PRESENT VIA ZOOM – President Bollendorf, Vice President Stockton, Councilwoman Anzinger, Councilwoman Benjamin, Councilwoman McMenamin, Councilwoman Reichner, Councilwoman Ostrander, Mayor Guenst, Chief Gardner, Manager Hegele, Assistant Borough Secretary DeRenzis, Superintendent Sine, Treasurer Rich, Tax Collector Mount, Engineer Goff, and Solicitor Geiser were present.
ABSENT – No one was absent.
CALL TO ORDER – President called the June 22, 2020 Committee Meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.
INVOCATION – Mayor Guenst gave the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Bollendorf.
PUBLIC COMMENT – President Bollendorf reviewed the Public Comment Policy on the back of the agenda with regards to addressing Council and time allotment.
PUBLIC HEARING – CONDITIONAL USE APPLICATION: VICTORIAN VILLAGE II, 440 S. YORK ROAD
CALL TO ORDER
ORDER OF BUSINESS: Public Hearing for the Conditional Use Application submitted by Victorian Village at Loller Academy, Inc. for the property located at 440 S. York Road, Hatboro.
PUBLIC COMMENT – None
VOTING ITEMS
CONDITIONAL USE APPLICATION: VICTORIAN VILLAGE II, 440 S. YORK ROAD – Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to approve the Conditional Use Application submitted by Victorian Village at Loller Academy, Inc. for the property located at 440 S. York Road, Hatboro for the construction of an active adult community in a 0 – Office District. Motion was seconded by Vice President Stockton, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT – There was no Public Comment.
ADJOURNMENT – President Bollendorf adjourned the Public Hearing at 7:06 P.M.
*This public hearing was transcribed and submitted by Official Court Reporter Tim Kurek.
NEW BUSINESS
Public Safety Committee
- ENTERPRISE FIRE COMPANY EXPENDITURE LIST – Councilwoman Ostrander stated Council was in receipt of the Enterprise Fire Company Expenditure list for the month of May 2020 in the amount of $18,112.40. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting agenda for approval.
- ENTERPRISE FIRE COMPANY CAPITAL EXPENDITURE LIST – Councilwoman Ostrander stated that Council was in receipt of the Enterprise Fire Company Capital Expenditure list for the month of May 2020 in the amount of $5,741.00. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- CROOKED BILLET TRAFFIC PATTERN ORDINANCE – Councilwoman Ostrander stated that that this Ordinance is to amend certain one-way traffic zones on North Penn Street and Bonair Avenue during school hours. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- POLICE ACCREDITATION SERVICES PROPOSAL – Chief Gardner stated that the Hatboro Police Department became accredited in approximately 11 months. Chief Gardner stated that he would like to continue the accreditation program and recommends that we engage a third-party company due to the retirement of the former accreditation Manager. He also stated that he asks Council to consider engaging Law Enforcement Accreditation Services LLC at a rate of $10,000.00 per year. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS – Chief Gardner stated that he was in receipt of a letter from Hatboro Horsham School District regarding crossing guard positions for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year. He stated that the school district has asked us to eliminate school crossings at York and Lehman, Chester and Lehman, and Horsham and Academy. He also stated that since students will not be walking to Pennypack Elementary, they have asked that these positions be disestablished and in addition, with the new traffic patterns and plans for the new Crooked Billet Elementary School, they have asked for two new crossings, Bonair Avenue and Meadowbrook and N. Penn Street and Meadowbrook Avenue while reestablishing one old position on Meadowbrook at the Railroad Crossing. He also stated that the school district asked to eliminate the crossing guard at Jacksonville and Meadowbrook as the children who live East on Jacksonville will receive bus services. Chief Gardner stated that at some point, Council will have to consider eliminated the 15 MPH school zone on Horsham Road and the flashing school zone lights on Jacksonville Road since there will be no children crossing in those areas.
Finance/Grants Committee
- MILLER MEADOW PARK IMPROVEMENTS PHASE I – NOTICE TO AWARD – Vice President Stockton stated that we have a notice to award Phase I of Miller Meadow Improvement Project to James R. Kenney Excavating & Paving Inc., in the amount of $ 289,785.00. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- ARLE GRANT – (Automated Red-Light Enforcement Grant) Vice President Stockton stated that this is a new grant that does not have a match and would provide flashers at York Road and Williams Lane. He also stated that because there is no match it makes the decision easy and would like to apply for this grant. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- MONTGOMERY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION GRANT – Vice President Stockton stated that this grant is a good grant to apply for different improvements that the Borough needs. Councilwomen Anzinger stated she would like to see ADA ramps at the school and Councilwoman Ostrander agreed. This item has been moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- LAND TRAILS MINI GRANT – Vice President Stockton stated that this is a small grant to help celebrate PA Trails Month. He stated that this grant would be to help local efforts for people to get out and enjoy walking. He also stated that these grants are not large grants as they are only up to $500.00 but would be good for trail maintenance and would tie in nicely with the Walk Works Grant that staff has been working on. This item has been moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- DVRPC EXPO PROJECT – Vice President Stockton stated that they have met with DVRPC who is launching a new initiative to help communities with placemaking. He also stated that the idea is to have temporary projects that could potentially become permanent and they have been reaching out to see if there are any future projects to tie in and this does not require a vote tonight.
- WALK WORKS GRANT UPDATE – Vice President Stockton stated that this grant is to create a walkable path through Hatboro that brings in pedestrians and encourages good health habits and has been tied in nicely with the Hatboro Rocks feature. He also stated that this grant is moving along nicely.
- MONTCO 2040 GRANT AWARD UPDATE – Vice President Stockton stated we applied for the 2040 Grant which provides upgrades to the large intersection at Bonair Avenue, N. Penn Street, and E. Monument Avenue. He also stated that he was happy to announce that we were approved for a $200,000.00 grant to make improvements to this intersection and thanked staff for their hard work getting this together.
Community Outreach & Events Committee
- JULY EVENTS – Councilwoman Reichner stated that the Hatboro Chamber of Commerce is holding the first Farmers Market of 2020 at Hatboro Baptist Church on Friday July 3, 2020 from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. She also stated that there is another Farmers Market July 17, 2020 from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
- MASK UP HATBORO FLYER – Councilwoman Reichner stated that staff made Mask Up Hatboro flyers for businesses in the Borough and if you would like a one call or email the Borough.
- WILLIAMS LANE DINING EVENT – Councilwoman Reichner stated that Hatboro’s Hungary Hideaway is a new outdoor dining located at York Road and Williams Lane from Thursday until Sunday from 6:00 PM to 9:00PM. She also stated that this is where you can purchase take out from local businesses and eat outside.
- BUSINESS RECOVERY TASK FORCE UPDATE – Councilwoman Reichner stated that President Bollendorf, herself, Manager Hegele, Assistant Secretary DeRenzis, Chief Gardner, Downtown Developer Simon, Chamber President Tim Schultz, and several business owners make up this task force. She also stated that they have met twice and that the Williams Lane dining was the first initiative to help local business. She also stated that they will continue to meet and come up with ideas to help Hatboro businesses.
Public Works Committee
- INDEPENDENCE DAY TRASH COLLECTION – Councilwoman Benjamin stated that Borough Hall and Public Works will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of Independence Day and as a result, there will not refuse collection taking place on this day. Because the one day a week refuse collection is still in effect, Public Works will be holding a special trash, recycling, and yard waste collection for residents with Friday pickup ONLY on Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Residents with a regular Friday pick up should place their trash, recycling, and yard waste out for collection prior to 6:30 A.M on Wednesday July 1st to ensure it is picked up.
- MEMORIAL PARK BRIDGE REPLACEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT – Superintendent Sine stated that crews recently completed replacing the wooden decking and siderails to the pedestrian foot bridge in Memorial Park. He also stated that it is his intention to return later this summer and add ramps and pathways to make this more accessible to visitors in our park and that he has spoken to Engineer Goff regarding necessary accessibility compliance which will be followed.
Environmental Affairs & Parks Committee
- ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS – Councilwoman Anzinger stated that on June 11, 2020 herself, Councilwoman McMenamin and Councilwoman Reichner met with EAC leadership candidates and the recommendations are on the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- REOPENING OF PARKS – Councilwoman Anzinger stated that she is not sure about this because she did not see any decontamination plan and would like more information on how we will be handling that regarding playground equipment and what is the Borough
responsible for. She also stated that she would like to possibly table this item until the July meeting when more information about protocol is available. - MEMORIAL POOL DISCUSSION – Councilwoman Anzinger stated that the Borough is considering reopening the Hatboro Memorial Pool, but she has not seen any scientific basis regarding that. She also stated that she feels like this is a political decision and it should not be. She stated that she has been monitoring the numbers regarding Covid-19 and that in the past two weeks we have not been consistently below thirty cases per day, in the County, and she feels that the numbers are heading in the opposite direction. She also stated that she feels we are asking people to sign waivers because we cannot ensure their safety. President Bollendorf stated that he would like to wait for the discussion regarding the pool until the Council Meeting before the vote.
- PARKS ORDINANCE UPDATES – President Bollendorf stated that as far as opening of the parks it is CDC guidelines and the Borough will not be sanitizing after each use. Solicitor Geiser stated that Council has asked her office to draft several ordinances for the Borough and that if it is voted on tonight then her office can draft and advertise a Parks Ordinance which can be enacted in July. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- PFOAS UPDATE – Councilwoman Anzinger stated that Madeline Dean had requested public comment regarding this and that she has received some comments and if anyone would like to see it to request a copy and she would be happy to provide this and she has circulated it to the EAC.
- UPPER MORELAND/HATBORO TRAIL PLAN ADOPTION – Councilwoman Anzinger stated that Upper Moreland Township has already ratified this plan and are looking to the Borough to do the same. This item has been moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting for approval.
- HATBORO LITTLE LEAGUE PARK USE – Ben Barbor from Hatboro Little League gave a presentation regarding Return to Play Safety Plan. He stated that a lot of towns are starting up next week and if Hatboro plays it will be against Horsham and Upper Moreland. His plan of action is as follows:
- Timeline – 7/1/20 – Re-open registration (Discounted)
7/20/20 – Registration closes
8/4/20 – Practices Begin
8/29/20 – Games Begin - Entering/Exiting Complex Plan
- Banners ordered to remind of social distancing, hand sanitizer, refills, sanitizer stand for middle of complex, COVID kill spray for catcher’s gear, and disinfectant.
- Pre-game requirements for players, coaches, and fans.
- In-game requirements for players, coaches, and fans.
- Proposed fall Schedule (Scheduled so everyone is not arriving and leaving at the same time)
- Timeline – 7/1/20 – Re-open registration (Discounted)
President Bollendorf asked if they had a plan for a quick termination or refund in case the State or County decides it should not continue and Mr. Barbor stated that yes, they have a plan.
Policy Committee – There was nothing to report tonight.
Administration Committee
- 2020 POOL FEE SCHEDULE – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that this is a proposed fee schedule which was presented by the Pool Committee if Council votes to open the pool. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- UNION LIBRARY EXPENDITURE LIST – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that the proposed Union Library Expenditure List for May 2020 is $ 13,993.90. this item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- COVID -19 RESOLUTION – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that this Resolution is to relax certain requirements for businesses during COVID-19. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- BAMBOO ORDINANCE – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that Council and staff has received many calls regarding Bamboo which is considered a noxious weed. She also stated that many municipalities have ordinances regarding this, and this item is to authorize the solicitor to draft an ordinance. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- UPDATED CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENT DATES – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that the following are updates/changes to Chamber Events:
- Hatboro Summer Nights and Farmers Market – July 3rd and 17th
August 7th and 21st o July 17, 2020 will be a cruise night. - Moonlight Memories Car Show has been postponed until August 29, 2020.
- Hatboro Summer Nights and Farmers Market – July 3rd and 17th
This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- JULY MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that the following are July 2020 meetings:
- Planning Commission will meet July 14, 2020 via zoom to review the application for Victorian Village Phase II at 7:00 P.M.
- Borough Council will meet via zoom July 20, 2020 for a combined Committee and Council meeting at 7:00 P.M.
- MONUMENT UPDATE – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that on Monday June 15, 2020 the Monument returned to Crooked Billet Elementary School. She also stated that the ceremony was posted on Facebook in case anyone would like to watch. There is also
a final bill for the restoration fees on the Warrant List which the Borough agreed to pay last year. - HATBORO STORM CLINIC GUIDELINES – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that the Storm has been requesting clinics which will take place before operating hours if the pool opens for the 2020 Season.
- SPECIAL EVENT REQUEST: NOURISHING STORM YOGA IN PARKS – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that this request is for yoga to take place in Memorial Park. Nourishing Storm stated that clients are not doing it online anymore and therefore would like to hold yoga in the park to follow the social distancing guidelines. This item has been moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- NOURISHING STORM SPECIAL EVENT FEE WAIVER REQUEST – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that this is to waive the fee for the yoga in the park since they do not require any Borough Services. This item has been moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda for approval.
- SPECIAL EVENT REQUEST: OVERDOSE AWARENESS WALK – Councilwoman McMenamin stated that this is to approve the special event request for an Overdose Awareness Walk. This item was moved to the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting agenda for approval.
OLD BUSINESS & UPDATES – There was no Old Business or Updates.
PUBLIC COMMENT – Assistant Secretary DeRenzis received a few comments regarding the Hatboro Memorial Pool
Andrea Holster, 56 N. Penn Street, is in favor of opening the Pool.
Anthony Holster, 56 N. Penn Street, is in favor of opening the Pool.
Sydney Stoddart, 30 Harding Avenue, Assistant Manager at the Pool, is in favor of opening the Pool.
Ed McCash, 44 E. Montgomery Avenue, wanted to know that if the pool opens, and is forced to close due to an influx of COVID-19 case, will refunds for memberships be issued. President Bollendorf stated that yes, it would be prorated.
ADJOURNMENT – President Bollendorf adjourned the Committee meeting at 8:09 P.M.
BOROUGH OF HATBORO
COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 22, 2020
CALL TO ORDER – President Bollendorf called the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting to order at 8:09 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Ron Battis, 314 W. Moreland Avenue, stated that if Council has already voted that he does not think it is legal. President Bollendorf stated that Council has not voted on anything yet.
MAYOR’S REPORT – Mayor Guenst stated that this week we go into our green phase and there is going to be a few changes such as masks are required before going into any business. She also stated that restaurants, bars, hair, and nail salons, theatres, and malls can open at a 50% capacity, gatherings of over 250 people are prohibited.
She also stated that she wanted resident s to be aware that there will be a peaceful protest for Black Lives Matter on Thursday July 25, 2020 at 3:00 P.M starting at Eaton park and ending at Miller Meadow.
OFFICER’S REPORTS
PRESIDENT’S REPORT– President Bollendorf stated that there were a few committee meetings over the last few weeks. He stated he wanted to thank everyone who volunteered to be on the Business Recovery Task Force.
He also stated that there are a lot of people on the Pool Committee and a great amount of time was spent getting everything together if the pool opens for the 2020 season and wanted to thank all the members of the Pool Committee.
He also stated that the Williams Lane dining has been a huge success so far and therefore are going to continue it until the end of the summer or until it becomes not as popular. He thanked Superintendent Sine and his Public Works Department for all their hard work with this, as well as Miller Meadow, Warminster Road paving, and the pool.
He also stated that they have conducted Diversity Training for Borough employees and he appreciates the Chief and staff for taking time out to complete this training.
TREASURER’S REPORT – No report given.
SOLICITOR’S REPORT – Solicitor Geiser stated that it has been a busy month for Hatboro regarding appeals and that earlier this month she argued before the Commonwealth regarding the Wawa matter and that we obviously will not get a response from Commonwealth Court for at least several months but we indeed did move forward with the arguments which she is confident went well.
She also stated that the other matter involving appeals in Commonwealth Court is the RAV Collision matter and that the briefs were submitted by all parties, so they are going through the process for oral argument.
She also stated that she continues to work with Borough Staff on Right to Know Requests and other legal issues that arise.
She also stated that she met earlier regarding the Victorian Village Phase II project.
ENGINEER’S REPORT – Engineer Goff stated that under the Jacksonville Road and Montgomery Avenue signal, the contractor is waiting on an approval for the ramp configuration.
She also stated that under the Corinthian trail project they have submitted an update plan to Penndot to review.
She also stated that under the Eaton Park Streambank Project Hatboro’s permit application through DEP and the Army Corps was approved and are waiting to schedule a meeting with Upper Moreland to see if they would like to do this as a joint project.
She also stated that York Road Intersection Improvements Project they are still waiting on permit approval and that the plans were submitted earlier this month.
She also stated that the Loller Academy Building Improvements Project they put together a few window options for Borough Staff to review and MEP designs for the HVAC replacement are being finalized.
MANAGER’S REPORT – Manager Hegele stated that County Planner Mohr and a few summer interns will be in Hatboro looking at sidewalks as part of a sidewalk analysis and will be meeting at Borough Hall tomorrow morning and will be around Hatboro to begin this project.
She also stated that recently as part of the Hatboro Station Project, the Fulmor Avenue crossing was required to have improvements to the crossing and the work was completed last week by SEPTA.
She also stated that some may have noticed that the Byberry Road Pedestrian Crossing had a new crosswalk installed by the Public Works Department so when the commuters return, there will be a new crosswalk for their use.
She also stated that the Planning Commission met on June 9, 2020 to begin the review of the application from the Victorian Village Phase II project and the applicant has some changes to make and will be back with the Planning Commission July 14, 2020.
She also stated that the ZHB met on June 17, 2020 to review the variance request from 69 Byberry Road to allow residential in an RC-2 district and that the applicant has requested a continuance as the property is under agreement of sale for the existing allowed use under RC-2.
She also stated that we announced the Montgomery County 2040 Grant and she wanted to review some information regarding this grant. She stated that it is a $ 200,000.00 grant for the intersection of Bonair, N. Penn and E. Monument which will transform that area to make it a safe and attractive area that will benefit motorists and the community. The improvements include narrowing existing roadway, reducing asphalt in the intersection, and installing sidewalks, crosswalks, green stormwater infrastructure, and a community gathering space in addition to some small trees.
She also stated that Borough Hall will be resuming normal operations Monday, June 29, 2020 from 8:30 A.M until 5:00 P.M. Everyone is reminded that when visiting Borough Hall to please where a mask and practice social distancing.
She also stated that since we are going green, she would like to welcome back a lot of businesses that are reopening this Friday and she hopes to see more activity in the business community.
She also stated that she wanted to thank Public Works for all the work they have done on Williams Lane by setting up and taking down weekly so that the community can enjoy outdoor dining. She also stated she wanted to thank the Chamber for all their hard work as well as the business community and volunteers who have helped to make this happen.
STAFF REPORTS
POLICE – Chief Gardner stated that our region is scheduled to go into the green phase of Governor Wolf’s reopening plan on Friday. He also stated that mayor Guenst did a good job of summarizing the new restrictions and recommends that people go onto the website and check the restrictions.
He also stated that as far as PPE, the PD remains in good supply and they have tried to responsibly source that equipment for staff when they can which includes Police Department, Public Works, and Borough Hall Administration staff. He also stated the wanted to thank everyone for their donations with this.
He also stated that he feels they have had a successful program with making weekly calls to residents on the Special Needs List and he has had positive feedback on it and since we are moving into the green phase, they are going to be stopping the weekly calls unless people need them.
TAX COLLECTIONS – Tax Collector Mount stated that the balance collectable at the beginning of June was $736,723.17 and amount collected was $402,776.04 leaving an end balance to be collected of $333,947.13.
She also stated the BPT deadline is July 15, 2020 and after that there will be a 10% penalty.
PUBLIC WORKS – Superintendent Sine stated that Public Works just completed a joint project with Upper Moreland Public Works on the milling and paving on N. Warminster Road last week which Council previously authorized. He also stated that he is pleased to report that the job went smoothly without any major problems and he wanted to thank Hatboro Public Works employees and Upper Moreland’s Highway department for their cooperation and a job well done. He stated that he estimate’s this arrangement saved our Highway aid budget $ 75,000.00 to $ 100,000.00.
Superintendent Sine also stated that the closeout and fund disbursement paperwork was completed and filled with PA DEP to close out the 2018 902 Recycling Grant which is the Grant that got Hatboro recycling bins and a new truck. He also stated that he expects approximately $ 180,000.00 to be refunded back to the Borough in a few weeks.
Superintendent Sine also stated that Public Works employees have also spent time working at the pool in the event Council decision to open it for the 2020 season. He also stated that much have this work would have been completed regardless of Council’s decision this evening.
Superintendent Sine stated also that he hopes to continue working on road repairs and road painting and that still pending is the Micro Resurfacing project which is not scheduled at this time.
FIRE MARSHAL – There was nothing to report.
FIRE COMPANY REPORT – There was nothing to report.
UNION LIBRARY REPORT – Director Celec stated that parking lot pick up started last weekend that staff is back loaning books, DVD, and other physical materials. He stated that you can set up an appointment by reaching us at staff@HatboroLibrary.org, message their Facebook page, or call 215-672-1420 and their appointment times are Tuesdays 10-6 and Wednesdays and Fridays from 10-2. He also stated that there will be addition gradual stages to their reopening so stay tuned as Montgomery County reaches the green phase.
Director Celec stated staff can help you with your census and that the deadline has been extended until October.
Director Clec stated that while the building is closed, staff can work with you on reference questions and that there are many new resources that have been added. He also state that new library cards are available remotely now and that you can email staff at Staff@Hatborolibrary.org. He also stated that everyone living or working in the Borough is eligible.
Director Celec stated that as far as summer reading goes, Beanstack has been launched and that kids of all ages and adults are invited to track their summer reading and get prizes. He also stated that an announcement is on Facebook and will be added to the website shortly.
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT – Director Simon stated that since we are moving into the green phase, she will be returning this Friday and will begin to have a full-time presence back in town.
She also stated that she is continuing to provide weekly emails to business owners whenever there are official announcements from the Governor. She also stated the emails provide resources that pertain to reopening, grant opportunities, marketing, and general business ideas.
She also stated that she is continuing with the Hatboro Now Directory with updating and posting on Facebook and Instagram.
ORDER OF BUSINESS & VOTING ITEMS
ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF REPORTS – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to acknowledge the receipt of Tax Collections, Public Works, Fire Marshal, and Treasurer’s Report. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST, PAYMENT OF BILLS, MANUAL CHECKS, AND TRANSFERS – Vice President Stockton made a motion to approve the Warrant List, Payment of Bills, Manual Checks, and transfers for the month of June 2020. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
MAY 18, 2020 COMMITTEE/COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES – Councilwoman Reichner made a motion to approve the May 18, 2020 Committee/Council Meeting Minutes. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman McMenamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
ENTERPRISE FIRE COMPANY EXPENDITURE LIST – Councilwoman Ostrander made a motion to approve the Enterprise Fire Company Capital Expenditure List for the month of May 2020 in the amount of
$18,112.40. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
ENTERPRISE FIRE COMPANY CAPITAL EXPENDITURE LIST – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to approve the Enterprise Fire Company Capital Expenditure List for the month of May 2020 in the amount of $5,741.00. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
CROOKED BILLET STREET ORDINANCE – Councilwoman Reichner made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 1061, amending certain one-way traffic restrictions in the vicinity of Crooked Billet Elementary School. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
POLICE DEPARTMENT ACCREDITATION SERVICES PROPOSAL – Councilwoman Ostrander made a motion to approve the proposal from Law Enforcement Accreditation Services LLC at a rate of $ 10,000 per year. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Reichner, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
MILLER MEADOW IMPROVEMENT PROJECT PHASE I – Vice President Stockton made a motion to award Phase I of the Miller Meadow Improvement Project to James R Kenney Excavating & Paving Inc. for the base bid, alternate bid I, and alternate bid 2 in the amount of $ 289,785.00. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
ARLE GRANT – Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to apply for the ARLE Grant for the project discussed during the Committee meeting. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION GRANT – Councilwoman Reichner made a motion to apply for the Montgomery County Transportation Grant for the progress discussed during the Committee Meeting. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
LAND TRAILS MINI GRANT – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to apply for the Land Trails Mini Grant for a Walk Works Kick Off Event Grant. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS –
Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to approve Resolution 2020-31 appointing Carol Brunner to the Environmental Advisory Committee for a term of 1 year. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to approve Resolution 2020-32 appointing Theresa McElroy to the Environmental Advisory Committee for a term of 3 years. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to approve Resolution 2020-33 appointing Katrina Nuss to the Environmental Advisory Committee for a term of 2 years. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to approve Resolution 2020-34 appointing Judith Swanson to the Environmental Advisory Committee for a term of 2 years. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Reichner, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
REOPENING OF PARKS – Vice President Stockton made a motion to approve the reopening of Borough Parks beginning in the Green Phase of the Governor’s Reopening Plan. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander.
President Bollendorf stated that the Borough will still follow State and County guidelines regarding reopening parks.
Vice President Stockton stated that he agreed with President Bollendorf that we will follow CDC guidelines and asked that a link be put on the Borough webpage. He also stated that if you do not feel comfortable using open space don’t use them and he doesn’t feel we should make the choice for someone else who is comfortable using open space.
Mayor Guenst stated she was very proud of Council’s leadership during the past three months and agreed what Council is doing is the right thing to do with following Governor Wolf’s guidelines.
Councilwoman Benjamin stated that she agreed with Vice President Stockton that it is everyone’s choice if they want to use the open space or not. She also stated that since she has children, under the guidelines, her choice would be not to engage and she urges residents to seriously consider, that if the parks are reopened, to use them under advisement. She also stated that the basketball courts should be off limits because that is a sport that is difficult to engage in with no contact and it is also difficult for parents to supervise children that would be at the age to use those facilities adequately. She also stated that teenagers think they are invincible and will not get sick and will not follow guidelines and therefore she feels we should keep the basketball courts closed for now. She stated that as far as playground equipment, there would be parental supervision and in that case parents can guide what their children are doing and will ensure that children are maintaining social distancing and sanitizing their hands but she still feels that she personally would not feel comfortable having her family at a playground.
All ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
UPPER MORELAND HATBORO TRAIL PLAN ADOPTION – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to adopt the Upper Moreland/Hatboro Joint Trail Plan. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Reichner, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
HATBORO MEMORIAL POOL – Councilwoman Reichner made a motion to open the Hatboro Memorial Pool for the 2020 Season. Motion was seconded by Vice President Stockton. A vote was cast:
- Councilwoman Anzinger voted no.
- Councilwoman McMenamin voted no.
- Councilwoman Benjamin voted no.
- Councilwoman Ostrander voted no.
- President Bollendorf voted yes.
4 nays, 3 ayes. Motion did not carry. The Hatboro Memorial Pool will remain closed for the 2020 Season.
2020 POOL FEE SCHEDULE – This item was removed from the agenda due to the Hatboro Memorial Pool not opening for the 2020 Season.
PARKS ORDINANCE UPDATE – Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to authorize the drafting of an update to the Parks Ordinance. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
UNION LIBRARY EXPENDITURE LIST– Councilwoman Ostrander made a motion to approve the Union Library Expenditure List for the month of May 2020 in the amount of $ 13,993.90. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
COVID 19 RESOLUTION – Councilwoman Ostrander made a motion to approve Resolution 2020-36, relaxing certain requirements for businesses during COVID – 19. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Reichner, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
BAMBOO ORDINANCE – Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to authorize the drafting of a Bamboo Ordinance. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
UPDATED EVENT REQUESTS – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to approve the updated Chamber of Commerce Event Dates. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Ostrander, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
NOURISHING STORM EVENT REQUEST – Vice President Stockton made a motion to approve the Special Event Request from Nourishing Storm to hold outdoor yoga events. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
NOURISHING STORM EVENT REQUEST FEE WAIVER – Vice President Stockton made a motion to approve the fee waiver request for park use fees for the Nourishing Storm outdoor yoga events. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman McMenamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
OVERDOSE AWARENESS WALK EVENT REQUEST – Councilwoman McMenamin made a motion to approve the Special Event request for an Overdose Awareness Walk on October 4, 2020. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Benjamin, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
OLD BUSINESS – No old business.
NEW BUSINESS – No new Business.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Ryan Goelz,308 W. Moreland Avenue, stated that she lives across the street from Eaton Park and she has seen many kids flipping on their bikes into the creek and is concerned for their safety especially since the pool is closed for the season. President Bollendorf stated that he will speak to Chief Gardner about increasing patrol in that area.
Ron Battis, 314 W. Moreland Avenue, stated that he wanted to know what happened with the Conditional Use Hearing for Victorian Village. President Bollendorf stated that it was approved. Mr. Battis then asked if a vote was taken while the live stream for the Zoom meeting was not working. President Bollendorf stated that Council allowed Public Comment via phone, email, and Facebook and stated that there wasn’t any. Solicitor Geiser stated by clarifying that Council even though the meeting was not streamed live, President Bollendorf allowed for Public Comment during all meetings and there was not one so the requirements for a public meeting were satisfied. Mr. Battis also stated that he had a few questions about some of the grants and he wanted to know how much for the ARLE grant and what was the match. Manager Hegele stated there is no match but just received guidance tonight from Council regarding that grant and they are still waiting. He also asked about the Montgomery County Transportation Grant and Manager Hegele stated that they just received the go ahead to apply form Council tonight so they will be working on that to get the information. He then asked about the Land Trails mini grant and President Bollendorf stated that it is a $500.00 grant with no match. He also stated that he would like Council to prepare a Ghant Chart of all projects where we have received grants and where we are as far as implementing the grants for example the Eaton Park and Memorial Park Stream Widening Projects and he feels a Ghant Chart would show where we are as far as getting those projects done. He also stated that he was hoping we can speed those up and he is not happy that the Eaton Park Project is going to negotiations with Upper Moreland and feels it is important that we keep projects moving and get them done within the next few years. Vice President Stockton stated that, since he is on the financial committee, we do try to provide updates and he appreciates Mr. Battis’ feedback and could probably provide more feedback. He also stated that none of these grants are late or beyond the normal scope of time and feels it is no fault of the Borough staff. Mr. Battis also stated that as far as the Hatboro Memorial Pool, he was wondering if this was going to be revisited in July because he feels that the Borough has gotten the pool in a certain state and he said guidance should be provided as far as if we are opening it or closing it because money has been spent. President Bollendorf stated that it will not be revisited as there is not enough time at this point and said it will be secured. Mr. Battis also stated that he wanted to thank Council for all their work during the COVID-19 pandemic for showing great caution and that it is very appreciated.
ADJOURNMENT – Councilwoman Anzinger made a motion to adjourn the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anzinger, all ayes. Motion carried 7-0.
President Bollendorf adjourned the June 22, 2020 Council Meeting at 9:22 P.M.
Respectfully submitted by,
Cynthia Bollendorf
Transcribed by Cynthia Bollendorf