Chadds Ford Township

The Board reviewed the Treasurer's report and approved multiple payment releases for the Walkable Chadds Ford project. Key discussions included the potential participation in the Bird Town Pennsylvania program, for which the Board determined further review is necessary before taking formal action. Additionally, the Board authorized parking lot improvements and updated signage at the Brinton Run Preserve and ratified a Disaster Emergency Declaration issued in response to a recent winter storm.

The Board meeting included announcements regarding an executive session on legal and real estate matters, and the cancellation of the August regular meeting. Key discussions involved approving General Fund expenditures of $105,107.42 and Open Space expenditures of $65,022.41, with the latter attributed to emergency porch repair at Painter's Folly. In New Business, the Board authorized the Township Solicitor to attend the Zoning Hearing Board meeting concerning the 1281 Baltimore Pike property variances related to steep slopes and potential flooding issues, ensuring the applicant works with the engineer. The Board also authorized engaging counsel for tax assessment appeals for several properties with associated conditional fees if successful. Action items included the approval of a Special Event Permit for the 'Bike the Brandywine' event on September 23, 2023, and the approval of the proposed 'Chadds Ford Township Pumpkin Paint & Carve Event' with expenses not to exceed $1,000. Other discussions covered the potential creation of a 501(c)3 for open space donations, and updates on Hank's Place demolition permit issuance and a grading permit for a proposed coffee shop.

Key discussions involved preliminary research on connecting Enzo's to a neighboring municipality's sewer system and considering a connection application from a property owner (Annette Vogts). The Manager reported on sludge hauling costs and the upcoming bid process, as well as obtaining insurance reimbursement for a previous force main break. Progress on disconnecting data services from the Township was noted, along with plans for fencing at the Ridings Pump Station and updates on the David Dodge project. Regarding capacity, the Engineer noted available EDUs but recommended addressing recent high flows and Inflow & Infiltration (I&I) before accepting new flows. Discussions with the Brandywine Conservancy regarding EDUs involved metering requirements and eliminating evaporation credits. The Authority reviewed the DELCORA report, Treasurer's report, and approved ACH/check payments for April and May. New business included the acceptance and approval of the 2022 Annual Audit, approval of a Right-to-Know Anonymous Requester Policy stating no response to anonymous requests, and approval of Resolution 2024-05 authorizing adjustment to the sewer rate structure, including invoicing based on effluent flow if necessary.

The Board held a public hearing regarding Ordinance No. 183 to amend taxation and fees, specifically re-establishing a Business Privilege Tax. Key business items included the appointment of a new Bookkeeper and Facilities Coordinator, authorization of a conservation and façade easement agreement for the Painter's Folly property with the North American Land Trust, and the engagement of Bingham Engineering for the Sunset Hill Preserve Trail project. Additionally, the Board authorized a grant application for traffic signal improvements at Baltimore Pike and Brandywine Drive and reviewed annual reports from the Historical Architectural Review Board, the Open Space Committee, and the Planning Commission.

The Open Space Committee meeting included discussions on several key areas. Under reports, the Committee discussed project recommendations for the township's Local Share Assessment grant application. Old business involved discussing the Sunset Hill Preserve Trail Implementation Plan, including proposed modifications to the plan and requesting additional information regarding a lot line change for 126 Ridge Road. The Committee also reviewed the draft 2025 Open Space Budget, covering anticipated expenses such as annual management costs, trail construction, acquisitions, and proposed increases for rental income. A motion was made and passed to recommend the 2025 Open Space budget to the Board of Supervisors. In miscellaneous discussion, the Committee agreed to move their regular meeting date to the third Wednesday of the month starting in 2025.