Whitpain Township

The meeting commenced with welcoming a new alternate member. The commission proceeded with the election of officers for 2026, resulting in the election of Mr. Eberle as Chair, while the Vice Chair position was tabled until the next meeting. Key discussions included finalizing the date and increasing the budget for the 2026 Native Tree Giveaway, with plans to advertise species descriptions in the Whitpain Wire. The commission reviewed the success of the 2025 Street Tree Planting Program and scheduled a presentation from Davey Tree regarding the Canopy Restoration Program for the following month. Discussions also covered challenges with the Whitpain Township Heritage Tree Program and the formation of a subcommittee, including Ms. Pearce and Mr. David, to further develop the Invasive Species Proposed Ordinance, focusing on educational awareness rather than immediate legislation. The possibility of a tree planting event for the America 250 celebration was also considered.

The agenda for the meeting included a continuation of the Public Hearing for Conditional Use Application #CU50-25 concerning a car wash at Olympus Pines Management Co LLC. The Consent Agenda addressed several items, including the approval of financial reports, the 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report, and motions to extend 2024 road resurfacing contracts for 2026 and to participate in various cooperative purchasing agreements for 2026. Further agenda items involved authorizing construction inspection and administration services for the Skippack Pike and School Road Intersection Improvement Project, approving a waiver for a land development plan for a new Community Center, authorizing the advertisement for bids for two Harley Davidson Police Motorcycles, and authorizing the execution of the Regional Fire Investigation Team 6 MOU. The board also planned to address a settlement and release agreement with a police department employee and the amendment of the Township Fee Schedule.

The agenda for the meeting included the reorganization of the Board, covering the appointment of the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Solicitor. Several cases were scheduled for discussion: one case (ZHB #2464-25) requested a continuance to February 19, 2026. New cases included requests for exceptions (ZHB #2475-25, ZHB #2476-25), side yard variances (ZHB #2477-25, ZHB #2478-25), a front yard variance (ZHB #2479-25), an accessory structure variance (ZHB #2480-25), and an extension of relief (ZHB #2376-23).

The Arts and Culture Commission discussed future events, including the community festival at Montgomery County Community College in September. They considered the involvement of the ACC, potential stage inclusions, and the promotion of local artists or photographers in the weekly Wire. The commission also discussed a talent show, its logistics, and submission deadlines. Two subcommittees were established, one for the community festival talent show and another for reviewing submissions to the Wire. Visual arts submissions with a "fun in the sun" theme were discussed for the summer edition of the Wire. The members explored possible future winter events, including utilizing the Manor House at Prophecy Creek Park and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, along with potential programs for children and monthly ethnic celebrations. The commission also touched on involving the ACC in the country's 250th Anniversary celebration next year.

The meeting included discussions regarding the Community Fall Festival, including the Shade Tree Commission's (STC) participation and the need for volunteers. There was also discussion about a Township Natural Resource Manager position, including its potential benefits and funding challenges. The commission discussed a proposed ordinance on invasive species, focusing on creating a list of top invasive species and adhering to DCNR guidelines. Updates were provided on the Street Tree Planting Program and the Canopy Restoration Program. Township Parks and Preserves were discussed, including Erbs Mill Park and future planting plans. Other topics included the Native Tree Give Away 2026, the Earth Day Program, and the Whitpain Township Heritage Tree Program.