Monday, May 05, 2008
Chairman Jeff McDonnell called to order the executive session at 7:00 p.m. In attendance were Supervisors Birch, Fox, Prousi and Sarosky. Also in attendance were Frank Bartle and John Nagel.
Chairman McDonnell called to order the work session at 7:30 p.m. In attendance were Supervisors Birch, Fox, Prousi and Sarosky. Also in attendance were John Nagel, Frank Bartle, Pam Gural-Bear, Bruce Shoupe, Larry Gregan, Bill Brightcliffe, Matt Johnston, Richard Brady, Phil Wursta and Shirley Snyder.
There was no public comment in the work session.
Bruce Shoupe provided a review of the concept of redevelopment of the properties along Northbound Route 309 from Atlantic Books to Best Western. Last year, the Planning Commission's recommendation was that they would be interested in considering changing the area to HLI-II as a unified plan. The respective property owners along this stretch on Northbound Route 309 were asked to provide the Township with a unified plan for the entire area. To date, the property owners have not come up with a unified plan to recommend to the Township, because of the various stages of their individual business plans. Raymour and Flanigan is ready to move ahead with a redevelopment plan. At a recent meeting with representatives of Raymour and Flanigan, they presented a proposal for a new two story 50,000 to 60,000 square foot building on the Atlantic Books property and would retain the existing Raymour and Flanigan building. This applicant's plans showed the relocation of the jug handle off Route 309. Phil Wursta of Pennoni Associates, Inc. stated that there are several traffic issues that need to be discussed and addressed in conjunction with the development of this area, including the reconfiguration of the jug handles, the widening of Stump Road, or additional right-of-way to allow for the widening to help reduce traffic congestion. The Board discussed the possibility of having all property owners within this area, assist with the cost of the traffic improvements. Supervisor Prousi noted that in previous discussions with PennDOT, it was stated that there were no monies budgeted by PennDOT to pay for any improvements to the Stump Road and Route 309 intersection, and funding would not be available for at least 25 years. Supervisor Sarosky commented that the decision of what type of development should be permitted in this area, is one to be made by the Board with consideration of what is in the best interest of Montgomery Township. After additional discussion, the Board directed John Nagel to engage the services of Land Planner, Kenneth Amey to put together a plan and recommendation for the best use of these properties, and provide that information to the Board. There being no further discussion, the work session adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
Chairman McDonnell called to order the action meeting at 8:15 p.m. In attendance were Supervisors Birch, Fox, Prousi and Sarosky. Also in attendance were Frank Bartle, John Nagel, Kevin Costello, Lonnie Manai, Matt Johnston, Elaine Mills of Boucher and James, Inc., Pam Gural-Bear, Larry Gregan, Bill Brightcliffe, Richard Brady, Bruce Shoupe and Shirley Snyder.
Under public comment, Lawrence Caldwell of 264 Mallard Drive inquired about the Board's reasons for a approving a 9 hole disc golf course, with rotating baskets, rather than a 12 hole course, and the reason for the shortening of the course. Supervisor Fox responded that the Board is looking for some "experience" with the course, and to monitor the wear pattern and the effect the course will have on the area. There was some discussion on the relocation of the baskets and the work involved. Kevin Costello noted that the baskets had to be re-worked so that all are on a level surface, and to remove any pressure treated lumber that may have been used in their construction. Barbara Vesay of 202 Livingston Court asked whether a group of residents would be permitted to go and clean out the brush along the paths of the disc golf course. While the Board had no objection to this, Kevin Costello suggested that it might be better to wait until the revised course is completed, so the location of all paths is known.
Frank Bartle announced that the Board had met in executive session earlier in the evening and a personnel matter, labor negotiations pertaining to the Police contract, and a matter of filed litigation were discussed.
Supervisor Birch, Pension Committee liaison, introduced James Kelly as a well qualified individual who has expressed an interest in becoming a member of the Pension Committee. Resolution #1 unanimously appointed James Kelly as a member of the Pension Committee with a term ending January 1, 2009.
Chief Richard Brady provided a summary of the events being planned for National Law Enforcement Week May 12th thought May 17th. Events will be held on the inside, lower level of Montgomery Mall. Fourteen Police Departments have been invited to participate, as well as the Fire Department of Montgomery Township, Volunteer Medical Service Corps, and emergency services for the Vocational and Technical School. Montgomery Township Police will be conducting K-9 demonstrations as well as fingerprinting of children. Resolution #2 unanimously recognized the week of May 12th through May 17th as National Law Enforcement Week.
Chairman McDonnell introduced the consideration of special counsel for the Zehr Tract development (Wayne Rosen) and Simon/Kravco (Montgomery Mall). Frank Bartle, the Township Solicitor stated that he has previously represented both these clients, and therefore he will recuse himself on both the township and applicant sides. In the upcoming consideration of plan for the Zehr Tract on May 27th, John Nagel recommended notifying the residents of Neshaminy Falls and other residents within the immediate area of the Zehr Tract of that date. Mr. Nagel also recommended that Ken Amey be invited to attend the May 27th meeting and provide insight into the consideration of this overall plan. The Board concurred on both these matters. Resolution #3 unanimously approved that Gilbert High provide special counsel for all matters pertaining to the Zehr Tract (Wayne Rosen), and Robert Kerns as special counsel for all matters pertaining to Simon/Kravco (Montgomery Mall).
John Nagel requested that the consideration of approval of the 2008-2011 Police Contract be tabled this evening. The Township and the Police are still working out the contract language.
Under the consent agenda, the minutes of the meeting for April 28, 2008, and the payment of bills were approved as submitted.
Under other business, Supervisor Sarosky commented on the discussion of the redevelopment of Northbound Route 309 that took place during the work session. Supervisor Sarosky recommended that Ken Amey be asked to review the zoning matters and that he also be given the Township Comprehensive Plan to follow as he designs a plan for redevelopment of this area. Supervisor Fox requested that the Shade Tree Commission and the Township staff that works with the Shade Tree Commission be recognized and commended for their work and for planning the dedication ceremony that was recently held at Memorial Grove. This recognition will take place at the Tuesday, May 27, 2008 Board of Supervisors meeting.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:42 p.m.