No property tax increase in 2015
Pennsbury Township supervisors discuss a purchase of 23 acres of land for open space preservation. From left, Scotty Scottoline, Wendell Felton and Aaron McIntyre.
By Kris Firey-Poling, Correspondent, The Times
The township’s Board of Supervisors approved to purchase 23 acres of land at Wednesday’s meeting.
Supervisors Chairman, Scotty Scottoline explained that “The three parcels include 11 acres east and 9 acres west of the township building on U.S. 1, and 3 acres at the corner of U.S. 1 and Hickory Hill Road. We’ve been working on this since Toll Brothers bought the property, and must act now before it goes away.”
This purchase prevents 116 new homes, and eliminates the need for a new sewage plant.
“I’m overjoyed that you were able to pull this off. It is a win for open space.” exclaimed resident Susan Mackey Kallis. The audience agreed and responded with applause.
Supervisor Aaron McIntyre thanked the many residents who were involved in this effort.
The Board approved a loan not to exceed $4,875,000. Township Solicitor Tom Oeste plans to close the deal before the end of this year.
Supervisors also approved the construction of a new storage building at a cost of $97,783. CB Structures of New Holland will build the structure next to the township’s maintenance garage.
“This lowest bid came close to our $100,000 estimated amount. Capital account funds will be used to cover the cost.” said Scottoline.
In other township business at the meeting, Manager Kathleen Howley announced that the 2015 Budget has been posted and is online. The budget will be formally discussed and adopted at next month’s December 9th meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Chairman Scottoline bottom-lined it by saying, “No property tax increase in 2015.”
Planning Commission Chair Dennis Smith reported that his group is currently studying aquifer protection. Smith cited New Garden Township’s recent challenge of a Delaware water company and landowner wanting to pump water from its property to sell.
“We want to be proactive, so we working to learn township rights and laws to ensure that our water is protected,” said Smith.
Also, Donna Murray, Director at the Bayard Taylor Memorial Library, reported on recent library activities.
“We are not just a warehouse of books,” Murray explained, describing Friday’s Tween Videogame Night and a recent wine and cheese party.
Murry invited residents to bring in their IPad or other electronics to receive staff assistance on how to use them. She also reinforced how library members can download eBooks and online magazines to their tablets.
Resident and Library Board member Susan Mackey Kallis thanked the township for its 2015 pledge of $35,000.
“Pennsbury always pays its fair share and more. With increased technology, libraries are reinventing themselves. There is something here for everyone.” said Kallis.
Also on the agenda, resident Tina Brunetti discussed her frustration with getting onto U.S. 1 from her residence.
“The traffic and vehicle speed has significantly increased! The posted change from 45 mph to 55 mph, then back to 45 mph doesn’t make sense.” said Brunetti.
The supervisors agreed and will look into getting the speed limit 45 mph throughout this area. They also recommended that residents contact Pennsylvania State Representative Steve Barrar and explain the problem.
