Richard Haywood

The meeting agenda covered several items including the approval process for the January minutes and discussion of the EAC Charter. Key environmental topics included food waste recycling via MyKitchenHarvest, an update on the 'Free the Trees' initiative in collaboration with the NPT Parks Commission, and planning for a Rain Garden project with Swarthmore Students. A significant portion of the discussion focused on recommending action against the construction of a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal anywhere in Delaware County, citing pollution, safety hazards, and economic impact, with plans for the committee to draft a resolution. Discussion regarding outdoor gas-powered equipment was tabled until the next meeting. Administrative items included soliciting member contributions for 2026 and noting an open EAC Member position.

The agenda covered several committee reports and action items. The Public Safety Committee addressed EMS updates, including a DCED Letter of Understanding, and Fire Study updates, as well as stop sign placement. The Government Relations Report involved Palmers Ln Drainage Improvements and authorization to bid for 2026 Street Resurfacing. The Parks and Open Space Committee discussed the Free the Tree event and the NPT Green Way. The Finance and Administration Committee reviewed the email sender policy framework, Aqua paving contribution, and the bills list. Other items included updates from the Community, Health, and Environment Committee, and infrastructure items concerning sanitary sewer repair and a zoning matter regarding 0 Providence Rd.

The key discussion topics for this meeting included the planned approval process for the previous month's minutes and several environmental issues. Regarding recycling communication, the committee decided to dedicate the current meeting to a brainstorm session on content and communication methods, noting a deadline for inclusion in the township bulletin. Website improvements, such as making it mobile-friendly and analyzing usage via Google Analytics, were also discussed. A 'Free the Trees' update indicated possible dates in April. In conservation efforts, discussions covered ongoing research for a Rain Garden project with Swarthmore students and exploring solutions for outdoor gas-powered equipment, aiming for research over an outright ban. The committee also addressed passing a resolution opposing the construction of an LNG terminal in Delaware County, determining it is better suited as a county-level pressure point. Finally, administrative items included initiating a search for a Vice-Chair, with Paul Nuschke volunteering for duties limited to presiding over monthly meetings, and planning for future meeting invitations.

The meeting commenced with a pledge of allegiance and noted the absence of public comment due to no attendees. A public hearing for the CDBG application was scheduled. Discussions included open positions on the Historical Commission and EAC. The Board adopted the meeting minutes for October 23rd and November 13th, 2025. The Government Relations Committee reported on retaining counsel for the EMS working group and shared positive revenue updates for the ALS service, which showed November revenue nearly doubling October's, suggesting 97% cost coverage projections. The Board also discussed the utilization of mutual aid to Springfield and the need for future discussions regarding cost sharing for consolidation legal fees. The Public Safety Committee reported on the resolution to consolidate the Garden City, South Media, and Swathmore Fire Companies into a single unified fire company, which was subsequently adopted by a 6-0 vote. Updates were given on the curbside leaf pickup schedule, and a follow-up concerning a resident's concern about a bus stop was noted. The Community Health and Environment committee reported on partnering for an ivy removal campaign and the ongoing search for a Historical Commission chair.

The Reorganization Meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and a Public Comment period. Key agenda items involved the installation and swearing-in ceremonies for newly elected or re-elected Commissioners and the Tax Collector. The Board proceeded with the Election of Board Officers, including the President and Vice-President, and the Appointment of the 7th Ward Commissioner. Furthermore, appointments were made for several key township roles such as Solicitor, Engineer, Building Code Official, Zoning Officer, and Township Manager. The Board also established several governing committees, including Government Relations, Finance and Administration, and Public Safety, and addressed announcements regarding committee vacancies and the Zoning Hearing Board.