Michelle Stoudt

The Planning Commission meeting involved a presentation by representatives from the Chester County Planning Commission regarding updates to the local Zoning Ordinance. Discussions focused on draft definitions for terms A through F, a new land use table, and revisions to articles concerning general standards, nonconformities, and the zoning hearing board. No official action was taken on these items as they are slated for further review in subsequent meetings.

The Planning Commission reviewed draft sections of the Zoning Ordinance update, specifically focusing on definitions and general standards, as well as revisions to sections concerning nonconformities and the Zoning Hearing Board. Representatives from the Chester County Planning Commission facilitated the presentation and discussion of these proposed changes.

The Board discussed updates to the parking ordinance, including fine structures, and authorized the advertisement of a proposed snow emergency ordinance update. Actions included approving a grant application for the East Branch Brandywine Trail Extension, ratifying a snow emergency declaration, and adopting resolutions for an emergency operations plan and an EMS week proclamation. The board reviewed various standing reports from departments and engineers, discussed zoning hearing board applications, addressed infrastructure projects such as the Boot Road Bridge and Clovermill Road, and approved the treasurer's report and expenditures.

The Board discussed potential improvements for Bell Tavern Park and authorized the advertisement of updates to the township's parking and building code ordinances. The meeting included the ratification of a snow emergency declaration and a review of the township's snow emergency parking policy. Approval was granted for an escrow release for 595/597 Bell Tavern Road, a sign request for Goodwill, and a resolution authorizing grant reimbursement for the Skelp Level Bridge project. The Board also reviewed various reports from the engineer, police, fire, and EMS departments, as well as the treasurer's report and expenditure approvals.

The Reorganization Meeting involved the election of the Chairman and Vice-Chairs for 2026. Numerous annual appointments for 2026 were made via resolution, including the appointment of the Manager/Secretary, Assistant Township Manager, Treasurer, Township Solicitor, Engineer, and various other officers and board members. The Board also appointed depositories for Township funds, approved the 2026 Fee Schedule, and established rules and regulations for conducting public meetings, including allocating time for public comment. In a subsequent regular meeting segment, the Board awarded a stormwater repair bid for Bell Tavern Boulevard and ratified a General Fund Transfer from PLIGIT. The next meeting was scheduled for January 21, 2026.