GUEST RECOGNITION: George Daniel Fox, 1721 Old Rothsville Road, stated that he is present this evening regarding the traffic along Old Rothsville Road. He explained that it appears that a majority of motorists that travel along the roadway are using it as a by-pass from the traffic signal at Main Street and Rothsville Road. He added that the motorists that travel along the roadway at a high speed although the speed limit along the roadway was reduced. He provided a list of four suggestions that he and his neighbors had discussed to reduce the traffic along the roadway. The Vice-Chairman explained that he understands the traffic concerns. The Township Manager stated that the Township has been discussing improvements to Main Street (SR 772) to mitigate traffic flow along the roadway. He added that one of the suggestions include modifying the roadway to provide only one-way. He stated that in order to consider this option, a survey would be conducted to inquire whether or not the residents along the roadway would be agreeable to the modification. He stated that consideration could be given to the installation of traffic calming devices on the roadway. Several of the residents expressed concern over their safety when accessing their mailbox or when entering their driveway. The Police Chief explained that the Department will be increasing speed limit patrols in this area. The Vice-Chairman explained that the Township will further review considerations to the roadway.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved the minutes of the February 5, and February 19, 2003 meetings as submitted.

TREASURER’S REPORT: The Board reviewed the Treasurer’s Report. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved the Treasurer’s Report as submitted.

PAYMENT OF BILLS: The Board reviewed the list of bills submitted for payment. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by Myers, the Board unanimously approved the payment of bills from the General Fund in the amount of $225,928.58

TAX COLLECTOR'S REPORT: The Board reviewed the February, 2003 Tax Collector's report. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by Vigunas, the Board unanimously approved the Tax Collector's February, 2003 report.

MANAGER'S REPORT:. The Township Manager provided a status report on the 72 Corridor Study. He explained that a support resolution was submitted on behalf of the Township.

The Township Manager provided a status report on various Recreation Projects. He explained that the Public Works Department intends to resume work on the Forney field project by the end of March. He noted that work was delayed due to inclement weather. He also provided a status report on the John Bonfield field Project. He stated that a meeting is scheduled with the developer and the site contractor to finalize issues on the project. He noted that he anticipates that the project would commence in late April. The Township Manager explained that Pfizer has donated $30,000.00 towards the development of ball fields since their proposed expansion would eliminate the use of the existing fields on their property by sports leagues. They had contacted the sports leagues to discuss a donation, and the leagues had suggested that the contact the Township since it is currently in the process of developing ball fields. The Township Manager explained that a macadam trail will be extended from the existing Lititz/Warwick Trailway (rails-to-trails) into the Newport Square recreation area.

The Township Manager provided a status report on the Revised Employee Reference Book. He explained that the Reference Books will be distributed to employees by the end of March.

The Township Manager provided a status report on several upcoming ordinance requirements. He explained that an Ordinance will be required to revise the police pension plan. He noted that the Ordinance is - scheduled for adoption at the Board’s April 2, 2003 meeting. He explained that an Ordinance will be required to revise the storm water ordinance in conjunction with the recent Cocalico Creek and NPDES requirements, and added that a draft ordinance has been submitted to DEP for review. The Township Manager explained that an Ordinance will also be required to establish a Regional Recreation Advisory Committee.

The Township Manager provided an update on the upcoming meeting schedule.

The Township Manager provided a status report on the Winter Budget. He explained that the county has applied for federal emergency reimbursement for the Presidents Day winter storm. He provided a summarization on the impact county wide. He explained that the Township’s total winter related costs since January 1, 2003 total approximately $33,200.00, which includes employee overtime costs, salt and cinders, contracted services and equipment repairs. He noted that the Township incurred winter maintenance costs during 2002 and added that the Township is eligible for reimbursement from FEMA of up to 75% of the costs incurred during the Presidents Day storm.

The Board unanimously approved the Township Manager's Report.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT REPORT: The Roadmaster presented a report that outlines the activities of the Public Works Department during February, 2003. He provided a summary of the winter maintenance that was performed during February. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by Myers, the Board unanimously approved the Public Works Department's February, 2003 report.

POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT: The Police Chief presented a report that outlines the activities of the Police Department during February, 2003. The Township Manager explained that the Emergency Management Coordinator has been updating the Township’s Emergency Operations Plan to address Homeland Security issues. He added that the plan was developed several years ago and is very comprehensive. He noted that the plan has been updated regularly. On a motion by Myers, seconded by Vigunas, the Board unanimously approved the Police Chief's February, 2003 report.

ZONING OFFICER'S REPORT: The Zoning Officer presented a report that outlines the Zoning/Building permits issued in February, 2003. He also outlined the cases that were heard at the Zoning Hearing Board’s February 12, 2003 zoning hearing. On a motion by Myers, seconded by Vigunas, the Board unanimously approved the Zoning Officer’s February, 2003 report.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY THE PEBBLE CREEK HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION REGARDING THE LITITZ/WARWICK TRAILWAY: George Hockenbrocht, 23 Pebble Creek Drive, presented a petition from residents of Warwick Township requesting that the Township consider maintaining the Lititz/Warwick Trailway during winter weather. The Township Manager explained that the Township is concerned over potential liability issues, and added that the trail was posted "No Winter Maintenance". He stated that he observed that individuals continue to use the trail although it is not cleared of snow and ice in the winter. He noted that this issue also concerns the Township. The Township Manager explained that the trails is used occasionally for cross-country skiing. He stated that the Township does not currently have equipment to adequately maintain the trail systems and added that the issue would also include the potential need to clear all of the Township’s existing trails during winter. He noted that previously it was not an issue since average winter storms are only 2-3"; however, several snow storms occurred during this winter season.

He explained that the Township would need to purchase a snow blower in order to adequately maintain the trails. He stated that whether or not the trail is cleared of snow, the potential for ice build-up would remain from snow melting off of the trees. The Township would need to review the potential liability issues with the Township’s insurance carrier prior to providing for winter maintenance of the trails. The Township Manager noted that winter maintenance of the trail system would be a low priority, with roadway maintenance being the highest priority.

Hockenbrocht requested that the Township consider allowing residents of the Pebble Creek development to clear the trail. The Township Manager explained that this issue creates an even greater liability potential. Hockenbrocht stated that residents of the Pebble Creek development were not aware that the Lititz/Warwick Trailway was owned by the Township and not part of the Pebble Creek public area. The Township Manager explained that several signs are installed along the trail that indicate ownership of the trail by Warwick Township

The Vice-Chairman explained that the Board will consider the winter maintenance issue and advise Hockenbrocht of the results of the discussion.

COMMUNICATIONS: The Board received a copy of the Proposed Resolutions that will be considered at the 2003 Annual PSATS State Convention which will be held April 6 -9, 2003.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY THE HIGHLANDS PROFESSIONAL OFFICE COMPLEX TO PURCHASE TDRs: The Township Manager explained that the Township received a request from the consultant on the project requesting that the Township initiate the process of procuring the required Transferrable Development Rights (TDRs) for the Highlands Profession Office Complex. He added that the Board has reviewed a Sketch Plan for the project, and noted that 20 TDRs would be required to accommodate the proposal. The Township Manager suggested that the Township work with Lancaster Farmland Trust to sell TDRs. He noted that the TDRs held by Lancaster Farmland Trust must be used toward farm preservation within Warwick Township. He added that the Board would need to establish a minimum bid per TDR. He stated that 1 TDR represents 2 acres of land and explained that the actual value would be approximately $8,000.00; however, the Lancaster County Agricultural Preserve Board provides funds for farmland preservation. He suggested that a minimum value of $2,500.00-$2,750.00 per TDR be established. He added that the TDR bid process is open to any individual who wishes to purchase TDRs. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board voted unanimously to establish a minimum bid of $2,750.00 per TDR and to partner with Lancaster Farmland Trust on the sale of the TDRs.

CONSIDER THE BID SUBMITTAL FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DISCHARGED POLICE CRUISER: The Board reviewed the bid that was received for the cruiser. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously accepted the bid from Police Cars Unlimited, Inc. in the amount of $777.00.

CONSIDER BIDS RECEIVED FOR ROAD MATERIALS: The Board reviewed the bids that were received for roadway materials. The Roadmaster recommends to award the 2003/2004 ID materials bid to Highway Materials for a contract amount of $51,575.00, and to award the 2003/2004 aggregate materials bid to Rohrer’s Quarry for a contract amount of $39,710.00 FOB, and $52,240.00 delivered. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran the Board voted unanimously to award the 2003/2004 ID materials bid to Highway Materials for a contract amount of $51,575.00, and to award the 2003/2004 aggregate materials bid to Rohrer’s Quarry for a contract amount of $39,710.00 FOB, and $52,240.00 delivered.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION #03-19-03-01 AUTHORIZING SIGNATURES FOR PEER TO PEER GRANT APPLICATION: The Board reviewed the Resolution. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #03-19-03-01 authorizing signatures for a peer to peer grant application.

DISCUSSION ON CABLE FRANCHISE RENEWAL - PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED: The Township Manager explained that the public hearing on the Cable Franchise Renewal will be held on March 27, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ephrata Township municipal building. Myers and Vigunas indicated that they will attend the public hearing on behalf of Warwick TOwnship.

CONSIDER REQUEST FROM THE LITITZ SPORTSMEN’S ASSOCIATION FOR THE ANNUAL KIDS FISHING DAY - APRIL 12, 2003 FROM 8:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. IN THE RIPARIAN PARK: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request from the Lititz Sportsmen’s Association for the Annual Kids Fishing Day - April 12, 2003 from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. in the Riparian Park contingent upon a Certificate of Insurance being submitted for the day of the event, and upon the event being coordinated with the Fire Police for traffic control.

CONSIDER REQUEST FROM THE LITITZ SPORTSMEN’S ASSOCIATION TO HOLD THE ANNUAL HANDICAP FISHING DERBY - JUNE 7, 2003 FROM 8:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. IN THE RIPARIAN PARK: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by McSparran, seconded by Moyer, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request from the Lititz Sportsmen’s Association to hold the Annual Handicap Fishing Derby - June 7, 2003 from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. in the Riparian Park contingent upon a Certificate of Insurance being submitted for the day of the event, and upon the event being coordinated with the Fire Police for traffic control.

CONSIDER AUTHORIZING A CONTRIBUTION TO THE LANCASTER COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE: The Board received a copy of a letter from the Lancaster County District Attorney requesting that the Township consider contributing $15,475.00 to the Lancaster County Drug Enforcement Task Force. The amount is based upon the Township’s population based on the year 2000 census figures. The Township Manager stated that the Township contributed the full amount requested in 2002. The Police Chief stated that the Task Force works cooperatively with the Township’s Police Department and recommended that the Township contribute to the Task Force. On a motion by Moyer, seconded by McSparran, the Board voted unanimously to authorize a contribution to the Lancaster County Drug Enforcement Task Force in the amount of $15,475.00.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION #03-19-03-02 AUTHORIZING ELECTRONIC TRANSFER OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PSECU CREDIT UNION: The Board reviewed the Resolution. The Township Manager explained that the resolution would allow direct deposit to the PSECU Credit Union for municipal employees. Moyer inquired whether or not the Township provides for direct deposit to all financial institutions. The Township Manager explained that eventually the Township would provide for direct deposit to all financial institutions; however, PSECU is the first financial institution in the process. On a motion by McSparran, seconded by Vigunas, the Board voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #03-19-03-02 to authorize electronic transfer of contributions to the PSECU Credit Union. Moyer abstained.

DISCUSS UPDATED ROAD MATRIX AND PROJECTED TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM: The Township Manager explained that Township Engineer, Roadmaster, and he had met to discuss the road matrix projects. He explained that the Township works with developers to coordinate roadway improvement projects. He provided a summary of the Township’s 5-Year Capital Traffic System Improvement Plan projected through 2007. The Board briefly discussed the program.

Myers explained that the Board previously discussed designating Warwick Road as a scenic road. He requested that the Board consider a formal designation of Warwick Road as a scenic road which would limit some uses along the roadway. He noted that PennDOT is currently in the process to improving Creek Road and added that the Township could consider a similar designation to this roadway. Myers suggested that a greenway designation be considered along the stream that runs parallel to these roadways to provide a recreational use in this area of the Township. He noted that a limited number of property owners would be affected by the designation. The Roadmaster explained that the State owns 70% of Creek Road, and the State may require a turn-back of the roadway. The Board briefly discussed the proposal and indicated that the issue could be further reviewed.

OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE BOARD: The Township Manager explained that the Police Chief modified the Police hiring process model prepared by Margolis Edelstein to address Warwick Township’s needs. He explained that a revised model was drafted; however, it has not been provided to the Township, to date. He explained that one of the Township’s Officers received a job offer from a Police Department in Lebanon; therefore, the Township would need to hire a police officer to replace this individual. The Board reviewed the information submitted by the Police Chief. The Township Manager explained that the information was reviewed by Mardolis Edelstein and provided a copy of their review to the Board. He added that the Board should consider adopting a revised hiring policy. The Board members indicated that they will review the document and provide their recommendations to the Township Manager and Police Chief.

ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 9:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Daniel L. Zimmerman
Township Manager