasurer's Report December 1 - 31, 2007 Mr. Willig moved to approve the December 2007 Treasurer's Report and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Accounts Payable Report - Operating Fund January 7, 2008 Mr. Philips moved to approve the January 7, 2008 Operating Fund Accounts Payable Report and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion. Mr. Philips asked why costs for snow removal were so high for December. Mrs. Csete responded this was partly due to the first season's delivery of salt and anti skid materials, which had to be mixed and loaded into the storage shed. Mr. Alston added that three trucks were called out for four hours each during an ice storm near the beginning of the month. Other equipment, including a loader and pick up truck were used as well. Mr. Kuhn estimated the cost for an ice storm runs approximately $15,000 per occurrence, and Mr. Alston agreed this sounded like a fair estimate. Mr. Kuhn called the vote and all were in favor. Accounts Payable Report - Open Space Fund January 7, 2008 Mr. Kuhn moved to approve the January 7, 2008 Open Space Fund Accounts Payable Report and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion and there being none, called the vote, and all were in favor. Reports Mr. Rodgers moved to accept the December monthly reports and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion. Mr. Philips asked about the disposal of stored materials at the Brightside Farm, and Mr. Kuhn referred to farm manager Alix Coleman's report received this afternoon which indicated all equipment and other stored items have been removed as requested by the Board. With regard to the steel Stonorov buildings being stored in the barn, Mr. Kuhn said Ms. Coleman has found a scrap dealer willing to haul away the metal at no cost if the Board wants to dispose of it. Mr. Philips said the Historical Commission had been in contact with the Preservation Alliance, which may still have an interested party for the buildings if they can get a time extension of 6 to 9 months to remove them. The Board agreed that Mr. Philips would communicate to the Historical Commission that they should contact the Alliance to get a firm date. Mr. Kuhn called the vote on accepting the reports, and all were in favor. Old Business - None New Business Apostolic Christian Church Subdivision and Land Development Plan Allan Zimmerman, P.E., Commonwealth Engineers presented the preliminary/final subdivision and land development plan for the Apostolic Christian Church on Phoenixville Pike. He said due to financial constraints, the Church plans only to expand the parking lot at this time and will put the plans for the addition on hold. Mr. Zimmerman addressed items on Mr. Kohli's review letter dated December 20, 2007 and reviewed the four waiver requests listed on the plans. Mr. Kohli said a 4/19/07 letter from PECO regarding relocation of their facilities is acceptable. Mr. Zimmerman referenced Mr. Comitta's review memorandum dated January 2, 2008 and the Board agreed he could work out remaining items with Mr. Comitta's office, including plans on tree protection fencing, substitution of forsythia bushes for a red maple tree that conflicts with the location of an existing pole, and lighting. Mr. Philips asked for the location of the detention basin, which Mr. Zimmerman pointed out for him. Mr. Philips then asked about shielding the view of the basin from Phoenixville Pike, and Mr. Zimmerman indicated there will be trees to buffer the view. Mr. Kuhn moved to approve the Preliminary/Final Subdivision & Land Development Plan for the Apostolic Christian Church last revised 12/5/07, subject to the comments on Mr. Kohli's review letter dated 12/20/07 and Mr. Comitta's review memorandum dated 1/2/08, and further moved to approve the four waiver requests as listed on the plans. Mr. Philips seconded the motion. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. S.P.C.A. Contract for 2008 Mrs. Csete provided some details on the proposed contract and recommended its approval. Mr. Rodgers moved to approve the 2008 S.P.C.A. Animal Control Contract, and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Traffic Signal Maintenance Contract Mrs. Csete referred to Public Works Superintendent Fred Alston's email regarding the three bids he obtained for the 2008 traffic signal maintenance contract. Mr. Kuhn asked if there are any system incompatibilities to be concerned with if the township changes service companies. Mr. Alston said the low bidder, Armour & Sons Electric, Inc. would be able to handle the signals without a problem and recommended they be accepted as signal contractor. Mr. Kuhn moved to award the 2008 traffic signal maintenance contract to Armour & Sons Electric, Inc., and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Other Business Signs Mr. Philips asked if Regan Tree Service has a sign permit for a sign displayed along Charlestown Road. Mr. Kohli responded they did not, and now that the work on that property is completed, the sign should not remain. He will contact the company. Planning Costs Mr. Kuhn said the Board needs to give direction to the Planning Commission on better management of planning costs. Over $6,000 was spent on planning for the Devault Area in November, and over $8,000 in December. One suggestion is to request all documents in electronic form only, and to specifically notify the planner when printed copies are needed. Mr. Philips suggested using a USB device for larger documents that can't be emailed. Mrs. Csete suggested that for very large projects, such as the TND ordinance process, documents could be posted on a website similar to that used by the regional planning commission's consultant. Mr. Kuhn asked for budget figures for planning in 2007. Mrs. Csete said the budgeted amount was $50,000 and the actual was $91,000+. Mr. Kuhn said the planner should be informed of the budget figure for 2008 and told it cannot be exceeded. Open Space Referendum Mr. Kuhn said that in order to place a referendum on the Spring ballot asking the voters if they favor a 1/2% increase in the earned income tax to be used for open space acquisition, an ordinance must be passed and provided to Chester County Voter Services by January 22nd. Mr. Thompson said to accomplish this, the ordinance must be passed no later than January 16th. There was some discussion on the wording for the referendum question, and a consensus was reached on the following: "Do you favor the imposition of a tax on the earned income of township residents by Charlestown Township at the rate of one half of one percent (.005) to be used to preserve, conserve, and acquire open space property interests, open space uses, and farmland?" The Board set the hearing date for January 16, 2008 at 5:30 P.M. The location will be determined after Mrs. Csete has an opportunity to make arrangements with the Middle School or an alternate location. Mr. Thompson will prepare the public notice for publication within the required time period. Recycling Ordinance The Board asked Mrs. Csete to coordinate with Mr. Thompson on revisions to the recycling ordinance to comply with Act 101 requirements and remain eligible for future DEP recycling performance grants. Cemetery Mr. Philips asked what prompted the proposal faxed to the township for tree removal and other tree care at the revolutionary war cemetery. Mrs. Csete said Mr. Hogan had met on site with various tree companies to obtain quotes on tree work. Mr. Philips suggested that Bartlett Tree Service be included. Mrs. Staas said Wendy Leland's Girl Scout troop is interested in a cleanup at the Cemetery, and Mrs. Csete said she'd contact her to see if they'd like to do this as part of the Township's Earth Day clean up event in the spring. Mrs. Staas asked for the status of getting litter crews from the County and Mrs. Gerhard said she's been making arrangements with the probation office. There was a delay due to some turnover at the office but matters should be moving forward soon. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 9:07 P.M. The next business meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2008, 7:30 P.M. in Room 154 of the Great Valley Middle School. Respectfully Submitted, Linda Csete Township Secretary     CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS PUBLIC HEARING January 16, 2008 A hearing was held January 16, 2008 at the Great Valley Middle School, Room 154. Kevin Kuhn, Chairman, Charlie Philips, Vice Chairman, Hugh Willig, Michael Rodgers, Mark Thompson, Esq., Aliena Gerhard, Linda Csete, Township Administrator, and those on the attached list were present. Mr. Kuhn called the meeting to order at 5:34 P.M. Hearing Ordinance Authorizing a Referendum on the Question of Imposing Additional Earned Income Tax to be Used to Preserve, Conserve and Acquire Open Space Property Interests, Open Space Uses, and Farmland Mr. Thompson opened the hearing to consider an ordinance to authorize a referendum to be placed on the April 22, 2008 ballot. The ordinance must be passed and forwarded to Chester County Voter Services 13 weeks prior to Election Day. The question to be included on the ballot is whether the voters favor an increase in the Earned Income Tax (EIT) for an additional 1/2% to be used for open space purposes. He said the Board decided at their January 7th meeting to move forward by drafting the ordinance and scheduling this evening's hearing. Mr. Kuhn explained that the 13 week deadline required that the Board schedule the hearing earlier than their next meeting on January 22nd, and it was therefore set for this evening. The following items were entered into the record by the Township: T-1 Letter to the Daily Local News from Mark Thompson, Esq. requesting publication of the public notice T-2 Letter to the Chester County Law Library from Mark Thompson, Esq. attaching a copy of the Ordinance T-3 Public Notice T-4 Draft Ordinance Mr. Kuhn asked for questions and comments from the public. John Martin said he's neutral toward the question of increasing the EIT, and asked when it would take effect. Mr. Thompson responded, January 2009. Mr. Martin said he was on the Great Valley School District's (GVSD) tax study committee, and noted there are alternatives to raising the EIT another 1/2%. It could be raised in smaller increments, for example, as was done in Willistown Township. Mr. Martin asked if it is even a requirement that this go to referendum, since the GVSD doesn't collect any EIT and is unlikely to do so in the future due to new requirements they would have to follow under Act 1 and due to the fact that Malvern Borough depends heavily on the 1% it already collects. Mr. Kuhn said even though the Township may increase the tax without going to the citizens, the Board wants to have the voters' support. The Township has had phenomenal success in preserving open space, in addition to several new exciting projects in the works. Lisa Scottoline asked for confirmation from the Board that the definite plan for the additional EIT funds is to save more open space. Mr. Kuhn said yes. Mr. Kuhn said there were four settlements on easement acquisition during the last two weeks of December. Mrs. Gerhard added the Kling easement was one of these. Ms. Scottoline asked if the tax will be rescinded once all the open space is bought, and Mr. Willig said it would be rescinded once the debt on those costs are paid. Mr. Kuhn added the original 1/2% EIT might remain. Ms. Scottoline confirmed that the proposed additional tax is for a finite purpose, and Mr. Kuhn said yes. It would bring in an additional $800,000 - $1M per year, which would be used to obtain additional bond funding. This ensures that future Boards must use the funds to pay off the debt and not for other purposes. The Township's position is to avoid the need to increase services that would require increased taxes. Ms. Scottoline said the State grant program requires trails on open space and considers trails a major goal, and asked if it is the Township's as well. Mr. Kuhn said preservation is the Township's #1 goal, and though the Board likes to see trails included, he considers it a secondary preference. Ms. Scottoline said she has security concerns with regard to trails, and asked if it's correct that the Township wouldn't require a trail if no grant funds are used from the county or state. Mr. Kuhn affirmed this is the case. Some property easements are acquired without county or state funding. He added that Charlestown has been awarded $2 million from the county and state so far, and they tend to award more to townships doing more on their own. Ms. Scottoline said Aliena Gerhard is awesome, and solicited applause from all in attendance. Ms. Gerhard said that if a property owner donates an easement, this is another situation in which no trail is needed. Ms. Scottoline asked if the Board asks all landowners for a trail, and Mr. Willig responded yes, the process is not selective. Mr. Kuhn clarified that in isolated cases, such as the Marulli-Koenig property, the Board determined a trail is not needed. Those two parcels are small, at the edge of the township, and don't link to other open spaces. Mr. Martin said as a volunteer tax preparer who does 200-250 tax returns per year, he has observed a widespread avoidance of the EIT tax. Renters are often not on the tax rolls, nor are adult children who move back to their parents' houses. People with P.O. Boxes are often not flagged for their residence. He asked what Centax does to enforce the tax ordinance, speculating that there's not much incentive for them to pursue non-payers due to the low commission rate they receive on collections. He also noted Centax sends their annual tax return forms out later than Berkheimer, which causes a delay and some confusion on the part of tax payers. Although they can download generic forms from the Centax website, these forms don't contain the tracking numbers that are on the individual forms a taxpayer receives directly from Centax. Mrs. Csete said that the Township office works with Centax to provide details on renters and multiple-adult households, not only for the EIT but for the Per Capita tax, but undoubtedly some individuals are unknown to the Township. Mr. Martin said he's heard that the State may be taking over local earned income tax collection starting in 2010, and this would make the process more efficient. Mrs. Csete agreed, particularly with regard to collecting "reciprocals". She gave herself as an example of a reciprocal. 1/2% EIT is paid to Charlestown and 1/2% to her township of residence, West Whiteland. Once a year, Centax and Berkheimer straighten all these payments out, and eventually West Whiteland gets the additional 1/2% that was originally credited to Charlestown, since West Whiteland's tax is for the entire 1%. This causes a delay in getting the right tax funds to the right township, and most likely results in some errors as well. If everything went to the State on the same state designed form, reciprocals would be eliminated. The hearing was closed. Mr. Rodgers moved to adopt Ordinance #143-08, and Mr. Philips seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:54 P.M. The next business meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2008, 7:30 P.M. in Room 154 of the Great Valley Middle School. Respectfully Submitted, Linda Csete Township Secretary     CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULAR MEETING January 22, 2008 The second business meeting for January was held January 22, 2008 at the Great Valley Middle School Cafeteria. Kevin Kuhn, Chairman, Charlie Philips, Vice Chairman, Hugh Willig, Paul Hogan, Michael Rodgers, Mark Thompson, Esq., Linda Csete, Township Administrator, and those on the attached list were present. Mr. Kuhn called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. Announcements Mr. Kuhn announced that after this evening, the Board would try to hold to one meeting per month, so in the future, hearings will also be scheduled for the first Monday of the month rather than at a second monthly meeting. Mrs. Csete announced that the CRC Watersheds Association, of which Charlestown Township is a member, is hosting a presentation on the design and construction of rain gardens along with how to install and use rain barrels on Saturday, February 9, 2008 from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM at Penn State Brandywine in Media. An optional tour of the Penn State Naturalized Basin and Toft Woods Rain Garden Complex is available, weather permitting. This event is free to Charlestown residents, although attendees must pre-register. She then made flyers for the event available to those in attendance. Citizens' Forum for Non-Agenda Items No matters were brought forward. Approvals Minutes of January 7, 2008 Reorganization Meeting Mr. Philips moved to approve the minutes of the Reorganization meeting of January 7, 2008, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Minutes of January 7, 2008 Business Meeting Mr. Philips moved to approve the minutes of the business meeting of January 7, 2008, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Minutes of January 16, 2008 Business Meeting Mr. Philips moved to approve the minutes of the hearing of January 16, 2008, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Appointments Historical Commission/H.A.R.B. Mrs. Csete said The HARB communicated to the Board their recommendation that Sheila Klement and Linda Appler be reappointed to the HARB. Mr. Kuhn moved to re-appoint Sheila Klement to the real estate broker position on the HARB for a term to expire 12/31/12, and to re-appoint Linda Appler to an at-large term also expiring 12/31/12. Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Old Business Stonorov Buildings Mr. Philips said he contacted the Preservation Alliance per the Board's request in order to obtain a deadline from them on their decision regarding the Stonorov steel houses that have been dismantled and are presently being stored at the Brightside Farm. The Alliance responded via email that they will reach a decision by 12/31/08 on whether they will take the structures. After this date, if they choose not to take them, the Board will dispose of them. New Business Zoning Hearing Board Application Overview - Pomeroy Architect E.J. Messersmith and Mr. & Mrs. Pomeroy were present to provide an overview of the Pomeroy Zoning Hearing Board Application for an addition to the Pomeroy's residence at 2095 Bodine Road. The proposed improvement is for alterations and an addition to a garage studio. Mr. Messersmith said a variance had already been granted for the project, which included other improvements to the house itself. Both structures are non-conforming. After that approval was granted, the building plans were then completed. Upon review, Mr. Kohli informed him the increased building height of the studio had to be addressed by the Zoning Hearing Board as it was not part of the original application. Mr. Messersmith asked the Board whether it was necessary to go to the Zoning Hearing Board or whether they had the authority to dispose of the matter this evening by directing Mr. Kohli to issue the Building Permit. Mr. Kuhn responded that the Board could not do so and the matter must go through the Zoning Hearing Board. The Board indicated they would take a neutral position toward the application. PSATS Convention May 11 -14, 2008 Mrs. Csete asked if any of the Board members were planning to attend the May 11-14, 2008 PSATS convention other than Mr. Rodgers. The other board members indicated they did not plan to attend. Green Valleys Association "Envirovest" - Request for Contribution Mrs. Csete referred to a letter dated 1/4/08 from the Green Valleys Association requesting support in the amount of $1,000 for the 2008 "Envirofest" on May 3rd. The Township had supported this event last year, which promotes efforts to educate and advocate for a clean and healthy environment. The Secretary indicated the Township's participation can be credited toward their NPDES education and outreach requirements under Act 167. Mr. Willig moved to approve a contribution of $1,000 to Green Valleys Association, and Mr. Hogan seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Authorization to Register Five PLGIT Plus Accounts to Maximize Dividend Earnings Mrs. Csete stated she met with PLGIT representative Paul Robinson, who suggested the Township open PLGIT Plus accounts that each link to the 5 Class accounts the Township has now. PLGIT Plus pays slightly higher dividends, but provides no check writing capability. Money must stay in PLUS for 30 days before it can be moved back to CLASS or the additional interest isn't credited. She said the difference in dividend percentage isn't remarkable right now, but sometimes there's more of a spread, as much as half a percentage point. By shifting some funds to the Plus accounts, at today's rates the Township would earn an additional $1,500-$2,000 per year in dividends. She therefore recommends setting up a PLGIT Plus account to correspond to the Operating Fund, Open Space Fund, State Fund, Stormwater Management Account and Fire Escrow Account and requested the Board's approval. Mr. Philips moved to approve to authorize the Treasurer to open the five accounts as recommended, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and there being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Desfor Farms Escrow Release #3 Mr. Rodgers moved to approve escrow release #3 for Desfor Farms, and Mr. Willig seconded. Mr. Willig confirmed there is still $38,824.10 remaining in escrow. Mr. Kuhn called for discussion, and their being none, called the vote. All were in favor. Hearings Robal Associates Mr. Thompson opened the hearing for Robal Associates and read an email dated 1/22/08 from Debbie Woodall at Tupitza and Associates requesting a continuance due to the unavailability of their witness, Wayne Grafton. No testimony was heard. The hearing was continued to February 4, 2008, 7:30 P.M. at the Great Valley Middle School, Room 154. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Ordinance Mr. Thompson opened the hearing and the proceedings were taken by Jennifer Guy, Court Reporter. Mr. Thompson entered the following exhibits: B-1 Copy of Board of Supervisors minutes dated Dec. 3, 2007 in which the Board authorized the advertisement for the public hearing for January 22, 2008. B-2 Copies of letters dated December 21, 2007 and December 28, 2007 to all property owners within the area proposed to be rezoned. B-3 Copy of letter hand delivered to the Charlestown Township Planning Commission dated December 21, 2007 enclosing Act 247 Notice and the proposed Ordinance. B-4 Copy of letter hand delivered to the Chester County Planning Commission dated December 21, 2007 enclosing Act 247 Notice and the proposed Ordinance. B-5 Copy of letter dated January 7, 2008 by Mark Thompson, Esq. to Chester County Law Library enclosing attested copy of proposed Ordinance and Public Notice. B-6 Copy of letter dated January 7, 2008 by Mark Thompson, Esq. to Daily Local News enclosing Public Notice of and the full text of the proposed Ordinance and requesting publication. B-7 Proof of Publication from the Daily Local News B-8 Copy of Public Notice B-9 Copy of October 23, 2007 Charlestown Township Planning Commission minutes recommending the proposed ordinance be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for consideration of adoption B-10 Copy of mailing labels B-11 Listing of all property owners including names, parcels, and physical mailing addresses B-12 Verification of Posting by Mark Cabot dated January 14, 2008. B-13 Copy of the Proposed Ordinance B-14 Copy of Proposed Zoning Map B-15 Act 247 County Referral Form B-16 Review Letter of Chester County Planning Commission to L. Csete dated 1/16/08   Mr. Kuhn called for comments from those present. The following individuals made comments for the record: Gail Stewart Dennis Parison William Stewart Karen Smith The hearing was continued to February 4, 2008, 7:30 P.M. at the Great Valley Middle School, 255 N. Phoenixville Pike, Malvern, PA 19355, room 154. Other Business Adjournment Mr. Philips moved to adjourn, and Mr. Rodgers seconded. All were in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. The next business meeting is scheduled for February 4, 2008, 7:30 P.M. in Room 154 of the Great Valley Middle School. Respectfully Submitted, Linda Csete Township Secretary

Home      Site Overview      Contact Us Please report any problems with this site by clicking here. Site development, maintenance and funding by Township resident Jacob D. Merriwether. Hosting by PLH Worldgroup Communications, Inc.