Keith DeAngelis

The Council discussed community concerns regarding gravel parking areas at a local facility causing air quality issues and noise, as well as a potential dumping ground site. Administrative reports included updates on dividends, upcoming memorial events, community day planning, and heavy volumes of Right-to-Know requests. The Council addressed a request concerning neighborhood safety related to the use of pellet guns. Legislative actions included the adoption of resolutions honoring State Police Day, designating an area of compliance for a code ordinance, and authorizing competitive bidding for a park improvement project. Additionally, the Council approved an ordinance for modified annual inspections of specific structures and authorized the advertisement of a proposed new zoning ordinance and map amendment. Financial matters included the acceptance of various account printouts and the approval of expenditure vouchers.

The Council conducted a bid opening for the Sherwood Park Pickleball and Basketball Courts project and selected a contractor. Discussions were held regarding the upcoming Pennsylvania State Police Memorial Day, construction at Sherwood Park, the status of municipal bill lists, upcoming conference attendance, and preparations for Community Day. New business included the approval of the sale of a township vehicle and approval of a preliminary/final land development plan for airport area projects. The Council also reviewed an ordinance regarding modified annual inspections and authorized the payment of various municipal bills. Furthermore, officials addressed maintenance issues involving the security camera system and solar panel inverters, and announced a future public hearing concerning a zoning ordinance update.

The Council discussed the status of various grants, including the Pennsylvania DEC Grant extension and an Airport Multi-Modal grant, and reviewed preparations for the Spring Newsletter. Administrative updates included an upcoming training opportunity provided by Lehigh Emergency Services and a request for a recommendation letter from the school district. The Council authorized the purchase of LED speed limit signs and discussed the potential replacement of a public works truck, along with resident inquiries regarding emergency communication channels. New business involved the approval of Resolution 2026-35 regarding bill payments, the introduction of an ordinance amendment concerning snow emergency towing, and an ordinance to solicit bids for park improvements at Sherwood Park. Additionally, the Council discussed the feasibility of allowing remote telephonic voting for members and approved various account expenditures.

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.