Township of Middletown

The board conducted its annual reorganization meeting, which included the election of a new chairperson, vice chair, and secretary. Key actions included the appointment of legal counsel, township engineers, and various department liaisons. The board also made numerous appointments to local boards and commissions, including the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, and Environmental Advisory Council. Legislative business involved the enactment of an early retirement incentive program ordinance and a resolution regarding banking services. Additionally, the board authorized the reduction of a site improvement escrow for a local development project.

The board focused on the adoption of the 2026 budget, which involved intense discussions on managing rising operational costs and fiscal obligations. Key topics included proposed tax increases, specifically relating to earned income and real estate millage, and the potential impact of these changes on essential township services like fire protection and parks and recreation. Members deliberated on reducing specific millage rates and line-item adjustments to reach a consensus on the budget without requiring additional public advertising.

The Board discussed and issued several proclamations recognizing local government, autism awareness, Earth Day, Arbor Day, and the lifesaving actions of fire and emergency medical personnel. The board addressed public concerns regarding traffic safety in residential areas and the status of a potential chicken ordinance. Furthermore, the meeting covered consent agenda items including the authorization of bill payments, adoption of sewer planning modules, procurement of road materials, and approval of drainage improvement projects. The board also formally acted on the termination of the township manager.

The meeting included the reorganization of board officers, including the selection of a chair, vice chair, and secretary. The primary agenda item was the review of a subdivision and land development application for a property on Old Lincoln Highway, which proposed constructing a new single-family dwelling while retaining an existing structure. Discussions covered requested waivers regarding sidewalks, storm water management solutions involving a dry well versus a rain garden, and concerns from neighbors about construction noise, timelines, and traffic impact.

The board meeting included a presentation by the summer recreation program regarding their charity car wash benefiting Fostering Hope PA. The board also addressed a public comment regarding tax collector ethics and transparency. Consent agenda items were approved, including payment of the bills list, a change order for the North Flowers Mill Drainage Project, and approval of the project's final payment. Additionally, the board authorized a contract with Armor and Suns Electric for the installation of a rectangular rapid flashing beacon pedestrian signal at Langhorne Yardley Road and Maple Point Drive. The meeting concluded with an update from the new township manager regarding his initial month in the role.