Randy Behmke

The Commission discussed grant opportunities for planning and construction, including PHMC and 250 PA grants. They held an election of officers for 2026, confirmed the 2026 meeting schedule, and tabled committee appointments for future discussion. Old business updates included progress on website development, brochure planning, social media strategies, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad (HTUGRR) Heritage Tourism Trail content revisions. The Commission also received updates on the Walkable Chadds Ford project, current funding challenges for 'The Pines' project, and BVSB corridor signage. New business included the adoption of revised bylaws, the appointment of an audit committee, and the issuance of a letter of support and recognition for the Radley Run Country Club.

The Board convened for a conditional use hearing regarding a dental office application, which was continued to a later date. In the subsequent meeting, the Board addressed public comments regarding property maintenance and infrastructure concerns. Key business included the adoption of a Sustainability Plan, authorization of grant applications for the East Bradford Park rehabilitation project and a Plum Run Trail feasibility study, and approval of an Eagle project proposal for tree planting at Shaw's Bridge Park. The Board also discussed funding for the America 250 regional event, approved a time extension for a conditional use application, reviewed budgetary challenges related to winter operations, authorized a bid for the Shadow Wood Drive drainage project, and approved a payment to Aqua PA. Additionally, the Board authorized a memorandum of understanding with West Chester Borough regarding the Regional Emergency Response Team and ratified a snow emergency declaration.

The East Bradford Township 2025 Sustainability Plan serves as a roadmap for creating a sustainable and resilient community over the next decade (2025-2035). It aims to balance open space protection with manageable growth, enhance policy and regulatory frameworks, and identify sustainable land management practices. The plan focuses on nine core goals: Resource Protection, Reliable Water Supply, Preservation of Community Character, Resiliency for Extreme Weather, Renewable Energy Opportunities, Clean Transportation, Thriving Communities, Green Economy, and Public Outreach and Education.

The Planning Commission discussed the Chester County Preservation Partnership Program Grant application for East Bradford Park, resulting in a decision to provide a letter of support. The Commission reviewed proposed Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use map amendments for Westtown Township, specifically regarding the Crebilly Farm purchase, the future use of the former Darlington Inn, and potential housing construction at the Westminster Presbyterian Church. Furthermore, the Commission considered and accepted an application for a preliminary and final two-lot subdivision plan for 500 S. Creek Road.

The Zoning Hearing Board met to address an application for a property variance at 837 Shenton Road. The applicant, Altical LLC, is seeking multiple variances to permit the construction of a driveway through prohibitively steep slopes, exceeding the maximum allowed disturbance area. Several neighboring property owners requested and were granted party status regarding this application. The Board reviewed submitted exhibits and testimony from the applicant's engineering representative. Ultimately, the hearing was continued to a future date to allow for additional expert testimony regarding slope stability, with the applicant agreeing to waive the requirement for the next hearing to occur within 45 days. Organizational items, including the appointment of board chairs, were deferred due to the absence of a full board.