Franconia Township

The meeting commenced following an executive session to discuss a potential real estate purchase. Public comment focused on the use of a high school back gate connecting to Halteman Road, with citizens expressing concerns over road deterioration, excessive use (including weekends and nights), and safety, requesting a traffic study. The Board indicated that since the School District previously received a waiver regarding road improvements, any change in the gate's use would require filing a new land development application, including a traffic study, to evaluate safety and benefit to the Township. Under the Solicitor's Report, the Board approved an ordinance amending the non-uniform employees' pension retirement age. Resolutions were approved for the 2026 budget documents, which included a 2.5% real estate tax increase, employee contributions to Police Pension Plans, and setting the Real Estate Tax Rate, Fire Service Tax, EMS Tax, and Library Tax for the 2026 General Fund Budget. A resolution authorizing the inclusion of Parcel 34-00-01969-00-4 (261 Green Hill Road) into the Franconia Township Agricultural Security Area was also approved following a public hearing where no comments were received. The Police Chief reported on the successful 'Breakfast with Santa' event benefiting 'Shop with a Cop,' the retirement of an officer, and the conclusion of a food drive. The Treasurer's Report was approved, authorizing payment of bills totaling $594,529.09, which included significant allocations for fire companies and a new Public Works department truck.

The meeting addressed subdivision and land development matters, including a minor residential subdivision for 478 Smokepipe Road requiring waivers for sidewalk, curbing, road widening, and a fee in lieu of land for park and recreation. The recommendation for approval was made to the Board of Supervisors, noting the plan eliminates a landlocked parcel. Additionally, plans for WB Homes Select at Rising Sun Road were formally accepted. The Zoning Hearing Board applications reviewed involved granting a rear yard setback variance for a swimming pool at 917 Harcourt Lane and approving a detached garage in the front yard setback for a corner parcel at 505 Hunsicker Road.

The Planning Commission addressed several items, including the approval of the minutes from the July 7, 2025 meeting. Under New Business, the commission discussed and conditionally recommended approval for a concept plan by Souderton Mennonite Homes for the Derstine Tract, proposing residential living under an Older Adult Overlay, subject to amendments regarding ownership application and accessory structure height. The plans for WB Homes Select at Rising Sun Road were formally accepted. The commission also reviewed Zoning Hearing Board applications for variances related to goats and yard setbacks, and approved an application to move a property into the Agricultural Security Area. Finally, the commission decided to move future 2026 meeting times to 6:00 p.m.

The meeting commenced with an executive session to discuss potential litigation. During the public portion, significant discussion focused on the operational status of the Halteman Road gate at the high school, specifically concerning its opening times and related traffic safety concerns raised by residents, including issues with turning direction, speed limits, and emergency vehicle access. The Board reviewed and approved reports from the Police, Highway, and Engineering departments. Financial actions included approving the Treasurer's Report, which authorized payment of bills totaling $552,719.38, and approving payroll for a specified period. No new subdivision or land development items were presented.

The meeting addressed several topics, including a discussion with a resident regarding the dam at Branchwood Creek and the Township's collaboration on its maintenance. The board approved funds for an Agricultural Conservation Easement on a Township Farm and an Intermunicipal Police Services Agreement. Reports were given by the Police Chief, Highway Department, and Township Engineer. The board approved the Treasurer's Report and authorized payment of bills and payroll. Bids were awarded for fuel contracts. Announcements were made regarding upcoming Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors meetings.