Township of Towamencin

The meeting included a reorganization session where Mr. MacKay was nominated and unanimously approved as Chairman, and Ms. Younce as Vice Chair, with Mr. Leach continuing as Secretary. The primary new business discussion concerned Project Hilltop Preliminary Plan submitted by Pinnacle Realty Development Company. Discussions focused heavily on traffic flow and road connections, particularly concerning Kriebel Road, Sumneytown Pike, and Troxel Road, with input sought on four-way intersections versus cul-de-sacs and potential one-way street configurations. Public comments raised several concerns regarding the proposed open space, noting that while the percentage requirement was met, much of the space was not usable for active recreation, and there were specific concerns regarding the lack of designated playground/park acreage and the insufficient fee in lieu of recreation infrastructure. Other topics included utility placements (underground) and the status of an existing cell tower.

The meeting included reorganization proceedings, with the approval of the Treasurer and Vice-Chair, and scheduling the vote for the Secretary for the next meeting. Key discussion points covered the Bird Town PA Subcommittee activities, including planning a children's workshop and purchasing birdhouses for Troxel Meadow. Old business addressed 2025 projects, such as the status of the Troxel Meadow seeding, the completion of the Annual Report, addressing questions on the Grasslands Ordinance, and monitoring the Dark Skies Ordinance scheduled for the Board of Supervisors (BOS) meeting. For 2026 projects, the council discussed the Bustard Road No Mow invasive plant treatment quotes and planning for Towamencin Day. Budget matters included the 2026 budget allocation of $10,200 and earmarked funds. New business involved a presentation to the BOS regarding the inadequate recreational characteristics of the Walton Farm and Freddy Hill Farm subdivisions and requesting EAC support for this assessment. The council also received an update on open EAC slots and a proposed townhome subdivision on the Bird Farm property.

The key discussion centered on the 2026 reorganization of the Authority Board, resulting in the approval of officer appointments for Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary for the year 2026. Furthermore, the board unanimously approved Resolution 26-01, which authorizes the transfer of all Towamencin Township Authority assets and liabilities to the Township and subsequent termination of the Authority itself, directing the Solicitor to facilitate the required legal actions.

Key discussions included welcoming new EAC members and reviewing the Bird Town PA Subcommittee report, which covered a successful workshop and plans for purchasing birdhouses for Troxel Meadow and birdfeeders for Fischer's Park. The council conducted a reorganization for 2026, appointing a new Secretary. Old business focused on finalizing the 2025 Annual Report content, receiving CKS Engineers' assessment that the proposed Grasslands Ordinance is not legally defensible due to development restrictions, and scheduling a final review of revised landscape and planting ordinances. For 2026 projects, the council confirmed the sign design for Troxel Meadow, signed a contract with Weeds, Inc. for the Bustard Road No Mow project, and reviewed a draft presentation concerning Open Space and Parks considerations for subdivision reviews. New business involved assigning the preparation of the Spring Newsletter article. The Treasurer's Report noted $462 unspent in the 2025 budget. The Township Liaison reported that the Dark Skies Ordinance was approved by the Board of Supervisors.

The committee focused on prioritizing activities for the upcoming months, intending to finalize event selections by March, create a timeline, and secure volunteers by April or May. Key discussions included the distribution of 'Save the Date' letters and planning for formal invitations. For the drone show, sponsorship levels were established. Activity planning involved unanimously contracting a petting zoo over pony rides due to cost and variety benefits, approving two face painters, and planning for historical-themed activities such as 13 Colonies Trivia, Shut the box, Cornhole games, and various crafts including Ball and Cup, Potato Stamps, Cornhusk Dolls, and Tri-corner hats. Founder performer contracts are being finalized, including Uncle Sam on Stilts, Betsy Ross, Ben Franklin, Ned Hector, and potential participation from Civil War Reenactors and the SAR for a Memorial Service. Food planning secured three trucks (American Barbecue, Italian, Mexican) with future discussion pending on a pie table. A Color Guard parade involving multiple local groups was agreed upon to open the ceremony, and the Montgomery County Band and Dock High School Choir were secured for musical entertainment. Concerns over busing costs led to decisions to seek alternative quotes, and the overall budget from a previous meeting was approved. The need for renting an upgraded sound system and acquiring an additional light tower requires further evaluation.