PRESENT
President Bollendorf, Vice President Stockton, Councilwoman Anzinger, Councilwoman Benjamin, Councilman Forgeng, Councilman Hegele, Councilman Rich, Mayor Guenst, Acting Manager Hegele, Secretary DeRenzis, Chief Gardner, Foreman Sine, Fire Marshal Myers, Treasurer Kalnajs, Solicitor Ciuca, Engineer Hyne, Engineer Hanna.
ABSENT
None.
CALL TO ORDER
President Bollendorf called the February 12, 2018 Committee Meeting to order at 7:04 PM
PUBLIC SAFETY
FIRE COMPANY EXPENDITURE LIST
Councilman Forgeng stated Council was in receipt of the Fire Company Expenditure list for the month of January 2018 in the amount of $17,334.59.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval
POLICE ENTRANCE EXAM
Chief Gardner stated that the annual Montgomery County Consortium Police Entrance Exam is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 12, 2018. He stated that there are no vacancies in the department, but that he would like to participate in the testing process to ensure the Department has a list of qualified candidates should a new officer be needed. He is recommending that Council approves the Civil Service Commission to establish a list of candidates for the position of Police Officer in the Borough.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval
Councilman Forgeng read a report from Chief Gardner stating that Officer Ruegg is attending the Northwestern School of Command online program for training and that this training was partially paid for by 50% scholarship to cover some of the tuition. Chief Gardner stated that the school is very prestigious.
Mayor Guenst wished Officer Ruegg luck with the training.
Mr. Ed Henry, 238 Bonair Ave. stated that he recently noticed a stormwater retention basin on the southeast corner of the Hatboro Station townhomes that had been on the verge of flooding during a recent storm. He stated that he attended all of the Planning Commission meetings for their development and was not aware of this basin.
Engineer Hyne stated that he does not know if this is a permanent basin; however, this is something that Toll Brothers has to maintain and that he will look into the matter.
FINANCE/GRANTS
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Vice President Stockton stated that the Hatboro 2040 Grant deadline is approaching and Council is working with Main Street Manager Stephen Barth to develop the request for funding. He stated that Council has received samples of sculpture art and that he likes the idea of the art. The proposal currently includes benches and trash cans, but he stated that since we already have beautiful benches, so we might want to remove this from the application. Vice President Stockton stated that Main Street Manager Barth is looking to work with Sullivan’s Scrap Metal to create the sculptures and
Manager Hegele stated that Main Street Manager Barth will be at the February 26, 2018 Council Meeting to give a presentation to Council
RATIFICATION OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 WARRANT LIST
Vice President Stockton stated Council was in receipt of a a ratification list for the December 31, 2017 warrant list. Acting Manager Hegele stated that previous Council passed a resolution at the December 18, 2017 Council meeting to authorize the payment of end of the year bills for housekeeping purposes. She stated that these bills should have been included on the January warrant list; however, they were not, and this list of 10 bills in the amount of $10,543.74 will need to be approved by Council so they can be filed with the Auditor. This item was moved to the February, 12, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Solicitor Ciuca stated that the Borough is in receipt of an assessment appeal from Rolling Acres Corporation who owns the property located at 300 Horsham Rd. He stated that the majority of the property is located in Upper Moreland Township; however, the Borough has a portion of this property. Solicitor Ciuca stated that this assessment appeal will result in a total refund of $3232.00.
President Bollendorf asked if the Hatboro Horsham School Board was in support of this assessment appeal. Solicitor Ciuca stated that he has been in contact with them, and that they are in agreement with their portion of the assessment appeal totaling $11,482.00. Solicitor Ciuca stated that approving this assessment appeal will avoid all litigation and ultimately save the Borough time and money.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
Solicitor Ciuca stated that their firm has also received a settlement from the Zoning Hearing Board and Victorian Village regarding the stipulation in place for the signage at the property. He stated that the parties have made an agreement that allows an exception to the commercial signage and that Council will need to approve it.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
REMOVAL OF MORTGAGE FOR ENTERPRISE FIRE COMPANY
Vice President Stockton stated that previous Council placed a mortgage on the Enterprise Fire Company Firehouse and that current Council no longer sees a need for this mortgage. All of Council was in agreement that this mortgage should be removed
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
DIGITAL OUTREACH
iPAD PURCHASE
Vice President Stockton stated that the Borough purchased iPads for Council and office staff. He stated that the Borough bid the purchase to four different vendors and received a low price. Vice President Stockton added that the use of these iPads will be save the Borough money in paper costs and man hours spent as the police officers previously delivered Council packets.
President Bollendorf stated that receiving all of the information from Council packets will be extremely economical and environmentally friendly as each packet can be hundreds of pages long. He added that the cost was low enough that Council did not have to vote on this purchase.
AUDIO/VISUAL PROPOSAL
Vice President Stockton stated that previous Council approved audio/visual improvements to the Council Room that are greatly needed. He stated that prior Council removed professional design and installation costs from an outside firm from the project budget and he stated that this was a good idea. He stated that this is a large equipment purchase and the equipment will need to last a long time. After some research, Vice President Stockton provided a list of possible equipment including a Yamaha Mixing Console to replace the current sound board that does not output enough sound for the room.
President Bollendorf asked if this new sound board will allow Council to put a microphone on the floor for public comment. Vice President Stockton stated yes, and that microphone upgrades for Council and the staff table, and wireless microphones for public comments and events.
Vice President Stockton stated that he would also like to purchase a Mighty Gig Rig which is a rack in which all of the sound system components can be mounted that will allow the equipment to be secured and transported to different locations to be used for events throughout the Borough. He stated he has used this setup in his teaching background and it is extremely useful.
He stated that Council has not bid this equipment yet; however, he would like to put it on the voting meeting agenda for approval so the Borough can begin the project.
President Bollendorf asked if previous Council set up a fund for this project. Acting Manager Hegele stated that the funds would come from the Borough’s Facilities Fund.
Vice President Stockton stated that with these upgrades, the speakers will need to be replaced as well. He stated the current ceiling speakers do not output much sound. For their replacement, the Borough can either install new ceiling speakers, or mount speakers on the wall. He stated that from his experience, the wall-mounted speakers are more ideal as they allow easier maintenance.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SERIES
Vice President Stockton announced that the Borough has recently started a Business Spotlight Series on the Borough’s Facebook page. The first business showcased was Crooked Eye Brewery and the spotlight has received a lot of positive feedback. Vice President Stockton stated that the Borough will be posting a spotlight each month to showcase businesses throughout the Borough.
Mayor Guenst asked how businesses can apply to be featured for the spotlight and what they will need to submit for consideration. Vice President Stockton stated that business owners can email him directly or email staff at Borough Hall. Business owners should send photos and a brief synopsis detailing who they are and what makes them unique to Hatboro. He stated that he currently has 5 businesses lined up for the coming months.
PUBLIC WORKS
SALE OF VEHICLES ON MUNICIBID
Councilman Hegele stated that in October of 2017, Council approved the sale of 5 pieces of Public Works equipment on Municibid. Councilman Hegele stated that two of these vehicles and a paint sprayer have sold and asked Foreman Sine about the other two vehicles that were approved for sale. Foreman Sine stated that Public Works is going to hold onto these vehicles a little longer as they are still usable. Councilman Hegele stated the total amount for vehicle sale was $5,839.00.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
YORK & MORELAND INTERSECTION STUDY
Councilman Hegele stated that there has been discussion about configuration issues with the intersection at York Rd. and Moreland Ave. Chief Gardner stated that himself and Mayor Guenst met with State Rep. Tom Murt and PennDOT regarding pedestrian improvements for the Borough. Chief Gardner stated that the Borough cannot perform the necessary upgrades without a traffic study and that PennDOT has agreed to perform this study once they receive a letter from the Borough. The results of the study will then indicate what improvements can be made.
Chief Gardner stated that the Borough already plans to install Continental Crosswalks that will increase visibility. Mayor Guenst stated that the Borough’s permit will need to be amended in order for Public Works to paint these new crosswalks. Councilman Hegele stated that Council should not have to vote on this, as it is a directive to Acting Manager Hegele to send a letter to PennDOT.
Councilwoman Benjamin asked if crosswalk timing issues would be addressed during this study. Chief Gardner stated that crosswalk/signal timing, accident history, and traffic volume will be addressed. He added that he and Mayor Guenst met with the residents of Moreland Towers about the improvements and they are very happy.
Councilwoman Anzinger asked if Public Works can immediately begin painting the new crosswalks upon approval by PennDOT. Chief Gardner stated that as soon as the Engineer amends the Borough’s permit, they can begin the work. Foreman Sine agreed that once the weather is cooperative, Public Works can begin painting.
LANTERNFLY UPDATE
Councilwoman Anzinger stated she met with Foreman Sine to discuss the status of the invasive species the Spotted Lanternfly. She stated that we are currently in a County-wide quarantine that limits the transport of yard waste, and since that the species has been found in Warminster, it could come to Hatboro soon. She added that she and Foreman Sine have been discussing options for the Borough should we not be able to transport our yard waste out of town as usual.
Foreman Sine stated that as of right now, yard waste can still be transported within County boundaries; however, there is a possibility that the stipulations of the quarantine could change where Public Works would have to chip the yard waste in town before sending it to Abington Township to be turned into mulch. Should this situation arise, he stated that Public Works would need to purchase a chipper.
Mayor Guenst asked what the Lanternfly does to trees. Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the Lanternfly attacks trees and destroys leaves.
Councilman Forgeng asked if Public Works would need a leaf chipper or a wood chipper. Foreman Sine stated that as of right now, only woody yard waste is subject to the quarantine, so a commercial wood chipper would be sufficient.
Councilwoman Benjamin asked if there was any information available to residents informing them on what to do should they encounter the insect. Councilwoman Anzinger stated the Borough could send out an informational flyer and put the information on the website.
Councilman Hegele asked if there was a natural predator known at this point. Councilwoman Anzinger stated that there is no predator as of yet, and if residents notice the Lanternfly, they should begin looking at their trees and let the Borough know if they see the insect.
POOL UPDATE
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the Borough is accepting applications for the Pool Manager position.
Mayor Guenst asked if the Borough is looking for lifeguards. Acting Manager Hegele stated that the Borough has not advertised this yet because the pool manager typically contacts old lifeguards and seeks new guards.
Councilman Hegele asked when Public Works will begin preparing the pool. Foreman Sine stated he’s aiming for April 1st and hopes that there is minimal damage from winter. He stated preparation is contingent on warmer weather and that the installation of the liner has really helped with pool preparation.
ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
PARKS & ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS (PEC)
TREES & SCULPTURES IN MILLER MEADOW
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that Council is working toward the tree and sculpture grant deadline of March 1st. Acting Manager Hegele stated that she has met with Stephen Barth about this grant and that she can have a resolution approving the grant application for Council at the February Council meeting.
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that she discussed the possibility of obtaining free trees with this grant as well.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
MS4 UPDATE
Engineer Hyne stated that the Borough received comments from the PA DEP with the MS4 permit renewal submitted at the end of 2017. Engineer Hyne stated that he will examine the comments, review them with Borough staff and make the necessary updates to the Borough’s pollutant reduction plan.
Councilwoman Anzinger asked how comfortable Engineer Hyne will be with making the changes before the deadline. Engineer Hyne noted that the response is due on March 26, 2018 and that the updates should be complete by the end of February.
Councilwoman Anzinger asked if there was an approximate date for the EPA’s presentation to Council. Acting Manager Hegele stated that she has been in contact with them and they are tentatively set up for the February 26, 2018 Council meeting.
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT
PARKING ORDINANCE
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the Borough is looking to create a business overlay district for parking. Mayor Guenst stated that small restaurants have had problems in the past moving into the Borough due to restrictions in the Borough’s parking ordinance. Because these zoning restrictions do not allow the businesses to count public parking lot spaces in the vicinity as a part of their available parking, the Borough has had to say no to certain businesses. She stated that if the Borough wants to see businesses like cafes, art studios and more, the Borough should consider creating the overlay district as similar towns in the area have done.
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that Council is also looking at formulating an aesthetics ordinance.
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISCUSSION
Councilwoman Anzinger stated she and Mayor Guenst have held numerous meetings with Main Street and the Chamber of Commerce. She added that the beautification grants the Borough is applying for will greatly benefit the downtown business district.
Councilwoman Anzinger noted that the Chamber of Commerce has a lot of events planned for 2018 and that they will be advertised on the Borough’s website, TV channel, and social media. She stated that the Chamber will be hosting special Summer events similar to the “First Friday” events held in the past.
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that she and Main Street Manager Barth have been looking at various beautification grants that could offer funding for signage and business improvements.
Councilman Forgeng stated that he likes the idea of murals; however, Council should be careful as to the subject matter. Councilwoman Anzinger stated that she would like to see a mural that captures the history of Hatboro.
Councilman Forgeng also suggested a picnic bench area in Miller Meadow to invite residents to enjoy the Meadow.
MAINSTREET HATBORO PRESENTATION – FEBRUARY COUNCIL MEETING
Acting Manager Hegele stated that Main Street Manager Barth will be attending the February 26, 2018 Council meeting to give a presentation to Council.
ZHB MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
Acting Manager Hegele stated that the Zoning Hearing Board will be meeting on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 7 PM in Borough Hall to hear the application submitted by 6 S. York Rd. requesting a variance to allow a clothing boutique in a Highway Business District. She stated that there will be a Wawa Zoning Hearing Board Meeting on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 7 PM in Borough Hall and another Wawa Zoning Hearing Board Meeting on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at 7 PM in Borough Hall.
HATBORO 2040
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that there was a great turnout for the Hatboro 2040 meeting recently held at Pennypack School. She stated two of the biggest takeaways were that residents would like to see an improvement in the Borough’s walkability and a maintenance of the Borough’s historic façades. She stated that the Borough’s history is the town’s charm and we should work to preserve it.
Mayor Guenst stated that Council is also looking into a sign ordinance that will allow the placement of perpendicular signs that will stick out of the building to allow those passing by to see the businesses. She stated that these signs will also add to the Borough’s historic appeal.
Councilwoman Anzinger noted that some business owners are not able to afford new signage, so Council is looking into grants that could offer funding for the new signage.
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID DISTRICT)
Acting Manager Hegele stated that she will work with the solicitor and the DCED to reactivate the Borough’s Business Improvement District. She stated that this will determine a defined district along York Road from Horsham Rd. to Summit Avenue in which all commercial businesses will be levied a fee that will be used toward business district improvements, sidewalk improvements, funding for Main Street, etc.
ADMINISTRATION
2018 EVENT REQUESTS
Councilman Rich stated that Council is in receipt of a list detailing event requests for the year 2018. Acting Manager Hegele stated that she will send the event applications will be sent to department heads for review. Once reviewed by department heads, she will give them to Council for approval. Acting Manager Hegele noted that as of the night’s meeting, she had not received requests from the Chamber of Commerce.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
COUNCIL/MAYOR OFFICE HOURS
Vice President Stockton stated that Public Works cleared the unused offices on the second floor of Borough hall for Council to use for office space. He stated that this space will allow Council to have a secure, quiet area to review Borough business and will create the opportunity to hold office hours in which residents can discuss matters. He stated that individual members of Council will be able to determine whether or not they want to have office hours.
Mayor Guenst stated that most of Council and herself are available by appointment and this space on the second floor will give a good place to meet quietly and privately with residents.
President Bollendorf stated office hours and more information will be posted on the website and that Borough Council will ensure that they do not violate any Sunshine Laws while using this space.
Vice President Stockton thanked Public Works for doing a nice job cleaning up the office space and making it usable for Council.
PUBLIC COMMENT POLICY
Councilman Rich read a proposed Public Comment Policy prepared by staff.
Mr. Ed Henry asked why a public comment policy was needed. President Bollendorf stated that this policy is simply for parliamentary purposes. Mr. Henry asked if the policy would prevent residents from asking council questions as the draft policy is written. Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the policy is referring to repetitive questions. Mr. Henry replied that he was unsure as to why this policy is needed.
Mayor Guenst stated that Council should review numbers 4 and 5 on the draft policy before it is approved and that she believes the floor should be open to the taxpayers of the Borough. She added that she agrees with the prohibiting of attacks on Council.
Councilman Hegele asked where the draft comment policy was found. Acting Manager Hegele replied that it was obtained from another municipality. Councilman Hegele stated the policy is a good idea to attach to agendas for the meetings.
Mayor Guenst stated that the three minute limit is useful in instances where there are a lot of people who want to speak.
Councilman Hegele stated that number 7 on the policy that dictates that the presiding officer has control over the meeting is especially important due to instances in the past where a resident became unruly during the meeting.
President Bollendorf stated Council will review the policy further before approving it.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
Acting Manager Hegele stated that the Planning Commission meeting scheduled for February 6, 2018 was canceled due to a few members contracting the flu. Acting Manager Hegele stated she is working to reschedule the meeting and will post the new meeting date on the website, TV channel, and Facebook as soon as it is available.
APPOINTMENT OF BILL TOMPKINS TO HISTORIC COMMISSION
Councilman Rich stated that Council would like to appoint Bill Tompkins to the Historic Commission
This item was moved to the February 12, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
APPOINTMENT OF MARIANNE SCHAEFFER TO BOROUGH AUTHORITY
Councilman Rich stated that Council would like to appoint Marianne Schaeffer to the Borough Authority.
This item was moved to the February 12, 2018 voting meeting for approval.
APPOINTMENT OF LOPEZ, TEODOSIO & LARKIN LLC TO BOROUGH AUDITOR
Councilman Rich stated that Council would like to appoint Lopez, Teodosio & Larkin LLC to the position of Borough Auditor.
This item was moved to the February 12, 2018 voting meeting for approval
APPOINTMENT OF BRENT SINE TO SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Councilman Rich stated that Council would like to appoint Brent Sine to the position of Superintendent of Public Works.
Acting Manager Hegele stated that she and members of Council interviewed Mr. Sine and he was more than qualified for the position. She added that Brent has been an employee for a long time and there is no one more qualified for the job.
This item was moved to the February 12, 2018 voting meeting for approval
Acting Manager Hegele wanted to note that Public Works is currently pursuing two recycling grants. One is a 902 grant and the other is a 904 grant, both of which are due in April. She stated that more information will be given to Council as it is available, but that these grants will need a financial commitment from the Borough.
Councilwoman Anzinger asked what funds will need to be committed for the grants. Acting Manager Hegele stated she will have more information at a later date.
Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the 902 recycling grant is a 90 – 10 grant meaning that the grant will cover 90% of the cost to purchase a new recycling truck and the Borough will pay 10% of the cost.
Manager Hegele stated that she will place this item on the agenda for the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for Council’s approval.
This item was moved to the February 26, 2018 voting meeting for approval
ADJOURNMENT
The February 12, 2018 Committee Meeting was adjourned at 8:04 PM.
VOTING MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
President Bollendorf called the February 12, 2018 voting meeting to order at 8:04 PM.
PRIVELEGE OF THE FLOOR
RATIFICATION OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 WARRANT LIST
Vice President Stockton motioned to approve the ratification of the December 31, 2017 Warrant List. Motion was seconded by Councilman Hegele, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
APPOINTMENT OF BILL TOMPKINS TO HISTORIC COMMISSION
Councilman Rich motioned to appoint Bill Tompkins to the Historic Commission. Motion was seconded by Councilman Hegele, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
APPOINTMENT OF MARIANNE SCHAEFFER TO BOROUGH AUTHORITY
Councilwoman Anzinger motioned to appoint Marianne Schaeffer to the Borough Authority. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
APPOINTMENT OF LOPEZ, TEODOSIO & LARKIN LLC TO BOROUGH AUDITOR
Vice President Stockton motioned to appoint Lopez, Teodosio & Larkin LLC to the position of Borough Auditor. Motion was seconded by Councilman Rich, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
APPOINTMENT OF BRENT SINE TO SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Councilman Hegele motioned to appoint Brent Sine to Superintendent of Public Works. Motion was seconded by Councilman Rich. President Bollendorf stated that Brent is extremely knowledgeable and he does not believe there is a better person for the position. Councilwoman Anzinger agreed. A vote was cast, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
POLICE ENTRANCE EXAM
Vice President Stockton motioned to approve the Civil Service Commission to move forward with the participation in the Police Entrance Exam. Motion was seconded by Councilman Forgeng, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
MILLER MEADOW GRANT
Councilwoman Anzinger motioned to approve staff to move forward with the grant for Miller Meadow. Motion was seconded by Councilman Rich, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
PRIVELEGE OF THE FLOOR
There was no comment from the floor.
ADJOURNMENT
The February 12, 2018 Committee Meeting was adjourned at 8:08 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Deena DeRenzis
Assistant Borough Secretary
Transcribed by Secretary DeRenzis