Paul Edwards

This document outlines the implementation strategies for the West Chester Comprehensive Plan, detailing various recommendations across several key areas. The strategic pillars include Land Use and Zoning, Public Improvement, Transportation, Circulation and Parking, and General Implementation. For each strategy, the plan assigns a priority level (high, medium, or low), identifies responsible parties such as the Planning Commission, Borough officials, and consultants, and specifies the required actions, which encompass zoning ordinance revisions, special studies, infrastructure projects, and administrative procedure updates. The overall aim is to guide the systematic execution of the comprehensive plan's objectives.

The committee discussed solicitor attendance for zoning appeals at East Neil Street and South Poplar Street. They reviewed a retail alcohol agreement with Hop Fidelity LLC, and PennDOT highway occupancy permit requirements for new dining platform applications. Updates were provided on the Davis property and the Wyeth Warehouse development.

The meeting included discussions on the Fire Department's monthly report, highlighting a vehicle fire and a successful evacuation drill at Borough Hall. There was also a discussion about the fire alarm system's functionality and a partnership with the Red Cross for a smoke detector installation event. The Police Department reported on monthly activities, training, and an upcoming Earth Day cleanup event. Emergency Services provided an update on call volumes and the involvement of college students as EMTs. An update on traffic calming measures for Price Street was given, including ongoing studies and potential modifications to parking regulations.

The public hearing was convened to discuss an ordinance related to public contracts within the Borough of Westchester. The proposed ordinance aims to establish procedures for the solicitation and award of public contracts, certification requirements for contractors and subcontractors, and public contract review processes. It focuses on selecting responsible contractors for public works contracts valued at $250,000 or more, requiring certifications related to OSHA safety training, craft employee qualifications, prevailing wage payments, and participation in qualified apprenticeship training programs. The ordinance also sets procedures for determining contractor qualifications and disqualifying unqualified contractors.

The committee discussed comments and suggestions from residents regarding items not on the agenda, specifically the closing of Gay Street. The director presented a report on the monthly financials, highlighting state aid received, pension plan contributions, and PHMIC refunds. The committee also reviewed the finance administration department's preliminary budget for 2026, including updates on the wastewater and general funds, and potential reductions in expenses. Additionally, there were discussions on the purchase of a dump truck and street repairs, as well as concerns about funding for the Good Fellowship ask and library roof repair. The approval of several items, including event party rentals, kiosk tickets, phosphorus removal, computer services, and tree pruning, was also addressed.