Keith DeAngelis

Key discussions during the meeting included confirming the ticketing and/or towing protocol for vehicles obstructing cleanup during a snow emergency. The Township Manager reported on CJIS training completion, collection of Financial Interest statements, and positive outcomes from the Flock System resulting in increased criminal arrests and a decrease in crime. A report from the Airport noted an increase in passenger traffic and air cargo volume in 2025, as well as the implementation of Good Maps for accessibility. Council discussed the fencing plan for Sherwood Park, recommending chain link fencing in conjunction with planned basketball and pickleball court construction, and sought direction on fence height. Several invoices for the Fire Company were discussed, particularly concerning radio microphones, the annual ladder truck inspection, and the foam replacement expense which exceeded the line item budget; all were approved for payment. The Township Engineer provided an update on the Sherwood Park court construction timeline. New business included the introduction, discussion, and vote to adopt Ordinance No. 669, Bill No. 2026-01, which initiates a referendum to amend the Township Charter to tie contract bases to the Consumer Price Index. Finally, a substantial payment of bills across multiple funds was authorized.

The meeting began with the Township Manager calling the session to order in the absence of a Chairman. Key new business involved the election and nomination of a Chairman and Vice Chairman for 2026. Subsequently, the Council unanimously approved numerous resolutions covering significant operational matters, including designating financial depositories, establishing Council meeting schedules, setting the Township Manager's salary, and appointing various officials such as the Tax Collector, Township Solicitor, Engineer, Zoning Hearing Board Attorney, Planning Commission Attorney, Building Code Official, Auditor, SEO Officer, Emergency Management Coordinator, and Fire Marshal. The Council also approved resolutions related to the reappointment of members to the Personnel Board, Library Board, Zoning Hearing Board, and Recreation Commission. Finally, the Council adopted an Emergency Operations Plan and concluded with general discussion regarding the overview for the year 2026.

Key discussions during the meeting included the registration of Council members for the PSATS convention and scheduling updates for the Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board. Progress on the River Central project and D&L Trail design was noted, and the completion of the Liquid Fuels Audit was confirmed. A significant item involved two Fire Company bills totaling over $11,000, which Council decided to pull from the payment list pending an explanation from the Fire Company. The Township Attorney discussed preparing Charter amendments related to the Purchase Order policy dollar threshold limits, linking them to state inflation rates, and suggested reviewing the Charter for an updated attendance policy regarding Council member absences. New business included approving the release of Maintenance Security for Guardian Storage and authorizing the sending of three Council members to the 2026 PSATS Convention. Additionally, Resolution No. 2026-34 was adopted to establish a consistent method for applying employee wage rates during payroll periods that span compensation changes. The financial reports (General Fund, Capital Reserve, Escrow, Liquid Fuels, Sewer, and Water Accounts) were accepted subject to audit, and payment of bills, excluding the two disputed Fire Company bills, was authorized.

The meeting included a slideshow honoring veterans. The Board members were congratulated for their victory in the Election. The Board discussed dates from B. Braun for their meeting. An Executive Session was requested regarding a potential litigation matter. The Township received restitution for the vandalism at Canal Park and reimbursement from the insurance company for the electrical mishap. The electronic valve that regulars the refrigerator flow is not working properly and needs to be replaced. The Manager informed Council she will be on vacation. The Board decided to cancel the January 21st meeting. Trick or Treat Night for 2026 will be held on Friday, October 30 with a raindate on Saturday, October 31. Council was given a thick packet which is the proposed Zoning Ordinance update. The paperwork is being finalized for the Lloyd Street paving project. Council authorized payment of Payroll and Vouchers. The Board and Manager would be going into Executive Session and would not be returning to the meeting with any decisions.

The council discussed and approved an ordinance amending Section 1-403 of the Statutory Code of Hanover Township to adjust the salary of members of the council to $100.00 per meeting beginning in 2026.