Township of Newtown

The board discussed reports from committees, boards, and commissions, including an upcoming event for the EAC. They also discussed the opening and reading of the 2025 road bid. The consent agenda was approved, which included minutes, bills, and the purchase of police vehicles. The engineer's report included awarding the 2025 road program contract. The board considered a recommendation by the joint zoning council for revisions to the joint municipal zoning ordinance and recommended option three for revision of the joint municipal zoning ordinance. They also considered drafting and advertising an ordinance and drafting a resolution establishing a real estate tax credit and an earned income tax credit program for qualifying volunteer firefighters.

The board discussed various topics, including native trees and plants, and reminded everyone of Memorial Day. They considered amending the subdivision and land development ordinance to remove non-native trees and discussed an extension of zoning relief for residents Sarah and Richard Cable. The police report highlighted arrests, traffic crashes, and public service announcements regarding drug takebacks and fraud prevention. The board also approved the amended police benevolent association contract.

The meeting started with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. Public comment included requests regarding land development at 413 Durham Road, traffic calming measures, and sidewalk and curb projects near Tara and Silo Drive. Discussion also covered the Sonokco pipeline, its potential impact on New Town, and related class action lawsuits. The board reviewed and approved the consent agenda, which included minutes and bill payments. A preliminary and final land development plan for a daycare and office building was presented and approved, contingent on securing necessary sewer capacity.

The board of supervisors meeting discussed the Toll Brothers 413 and Twining Bridge Road project. A proposed settlement of litigation regarding a conditional use application for the development of a portion of the All Saints Cemetery was presented. The proposal involved a conservation management approach, clustering the development to preserve open space and agricultural soils. Key changes included reduced lot sizes, a smaller building envelope, increased open space, and decreased disturbance of woodland and agricultural soils. The plan also included changes to access points, with the addition of trails and enhanced buffering along Twining Bridge Road. A significant portion of the open space was offered for dedication to the township. Stormwater management was a key concern, with the proposal aiming to reduce runoff to pre-development levels or better through the construction of stormwater management facilities.

The board meeting included public comments regarding the proposed Newtown gun show. Discussion included the show's postponement, advertising on various websites, and concerns about traffic and safety. Additional comments addressed the Arcadia development and access/egress options, seeking support for reviewing alternatives.