The Regular Meeting of the Board of Supervisors of East Norriton Township was called to order by the Chairman, Mr. Donald Gracia, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, 2007, at the Township Municipal Building.  Supervisors present were Donald J. Gracia, Lewis K. McQuirns, James K. Staufenberg, James J. Serratore and Karen “Kandy” Heckman.

            Following roll call, Mr. Gracia offered a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance was then recited by all in attendance.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Presentation Grant Checks – Representative Jay Moyer.  This item was deferred until next month’s meeting.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Joseph P. Rothwein Certificate Presentation.  The Chairman read into record the certificate that will be presented to Joseph Rothwein.

            The Chairman announced that the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on June 12, 2007, held another public hearing earlier this evening and met in Executive Session to discuss matters of litigation and personnel.

            Mr. Serratore made a motion to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 22, 2007.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Award Bids for Super Pave Materials.  Mr. Serratore made a motion to award the bid for Super Pave Material to Glasgow, Inc. per Public Works Director, Joseph Sorgini’s memo dated June 11, 2007.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Resolution No. 2354 – Sale of Township Vehicles and Zero Turn Mower.  The Chairman read Resolution No. 2354 into record authorizing the sale of a 2004 Ford Explorer, 2002 Ford Explorer and a Scag Turf Tiger mower. Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2354.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Serratore and approved unanimously.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Authorization to Bid for Garage Doors for new Public Works garage.  Mrs. Heckman made a motion to authorize advertisement for bids for garage doors for the new Public Works garage.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            The Chairman introduced the next item on the agenda, Authorization to Bid for Small Loader and Accessories. Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to authorize advertisement for bids for a small loader and accessories.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. McQuirns and approved unanimously.

            Mr. McQuirns made a motion to approve the Finance Reports for May, 2007.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously. 

            The Chairman requested that the reading of the Committee Reports for May, 2007 be deferred and also, commented that the Committee Reports were available on the table in the back of the meeting room.  Mr. Serratore made a motion to approve the Committee Reports for May, 2007.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mrs. Heckman and approved unanimously.

            The Chairman asked if there were any citizens to be heard; Jim Welsh of 3015 Eisenhower Drive questioned the status of the grant.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reported that the Township has to submit for reimbursement.  Mr. Ed Duffy of 206 West Hartranft Blvd questioned how the grant can apply to other township properties.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reported this grant only applies to this work area.  Mr. Tryst Anderson of 3336 East Hayes Road asked if those who have a lien for repairs will they get reimbursement?  Supervisor Staufenberg feels no, but the Board will have to decide later.  Ken Christovich of 2939 Tanglewood Lane questioned the sewer rate increase and is the money going to a good cause.  Supervisor Staufenberg confirmed that the money is spent efficiently.  Someone is the audience questioned the status of the Wood’s property.  Township Solicitor, Christen Pionzio reviewed what the process would be for this possible development.  Carol Mobley of Butchers Lane questioned the status of the Walgreen’s offsite storm water work.  Township Engineer, Bob Blue reported that the project is proceeding and he will try to get a time from Walgreen’s.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the first item under “Old Business”, $550,000.00 Grant Disbursement Formula.  The reimbursement rate will be fifty to sixty percent but the Township has to wait until the final costs are determined and for those who meet the August 31, 2007 deadline.  Mr. McQuirns made a motion to approve the distribution formula.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved with Chairman Gracia and Supervisor Heckman abstaining.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Resolution No. 2345 – Crowley Foods Land Development Approval.  This item was tabled.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, Sanitary Sewer lateral Repair Project.  Mrs. Liz Cheeseman of ARRO Consulting reported on the status of the sewer lateral repair project: to date sixty-eight property owners have paid, fifty properties have been completed, twenty-five properties are waiting for work to start, twenty properties have been released and four properties need onsite meetings.  Mrs. Cheeseman reported that there are currently two crews working to expedite the work and that there are one hundred and thirty-five properties in the three sub areas and forty-one on Whitehall Road that have to pay and be repaired.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Final Notice Letter – Sewer Lateral Repair Project. Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald read into record the final notice letter that will be sent to the property owners that have not yet paid for their repairs. Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to approve the final notice letter.  After requesting any comments and there being many, the motion was seconded by Mr. Serratore and approved unanimously.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, Sewer Lateral Repair Project Contract Extension.  Mr. McQuirns made a motion to extend the contract with N. Abbonizio Contractors for the I & I lateral repairs for an additional one hundred and fifty days.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Corrective Action Plan.  Mrs. Liz Cheeseman of ARRO Consulting reported Matt Brown is working on the second quarter report which is due July 15, 2007.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, Pennsylvania American Water Co.  This is an informational item, Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reviewed a letter from the Office of Consumer Advocate regarding the Pennsylvania American Water Company proposed rate increase of 14.73%.  The Township sent a letter opposing the proposed rate increase.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Storm Water Management Waiver Request.  This item was deferred until next month’s meeting until the Township Engineer’s office could review.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, Automobile Dealer’s Request – Whitpain Sewer System.  Township Solicitor, Christen Pionzio reported that she is waiting for Whitpain Township to respond to the proposed agreement.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Blue Star Memorial Highway Designation.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reviewed the placement of the Blue Star Memorial Highway marker that will be installed sometime in the fall.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, 317 West Germantown Pike – St. Titus Church Easement Agreement.  Township Solicitor, Christen Pionzio reported the easement agreement is being worked on.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reiterated that the Township should not have any type of maintenance responsibilities.  Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to approve execution of the agreement by the Chairman and Secretary pending final approval from the Township Solicitor.   After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mrs. Heckman and approved unanimously.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Developments and Construction Updates.  Director of Code Enforcement, Bryan Bortnichak reviewed:  Northwood Development - Harleysville National Bank open and operating and the Jamestown homeowners association has requested the gate be relocated and an agreement has been made to relocate the gate.  Heatherwood Development – two of twenty-eight building permits have been issued.  Swede Square Shopping Center – working with the owners to allow the Township to install a right turn lane at the corner of the former Potters Tavern.  United Stor-All a resolution should be ready for next month’s meeting.  St. Patrick’s mausoleum expansion project a resolution should be ready for next month’s meeting. Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald alerted to the storm water issues at this location.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, Storm Drainage Issues/Projects.  Township Engineer, Bob Blue reported:  A. Briar Lane and Hillcrest Avenue watershed – no new update; B. Lawnton Road, Lafayette and Springview Roads – no new update; C. 605 Meadowbrook Road – meeting with property owners to resolve issues.  Resident, Tonya Jefferson 102 Dorp Circle expressed concern with water coming from adjacent office complex.  The Board of Supervisors authorized the engineer to review situation and report findings at the next meeting.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Traffic Issues.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reported:  A. Township Line Road traffic improvements – no new update; B. Germantown Pike – no new update; C. Germantown Pike Corridor – no new update; and D.  Swede Square Shopping Center- right turn lane will be constructed.  Township Manger, Helmuth Baerwald reported that the Jefferson Crossing  developer wants the dedication to go forward now before the widening of the Route 202 area.  The Township Solicitor will work on an agreement.  The Township has received a letter from the Norristown Farm Park requesting to install a crosswalk markings at the North Wales and Germantown Pike intersection.  The Township has to get a condition diagram from PADOT and will go to the County to get details and report back next month.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, US Route 202 Widening.  Assistant Township Manger, Donald Delamater reported that there is no new update.

            Mr. Serratore introduced the next item on the agenda, Sanitary Sewer Issues.  Brian Brochon of Gilmore & Associates reported:  A. Act 537 Update the application has been submitted to the DEP; B. Heatherwood Pumping Sewer Alternative Proposal – approval given to developer to make connection to Sunset Avenue; C. Whitehall Road televising activity – Liz Cheeseman of ARRO Consulting reported that the televising is completed, repair letters will be sent out this week; D. Taft Road Sewer Interceptor work – work started two weeks ago and is proceeding; E. US 202 Widening required sewer work by the Township – letter sent to PADOT and to date no response has been received; and F. Comparison of Flow Data Norris City and Saw Mill Run Pumping Stations – evaluated and discussed with Township staff and the issues will be addressed later in the year.  Township Manger, Helmuth Baerwald reviewed Stuart Rosenthal’s letter dated June 4, 2007 and specifically the recommended abatement procedures which will be put on a schedule by Township staff.

            Mrs. Heckman introduced the first item under “New Business”, Resolution No. 2353 – LD Minnick & Associates – 2605 DeKalb Pike.  Mike Fiore for Paula Minnick gave a presentation for the property owner.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald and the solicitor recommended that the Board of Supervisors consider a final land development approval and the Park and Recreation fee of $2,000.00.  Mr. Fiore accepts the recommendation and will make the $2,000.00 contribution.  Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2353.   After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. McQuirns and approved unanimously.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, Traffic Impact Fee – Resolution No. 2356.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reviewed Resolution No. 2356 establishing the Traffic Impact fee of $2,123.00 per new p.m. peak hour trip.  Mrs. Heckman made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2356 and also authorization to advertise the Ordinance amendment to refer to the Resolution No. 2356.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            Mrs. Heckman introduced the next item on the agenda, Resolution No. 2357 – Swede Square Shopping Center LD Waiver Request.  This item was tabled until next month’s meeting after Township staff can review with the developer.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, HR-1 Residential District Announcement.  Township Solicitor, Christen Pionzio reviewed options to make minor changes to the HR1 Ordinance.  Mr. Serratore made a motion to schedule another public hearing for Tuesday, August 28^th, 2007 at 6:45 p.m.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mrs. Heckman and approved unanimously.

            Mr. McQuirns introduced the next item on the agenda, IN – Institutional District -  Resolution No. 2355 – Set Public Hearing.  This item was tabled.

            Mrs. Heckman introduced the next item on the agenda, UCC Appeals Board.  Code Enforcement Director, Bryan Bortnichak reviewed this matter and stated that he is working on a list for appointment to the board.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, Planning Commission Vacancy.  Mr. McQuirns made a motion to appoint Colleen Henderson to the Planning Commission for the remainder of Joseph Rothwein’s term ending on December 31, 2009.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Serratore and approved unanimously.

            Mrs. Heckman introduced the next item on the agenda, Township Sewer Fee.  This is an informational item; the new sewer bills will be mailed June 30, 2007.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, FEMA – Flood Plain Management Plan.  Township Engineer, Bob Blue will have information for next month’s meeting.

            Mrs. Heckman introduced the next item on the agenda, Expenditure Authorization.  A.  Meeting Room Smart Board and Visuals $8,829.00; B. Sewer Trap – North Wales Road (Gambone) $2,000.00; C. Support Our Troops Ad – Times Herald $25.00; and D. Rahway Avenue sewer repair $315.00.  Mrs. Heckman made a motion to approve items A thru D, with Item A pending Mr. Staufenberg’s review.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Staufenberg and approved unanimously.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, Attendance Authorization. A. Police Training – Officer Joseph Carfrey - $150.00; B. PAL’s Extravaganza - $500.00; C. Police Training – Officer Timothy Brennan - $250.00; and D. Blackhawk Helicopter at Community Day per Karyl Kates memo dated 6/22/07.  Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to approve items A thru D.  After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mrs. Heckman and approved unanimously.

            Mr. Staufenberg introduced the next item on the agenda, Legislation.  Township Manager, Helmuth Baerwald reviewed Transportation Funding – Mr. Baerwald on behalf of the Board of Supervisors emailed the legislators to insure that the funding the township receives through the liquid fuels funding is restored again at 20%.  Mr. Baerwald briefly reviewed the following bills that were considered:  prevailing wage, temporary structures, private land for public recreation, fees for police services, police and EMS loan program, connection to water systems, worker’s compensation, state energy office, UCC advisory council, school and county park police officers, withholding liquid fuels funds, and emergency services grants.

            Mr. Staufenberg reviewed the meeting schedule for June 26, 2007 through September 28^th, 2007.

            There being no other business to come before the Board, the Chairman asked if there were any residents who wished to speak, there wee none.

Mr. Staufenberg made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:35 p.m. After requesting any comments and there being none, the motion was seconded by Mr. Serratore and approved unanimously.

Helmuth J. H. Baerwald
Township Secretary