Kathy Costello

The meeting commenced with the approval of the October 1st minutes. Key discussions included a report from the Daily Bread Food Pantry regarding their services. Committee reports covered the approval of the Treasurer's Report and checks totaling $256,732.48. The Business Development committee noted a planned meeting with the Interim President of Ursinus College. Appointments were made to the Zoning Hearing Board and the Planning Commission. The Streets & Public Safety Committee reviewed, but took no action on, a recommendation to prohibit overnight parking on parts of Walnut Street; Public Works committed to adding riprap to address a stormwater complaint outlet. The Engineer reported on completed paving, ongoing stream bank work, and a new twin home development application. The Manager secured approval for several LSA Grant applications, including funding requests for a new fire truck, connecting water systems, a playground improvement project, and the Fifth Avenue culvert improvement. Approval was also granted for the Montgomery County Planning Commission 3-Year Planning Contract. The Police Department ratified the sale of a police car and is sponsoring a food drive. The Fire Company reported on training sessions and incident responses in October.

The meeting included a detailed discussion and approval of a land development plan for 68 W. 3rd Avenue, involving two requested waivers: one for sidewalk installation, where a $5,000 fee in lieu was approved, and another for tree/shrub plantings, which was settled by approving a fee in lieu based on specific dollar amounts per plant type. The Council approved the 2026 budget, adopting Ordinance 623 setting the 2026 tax rates, which includes a proposed 1 mill tax increase. Committee reports covered approval of Treasurer's reports, payment of checks, ongoing efforts to find developers for Main Street, reporting on regional planning initiatives, and approving a bonus for an employee providing extra assistance. Administrative reports confirmed the completion of the 2025 Paving Project and the approval of the 2026 meeting and holiday schedules, including the date for the Re-Organization meeting. Furthermore, policies for Internal Control and Administration of Federal Awards were approved, and a contract for the Borough building roof replacement was awarded to Volpe Enterprises. Donations were approved for the Perkiomen Valley 250 organization, the library, and several other local entities.

The meeting focused primarily on the review of the 2026 draft budget, which indicated a projected deficit of approximately $225,000 after initial refinement efforts. The deficit is attributed to contractual obligations, specifically annual increases in trash services and increased police department salaries and benefits (approximately 10% increase). To address the gap, a motion was made and carried to authorize advertising the 2026 proposed budget, which includes a 1 mil tax increase generating about $260,000. Revenue highlights noted reimbursements for the MS4 project and funding for traffic light improvements and the Bum Hollow Trail project. An audience member supported the tax increase and suggested stipends for volunteer firefighters, which was noted for formal proposal submission.

The reorganization meeting agenda focused on establishing the organizational structure for the Council. Key items included the election of the Council President, Council Vice-President, and Council President Pro-Tem. The agenda also specified the Committee Assignments for Council members across seven committees: Business Development, CPVRPC, Finance, Parks, Personnel, Streets and Public Safety, and CTJPW. Furthermore, several Appointed Positions were listed, including the Manager/Secretary/Zoning Officer, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Solicitor, Engineer, Auditors, Building Official, Electrical Inspector, and Fire Marshal. Finally, the agenda included nominations and a motion to approve appointments for Appointed Boards & Commissions such as the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, CTMA, Public Works, and Vacancy Board.

The meeting included the swearing-in of newly elected Councilmembers, nominations and approvals for Council President, Vice-President, and President Pro-Tem. Committee assignments for Council members were announced, covering areas such as Business Development, Communications, Finance, Parks, Personnel, and Public Safety. Appointed positions including Manager/Secretary/Zoning Officer, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Solicitor, Engineer, Auditors, Building Official, and Fire Marshal were approved. Appointments to the Collegeville-Trappe Municipal Authority, Planning Commission, Vacancy Board, and Zoning Hearing Board were also approved.